Where in Turkey is Alanya? An Overview of this Popular Mediterranean Resort Town

Alanya is a beautiful beach resort city located on the southern coast of Turkey, in the country’s Mediterranean region. With its sunny climate natural attractions and historic sites, Alanya has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. But where exactly is this charming town?

An Overview of Alanya’s Geography

Alanya is situated on a peninsula in the Gulf of Antalya, part of the Turkish Riviera. It is located within the borders of the Antalya province, about 133 km east of the city of Antalya. Alanya occupies around 70 km of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea, backed by the Taurus Mountains to the north.

The town itself is divided into eastern and western halves by a rocky peninsula jutting out into the sea. The harbor historic castle and lively city center are clustered on the eastern side. The western side contains beautiful beaches like Damlataş and Cleopatra Beach. Atatürk Bulvari, a major boulevard, runs parallel to the coastline and separates the more touristy southern side from the northern residential areas.

A Seaside Town with a Strategic Location

Alanya owes much of its importance and development to its prime location. The rocky peninsula and harbor provided a natural stronghold that made Alanya valued by successive Mediterranean civilizations.

In ancient times, the city was variously known as Coracesium or Korakesion. It was brought under control of regional powers like the Ptolemaic Kingdom, Seleucid Empire, and Roman Republic due to its strategic position on the Pamphylia coast. The city’s easily defensible location continued to draw the attention of regional powers in the Middle Ages, including the Byzantine Empire and Seljuk Sultanate of Rum.

The medieval Seljuks in particular transformed Alanya into a major port and winter capital of their empire. The surviving historic sites, like the imposing seaside castle and Red Tower, stem from this period. The natural harbor fostered extensive trading links with places like Egypt and Italy, adding to the city’s prosperity.

Modern-Day Alanya – A Tourism Hotspot

While Alanya declined after the 16th century as trade routes shifted, it has reemerged in modern times as a booming center of tourism. Its seaside location, ruins, charming old quarter, and fabulous beaches began attracting Turkish tourists in the 1960s. International visitors started arriving after the opening of Antalya Airport in 1998.

Today, tourism dominates the local economy and draws both domestic and foreign visitors. Alanya’s sunny weather, scenic vistas, and historic charm make it the second most popular resort area in Turkey after Antalya. It attracts around 20% of Turkey’s tourist arrivals, many from Russia and Northern Europe. Tourism has fueled the city’s growth, with the population swelling to over 300,000 inhabitants.

What to See and Do in Alanya

For beachgoers, Alanya offers a superb selection of sandy beaches and coves, many with beach clubs and watersports. Damlataş and Cleopatra Beach are perennial favorites. Tourists can also explore historic attractions like Alanya Castle, a sprawling medieval fortress, and the Red Tower, a symbol of the city. The old Damlatas quarter has Ottoman-era houses and architecture.

Visitors can enjoy views along the coastal promenade or shop in the bustling bazaar. Day cruises and excursions to nearby sights are also popular activities. Alanya’s sunny climate makes it ideal for relaxed beach holidays and outdoor pursuits like hiking, cycling, and water sports. The city comes alive at night with a vibrant bar and restaurant scene.