Alanya / Turkey

Alanya, the pearl of the south of Turkey washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, attracts visitors with its unique combination of history, sun, and hospitality. This seaside town, surrounded by mountains and palm trees, is the ideal place for those who want to experience the true face of Turkey.

What to taste in Alanya?

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its variety of flavors, aromas, and spices – and Alanya is no exception. The local cuisine combines Mediterranean ingredients with oriental traditions and offers dishes that will delight lovers of meat, vegetables, and sweets.

• Kebab – a symbol of Turkish cuisine in many variations; from juicy adana kebab to thin döner served in pita bread.
• Meze – a collection of small appetizers that accompany the main meal; often include hummus, eggplant salad, stuffed vine leaves, or spicy sauces.
• Pide – traditional Turkish "bread with filling" resembling pizza, filled with cheese, minced meat, or vegetables.
• Gözleme – thin pancakes filled with cheese, potatoes, or spinach, often prepared right on the street in front of passersby.
• Baklava – a sweet treat made of thin pastry, nuts, and honey syrup, served with Turkish coffee or strong tea.
• Ayran – a refreshing drink made from yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt, which perfectly complements local specialties during hot days.

Why will you love Alanya?

• A city with a story - the impressive Alanya Castle, the ancient Red Tower (Kızıl Kule), and the Seljuk shipyard Tersane remind of the city's glorious past, which was once a crossroads of sea routes and a fortress of sultans.
• Sun and sea all day - Alanya will enchant you with the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, long beaches, and the relaxed atmosphere of a seaside resort. Kleopatra Beach with its fine sand and clear water is among the most beautiful in the entire area.
• Fun and experiences - Alanya offers a wide range of activities for everyone. Take the cable car to the castle, visit the Damlataş Cave with its healing microclimate, go on a trip to the Taurus Mountains, or enjoy the atmosphere of bustling markets and the harbor promenade, where modern life meets oriental tradition.

Practical tips:

• Official language: Turkish, but in tourist areas, you can easily communicate in English and German.
• Currency: Turkish lira (TRY).
• Opening hours: Shops are usually open from around 9:00 to 22:00, bazaars and markets often operate until late in the evening. Monuments and museums are generally open between 9:00–18:00.
• Public transport: Alanya relies on dolmuşes, small minibuses running at short intervals throughout the city.  
• Weather: Alanya has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is from May to October, when temperatures reach 25–35 °C.

The most interesting from the history of Alanya:

The roots of Alanya go deep into antiquity, when it was known as Korakesion – a city of traders, pirates, and seafarers. Thanks to its strategic location on a rocky peninsula above the Mediterranean Sea, it soon became an important port and a refuge for ships. In the Roman period, it gained wealth and influence, later becoming a favorite residence of Seljuk sultans, who made it a prosperous center of culture and trade. The succession of civilizations has left visible traces here – from ancient legends through medieval stories to the vibrant heritage of the Orient, which is still felt in Alanya today.

Useful information

• How to choose the right cruise?
• How to choose a cruise company?