Alanya Castle

The most suitable period to visit Alanya Castle is April-June and September-October. During these months, the weather temperature is very favorable for walking, and visitor density remains much lower compared to the summer months. In July and August, the temperature on top of the peninsula can approach 40 degrees Celsius; as shaded areas are quite limited, we recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon during this period.

In winter months, the castle largely quiets down, offering a peaceful atmosphere for walking along the walls. Keep in mind that some paid sections may close earlier during winter hours. The best light conditions for photography are early mornings and before sunset.

The most practical way to reach the castle from Alanya city center is by using a minibus (dolmuş). Minibuses that go all the way to the top of the peninsula operate at regular intervals, especially during the summer season. You can reach the Inner Castle area directly, avoiding a steep and long walk.

For those who wish to walk up, a path starting from the Red Tower and continuing along the walls is an option; however, this path is quite steep and stony, so comfortable shoes are essential. If you are coming from Antalya, intercity buses or car rental are the most common choices. The distance from Antalya Airport to Alanya is approximately 130 kilometers; your transfer time will vary between 2-2.5 hours depending on traffic.

To explore the castle most efficiently, you can follow this route: First, visit the Red Tower; this 13th-century octagonal tower is the best starting point for your visit, offering both historical significance and views overlooking Alanya harbor. Then, proceed to the Seljuk shipyard; this five-nave shipyard is one of the rare Seljuk maritime structures that have survived to the present day in Anatolia.

After the shipyard, take a dolmuş or walk up to reach the Inner Castle area. Here, you will be greeted by Byzantine church ruins, cisterns, and panoramic views stretching to the Mediterranean from the highest point of the castle. Try to be at this point before sunset; the moment the light meets the sea is truly worth seeing.

Alanya Castle is an extremely rich location for photography enthusiasts. The highest terrace of the Inner Castle is the best shooting spot, offering a bird's-eye view of the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean and Cleopatra Beach; this view becomes particularly striking at sunset. The frames you capture along the walls, featuring the peninsula and the sea, also offer very strong compositions.

The Red Tower yields excellent results in photos taken both up close and from the opposite side of the harbor. Photos taken from inside the shipyard, showing the sea through the arch openings, create one of the most unique images of the castle. We recommend checking local regulations for drone use beforehand.

Food and drink options inside the castle and along the walls are quite limited; it is definitely recommended to bring water and light snacks with you. Especially during long walks under the sun in summer, plenty of water is essential.

After your visit, there are many restaurants in Alanya city center and around the harbor. The region's fresh seafood, Mediterranean olive oil dishes, and Alanya's unique Dim tea are among the flavors that must be tried. Cafes around the Red Tower are a nice stop for both resting and enjoying the view overlooking the harbor.

The paths inside the castle are largely stony and inclined; wearing comfortable, non-slip shoes is important for both comfort and safety. Visiting with high heels or sandals can be quite challenging. Wheelchair or stroller use is not possible due to the nature of the structure.

In summer, you should bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Shaded areas are extremely limited. Müzekart (Museum Pass) holders can benefit from discounts in paid sections; check the validity of your card before your visit. Make sure your camera or phone is fully charged; you won't regret it for the viewpoints.

The story of Alanya Castle begins in the Hellenistic period in the 2nd century BC. Romans and then Byzantines used this strategic peninsula for centuries. The period that determined the current appearance of the structure is the 13th-century Seljuk period. Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I extensively rebuilt the castle, shipyard, and walls after conquering the city in 1221; Alanya served as the winter capital of the Seljuk Sultanate during this period.

The naturally protected location of the castle has allowed for continuous settlement throughout history. The 6.5 kilometers of walls and 140 bastions demonstrate how advanced the engineering understanding of the era was. The numerous cisterns within the structure were designed to meet water needs during long sieges; some of them are still usable today.