Day Trips from Alanya
On the sunny coast of Turkey, Alanya is perfect for beach lovers and history enthusiasts. It’s a great starting point for day trips, with plenty of old sites and beautiful nature to explore. Each trip from Alanya offers something special to enjoy.
In this guide, we’ll share exciting day trip ideas from Alanya, Turkey. We’ll cover the distance, transportation options, attractions to visit, and estimated costs. Let’s begin our adventure.
Alara Castle and Alara River
The old Alara Castle is on a hill by the calm Alara River. It mixes history and nature, making it a nice spot for a chill day out. Located 20 km from Alanya, you can easily visit both the castle and the river. Local buses can get you close to the castle, then a short walk or taxi ride will take you there.
At the castle, you get awesome views of the Turkish Riviera and see the old fortress guarding the medieval silk road. Relax by the Alara River and try some local Turkish food at nearby cafes. You can also take a traditional boat ride to a nearby delta for cool photos and quiet time.
The whole trip, including transport, guides, and meals, will cost you around $15 to $30.
Demre-Myra-Kekova Ancient Cities
Travel back in time to witness the ancient Lycian people in Demre, explore Myra’s tombs, and discover the sunken city of Kekova. The distance from Alanya is approximately 160–190 km, depending on your specific destination along this route. To reach these historical sites, you can either drive on the D400 Antalya highway or opt for group tours that provide buses and knowledgeable guides.
Discover the ancient cities, tombs, and theaters of Lycia that now rest on modern-day land. Experience a boat journey through the submerged city of Kekova, revealing remnants beneath the crystal-clear, shallow waters. Don’t miss the chance to visit St. Nicholas Church in Demre, believed to be the initial resting place of Santa Claus.
For this trip, expect day tour prices to range between $25 and $70, varying based on inclusions like meals, guide services, and optional boat excursions.
Aspendos and Perge Ancient Amphitheaters
Aspendos and Perge, with their ancient amphitheaters and city layouts, stand out in shiny old gold color, showcasing the remarkable skills of people from the past. These historical sites are well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the past.
If you’re in Alanya, Aspendos is around 100 km away, while Perge is about 90 km from there. To reach these sites, you can either opt for a group tour or rent a car for convenience.
When you visit, make sure to catch a show at the impressive Aspendos Amphitheater, still in use today. Explore the ancient city remains of Perge, including its large stadium. Don’t miss the chance to take photos of intricate mosaics and well-preserved old buildings. Joining guided tours can help you grasp the significance of these ancient cities.
For a trip to Aspendos and Perge, budget around $30 to $60, depending on the transport option and package you select.
Pamukkale and Salda Lake
Pamukkale has pretty white stone steps and Salda Lake has crystal clear blue water that looks like Mars. They are really beautiful to see and enjoy.
If you’re coming from Alanya, it’s about 260 km away. To go there, you can take a bus trip which usually takes 6–7 hours if you don’t feel like driving. Lots of companies offer this trip from Alanya. At Pamukkale, you can check out the awesome rock pools and the old town Hierapolis. Don’t miss the chance to swim in Cleopatra’s Pool with its ancient tales. Salda Lake, also known as the ‘Turkish Maldives’, is a must-visit spot where you can walk around the white sandy beaches and salty shores. Take pictures and enjoy the relaxing vibe, local food, and swim in the sun.
The trip costs around $50 to $100 per person, covering transportation, entrance fees, and guided tours.
Sapadere Canyon
Enjoy the calm of nature at Sapadere Canyon. It’s a peaceful spot away from the busy Alanya coast and hot sun.
It’s about 45 km from Alanya, so a short and comfy drive or tour ride. Lots of tour companies can take you there in air-conditioned buses with English guides. At the canyon, you can stroll by waterfalls, pools, and cool rock formations. Don’t miss the hidden restaurant for a tasty Turkish meal outdoors. Take lots of pics of the greenery and rocks.
For a day trip to Sapadere Canyon, prices range from $25 to $50 for all-inclusive tours, depending on the activities and meals included.
Antalya
Near Alanya is the busy city of Antalya. It mixes modern Turkish life with old charm, set against the Taurus Mountains.
Antalya is only 125 km to the west of Alanya, so it’s a great option for a day trip. Thanks to the D400 highway, you can reach Antalya by car or bus in a short time for a full day of exploring.
Relax on the peaceful sands of Konyaaltı Beach or head to the famous Cleopatra Beach for a relaxing time by the sea. Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Kaleiçi, the old area of Antalya, which is full of old buildings, small shops, and lively cafés. Explore the interesting Ottoman history at the Antalya Museum, where you can see cool artifacts and fascinating exhibitions.
You might spend around $20 to $50 when you visit Antalya. This covers travel expenses, museum tickets, and food or souvenirs.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a special place with tall rock formations and cave houses. One of the main things to do there is riding in a hot air balloon to see the unique landscape.
It’s around 400 kilometers away, so it’s a bit of a long journey, but totally worth it for the experience. You can get there by bus or car, and it’s a good idea to stay overnight to make the most of your visit. Start your day early with a hot air balloon ride to get an aerial view of Cappadocia. Don’t miss exploring the caves at Göreme Open-Air Museum, a cool spot protected by UNESCO. You can also check out underground cities like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli where people used to live for safety. In the evening, you can enjoy a traditional Turkish night show or join a local guided tour to learn more about life in Cappadocia.
If you’re coming from Alanya, there are day trip options that cost between $150 and $300, covering the hot air balloon ride, transportation, and some meals.
Travel from Alanya to these exciting places. Experience history and nature. Find a day trip you like and don’t forget, every day trip in Turkey is a chance to explore different things. Bring your curiosity, sunscreen, and go on a cultural journey that you’ll always remember. Whether you visit the sunken city of Kekova or go up in a balloon in Cappadocia, get ready for your adventures.
