The rhythm of a city that never tires
Alanya has a rhythm all its own. From May to October, the city is vibrant with visitors, music drifting along the coast, and the scent of roasted corn near Cleopatra Beach. In the remaining months, a quieter, more intimate side of the city emerges—a lifestyle known primarily to those who choose to spend their winters in the sun.
The permanent residents consist of a diverse community: Turks, Europeans, Middle Easterners, and many others who decided at some point that 300 sunny days a year was a compelling enough reason to stay. Many arrived first as tourists, explored the rental market in Alanya, and eventually decided to make this place their second home. This journey is a familiar story here; it surprises no one.
The city is organized so that everything you need is practically within walking distance. The center is shaped around the castle and the waterfront, extending into neighborhoods like Mahmutlar, Oba, and Avsallar—each with its own distinct character and infrastructure.
Beaches and the sea: Alanya’s greatest treasure
Cleopatra Beach is the iconic symbol of the city. Located right in the heart of town, this two-kilometer stretch of fine white sand is a unique coastline where the sea temperature reaches 28 degrees in June. Access is free; you can rent a sunbed for 100-150 liras per day.
Keykubat Beach is located a bit further from the center, at the foot of the cliff where the castle rises. Here, a sense of peace always prevails. A favorite for those seeking to swim away from the crowds, the water is crystal clear; while the seabed is pebbly, it never hinders the enjoyment of the sea—a feeling quite familiar to those living on the coast.
The best time for swimming
The swimming season in Alanya lasts from April to November. In April, the water is still refreshing at around 20 degrees, perfect for those who enjoy a brisk, invigorating swim. The most comfortable period is between July and September, when the water temperature hovers between 27 and 29 degrees.
- Cleopatra Beach — fine white sand, developed infrastructure, paid sunbeds
- Keykubat Beach — calmer, near the cliffs, ideal for an independent retreat
- Avsallar Beach — 25 km from the center, a long and secluded coastline even in summer
For those planning to live here permanently, proximity to the sea becomes an inseparable part of the daily routine. This is why properties near the sea in Alanya are so highly valued by those choosing to make the city their permanent home.
Food, markets, and restaurants
The local cuisine is a reason in itself to stay. In Alanya, you will find both tourist restaurants with menus in six languages along the promenade and small family-run eateries where a three-course meal costs 150-200 liras. The difference in atmosphere and flavor between the two is immense.
Markets in Alanya are held on specific days in different neighborhoods: the local market in Oba is on Mondays, and a large market is held in the city center every Friday. You can find fresh vegetables, fruits, spices, cheese, olives, and homemade bread here. Prices are significantly lower compared to supermarkets, and the variety is much wider. Local residents do the bulk of their weekly shopping at these markets.
Coffee culture and daily cafes
Turkish tea is not just a drink; it is a social ritual. In any cafe, a small tulip-shaped glass of tea will cost you 10-15 liras. In the mornings, choosing cafes away from the tourist paths is better for both your budget and your peace of mind.
- Breakfast at a local cafe: menemen, cheeses, olives, tomatoes — approx. 150-250 liras
- Lunch at a local eatery: soup, hot dish, salad, tea — starting from 150 liras
- Dinner at a restaurant by the sea: from 400 liras per person
The golden rule everyone who moves here quickly learns is: do not eat on the seafront in the tourist streets; the quality is the same, but the prices are double.
Culture, holidays, and local life
Alanya is a lively city with its own distinct cultural agenda. Festivals, exhibitions, and national holidays that bring together both the local population and new residents are celebrated regularly. One of the most special days of the year is April 23, National Sovereignty and Children's Day. This day, marking the opening of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in 1920, was gifted to children at the request of Atatürk.
This year on April 23, the TCG BORA missile boat and a coast guard boat were opened to the public at Alanya Harbor. Long queues formed from the early morning hours; the city residents did not miss this rare opportunity. Such events show that Alanya does not merely serve tourists but lives a real, full, and vibrant city life.
Alanya Castle is one of the most important historical sites in the city. Built in the 13th century during the reign of the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat I, this magnificent structure still rises majestically over the city today. The climb, which takes about 40 minutes on foot, is worth every minute; the view of the entire city and the sea from the top is breathtaking.
Practical aspects of living in Alanya
Considering long-term relocation to Alanya inevitably crosses everyone's mind sooner or later. Many people first rent an apartment to see which neighborhood suits their lifestyle before committing to a purchase. Renting an apartment in Alanya is the most common way to start this journey: one-bedroom apartments in Mahmutlar start from 15,000 liras per month, with prices rising in more central neighborhoods.
Those who decide to stay permanently look into options for obtaining a residence permit (ikamet izni) in Turkey. A residence permit allows you to access healthcare services, open accounts at local banks, and live without having to cross the border every three months. This fundamentally changes the quality of life.
A separate issue is the matter of commercial real estate in Alanya. News stories, such as shop owners at the Airport AVM shopping center who have been unable to receive rental income for years despite holding their title deeds (Tapu), serve as a reminder: be cautious with any transaction here, research the reputation of the developer and management company, and never make hasty decisions under the pressure of polished presentations.
- Explore the neighborhood before renting: Oba has a quiet, family-oriented structure; the city center is noisy but everything is at your fingertips
- Healthcare: There is a state hospital and many private clinics in Alanya; the emergency service can be reached by dialing 112
- Transportation: Dolmuş (minibuses) operate on fixed routes; a one-way fare is approximately 20-25 liras
- Language: Many people in the center speak English; however, in residential neighborhoods, knowing some Turkish is essential
Alanya is a city that reveals itself slowly—not during a one-week holiday, but at the Friday market, during evening walks along the coast, and the moment you place your first order in Turkish at a local cafe. Come with plenty of time, and everything will fall into place. NewTime Investment is here to help you navigate this transition.