Livingabroad

The history of the Turks covers a time frame of more than 4000 years. Turks first lived in Central Asia around 2000 BC. Later, some of them left Central Asia and spread around, establishing many states and empires independent from each other within a vast area of Asia and Europe. These empires included The Great Hun Empire (established during the 3rd Century B.C.), the Göktürk Empire (552- 740), the Uygur Empire (741- 840), the Avar Empire (6-9 Century A.D.), the Hazar Empire (5-10 Century A.D), the Great Seljuk Empire (1040- 1157), and many others.

Turks in Anatolia: The Turks started to settle in Anatolia in the early 11th century by way of continual migrations and incursions. The Malazgirt victory in 1071 against the Byzantines literally opened up the gates of Anatolia to the Turks. It is following this date that the Turks fully conquered the whole of Anatolia and established the Anatolian Seljuk State there (1080-1308).This was the first Turkish State in Anatolia and was sometimes called, after its capital city of many years, the Konya Sultanate.

OTTOMAN AGE 1299–1923

The Seljuk State rapidly declined with the Mongol invasion of Anatolia which started in 1243. During the period of the decline of the Anatolian Seljuk state and after its disappearance, many Turcoman principalities were established in Anatolia towards the end of the thirteenth century. One of these was the Ottoman (in Turkish Osmanli) Beylik (similar to a Principality) named after its founder, a Turkish ruler named Osman in 1299 in the environs of Söğüt in Eskişehir in the northwestern corner of the peninsula. The Ottoman Beylik rapidly expanded throughout the fourteenth century and thus arose the Ottoman Empire, which ruled over a vast territory on three continents and lasted for 623 years until the end of the First World War.

The Ottomans captured Constantinople in 1453, during the reign of Sultan Mehmet II (1451-1481), and the Byzantine Empire fell, which also marked the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the New Age. During the reign of Sultan Mehmet II, who assumed the title of "The Conqueror," the Ottoman state entered into an era of rapid development which would last until the end of the sixteenth century. At its height, the Ottomans ruled over what is today Greece, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Albania and Romania in the Balkans, over all the islands in the Eastern Mediterranean, and over what is today the Middle East. The borders of the Empire extended from the Crimea in the North to Yemen and Sudan in the South and from Iran and the Caspian Sea in the East to Vienna in the Northwest and Spain in the Southwest.

Starting in the 16th century, however, the Ottoman Empire incrementally lost its economic and military superiority in comparison to Europe, which had developed rapidly with the Renaissance, with its conquest of new territories and its access to raw materials, and with the Industrial Revolution. The Ottoman Empire failed to adapt to these new developments. Thus, the balance of power shifted in favor of the European States. The nationalist movements that started in the nineteenth century and the self-determination movements and rebellions of the Balkan nations, supported by the European powers and Russia, slowly brought the Ottoman Empire to a decline.

WORLD WAR I 1914 –1918

The weakening of the Empire continued until World War I. The Ottoman Empire entered the First World War in 1914 on the side of the allied powers and emerged defeated from the war in 1918, compelled to sign the Mondros Armistice on October 30, 1918. Under the terms of this Armistice, the territories of the Ottoman Empire were occupied by Britain, France, Russia, and Greece. This was the actual end of the Ottoman Empire.

A national resistance and liberation movement emerged as a reaction to this occupation under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal, an Ottoman military commander who mobilized Anatolia in a quest for Turkish self-determination and national independence. He united sporadic and disorganized resistance groups in Anatolia and organized them into a structured army. Under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal—later given the last name Ataturk or "Father of Turks"—the resistance became cohesive, and the Turks were capable of fighting the war for national liberation.

The Turkish National Liberation War was an effort to create a new state from the ruins of an Empire, which had completed its life. It lasted four years (1919-1922) wherein a small army of volunteers fought and won a war against the leading powers of this time. Ataturk's victory was not only military, but it was also diplomatic. The Turkish military victory was sealed with a diplomatic success with the signing of the Lausanne Peace Treaty on July 24, 1923. Signed with Great Britain, France, Greece, Italy and others, the Treaty recognized the creation and international borders of a Turkish State and guaranteed its complete independence.

REPUBLIC OF TURKEY

The Republic was proclaimed on October 29, 1923. For the first time in centuries, the Turkish people enjoyed self-rule. Mustafa Kemal was elected as the first president of the Republic of Turkey.

As president for 15 years, until his death in 1938, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk introduced a broad range of reforms in the political, social, legal, economic, and cultural spheres that were virtually unparalleled in any other country.

The first Grand National Assembly under the leadership of Ataturk created a new political and legal system based on the principles of parliamentary democracy, human rights, national sovereignty and division of powers, private ownership and secularism, and the separation of religion and state affairs. A new, secular education system was established, the Arabic alphabet was changed into the Latin alphabet, and new civil and criminal codes were adapted from European models. Turkish women received equal rights under the law such as the right to vote and be elected to public office, which put Turkey ahead of many Western nations in terms of women's rights. It was a revolution, unparalleled at its time and even today, to bring a predominantly Muslim nation in line with Western civilization and universal values.

When is the best time to travel to Turkey? Where should you go on your holiday in Turkey? First off, check the weather in Turkey. With such a large landmass, Turkey enjoys a variety of climates, earning the country the nickname ‘the land of four seasons’ (dort mevsim). From the temperate climate of the Black Sea region, where 80% of the world’s hazelnuts are produced, to the continental climate of the interior, and the Mediterranean climates of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey’s weather systems are geographically diverse.

Marmara, Aegean, and Mediterranean coasts:

These coastal regions have a typical Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The swimming season becomes shorter the further north one goes: South Aegean and Mediterranean April to October.

Black Sea Coast:

Temperate climate with warm summers, mild winters, and relatively high rainfall.

Central Turkey:

These areas have a steppe climate with hot, dry summers, cold winters.

Eastern Turkey:

Long snowy, cold winters with mild summers.

Southeast Turkey:

These areas have a hot summer with mild, rainy winters.

Mediterranean coast

Turkey's southern shore is hemmed in by high mountain ranges. There's some beach from Fethiye to Antalya, but east of Antalya the littoral broadens into the fertile Pamphylian plain (which is where you find Side) fringed with white sand beach. Not far east of Alanya the mountains come down to the sea again, all the way east to Antalya, keeping this coast very hot and humid in summer: maximum 45C/113F, minimum -5C/23F; rainfall is 777 mm/31 inches.

