When is the best time to visit Alanya?

Late May through mid-October, with June and September offering the best mix of warm sea, long days and lighter crowds. July and August are peak season for nightlife and yachting.

Which Alanya neighbourhood should I stay in?

Mahmutlar for luxury marina life, Oba for chic beach clubs, Kestel for sunset dining and a slower pace, and Alanya Town for history, bars and the castle.

How do I get around Alanya?

Private transfer or rental car is easiest between villages. For day trips along the peninsula, a chartered gulet or motor yacht from Mahmutlar or Alanya Marina is the classic option.

Alanya Travel Guide 2026 — Where to Stay, Eat, Sail & Explore

Why Alanya?

Alanya sits on Turkey's Mediterranean coast in Antalya province. Its rocky peninsula is crowned by the Seljuk-era Alanya Castle, with the octagonal Red Tower (Kızıl Kule) guarding the harbour below. Long sunny seasons, warm sea and a large international community make it a favourite for holidays and second homes alike.

The town stretches along the coast in distinct neighbourhoods: Mahmutlar and Kestel to the east, popular with residents and property buyers; Oba and Cikcilli just above the centre; and Avsallar and Konaklı to the west, with quieter beaches.

When to Go

Beach season runs roughly from April to early November. May–June and September–October are our top picks: warm sea, comfortable days and fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. Winters are mild, which is why many visitors return to stay longer.

Getting There & Around

Two airports serve Alanya: Gazipaşa-Alanya (GZP), roughly 40 minutes east, and Antalya (AYT), around two hours west with far more international flights. Pre-book a fixed-price transfer so you know the cost before you land.

In town, dolmuş minibuses and taxis are easy to use, and a rental car opens up the mountain villages and Dim Çayı valley. Agree rental deposits and insurance in writing before you sign.

Where to Stay: The Neighbourhoods

Mahmutlar

A long seafront promenade lined with apartment complexes, markets and cafés. Popular with long-stay visitors and buyers looking for good value close to the beach.

Oba

Close to the centre but calmer, with a residential feel, local markets and easy access to the Dim Çayı river valley.

Kestel

Between the centre and Mahmutlar, with a wide beach and newer residential projects.

Alanya Centre

The historical heart — Alanya Castle, the Red Tower, the harbour and Cleopatra Beach. Livelier, and ideal for a first visit with everything in walking distance.

Avsallar

West of town, with sandy beaches such as Incekum and a quieter, resort-style pace.

What to Eat

Expect Mediterranean Turkish cooking: grilled fish, meze, gözleme, and fresh fruit from the surrounding farms — Alanya is known for its bananas and citrus. For a cool lunch in summer, head up the Dim Çayı valley, where restaurants set tables right over the river.

Beaches & Sights

Cleopatra Beach is the town's famous long sandy beach. Take a boat trip around the peninsula to see the sea caves, including Damlataş Cave, the Phosphorus Cave and Lovers' Cave. Ride the cable car up to the castle for sunset views, and visit the Red Tower and the old shipyard by the harbour.

A Perfect 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1 — Alanya Centre. Arrive, stroll the harbour, dinner near the Red Tower.
Day 2 — Castle & Cleopatra Beach. Cable car up to the castle in the morning, beach afternoon, Damlataş Cave.
Day 3 — On the water. Boat trip around the peninsula and its sea caves.
Day 4 — Dim Çayı. Riverside lunch in the valley and a visit to Dim Cave.
Day 5 — Mahmutlar & Kestel. Seafront walk, markets and a farewell dinner by the sea.

Planning Your Trip

Alanya is at its best when you don't have to think about logistics. Our concierge team plans private itineraries, arranges yacht charters, secures the difficult reservations, and connects you with vetted local hosts and villa owners.

Alanya Travel Guide: The Turkish Riviera, Done Properly