Side-Turkey.

Alanya is one of the most rewarding stops on the Turkish Riviera, a sun-soaked resort town where a Seljuk fortress crowns a rocky peninsula and the old harbour still feels lived-in. As a local operator based nearby, we put together this honest guide to the best things to do in Alanya so you can decide what is genuinely worth your time. No filler, no fairy tales, just the sights and excursions we send our own guests to.

The Castle, the Red Tower and the Old Harbour

The obvious starting point is Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi), the medieval Seljuk-era fortress sitting high on the peninsula. The walls wrap the headland and the views over the Mediterranean are the kind people remember long after they fly home. You can climb up on foot or take the Alanya cable car (teleferik) for an easier ride with a panorama thrown in.

Down by the water stands the Kizil Kule, the Red Tower, an octagonal Seljuk defensive tower built from distinctive red brick to guard the harbour. Right beside it is the Tersane, the old Seljuk shipyard carved into the rock. Together they make a compact, walkable cluster of history that suits families and first-time visitors alike.

Caves, Canyons and the Dim River Valley

Alanya is also cave country. Damlatas Cave sits right by the beach and is famous for its stalactites and humid air. Up in the hills, Dim Cave (Dim Magarasi) is a larger, dramatic cavern that pairs perfectly with a trip along the Dim River (Dim Cayi) valley, where wooden platforms over the cool water host riverside restaurants. Further into the hills, Sapadere Canyon offers shaded trails and clear pools for a refreshing escape from the coast.

Cleopatra Beach

No Alanya guide is complete without Cleopatra Beach (Kleopatra Plaji), the long stretch of soft sand below the castle headland. It is the classic spot for a swim and a sunset, and an easy add-on to a sightseeing day.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Confirmed at booking.
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking.
• Includes: Hotel transfer and guidance; specifics confirmed at booking.
• Excludes: Personal spending, optional entrance fees and meals unless stated; check at booking.
• Family Friendly: Yes, suitable for families and all ages.
• Best Season: Spring through autumn for the warmest, driest weather.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; the castle climb involves some uphill walking.

Related Excursions

• More Alanya excursions
• Tours from Side
• Antalya day trips
• Kemer excursions
• Belek tours
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the must-see attraction in Alanya?

Alanya Castle and the Kizil Kule (Red Tower) are the signature sights, a Seljuk fortress and an octagonal red-brick tower guarding the old harbour.

Can I reach Alanya Castle without walking up?

Yes, the Alanya cable car (teleferik) carries you toward the castle area with sea views; you can also walk or drive up.

What is the difference between Damlatas Cave and Dim Cave?

Damlatas Cave is a small stalactite cave right by the beach, while Dim Cave (Dim Magarasi) is a larger cavern up in the hills, often combined with the Dim River valley.

Is the Dim River valley worth visiting?

Yes. The Dim River (Dim Cayi) valley is known for its cool water and riverside restaurants built over wooden platforms, a relaxing contrast to the beaches.

Where is Cleopatra Beach?

Cleopatra Beach (Kleopatra Plaji) is the long sandy beach below the castle peninsula, ideal for swimming and sunsets.

Is Alanya good for families?

Very much so. The castle, towers, caves and beaches suit all ages, and our excursions are family friendly.

Can you pick us up from our hotel?

Yes, we offer hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts; the exact time is confirmed at booking.

Why book direct instead of through an agency?

Booking direct with us removes agency and OTA commission, and we back it with a best-price guarantee.

Ready to explore Alanya the local way? Book direct with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. No middlemen, no hidden commission, and our best-price guarantee on every excursion.