Family-Friendly Adventures in Alanya, Antalya!

Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Alanya Castle (Alanya Kalesi)

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure to Alanya Castle early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat. Located atop a rocky peninsula overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean, this historical fortress offers breathtaking views and a peek into the past.

Getting There

If staying in Alanya, take a local bus directed towards the Castle or enjoy a scenic walk if you"re up for a bit of exercise. For a unique experience, consider taking the cable car from Damlataş Cave area, which provides stunning aerial views of the city and sea.

Exploration Begins

Enter through the main gate of the castle, which dates back to the 13th century during the Seljuk Sultanate period. The entrance fee is modest, and kids under 12 often enter for free.

Key Attractions

1. Walls and Towers: Walk along the massive defensive walls that stretch for 6.5 km. Point out the different towers along the way, each with a story to tell. The Red Tower is particularly famous, known for its unique octagonal shape.

2. Byzantine Church: Explore the ruins of the Byzantine Church, giving a glimpse into the religious history of the region. It’s a great spot for photos and to enjoy a moment of calm.

3. Sultan"s Palace: Visit the restored rooms of the Sultan"s Palace and imagine the opulent lifestyle of the rulers who once lived here.

Lunch Break

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shaded areas near the Byzantine Church, or dine at one of the nearby restaurants offering traditional Turkish cuisine along with panoramic views of Alanya.

Fun Fact & Leisure

Did you know that during clear days, you can see all the way to the Cilician mountains from certain points of the castle? After lunch, let the kids play pretend as ancient warriors or princesses amidst the ruins, making history fun and relatable.

Departure

Head back in the late afternoon, taking the cable car down to capture a few last pictures of the stunning landscape from above.

Conclusion

Alanya Castle not only provides a journey into the past but also offers families a full day of exploration, education, and unforgettable views. Don’t forget your camera and comfortable walking shoes!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sapadere Canyon (Sapadere Kanyonu)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Sapadere Canyon

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Begin your family adventure early in the morning by driving or taking a guided tour from Alanya to Sapadere Canyon, located approximately 40 kilometers away. The journey itself is scenic, winding through the Taurus Mountains, offering stunning views and photo opportunities. Upon arrival, you"ll find a well-maintained wooden pathway stretching over 700 meters, making it accessible for family members of all ages.

Interesting Fact: Sapadere Canyon is a spectacle of natural beauty formed by erosion from water and wind over thousands of years.

Midday: Natural Wonders and Lunch

Walk through the canyon and marvel at the towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. The pathway ends at a majestic waterfall where you can take memorable family photos. For the adventurous, there is an opportunity to swim in the natural pools, so don’t forget to pack swimwear and towels!

After working up an appetite, enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at one of the local restaurants near the entrance of the canyon. Try some gözleme (Turkish pancakes) — a hit among children and adults alike.

Afternoon: Village Tour and Cultural Experience

Post-lunch, take a short walk to the nearby Sapadere village. Here you can immerse your family in local culture, visiting a silk weaving workshop, where traditional methods are still in use.

Interesting Fact: Sapadere village is known for its silk production, and you can see how silk is woven into beautiful designs.

Late Afternoon: Return to Alanya

Wind down your visit by late afternoon and head back to Alanya, carrying wonderful memories and perhaps some local silk souvenirs.

This family-friendly itinerary to Sapadere Canyon ensures a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural education, perfect for creating lasting memories!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Cleopatra Beach (Kleopatra Plaji)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the stunning Cleopatra Beach, located in Alanya, Turkey—a perfect destination for a family-friendly adventure! Here"s how you can make the most of your visit:

Morning: Arrival and Beach Time

Start your day early by heading to Cleopatra Beach, famed for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. According to legend, the beach was named after Queen Cleopatra of Egypt, who is said to have swum here. You can easily reach the beach by public transport or taxi from any part of Alanya. Spend your morning soaking up the sun, building sandcastles, or enjoying a refreshing swim.

Midday: Lunch and Alanya Gardens

Around noon, take a short walk from the beach to the nearby Alanya Gardens, where you can enjoy a picnic under the shade of palm trees. There are also several family-friendly restaurants along the promenade where you can savor Turkish delicacies.