Antalya Cost .

Antalya cost comes under the influence of weather systems over the Middle East which accounts for the extended summer season. Summer runs from May to October reaching its peak in July and August which are the warmest months of the year.

By May maximum daytime temperatures top 25°C, the sea reaches 20°C and there are 10 hours of sunshine on average each day. Similarly at the end of the summer season in October daytime temperatures can easily hit 30°C, nearly 70% of daylight hours are sunny - that's 8 hours a day on average - and sea temperatures are arguably still quite comfortable at 24°C.

For obvious reasons the busiest time of the year is during July and August when most Europeans take their annual holiday. During this time, there may not be a cloud in the sky for days on end, and in the afternoon air temperatures in the shade can easily reach the low forties Celsius; the average maximum is 34°C.

Heat and Humidity during the day are generally high or very high, which some people may find uncomfortable. Luckily onshore breezes during the afternoon can alleviate some of this and temperatures always fall after sunset. During the day, the sea is never far away for a cooling dip in waters which in August can reach 27°C.

The Antalya Coast has some of the longest beaches in Turkey though sadly they are not all covered by soft white sand. Side and Alanya to the east probably have the best sand and the beaches are shallow and safe, while Cirali to the south is wilder and less developed.

At the end of summer even before the end of October, there can be days with rain, and rainfall increases to its maximum from December to February. The majority of this rain falls on the Taurus Mountains behind the coast and most hours during the day are still sunny, though winter temperatures, especially at night, usually fall into single figures in Celsius.

While the mountains may increase the chances of a wet day, they also help to prevent very cold air that reaches northern Turkey in winter from affecting temperatures on the coast. To the north of the mountains, it can be very cold in winter while on the Antalya Coast daytime temperatures average 15°C even in the coldest months.

The wind direction in winter is primarily from the north or northwest, however, low pressure systems travelling eastwards along the Mediterranean occasionally veer north towards the Antalya Coast bringing wet and sometimes stormy conditions from the south, with high seas.

If you visit the Antalya Coast in winter there is usually snow on the Taurus Mountains behind the coast. There are even two little ski resorts, Saklikent and Davras, within easy reach, each with just one or two small lifts, and in good years, you can ski as late as April.

Whether you are after some baking hot summer sunshine beside the turquoise waters of the Turkish Mediterranean Coast, a quieter more active outdoor holiday in spring or autumn, or a little winter sunshine, Antalya weather has something to offer everyone.

Not far east of Alanya the mountains come down to the sea again, all the way east to Antalya, keeping this coast very hot and humid in summer: maximum 45C/113F, minimum -5C/23F; rainfall is 777 mm/31 inches. At the end of summer even before the end of October, there can be days with rain, and rainfall increases to its maximum from December to February.

The wind direction in winter is primarily from the north or northwest, however, low-pressure systems travelling eastwards along the Mediterranean occasionally veer north towards the Antalya Coast bringing wet and sometimes stormy conditions from the south.

The culture of Turkey combines a heavily diverse and heterogeneous set of elements that have been derived from the various cultures of the Eastern Mediterranean (West Asian) region and to a lesser degree, Southeastern European, Caucasian, and Central Asian traditions. Many of these traditions were initially brought together by the Ottoman Empire, a multi-ethnic and multi-religious state. The present-day Republic of Turkey, which was declared in 1923 after the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire, is still a transcontinental country that spans Europe and Asia.

During the early years of the republic, the government invested a large amount of resources into fine arts such as paintings, sculpture and architecture. This was done as both a process of modernization and of creating a cultural identity. Because of the different historical factors defining the Turkish identity, the culture of Turkey combines clear efforts of modernization and Westernization undertaken in varying degrees since the 1700s, with a simultaneous desire to maintain traditional religious and historical values.

One thing you will soon realize when visiting Turkey is part of the Turkish culture involves being very sociable. Turkish people love to meet new friends and think nothing of spending half the day talking to a complete stranger while putting the world to rights. People who come from countries that are reserved may be in awe of the friendly nature shown to everyone. With this in mind, I have put together a guide on Turkish culture and social traditions that you will encounter when visiting Turkey.

Hos Geldiniz.

You will hear this phrase often in Turkey, more so if you visit the traditional Turkish restaurants and bars rather than establishments aimed at tourists. It means “welcome” and the phrase that you should return is “Hos bulduk” which means we feel welcome. Don’t get nervous if you forget this term or forget to say it as Turkish people realize that not every foreigner knows the Turkish language.

Men only.

If you are a woman, the only establishments to be aware of are Turkish tea houses. Culturally women do not go in there. Instead, look for a Turkish tea garden where couples and families will go. If you are in any doubt, take a look at who else is there. Countless amounts of tables filled with men playing backgammon means it is a no go area for females.

Social gatherings

You will probably find yourself invited to a wedding or a circumcision party by a Turkish person even if you have only known them for a couple of days. The motto here is the more the merrier and the word stranger is not even thought of. Whether alcohol will at the venue is dependent on the family and their background. I am not going to write a long list of do’s and don’ts because the Turkish people just want you to relax and enjoy yourself. If there is anything you need to know at the time, then someone at the event will inform you of what is happening. As a present to give to the guest of honor, buy small pieces of gold from a jewellery shop or give them money. Wrapped presents and cards are not widely recognized in Turkey.

An Invitation To Their House

Turkish people invite anybody and anyone around to their house. It might just be for breakfast or a formal evening meal. Remember to say Hos bulduk when entering in response when they tell you that you are welcome. Shoes in the house are generally not allowed. Instead, you will be given a pair of slippers.

Now here is what you do need to know. If you are going around for dinner, make sure you have a big empty stomach. Dishes after dishes will be wheeled out for you and Turkish people do not take no for an answer. The main meal will be big and then afterwards will be popcorn, nuts, fruits, cake followed by tea and Turkish coffee.

If the family is from a big city, you will probably be seated at the table. However if it is a small village house, a big round stand will be placed in the middle of the floor and everyone will sit around that to help themselves to food in the middle. I have never yet been given a knife when at someone’s home, just a spoon and fork. If you really want to impress then at the end of the meal, say elinize saglik to the cook. This means health to your hands and is appreciation of a good meal.

