Hello! I’m glad to welcome you to the world of this amazing corner of Turkey, located on the picturesque Mediterranean coastline. If you love travel, sunshine, the sea, and history, Alanya and the surrounding towns will become your new passion.
In this article, I will guide you through the various resort villages within the Alanya region, as well as the ancient cities and attractions that I recommend visiting.
Get ready for an exciting journey through one of the most fascinating regions of Turkey!
Mahmutlar Resort Town: A Blend of Modernity and Tradition
Mahmutlar is the first stop on our journey. This resort town is located just 10 kilometers east of Alanya’s city center, making it very convenient for those who want to combine seaside relaxation with visits to urban attractions. Mahmutlar is famous for its long beaches with crystal-clear water and golden sand, where visitors can peacefully enjoy sunny days.
But Mahmutlar is not just about the beaches. Here, you’ll find a variety of cafes and restaurants offering both traditional Turkish cuisine and international dishes.
One of the highlights is the weekly markets that take place on Saturdays. At these markets, you can buy fresh vegetables, fruits, spices, and souvenirs. The vendors are very friendly, and interacting with them will be a delightful part of your trip.
For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, Mahmutlar offers plenty of options as well. Water sports are popular here, and you can rent a bicycle to explore the surroundings or take a hike in the mountains, where breathtaking views of the sea and landscapes await you.
Mahmutlar is also known for its modern residential complexes and apartments, making it popular not only with tourists but also with those looking to purchase property here. Comfortable living conditions, developed infrastructure, and proximity to the center of Alanya make this town an excellent choice for long vacations or permanent residence.
Charming Okurcalar: Immersion in Nature
Let’s continue our exciting journey through the resort corners of Alanya and head to Okurcalar. This village, located about 30 kilometers west of Alanya’s city center, is a paradise oasis for those who love nature and a secluded getaway. Okurcalar is renowned for its luxurious hotels set among green gardens and against the backdrop of majestic mountains.
In Okurcalar, beaches and green areas uniquely coexist. Here, you’ll find cozy bays with sandy and pebbly beaches, where you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Mediterranean Sea. The hotel complexes in this area offer high levels of service and rich infrastructure for family vacations, including pools, water parks, and various entertainment programs. Overall, Alanya and its nearby towns have well-developed and efficient infrastructures.
Okurcalar is also known for its exotic markets and local shops. One of the most popular markets takes place on Tuesdays. At this market, you’ll find the freshest fruits, vegetables, spices, traditional sweets, and a variety of other goods. Interacting with local residents, who eagerly share their stories and cultural insights, adds a unique charm and color to this place.
For those who enjoy active recreation, Okurcalar offers plenty of opportunities. You can go on excursions to the nearby mountains, explore caves and waterfalls, or dive and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. If you prefer more leisurely activities, you can visit one of the many spa centers that offer relaxing treatments and wellness programs.
Okurcalar is a place where you truly feel at one with nature and enjoy all the delights of a resort vacation.
Cozy İncekum: Sandy Beaches and Family Getaways
Now let’s talk about the village of İncekum, located just 20 kilometers west of Alanya’s city center. İncekum, which translates from Turkish as “fine sand,” is known for its famous beaches with soft, golden sand that tourists love. This is a comfortable and convenient place for family vacations.
İncekum attracts visitors with its calm sea and gentle entry into the water. These beaches are considered some of the best along the entire Mediterranean coastline, making them ideal for family time. Here, you have a unique chance to splash around in the water, build sandcastles, and enjoy the warm rays of the sun without a care in the world.
The village is well-known for its cozy hotels and apartments, many of which are located right by the sea. In the hotels of İncekum, you will find everything you need for a comfortable stay: pools, restaurants, playgrounds, and entertainment programs. Of particular note is the high level of service and hospitality, which makes your time here truly enjoyable.
İncekum also offers plenty of interesting activities for those who love an active lifestyle. You can take scenic walks through the surrounding areas, engage in water sports, or explore the coastal waters by catamaran. Yacht excursions are also popular here, allowing you to view the Alanya coastline and nearby towns from a different perspective while enjoying breathtaking sea views.
İncekum is not just about beaches and hotels; it also boasts numerous places to sample the masterpieces of local cuisine. You can enjoy aromatic kebabs, fresh seafood, and, of course, the delightful sweets that Turkey is known for. Visiting local markets will also be a pleasant addition to your vacation experience, where you can purchase fresh produce and souvenirs to remember your trip.