Afternoon: Alanya Castle and Red Tower

Post lunch, take a taxi or the local bus to Alanya Castle. This historical site offers panoramic views of the coastline and a glimpse into Turkey’s rich history. The castle is a great spot for families to explore ancient ruins and learn about the area"s past. Nearby, visit the Red Tower, known for its unique octagonal shape and historical exhibits.

Evening: Sunset and Dinner

Return to the beach area in the evening to catch a breathtaking sunset. For dinner, choose one of the seaside restaurants to enjoy freshly caught seafood while overlooking the Mediterranean.

Tips

- Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

- Consider renting beach chairs and umbrellas for comfort.

This itinerary combines relaxation with exploration, offering a perfect blend of beach fun and cultural enrichment for the whole family. Enjoy your trip to Cleopatra Beach, where history and beauty meet!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Red Tower (Kizil Kule)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Red Tower (Kizil Kule) and Surroundings

Morning: Arrival at Red Tower

Start your day early to make the most of your visit to Alanya’s iconic Red Tower, located right at the harbour. If you"re staying in Alanya, a local bus or a short taxi ride will take you directly to the harbor area. If you"re driving, parking is available near the harbor.

Visit Red Tower (Kizil Kule)

Built in 1226 under the rule of the Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat, this impressive structure has served as a fortress, lighthouse, and now a museum. The Red Tower is famous for its octagonal shape and its striking red brick construction. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Alanya"s coastline and the Taurus Mountains. The tower is also home to an ethnographic museum, making it a great educational stop for kids to learn about Turkish medieval history.

Lunch at the Harbor

After exploring the tower, enjoy a family lunch at one of the harbor"s quaint restaurants, where you can try local Turkish cuisine like "pide" (Turkish pizza) or fresh seafood.

Afternoon: Alanya Shipyard

A short walk from the Red Tower, visit the historic Alanya Shipyard (Tersane), which dates back to the Seljuk era. It"s one of the oldest shipyards in Turkey, and kids will love seeing where ships were built and repaired centuries ago.

Leisure Time at Cleopatra Beach

End your day with some relaxation at Cleopatra Beach, just a 10-minute drive from the harbor. Named after the Egyptian queen who is said to have swum there, this beach offers clear turquoise waters and soft sands, perfect for a family swim and sunset views.

This itinerary combines history, culture, and leisure, offering a fulfilling day for families seeking both education and relaxation in Alanya.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Damlatas Cave (Damlatas Magarasi)

Why Visit?

Embark on a fascinating day trip to Damlatas Cave (Damlatas Magarasi) in Alanya, a perfect outing for families eager to explore natural wonders and soak up some local culture. Here"s a family-friendly itinerary to maximize your experience:

Morning: Visit to Damlatas Cave

Start your day early by heading to Damlatas Cave, located conveniently at the western end of Alanya"s famous Cleopatra Beach. You can easily reach this natural wonder by local bus or taxi from anywhere in Alanya. The cave, discovered in 1948, is renowned for its astounding stalactites and stalagmites formation. The air inside the cave is believed to be beneficial for asthma sufferers due to its high humidity and constant temperature, making it a unique ‘natural spa’. Spend about 30-40 minutes exploring this mesmerizing cave and enjoy its cool environment, a pleasant respite from the outside heat.

Midday: Cleopatra Beach

After exploring the cave, step out to the adjacent Cleopatra Beach. According to legend, the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra swam here during her visit with Roman general Mark Antony. The beach is perfect for families, offering crystal-clear waters and fine sand, ideal for building sandcastles or enjoying a relaxing swim.

Afternoon: Alanya Archaeological Museum

Cap off your day with a visit to the Alanya Archaeological Museum, a short drive or bus ride from Cleopatra Beach. This museum showcases a range of artifacts from the region, including items from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine period. The exhibits are child-friendly, with descriptions in multiple languages, ensuring a learning experience that is as educational as it is entertaining.

Tips

- Wear comfortable shoes as the floor inside the cave can be slippery.

- Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for your beach time.

- Check the local bus schedules in advance to ensure smooth travel between locations.

This itinerary blends adventure, history, and relaxation, tailored to provide a memorable experience for the whole family in the beautiful setting of Alanya.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.