January Alanya is a chance to see the city as the locals see it. Without the July crowds, without the October sales, without the December bustle. Simply a city by the sea, living its own life.
The first address is the Kalesi fortress. In January the climb to the top is a pleasure rather than an ordeal. A ticket costs 100 lira, there are no queues, and on the viewing platform by the Inner Fortress you can stand for an hour without getting cold.
The second is the Damlataş cave in the centre. Famous for its microclimate, which helps asthmatics. In January it is almost empty here in the morning. A ticket is 80 lira, and a visit lasts about an hour.
The third is the fish market in the Saray district. Every morning from six until ten. Fresh salmon from Norway, sea bream from local farms, lobsters from the Anamur lagoon. Prices are 30–40% lower than in the supermarket.
The fourth is the Sefa hamam in the old town. January is the best time for a Turkish bath: long treatments, no queues, prices lower than in summer. The full package is 800 lira.
The fifth is the sunset from Castle Hill. In January the sun sets around 17:30, and from there opens the best view of the bay in the city. Bring a thermos of tea and a blanket.