Avsallar: A Paradise for Family Vacations
Continuing our journey through the picturesque resorts of Alanya and the surrounding towns, we cannot overlook Avsallar. This cozy village, located about 25 kilometers west of Alanya’s city center, is a true gem of the Mediterranean.
The fine sand and gentle entry into the water make Avsallar’s beaches safe and convenient for swimming, especially for children. The beach here is wide and spacious, ensuring everyone can find a cozy spot to relax under the sun. Due to the cleanliness and upkeep of the beaches, Avsallar is often chosen by families with young children who can safely frolic in the warm waves.
Avsallar boasts numerous hotels and apartments to suit every taste and budget. From small, charming hotels to luxurious five-star resorts, everyone will find something to their liking here. Local hotels offer a wide range of amenities, including pools, kids’ clubs, entertainment, and even water parks, making Avsallar an ideal destination for any type of vacation.
After a hot day spent on the beach, you can enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the village. Here, you can savor both traditional Turkish dishes and international cuisine. The waterfront restaurants are particularly popular, where you can dine to the sound of the waves and enjoy the sunset view.
Avsallar is also known for its markets, where you can purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, spices, and an array of souvenirs. The weekly markets are a great place to experience the vibrant local life and sample the freshest produce.
For those who love active recreation, Avsallar offers plenty of entertainment options. You can go on a yacht cruise, engage in water sports, or visit the water park. You also have the option to rent a bike and explore the surrounding areas while enjoying the scenic views. Alanya and its neighboring towns provide everything needed for a diverse range of leisure activities and travel experiences.
Konaklı: The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Now let’s head to Konaklı, another resort town located just 12 kilometers west of Alanya’s city center. This cozy village is renowned for its beautiful beaches and rich history. Its developed infrastructure makes it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
What makes Konaklı unique is its harmonious blend of traditional Turkish charm and modern conveniences. As you stroll through the streets of the village, you will see numerous small shops and stores where you can purchase handmade crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Turkish sweets. Pay special attention to the carpets and textiles woven here using ancient techniques.
The beaches of Konaklı are known for their cleanliness and well-maintained conditions. You can enjoy calm waters and soft sand here. The beaches are comfortable for spending time, featuring sunbeds, umbrellas, cafes, and bars where you can enjoy delicious snacks and refreshing drinks.
Konaklı offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy apartments to luxurious hotels. Local hotels provide high levels of service and many additional amenities (pools, spas, gyms, vibrant entertainment). Most hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis, which is especially convenient for families with children.
In Konaklı, there are several interesting attractions worth visiting. For example, the Konaklı Mosque, built in traditional Turkish style. This place is not only for worship but also for learning about the architecture and culture of the region. Another notable attraction is the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases exhibits characterizing the daily life and traditions of the local people.
Konaklı offers plenty of opportunities for active recreation. Popular activities include water sports, yacht excursions, and bicycle rides—all available in Konaklı. There are also numerous travel agencies offering tours to historical and natural attractions in the region.
Konaklı is a place where everyone will find something to enjoy. Whether you prefer leisurely beach relaxation, active entertainment, or immersion in local culture and traditions, there’s always something to do and see here.
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Journey Through Time: The Ancient Cities of Alanya
Now let’s embark on a journey through the ancient cities of Alanya, which hold numerous secrets and historical treasures. These places will transport you to the past and allow you to feel the atmosphere of ancient civilizations that left their mark on this land.
We will visit three of them: Syedra, Leartis-Learti, and Aytap. Each of these cities is unique and deserves special attention. Alanya and its surrounding towns offer travelers a rich history and an unforgettable ambiance.
The Mysterious Syedra
The ancient city of Syedra is located just 20 kilometers east of Alanya’s city center. Founded in the 2nd century BC, this city was an important cultural and trading center of its time. As you stroll through the ruins of Syedra, you will encounter ancient walls, aqueducts, and amphitheaters that remind us of the greatness of this place.
Of particular note are the baths of Syedra, which have survived to this day. These ancient baths, with their magnificent mosaics and complex water supply systems, are a striking example of the engineering prowess of the time. You can also see the ruins of temples and public buildings that tell the story of this remarkable city.