When going round to someone’s house for a meal, I normally follow the women into the kitchen and I will help them to prepare the meal. During this time, men will be sat in the living room discussing daily events and gossiping. The same applies to clearing up after the meal.

If you want to help by washing the dishes, remember that Muslims do not believe in bathing or washing items in stagnant water. Therefore there will be a washing up bowl, but after they will rinse the plates and cutlery under a running tap. That is also the reason why you will not generally find plugs for the sink in hotel rooms either.

The Turkish Language

The official language, Turkish, is the first language spoken by 90% of the 63m population. Minority languages include Kurdish, spoken by 6% of the population. Arabic is spoken by 1.2% of the Turkish population; most of those speakers are bilingual Arabic and Turkish speakers. Other minority languages include Circassian, spoken by more than 0.09% throughout the country, Greek, Armenian and Judezmo, a Romance language spoken by Jews.

Religion

Religious Beliefs.Islamic tradition, ideology, and ritual are very important. About 98 percent of Turkey's citizens are nominally Muslims, of whom about 80 to 85 percent are Sunnis of the Hanafi school and 15 to 20 percent are members of Shiite sects (mostly Alevi). Turkish Muslims recognize the standard Islamic creed and duties, but only the most religious fast or make a pilgrimage to Mecca. Four percent of Turks identify themselves as atheists, and 4 percent as agnostics.

For most Turks, Islam plays an important role in rites of passage: naming shortly after birth, circumcision for boys, marriage, and funerals. The state controls religious education and most religious personnel by supervising the schools that train Sunni imams and certifying imams as state employees who work in community mosques.

In recent decades, a revival of fundamental Islam has been supported by about 20 percent of the population. A small proportion of the population participates in Sufi orders and brotherhoods.

The most important events in the Turkey's Islamic calendar are Ramazan, the lunar month of fast; Kadir Gecesi(Night of Power), the twenty-seventh day of Ramazan, when Mohammad was appointed the messenger of Allah; Sheker Bayrama three-day national holiday at the end of Ramazan in which people exchange visits and candy; and Kurban Bayram (Feast of Sacrifice), a four-day national holiday held during the lunar month of Hajj (Pilgrimage) to commemorate Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac. As many as 2.5 million sheep have been sacrificed in Turkey on this holiday; most of the meat is shared with neighbors and donated to the poor.

Etiquette & Customs in Turkey

Meeting and Greeting Etiquette

- When meeting shake hands firmly. When departing it is not always customary to shake hands although it is practised occasionally.

- Friends and relations would greet each other with either one or two kisses on the cheek. Elders are always respected by kissing their right hand then placing the forehead on to the hand.

- When entering a room, if you are not automatically met by someone greet the most elderly or most senior first. At social occasions greet the person closest to you then work your way around the room or table anti-clockwise

- Greet people with either the Islamic greeting of 'Asalamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) or 'Nasilsiniz' (How are you? pronounced na-sul-su-nuz). Other useful phrases are 'Gunaydin' (Good Morning, pronounced goon-ay-dun), 'iyi gunler' (Good Day, pronounced ee-yee gun-ler) or 'Memnun Oldum' (pleased to meet you).

Gift Giving Etiquette

- Gift giving has no real place in business relationships or etiquette. Relationship building and the like will usually take the form of dining or sightseeing trips rather than lavish gifts.

- However, if a gift is given it will be accepted well. It is always a good idea to bring gifts from your own country such as food stuffs or craft items.

- Be aware that Turkey is a Muslim country. Before giving alcohol to anyone be 100% sure that they drink.

- The only time you would need to give any great thought to gifts would be if you were invited to a Turk's home for dinner. The most usual gifts to take are pastries, (especially 'baklava') and decorative items for the home such as ornaments or vases. Flowers are not usually taken to a host but can be if felt appropriate. It is best to ask a florist for advice on what is best to take. If the host has children take some expensive sweets or candy.

Dining Etiquette

- Most business entertaining will take place in restaurants. Turks enjoy food and the meal is a time for relaxing and engaging in some good conversation.

- The protocol of Turkish hospitality dictates that the host always pays for the meal. The concept of sharing a bill is completely alien. You may try and offer to pay, which may be seen as polite, but you would never be allowed to do so. The best policy is to graciously thank the host then a few days later invite them to do dinner at a restaurant of your choice. It may be a good idea to inform the restaurant manager that under no circumstances are they to accept payment from your guests.

- Evening meals may be accompanied by some alcohol, usually the local tipple called Raký (pronounced rak-uh). It will comprise of a few courses with the main course always meat or fish based, accompanied by bread and a salad.

- Turks smoke during meals and will often take breaks between courses to have a cigarette and a few drinks before moving on to the next.

- Tea or Turkish coffee is served at the end of a meal sometimes with pastries. Turkish coffee is a national drink and should at least be sampled. It comes either without sugar, a little sugar or sweet. Turkish coffee is sipped and allowed to melt into the taste buds so do not gulp it down as you would instant coffee. Never drink to the bottom of the cup as it will be full of ground coffee and taste awful.

Business Dress Etiquette

- Business dress is conservative. You will be expected to wear a suit and tie. Similarly women should wear smart professional outfits.

- In the summer, and especially in the cities of Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara the weather is very hot and humid. It is acceptable to just wear a shirt with trousers and in most cases to not wear a tie.

- Outside the big cities and especially in the East of Turkey both women and men should wear more conservative clothing. Women are advised to refrain from exposing their legs and arms and to ensure clothes are not tight-fitting. Men should not wear shorts.

Naming Conventions

- When addressing a Turk the most common method is to call a man by his first name followed by 'bey' (pronounced bay). So, Ertan Gonca, would be Ertan Bey. Similarly a woman's first name would be followed by 'hanim' (pronounced ha-num).

- Where professional titles exist such as Doctor or Professor, always use them either on their own of before the first name. Curiously this is also the case with many other professions such as lawyers 'Avukat' or engineers 'Muhendis'. Within Turkish companies and organisations senior ranking staff will be addressed accordingly. A common example is Mr. Manager, 'Mudur Bey'.

- A common phrase you will hear Turks using is 'efendim' (literally 'my master'). You may hear this from a waiter, a secretary, taxi driver, doorman, shop staff and many others. It is simply a polite way of addressing people you are not familiar with.

