Why foreigners choose to rent apartments in Alanya
Alanya is one of Turkey's most popular resort towns on the southern Mediterranean coast in Antalya province. The mild Mediterranean climate, well-developed infrastructure, and relatively affordable prices make the city attractive for both tourists and long-term renters. This is why renting an apartment in Alanya has become a preferred option among residents from Russia, Germany, Scandinavian countries, and Arab nations.
The city offers a wide range of housing options, from small studios in tourist neighborhoods to spacious apartments in gated communities with pools and security. Alanya properties combine modern comfort with proximity to the sea, which is particularly valued by those planning long-term residence. According to local real estate agencies, demand for long-term rentals in the city has been steadily growing over the past few years.
City life and activities
Alanya is not just about beaches; it also hosts a vibrant urban lifestyle. In April 2025, the city hosted major ÜNİLİG cycling races, which resulted in temporary traffic restrictions and central streets being closed to traffic. This clearly demonstrates that Alanya is a dynamic, living city with a full events calendar, making life here both comfortable and engaging.
Alanya neighborhoods: Where's the best place to rent an apartment?
When renting an apartment in Alanya, choosing the right neighborhood directly affects your quality of life and spending level. Each district in the city has its own character, infrastructure, and price range. Understanding these differences will help you find the most suitable accommodation for your needs.
The city's central district offers easy access to public transport, proximity to markets, restaurants, and government offices. While rental prices here are higher compared to outlying neighborhoods, the savings in transportation and time often compensate for this difference. Particularly popular neighborhoods among renters include Mahmutlar, Avsallar, Kestel, and Oba.
Popular neighborhoods for long-term rentals
Each neighborhood in Alanya offers different advantages depending on the renter's lifestyle. Below are the most preferred districts.
- Mahmutlar — large Russian-speaking community, developed infrastructure, affordable rental prices
- Oba — modern residential complexes, calm atmosphere, proximity to the center
- Avsallar — one of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods, popular among families and retirees
- Kestel — quiet district with good transport connections, less touristy
- Center (Alanya center) — maximum proximity to tourist sites, shops, and services
When choosing a neighborhood, it's important to consider not only price but also transportation options, access to supermarkets, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities. For families with children, proximity to schools offering Russian or English education is also a determining factor.
Apartment rental prices in Alanya
Apartment rental prices in Alanya vary significantly depending on the neighborhood, type of property, furnishing status, and season. Long-term rentals (from 6 months) are traditionally much more affordable compared to daily or short-term rentals. While rental prices have increased in recent years due to general inflation in Turkey, housing in Alanya remains accessible when compared to European resort areas.
On average, a studio or one-bedroom apartment for long-term rental in Mahmutlar or Avsallar costs between 10,000 and 18,000 Turkish lira per month (data as of early 2025). 2+1 apartments in complexes with pools and security are priced in the 18,000 — 35,000 lira range per month. Properties in central neighborhoods and beachfront locations command higher prices.
What's included in the rent
When signing a rental contract, it's important to clarify which expenses are included in the rent and which are paid separately. The vast majority of landlords quote prices excluding utilities and maintenance fees.
- Electricity and water are paid separately based on meter readings
- Maintenance fees (aidat) may or may not be included in the rent
- Internet is usually arranged separately by the tenant
- Deposit is typically set at one to two months' rent
Before signing the contract, it's recommended to document in writing the condition of the apartment and the list of items provided. This greatly helps prevent disputes upon move-out and ensures the return of your deposit.
Legal aspects and Turkey residence permit
Foreign nationals have the right to rent residential property in Turkey under general provisions. The rental agreement is drawn up in Turkish and signed by both parties. To protect your interests, it's advisable to seek assistance from a licensed translator or lawyer specializing in Turkish law.
Important note: Having a long-term rental contract is one of the valid grounds for applying for a residence permit (ikamet izni) in Turkey. A Turkey short-term residence permit based on property rental can be issued for up to two years and grants the right to legally reside in Turkey without the obligation to leave the country every 90 days. This is particularly important for those not yet ready to purchase real estate.
Documents required for residence permit based on rental agreement
A standard set of documents is required to apply for a short-term residence permit based on property rental. Considering that scheduling an appointment with the immigration office can take several weeks, it's recommended to prepare all documents in advance.
- Valid passport and notarized translation
- Notarized rental agreement (kira kontratı)
- Four biometric photos
- Health insurance policy valid throughout Turkey
- Proof of financial means
Turkey residence permit procedures are regularly updated, so it's recommended to verify current requirements directly on the Turkish Directorate General of Migration Management website or through a professional lawyer.
Practical tips for apartment hunters in Alanya
Starting your apartment search in Alanya early is the best approach, especially if you're planning to move during the summer season when this becomes critically important. During the May to October period, demand sharply increases and reasonably priced offers become significantly scarce. The best time to search for long-term rentals is autumn or winter, when landlords are more open to price negotiations.
Contacting local real estate agencies specializing in working with foreign tenants remains a reliable method for finding accommodation. Properties in Alanya are widely listed on Turkish listing platforms and Russian-language social media groups. When viewing apartments, be sure to check the condition of plumbing, air conditioning availability, internet connection, and whether the elevator is functioning.
What to pay attention to during apartment inspection
Property inspection is a critical step that shouldn't be skipped. Carefully examining the apartment for several minutes will help you avoid surprises after moving in.
- Check the condition of windows, doors, and locks
- Verify that the air conditioning system is working — this is extremely critical during hot months
- Ask about the building's age and elevator availability
- Assess noise levels during both daytime and evening hours
- Check water pressure and hot water system functionality
Practical tip: Before signing the contract, photograph the condition of the apartment and send these images to the landlord via email or messaging app. This method creates written evidence of the property's condition at move-in and significantly facilitates the resolution of potential disputes that may arise during move-out.