The Legendary Leartis-Learti
The next stop on our journey will be Leartis-Learti, an ancient city located north of Alanya’s city center. Known also as Leartis, this city was founded during the Roman Empire and served as an important administrative hub of the region. Today, you can see the ruins of a fortress, theater, and temple that still retain their majestic atmosphere.
One of the distinctive features of Leartis is its strategic location on a high hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. As you walk through the ruins of the city, you will feel the spirit of antiquity and be able to imagine the vibrant life that took place here centuries ago.
Aytap: The City by the Sea
Aytap, also known as Iotape, is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 30 kilometers south of Alanya’s city center. This city was founded in the 1st century AD and served as an important port and trading center. Today, you can see the ruins of ancient buildings, including an amphitheater, temples, and remnants of residential houses.
Aytap is situated along a picturesque coastline. As you stroll through this ancient city, you can enjoy views of the sea and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the past. Local legends tell of pirates who once used this port for their raids, adding a unique romance and mystery to this place.
Visiting these ancient cities will allow you to dive into history and learn more about the cultural heritage of Alanya.
Places to Visit in Alanya
Now let’s focus on Alanya itself and its numerous must-visit attractions. Alanya and the surrounding towns are not only renowned for their beautiful beaches but also offer a variety of historical and cultural sites that will immerse you in the unique atmosphere and rich history of this region.
Red Tower: The Symbol of Alanya
The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule) is one of the most recognizable symbols of Alanya. This majestic structure, built in the 13th century, served as a defense for the city against naval attacks. The tower gets its name from the red bricks used in its construction. Today, the tower houses a museum showcasing its history and role in the city’s defense. The view of the city and the sea from its upper floors is breathtaking and definitely worth seeing.
Damlataş Cave: A Natural Wonder
This incredible cave was accidentally discovered in 1948 during construction work and quickly became one of Alanya’s main attractions. The cave is famous for its stalactites and stalagmites, which have formed in whimsical shapes and shine with a rainbow of colors under the light of lanterns. The air inside the cave has therapeutic properties, particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory illnesses.
Cleopatra Beach: A Legendary Relaxation Spot
Let’s not forget Cleopatra Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Alanya. According to legend, this beach was gifted to Cleopatra by the Roman general Mark Antony, and it is said that the sand for this beach was brought from Egypt. Here, you will find soft golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for active leisure. Everything is perfect for enjoying the sea and sun.
Sapadere Canyon: Amidst Natural Beauty
If you love nature and active recreation, be sure to visit Sapadere Canyon. This picturesque canyon, located 40 kilometers from Alanya, offers stunning views of the mountains and forests. Here, you can stroll along designated trails and bridges, enjoying the fresh air and the sounds of nature. The canyon also features several waterfalls where you can refresh yourself in the cool water.
Alanya Castle: A Historical Heritage
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Alanya Castle, which towers over the city on a high hill. This fortress, built in the 13th century, is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and one of the largest fortresses in Turkey. Inside the castle, you will find many interesting sites, including ancient walls, towers, and the ruins of old structures. As you walk through the castle, you can imagine the bustling life that took place here centuries ago.
Alanya Bazaar: A Cultural Immersion
For a complete immersion in the atmosphere of Alanya, be sure to visit the local bazaars. One of the most popular is the bazaar in the city center, where you can find everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to traditional Turkish sweets and souvenirs. As you wander through the bazaar, you can interact with the locals, sample national dishes, and purchase keepsakes for yourself and your loved ones.
It’s Time to Make a Decision: Alanya Awaits You!
So, we have taken an exciting journey through Alanya and its surroundings, learning about its resort villages, ancient cities, and unique attractions. Now, only one thing remains—to make the decision to visit this wonderful place and see everything with your own eyes.
Alanya and the nearby towns are not just a tourist destination; they are places where everyone will find something to enjoy. Whether it’s a relaxing beach vacation, active adventures, or a historical and cultural exploration, this region offers everything you could wish for. Alanya and its neighboring towns, each unique and appealing in its own way, create an unforgettable atmosphere that will linger in your memory for a long time.
I hope this article has helped you better understand this amazing corner of Turkey and inspired you to plan your trip. Here, new discoveries, unforgettable experiences, and warm encounters with friendly locals await you. It’s time to pack your bags and hit the road—Alanya is waiting for you with open arms!
Wishing you a pleasant journey and an unforgettable vacation!