Gender Roles and Statuses

Division of Labor by Gender. Turkish law guarantees equal pay for equal work and has opened practically all educational programs and occupations to women. Exceptions are the religious schools that train imams (Islamic prayer leaders) and the job of imam itself. In general, men dominate the high-status occupations in business, the military, government, the professions, and academia. According to traditional values, women should do domestic work and not work in the public arena or with unrelated men. However, women have begun to work more in public.

Lower-class women generally have worked as maids, house cleaners, women's tailors, seamstresses, child caregivers, agricultural laborers, and nurses, but in the early 1990s, about 20 percent of factory employees and many store clerks were women. Middle-class women commonly are employed as teachers and bank tellers, while upper-class women work as doctors, lawyers, engineers, and university teachers. Only a small percentage of women are politicians.

Men work in all these fields but avoid the traditional nonagricultural occupations of lower-class women. Men monopolize the officer ranks in the military and the transportation occupations of pilot and taxi, truck, and bus driver. In urban areas, lower-class men work in crafts, manufacturing, and low-paid service industries. Middle-class men work as teachers, accountants, businessmen, and middle-level managers. Upper-class men work as university teachers, professionals, upper-level managers, businessmen, and entrepreneurs.

Marriage, Family, and Kinship

Marriage.Turks expect adults to marry and have children, and the vast majority do. Because men should not lower their wives' standard of living, they are not supposed to marry women of a higher economic class. People generally marry within their own religious sect and ethnic group, although interethnic marriages among Sunni Muslims are not uncommon. In traditional Turkish society, the selection of spouses and the marriage ceremony were controlled by kin groups. During the premarital process, the individuals to be married played minor roles. The rituals, especially the imam marriage ceremony, were essential for a morally and socially acceptable marriage.

In 1926, the revolutionary Turkish government abolished Islamic family law and adopted a slightly modified version of the family law in the Swiss civil code. The new Family Law requires and recognizes civil marriage ceremonies only. It requires the consent of mature individuals for a binding marriage contract and prescribes monogamy only. Even though the law prohibits parents from entering into engagement or marital agreements on behalf of their children, arranged marriages without the consent of the brides have been somewhat common. In a 1968 survey, 11.4 percent of women said their marriages had been arranged by their families without their consent, while 67 percent said they had had family-arranged marriages with their consent. The figures for the unconsented arranged marriages ranged from 7.7 percent for women living in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to 11.3 percent to 12.5 percent for women living in smaller cities, towns, and villages. An impressive 49.9 percent of the husbands surveyed said their fathers or other relatives had made the final decision about their marriages. This response category ranged from 59.1 percent for village men to 15.3 percent for men in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Today the vast majority of marriages occur with the couple's consent, but families still play a role recommending and screening potential spouses, especially for their daughters.

Even though divorce is not considered an Islamic sin, it occurs infrequently. Divorcees, especially men with children, quickly remarry, usually to divorced women. The new code eliminated a husband's Islamic prerogative of verbal and unilateral divorce and prescribed a court proceeding. The law recognizes only six grounds for divorce: adultery; plot against life, grave assaults, and insults; crime or a dishonorable life; desertion; mental infirmity; and incompatibility. The evidentiary requirements are so substantial that establishing one of these grounds has proved difficult. A couple cannot divorce by mutual consent.

The Arts and Humanities

Support for the Arts. The Ministry of Culture has implemented a policy of promoting nonreligious Turkish and Western art. It provides a limited number of scholarships for the study of art and music in Europe, especially France. The ministry also supports the Academy of Fine Arts and art museums in the major cities. Most artists come from the middle and upper classes in major cities. Graphic artists rely primarily on major corporations and the upper class to buy their work. They sell through private exhibition and a limited number of art shops. Traditional craft artists who produce ceramics, rugs and kilims, brass and copper ornaments, and embroidery have a broader market for their work. Most sculptors rely largely on state commissions.

Literature. Until the middle of the nineteenth century, Turkish literature centered on the Ottoman court, which produced poetry and some prose. This literature represented a fusion of Persian, Arabic, and Turkish classical styles. Western influences were introduced in the 1860s by a group of intellectuals who attempted to combine Western cultural forms with a more simple form of the Turkish language. This westernizing trend continued throughout the nineteenth century and became more pronounced just before World War I. After 1923, the republic produced an impressive number of novelists, poets, singers, musicians, and artists. Novelists who gained international fame include Halide Edib, Resat Nuri Güntekin, and, more recently, Orhan Pamuk. Several important works dealt with village life, ranging from Yakup Kadri Karaosmanoglu'sYaban(The Stranger) in the 1930s to Mahmut Makal'sA Village in Anatolia, and Yasar Kemal'sMehmet My Hawk, which won world recognition in 1961.

Orhan Veli generally is considered the father of modern Turkish poetry, which has been characterized by a rebellion against rigidly prescribed forms and a preoccupation with immediate perception. Some poets have experimented with obscurantist forms and ideas; many others have expressed concern for social democratic issues.

Graphic Arts. Western influence in the graphic arts began in the late Ottoman period with the founding of the Fine Arts Academy in Istanbul, which continues to be staffed by European and European-educated Turkish artists. In the republican periods, Turkish art has involved a mixture of Western and indigenous styles. Practically all artists of note have studied at the academy or in Europe. Some have imitated European forms, while others have searched for a Turkish style and portray Turkish themes such as village and urban scenes in a representational manner. Many sculptors receive state commissions to create monumental works depicting Atatürk and other patriotic themes.

Performance Arts. Foreign plays outnumber Turkish works in the theater, but theater attendance has grown in recent decades and many Turkish playwrights who combine Western techniques with Turkish social issues have had an opportunity to present their works.

Both Ankara and Istanbul have well-respected opera companies. The Presidential Symphony Orchestra gives concerts both in Ankara and on tour. Ankara and Istanbul have music conservatories that include schools of ballet. Several Turkish composers, of whom the best known is Adnan Saygun, have won acclaim in Europe and America for fusing Turkish folk themes with Western forms.

The Istanbul Music Conservatory has taken steps to preserve authentic folk music by recording it in all parts of the country. Annual folk arts festivals in Istanbul present a wide variety of Turkish music and dance.

Turkish Folf traditions

From shadow puppetry to wandering mistrels, village dances to Ottoman military music, folk traditions pervade all areas and levels of Turkish life. Here’s a very brief introduction to a rich cultural legacy that stretches back hundreds of years.

