Alanya is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the Turkish Riviera, and it's easy to see why. You get golden beaches, a 13th-century castle on a rocky peninsula, turquoise sea caves, mountain canyons and lively nightlife, all within a short drive of your hotel. Whether you're here for a week of relaxation or a packed adventure holiday, this guide covers the best things to do in Alanya, from classic sights to the most popular Alanya excursions.
As a local agency with over 20 years of experience in the region, we've put together the activities our guests love most, plus practical tips to help you plan your trip.
Top Sights in Alanya Town
Alanya Castle
Sitting high above the harbour, Alanya Castle is the symbol of the city. Built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad in the 13th century, its walls wind around the peninsula and offer the best panoramic views of the coastline. Go in the late afternoon to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean. You can drive or walk up, or take the Alanya cable car from Damlataş Beach for a scenic ride.
The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule)
The octagonal Red Tower was built in 1226 to protect the harbour and the Seljuk shipyard. Today it houses a small ethnographic museum, and it's the starting point of the harbour promenade, where most Alanya boat trips depart.
Named after the Egyptian queen who, according to legend, swam here, Cleopatra Beach is Alanya's most famous stretch of sand. It has a Blue Flag, clear water and a long promenade lined with cafés. It's also where paragliders land after flying over the city.
Right next to Cleopatra Beach, Damlataş Cave is a small stalactite cave with constant temperature and very humid air. Many locals believe the air is good for breathing. It only takes 20–30 minutes to visit, so it's easy to combine with a beach day.
Best Boat Trips in Alanya
Pirate Boat Trip
A pirate boat trip in Alanya is a must for families and groups of friends. You'll cruise along the coast, stop at the Phosphorus Cave, Lovers' Cave and Pirates' Cave, swim in turquoise bays, and enjoy lunch, music and foam parties on board.
Barbossa Pirate Boat Tour: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/alanya-pirate-boat-trip-price
Admiral Black Pirate Boat – All Inclusive: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/alanya-pirate-boat-trip-admiral-black-all-inclusive
Green Canyon Boat Tour
If you prefer calm and nature, the Green Canyon boat tour is a perfect day out. The boat glides across an emerald lake surrounded by Taurus Mountain cliffs, with swimming stops in water that's cool and crystal clear even in mid-summer.
Green Canyon Boat Tour from Alanya: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/green-canyon-alanya
Adventure Tours in Alanya
The Alanya jeep safari takes you away from the coast into the Taurus Mountains, through pine forests, traditional villages and dirt tracks with stunning views. It's one of our most popular tours, and the water fights between jeeps are part of the fun.
Jeep Safari Alanya: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/jeep-safari-alanya
Quad Safari
Want to drive yourself? A quad safari in Alanya lets you ride through mountain trails and muddy paths. No experience needed; a short training is given before you start.
Alanya Quad Safari Adventure: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/quad-biking-safari-in-alanya
Rafting from Alanya in Köprülü Canyon is ideal for beginners and families. The river is exciting but safe, with experienced guides, safety equipment and a lunch break by the water.
Rafting Tour in Köprülü Canyon: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/alanya-rafting-tour
Tazı Canyon is famous for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking viewpoints, often called the "Valley of Hounds". It's a favourite for photographers.
Tazı Canyon Tour from Alanya: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/alanya-tazi-canyon-tour
Can't choose? Try the Tazı Canyon, Rafting & Jeep Safari Combo and do three adventures in one day: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/alanya-jeep-safari-rafting-tour
For the ultimate view, try paragliding in Alanya. You take off from the mountains above the city with a professional tandem pilot and glide down over the castle and the sea, landing on Cleopatra Beach.
Alanya Paragliding Adventure: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/paragliding-alanya
History & Culture Tours
Demre, Myra & Kekova
This full-day Demre, Myra and Kekova tour combines the Church of St. Nicholas (the original "Santa Claus"), the rock-cut tombs of ancient Myra, and a boat ride over the sunken city of Kekova.
Demre, Myra & Kekova Tour from Alanya: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/demre-myra-kekova-tour-from-alanya
Syedra Ancient City, Dim Cave & Dim River
Discover the ruins of Syedra, explore the impressive Dim Cave, then have lunch at a riverside restaurant on the Dim River, a favourite local spot to cool off in summer.
Syedra, Dim Cave & River Tour: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/alanya-syedra-ancient-city-tour-dim-cave-river-with-lunch
Relax & Unwind
After a few days of adventure, treat yourself to a traditional Turkish bath in Alanya: sauna, peeling, foam massage and total relaxation.
Turkish Bath & Massage in Alanya: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/turkish-bath-hamam-alanya
Alanya Nightlife
Alanya is known for its nightlife, especially around the harbour and Bar Street. For a big open-air party night, many visitors head to Summer Garden.
Alanya Summer Garden Nightclub Experience: https://www.dopingtravel.com/tour/alanya-summer-garden
Tips for Planning Your Alanya Holiday
Best time to visit: May to October is the main season. June and September are ideal if you want warm sea water without peak-summer heat.
Book in advance: Popular tours like boat trips and paragliding fill up fast in July and August.
Hotel pickup: Most of our tours include free hotel transfer from Alanya, Mahmutlar, Oba, Kestel, Konaklı and Avsallar.
Pay on tour day: With Doping Travel you reserve online and pay on the day of your tour. No prepayment needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tour in Alanya?
It depends on your style. Families love the pirate boat trip, adventure seekers choose jeep safari or rafting, and nature lovers prefer the Green Canyon boat tour.
How many days do you need in Alanya?
A week is perfect: a few beach days, 3–4 tours, and one evening at the castle for the sunset.
Are Alanya tours suitable for children?
Yes. Boat trips, Green Canyon and rafting are family-friendly. Quad safari and paragliding have age limits, so check the tour details.
Do tours include hotel pickup?
Most of our tours include free pickup and drop-off from hotels in the Alanya area.
Book Your Alanya Tours Today
From sea caves to mountain canyons, there's no shortage of things to do in Alanya. Browse all our Alanya tours, book online in minutes, and pay on the tour day. If you have any questions, our team is available on WhatsApp 24/7.
All Alanya tours: https://www.dopingtravel.com/location/alanya