Folk dances

Each region in Turkey has its own special folk dances and costumes. Here are some of the most popular.

“Horon” - This Black Sea dance is performed by men only, dressed in black with silver trimmings. The dancers link arms and quiver to the vibrations of the “kemence” (a primitive kind of violin).

“Kasik Oyunu” - The Spoon Dance is performed from Konya to Silifke and consists of gaily dressed male and female dancers ‘clicking’ out the dance rhythm with a pair of wooden spoons in each hand.

‘’Kilic Kalkan” - The Sword and Shield Dance of Bursa represents the Ottoman conquest of the city. It is performed by men only, in Ottoman battle-dress, who dance to the sound of clashing swords and shields, without music.

“ Zeybek” - In this Aegean dance colourful male dancers, called “efe”, symbolize courage and heroism.

Folk music

Lively Turkish folk music, which originated on the steppes of Central Asia, marks a complete contrast to the refined Turkish classical music of the Ottoman court. Until recently folk music was generally not written down, instead the traditions have been kept alive for generations by “asiklar” (troubadours and storyteller poets – in the same way that many ancient Greek myths survived until written up by Homer etc).

Distinct from folk music is the old Ottoman military music, now performed by the “mehter takimi’’ (Janissary Band) in Istanbul, which beats out the rhythm of war, and is played with kettle drums, clarinets, cymbals, and bells. The mystical music of the Whirling Dervishes ("Mevleviler") is dominated by the haunting reed pipe or “ney”, and can be heard in Konya during the Mevlana Festival in December.

Turkish folk heroes

“Nasrettin Hoca” - a 13th century humorist and sage from Aksehir. His witticisms are known throughout Turkey and are often used to make a point.

“Karagoz” - another jester, said to have lived in Bursa in the 14th century and now immortalized as a shadow puppet. Karagoz is a rough man of the people, who uses his ribald wit to get the better of his pompous friend, Hacivat. The puppets are made from gaily painted, translucent animal skin, held on sticks, and projected on to a white screen.

“Yunus Emre” - The 13th century philosopher poet is one of Turkey’s national treasures. His basic theme was universal love, friendship, brotherliness and divine Justice. His simplistic and pure writings are still celebrated today.

“Koroglu” - A 15th century folk poet, Koroglu was a role model for his contemporaries and a hero of his time. His adventures have been recounted for centuries with prestige and vigor and perhaps now with more interest than ever. Koroglu was one of the first people to pioneer the ideal of unconditional help for the poor and downtrodden. He was also a great warrior against autocratic government control and harassment.

The economy of Turkey is defined as an emerging market economy by the IMF. Turkey is among the world's developed countries according to the CIA World Factbook.Turkey is also defined by economists and political scientists as one of the world's newly industrialized countries. Turkey has the world's 18th largest nominal GDP, and 17th largest GDP by PPP.The country is among the world's leading producers of agricultural products; textiles; motor vehicles, ships and other transportation equipment; construction materials; consumer electronics and home appliances.

Agricultural sector

As of March 2007, Turkey is the world's largest producer of hazelnuts, cherries, figs, apricots, quinces and pomegranates; the second largest producer of watermelons, cucumbers and chickpeas; the third largest producer of tomatoes, eggplants, green peppers, lentils and pistachios; the fourth largest producer of onions and olives; the fifth largest producer of sugar beet; the sixth largest producer of tobacco, tea and apples; the seventh largest producer of cotton and barley; the eighth largest producer of almonds; the ninth largest producer of wheat, rye and grapefruit, and the tenth largest producer of lemons.Turkey has been self-sufficient in food production since the 1980s. In the year 1989, the total production of wheat was 16.2 million tonnes, and barley 3.44 million tonnes. The agricultural output has been growing at a respectable rate. However, since the 1980s, agriculture has been in a state of decline in terms of its share in the total economy.

The country's large agricultural sector accounted for 29.5% of the employment in 2009. Historically, Turkey's farmers have been fairly fragmented. According to the 1990 census, "85% of agricultural holdings were under 10 hectares and 57% of these were fragmented into four or more non-contiguous plots." Many old agricultural attitudes remain widespread, but these traditions are expected to change with the EU accession process. Turkey is dismantling the incentive system. Fertilizer and pesticide subsidies have been curtailed and remaining price supports have been gradually converted to floor prices. The government has also initiated many planned projects, such as the Southeastern Anatolia Project (G.A.P project). The program includes 22 dams, 19 hydraulic power plants, and the irrigation of 1.82 million hectares of land. The total cost of the project is estimated at $32 billion. The total installed capacity of power plants is 7476 MW and projected annual energy production reaches 27 billion kWh. The physical realization of G.A.P. was 72.6% as of 2010.

The livestock industry, compared to the initial years of the Republic, showed little improvement in productivity, and the later years of the decade saw stagnation. However, livestock products, including meat, milk, wool, and eggs, contributed to more than 1⁄3 of the value of agricultural output. Fishing is another important part of the economy; in 2005 Turkish fisheries harvested 545,673 tons of fish and aquaculture.

Industrial sector

Consumer electronics and home appliances

Turkey's Vestel is the largest TV producer in Europe, accounting for a quarter of all TV sets manufactured and sold on the continent in 2006. By January 2005, Vestel and its rival Turkish electronics and white goods brand Beko accounted for more than half of all TV sets manufactured in Europe. Another Turkish electronics brand, Profilo-Telra, was Europe's third largest TV producer in 2005. EU market share of Turkish companies in consumer electronics has increased significantly following the Customs Union agreement signed between the EU and Turkey: in color TVs from 5% in 1995 to more than 50% in 2005, in digital devices from 3% to 15%, and in white goods from 3% to 18%.

Textiles and clothing

Turkish companies made clothing exports worth $13.98 billion in 2006; more than $10.67 billion of which (76.33%) were made to the EU member states.

Motor vehicles and automotive products

In 2008 Turkey produced 1,225,400 motor vehicles, ranking as the 5th largest producer in Europe (behind the United Kingdom and above Italy) and the 12th largest producer in the world.

The automotive industry is an important part of the economy since the late 1960s. The companies that operate in the sector are mainly located in the Marmara Region. With a cluster of car-makers and parts suppliers, the Turkish automotive sector has become an integral part of the global network of production bases, exporting over $22.94 billion worth of motor vehicles and components in 2008.

Multiple unit trains, locomotives and wagons

TÜLOMSAŞ (1894), TÜVASAŞ (1951) and EUROTEM (2006) are among the major producers of multiple unit trains, locomotives and wagons in Turkey, including high-speed EMU and DMU models.

Shipbuilding

Turkey is one of the world's leading shipbuilding nations; in 2007 Turkish shipyards ranked 4th in the world (behind China, South Korea and Japan) in terms of the number of ordered ships, and also 4th in the world (behind Italy, the USA and Canada) in terms of the number of ordered mega yachts

Defense industry

Turkey has many modern armament manufacturers. Annual exports reached $1.6 billion in 2014. MKEK, TAI, Aselsan, Roketsan,FNSS, Nurol Makina, Otokar, and Havelsan are major manufacturers. On July 11, 2002, Turkey became a Level 3 partner of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) development program. TAI builds various aircraft types and models, such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon for the Turkish Air Force. Turkey has recently launched domestically built new military/intelligence satellites including a 0.8m resolution reconnaissance satellite (Project Göktürk-1) for use by the Turkish Armed Forces and a 2m resolution reconnaissance satellite (ProjectGöktürk-2) for use by the Turkish National Intelligence Organization. Other important products include the Altay main battle tank, A400M,TAI TFX, TF-2000 class AAW frigate, Milgem class corvette, TAI Anka UAV, Aselsan İzci UGV, T-155 Fırtına self-propelled howitzer, J-600T missile, T-129 attack helicopter, Roketsan UMTAS anti-tank missile, Roketsan Cirit laser-guided rocket, Panter Howitzer, ACV-300,Otokar Cobra and Akrep, FNSS Pars 6x6 and 8x8 APC, Nurol Ejder 6x6 APC, TOROS artillery rocket system, Bayraktar Mini UAV,ASELPOD, and SOM cruise missile.

Steel-Iron industry

Turkey ranks 8th in the list of countries by steel production. In 2013, total steel production was 29 million tonnes.Turkey’s crude steel production reached a record high of 34.1 million tons in 2011. Notable producers (above 2 million tonnes) and their ranks among top steel producing companies.

Erdemir (7.1 million tonnes) (47th) (Only Erdemir-Turkey; Erdemir-Romania is not included)

Habaş (4.4 million tonnes) (72nd)

İçdaş (3.6 million tonnes) (76th)

Diler (2.3 million tonnes) (108th)p>

Çolakoğlu (2.1 million tonnes) (110th)

Construction and contracting sector

The Turkish construction and contracting industry is one of the leading, most competitive and dynamic construction/contracting industries in the world. In 2009 a total of 33 Turkish construction/contracting companies were selected for the Top International Contractors List prepared by the Engineering News-Record, which made the Turkish construction/contracting industry the world's 2nd largest, ranking behind those of China.

Tourism sector

Tourism is one of the most dynamic and fastest developing sectors in Turkey. According to travel agencies TUI AG and Thomas Cook, 11 of the 100 best hotels of the world are located in Turkey. In 2005, there were 24,124,501 visitors to the country, who contributed $18.2 billion to Turkey's revenues, with an average expenditure of $679 per tourist. In 2008, the number of visitors rose to 30,929,192, who contributed $21.9 billion to Turkey's revenues. For 2011, the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) reported 34,654,000 arrivals and US$25 billion in receipts for Turkey. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, in 2012 travel and tourism made a total contribution of 10.9% to Turkish GDP and supported 8.3% of all jobs in the country. Over the years, Turkey has emerged as a popular tourist destination for many Europeans, competing with Greece, Italy and Spain. Resorts in provinces such as Antalya and Muğla (which are located on the Turkish Riviera) have become very popular among tourists.

Recent News

The Turkish economy has shown remarkable performance with its steady growth over the last decade. A sound macroeconomic strategy in combination with prudent fiscal policies and major structural reforms in effect since 2002 has integrated the Turkish economy into the globalized world, while transforming the country into one of the major recipients of FDI in its region.

The structural reforms, hastened by Turkey’s EU accession process, have paved the way for comprehensive changes in a number of areas. The main objectives of these efforts were to increase the role of the private sector in the Turkish economy, to enhance the efficiency and resiliency of the financial sector, and to place the social security system on a more solid foundation. As these reforms have strengthened the macroeconomic fundamentals of the country, the economy grew at an average annual real GDP growth rate of 4.7 percent over the period of 2002 to 2014.

Moreover, Turkey’s impressive economic performance over the past decade has encouraged experts and international institutions to make confident projections about Turkey’s economic future. For example, according to the OECD, Turkey is expected to be one of the fastest growing economies of the OECD members during 2014-2016, with an annual average growth rate of 3.6 percent.

Together with stable economic growth, Turkey has also reined in its public finances; the EU-defined general government nominal debt stock fell to 33.5 percent from 67.7 percent between 2003 and 2014. Hence, Turkey has been meeting the “60 percent EU Maastricht criteria” for public debt stock since 2004. Similarly, during 2003-2014, the budget deficit decreased from more than 10 percent to less than 3 percent, which is one of the EU Maastricht criteria for the budget balance.

As the GDP levels increased to USD 800 billion in 2014, up from USD 305 billion in 2003, GDP per capita soared to USD 10,404, up from USD 4,565 in the given period.

The visible improvements in the Turkish economy have also boosted foreign trade, while exports reached USD 158 billion by the end of 2014, up from USD 47 billion in 2003. Similarly, tourism revenues, which were around USD 14 billion in 2003, exceeded USD 34.3 billion in 2014.

Significant improvements in such a short period of time have registered Turkey on the world economic scale as an exceptional emerging economy, the 16th largest economy in the world and the 6th largest economy when compared with the EU countries, according to GDP figures (at PPP) in 2013

Turkish education system is under the supervision and control of the state, namely the Ministry of National Education. According to the Constitution of the Republic of Turkey, everyone has the right to receive education. Education is compulsory from ages 6 to 14 and free in state schools. The country's primary schools currently have a 98 percent participation rate. The academic year in Turkish education institutions generally begins in the mid-September or early October and continues to May or early June. There is also a two-week winter break in February.

Stages of the Education System

There are three types of schools; Public, Private and International. Governing body for Public & Private Schools is MEB (Ministry of Education) (in Turkish).

Some private schools catering to Turkish citizens and teaching in a foreign language have primary, middle and higher sections. For the enrolment policy, refer to a school’s website.

Pre-School Education: Optional kindergarten education, up to 6 years of age.

Primary Education: Compulsory and free basic education for eight years (5 years elementary + 3 years secondary), 6-14 years of age.

Secondary Education: 4 years of High School (Lise), or Vocational High School education, 15-17/18 years of age. Some schools might have an additional year of language study. High schools are mostly owned by the government and provide free education.

Higher Education: 4 years of University, or 2 years at Higher Vocational Schools. Some schools have an additional year of language study. Under normal circumstances, Master's study lasts 2 years; PhD 3-5 years. This category includes all educational institutions which will provide post-secondary education. They are under the supervision of Higher Educational Council (YOK).

Types of High Schools

Public High Schools (“Normal Liseler” or “Duz Liseler”): Any student who successfully completes 8 years of basic education can go on to these schools. Graduates of public high schools, if successful in the nationwide University Entrance Examination (ÖSS), can go on to higher education institutions. Graduates are awarded with the Lise Diploması.

Vocational High Schools (Meslek Liseleri): Some of these schools may take an additional year to complete. Graduates can automatically go on to higher vocational schools (Meslek Yüksek Okulları - 2 Year Vocational Colleges) in their respective fields of study if they wish. Alternatively, if successful in the university entrance examination, they can go on to 4-year schools in their respective fields.

Anatolian High Schools (Anadolu Liseleri): One year of English study followed by 3 years of regular high school education, additional hours for English. Math and Science lessons at these schools are sometimes taught in English. Lessons at some Anatolian high schools are taught in either German or French.

Super High Schools (Super Liseler): The difference between these and normal high schools is one extra year of English study. They differ from Anatolian high schools in that the language of instruction for math and science courses is always Turkish and less hours are given to English lessons.

Science High Schools (Fen Liseleri): These are special public schools for students who have exceptional aptitude in the sciences. These very competitive high schools train students specifically for higher education in the sciences, technical and medical fields. There is also Anatolian Science High Schools (Anadolu Fen Liseleri), where the medium of instruction for math and sciences is sometimes in English.

Private High Schools (Ozel Liseler): Most private high schools charge very high tuition fees and are very competitive.

Types of Higher Education Institutions

State Universities (Devlet Universiteleri): The university system in Turkey is governed by the Higher Educational Council (YOK). Turkey has 104 state and 62 private universities (a total of 166 institutions of higher learning), 5 of which are located in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Apart from the public and private universities, 8 foundation higher vocational schools serve the job market.

Generally, undergraduate education takes 4 years at universities, but some fields such as medicine (6 years), dentistry (5 years), and veterinary science (5 years) take longer. Turkish high school graduates go directly into fields of study such as medicine, law, dentistry and so on. No tuition fee is charged at public schools (devlet universitesi); students pay only a small basic fee. Students need to pass a nationwide University Entrance Exam (OSS) to enter a university. The graduates of 4-year programs are awarded with the Bachelor’s Degree (Lisans Diplomasi).

The medium of instruction at some state universities is English, German or French. Therefore, all correspondence with the university staff and applications to the faculties can be done in English, German or French. However, instruction language at state universities is mostly Turkish. When entering the exam of the university, the knowledge of Turkish is not necessary. Those who pass the exams, and have only a little knowledge of Turkish, are considered to take one year of language foundation to gain proficiency in the Turkish language.

Graduate-level programs consist of master and doctoral programs, coordinated by institutes in universities. Medical specialty programs are carried out within the faculties of medicine and the training hospitals owned by the Ministry of Health and the Social Security Institute (SGK).

Higher Vocational Schools (Meslek Yuksek Okulları): They offer 2 years of undergraduate study after high school and are very much like the community colleges in the the USA. The only difference is that students cannot easily transfer to 4-year schools in the USA due to fewer places at the 4-year schools. Two-year graduates must take the national Vertical Transfer Test (Dikey Gecis Sinavi) and have a high GPA to be able to apply to 4-year schools. The graduates of 2-year programs are awarded with the Associate’s or Pre-Bachelor’s Degree (On Lisans Diplomasi).

Private or Foundation Universities (Ozel / Vakif Universiteleri): In Turkey, private foundations obtained the right in 1984 to establish and develop universities. They were established with the fundamental aim of creating a centre of excellence in higher education and research. Private universities take more active initiatives to form and to select international and global educational and research networks.

The medium of instruction in most private universities is English. Almost all have one year of English study for those whose level of English is not found to be proficient upon entrance.

Private universities charge tuition fee ranging from USD 6,000-20,000. Although private institutions, they offer considerable financial aid; more than 40% of all students receive some sort of financial aid.

International schools specifically for foreigners in Turkey follow a different curriculum and have their own enrolment policies. They are mainly located in metropolitan cities.YOK(Higher Education Council) is the governing body for higher education. Turkish citizens have to sit a university entrance exam but there are exceptions for foreign nationals. Detailed information is available in Study University in Turkey.

Education for expats

"What about the language?"

It's commonly known (and documented by linguistic scientists) that children who are immersed into a culture with a language other than their own pick up the lingo pretty quickly. If they're going to school and making local friends, you'll be surprised at how much they pick up. They'll certainly be faster than the average adult. Children over 10 (more or less) will still find it easy to pick up Turkish but may need a little extra tuition.

"What are the schools like?"

Schools in Turkey's larger areas (such as Bodrum, Antalya and Fethiye) are modern and progressive. You can choose to send your child to a private school, or use a local school. Parents who have put their children into local schools have only had good things to say about the Turkish educational system. The only stumbling block parents have with local schools is that they find it difficult to help their children with homework, and to understand the curriculum. In larger centres parents are creating homework clubs to help address this. Bonuses are plenty, recreational and sporting activities are excellent. In places like Bodrum and Fethiye, children start learning how to sail small child-size boats from as early as age 8. They spend a lot of time outdoors with their teachers learning about nature, history and many other aspects of life that in the west we only get to read about.

They have private international schools. They are a popular choice for most foreign families living in Turkey, the standard of education is high and students have access to foreign standardized test materials. The fees for private international schools varies depending upon the school. They can range from around 6.000 euros a year to 15.000 euros and up for the prestigious international schools.

Alanya

There is children's international school in Alanya

http://wikimapia.org/25864557/Children-s-international-school

and Alnya Hep University for international students

http://www.studyinturkey.gov.tr/

You can find a great variety of mouth watering dishes in Turkish cuisine, which is mostly the heritage of Ottoman cuisine. It is the mixture and refinement of Central Asian, Middle Eastern and Balkan cuisines. Therefore it is impossible to fit Turkish cuisine into a short list.

Read about some of the most common and most favorite Turkish dishes people cook and eat both at home and in restaurants.

Vegetable or Zeytin Yağlı Dishes

Turks have a big diversity of vegetables and of course this reflects on the dishes. One very important detail about vegetable dishes is whether they have meat in them or not. If a dish is cooked without any kind of meat then it is called zeytin yağlı — meaning cooked with olive oil. These kind of vegetable dishes are mostly served cold. Here are three good examples of zeytin yağlı dishes:

∙ Yaprak Sarma — Wrapped vine leaves with a filling of rice, onion and spices like mint, currant, pepper and cinnamon.

∙ Dolma — Vegetables either fresh or dried eggplants, peppers, tomatoes or zucchinis are stuffed with a mixture of rice and onion with various spices.

∙ Taze Fasulye — Green beans cooked with tomato and/or tomato paste and of course onion.

Since Turks love meat very much, almost all the zeytin yağlı dishes are cooked with meat, too. But that’s not it. There are many other delicious meat dishes to discover.

Turkish Dishes with Meat

∙ Karnıyarık — Fried eggplants with a minced meat, onion, parsley, garlic and tomato filling. This dish is a must. To make sure that what you get is a good one, check the eggplants. The dark color of the peel should not smudge on the peeled parts and the meat should not look too dark or dry.

∙ Lahmacun — A pizza like dish with a topping of finely minced meat and onions with spices on flaky thin dough. It is served with tomatoes, lettuce, parsley or rocket and most people prefer to squeeze lemon on it and roll to eat easier like tacos. It originates from the early Syrian cuisine of the Levant and the name comes from Arabic “dough with meat”. It has been a popular fast food like dish in Turkey.

∙ Kurufasulye — Beans, Turks just love it. It can be cooked with or without meat or even with dried spiced thin slices of beef called pastırma. Served with sade pilav (plain rice) and turşu(pickles and sauerkraut). The restaurants across Süleymaniye Mosque are the masters of this dish.

Best Known Dishes and Masterpieces of the Turkish Cuisine

∙ Kebaps — Kebap is the common name for a dish where meat is coated around a skewer and grilled over a charcoal fire. Originally the meat consisted of lamb or beef, but nowadays you can also choose chicken. What Kebap To Eat While Visiting Istanbul is a full page dedicated to this mouth watering dish.

∙ Döner –In essence, it is a dish of beaten pieces of meat seasoned with suet, local herbs and spices, skewered on a spit and grilled vertically. Check out this page if you want to know your döner kebap history and selected dishes.

∙ Köfte — It is commonly referred to as meatballs, but they come in all shapes. The köftebasics are ground meat (usually lamb or mutton) mixed with crumbled bread, minced onions and spices. The most common dish is Izgara Köfte, where the meat mixture is grilled and served with grilled green peppers, chopped parsley, crumbled dried red peppers and rice or bread on the side.

∙ Mantı – You could think of mantı as some kind of dumplings. This excellent Turkish dish contains two main ingredients: the dough and the filling, which consists of grounded beef or lamb, onion, salt and pepper. Find out why good handmade mantı is so much more than just Turkish ravioli with yoghurt.

Popular Turkish Side Dishes

∙ Pilav — There is a great variety of pilaf in the Turkish cuisine, yet the easiest one to make is the most favorite and available one: sade pilav. It is plain rice cooked in water with butter/vegetable oil and noodle like small pasta pieces – şehriye. Varieties are rice cooked with eggplants, chickpeas, meat or liver slices; and of course spices like cinnamon, pepper, thyme, cumin and even almonds.

∙ Bulgur Pilavı – this side dish looks like rice but is actually wheat. The most common type is cooked with roasted onions, green peppers, tomato paste and mint. One of my favorites.

∙ Fried vegetables — Fried eggplants, green peppers, and zucchini with tomato sauce or yogurt are one of the best treats. According to your liking garlic is always welcomed with the sauce or in the yogurt.

∙ Mücver — The main ingredients of this popular Turkish dish are shredded zucchini, eggs and flour. A very common cooking preference adds white cheese, green onions and mint. It is lightly fried in vegetable or olive oil, and served hot as a side dish.

∙ Cacık — A very refreshing mixture of grinded or shredded cucumbers with diluted yogurt, garlic and mint. On a hot summers day some serve it with some ice cubes in it, to make it even more refreshing.

Most restaurants on Istiklal Caddesi serving hot food display the available dishes. So if your stomach gets upset easily, take a peek at the food and try to stay clear of the too oily or spicy looking ones.

Baklava

Nutty, syrupy, pastry dessert is never better than when served in Turkey. Often topped with ground pistachios, baklava is sweet and unique, and should be eaten fresh! is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filofilled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It is characteristic of the cuisines of the former Ottoman Empire, and is also found in Central and West Asia.

Lokum

Lokum, or Turkish Delight, is a nougaty dessert served with a variety of flavours and fillings and often topped with powdered sugar. It’s always best fresh, as pre-packaged versions tend to go too light on the fillings and too heavy on the sugar, drying it out.

Meze

Traditionally meze are little appetizers which appear on the table before the main course. This is especially true if you go to a fish restaurant. You will have about 20 choices of meze: bean dishes, salads, and spreads on small dishes to eat with bread. They should be served at room temperature unless of course, they are the sıcak mezeler or hot ones. Rakı would be the usual accompaniment but a dry white wine is perfectly acceptable. The idea is to start the meal in a slow and leisurely fashion before the appearance of the main meal.

Afiyet Olsun!

Do You Need a Visa?

Most visitors may enter Turkey without a visa or by buying an e-visa online from the official Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-visa website in advance of arrival in Turkey.

• The Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Application System was launched on 17 April 2013 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey. This system allows visitors travelling to Turkey to easily obtain their e-Visas online (www.evisa.gov.tr), in approximately three minutes.

It is possible to obtain e-Visa 7/24 at everywhere with an internet connection. The applicants can obtain their visa after they fill in the necessary information concerning their identity, passport and travel dates and pay visa fee online.

• Please note that e-visa is only valid when the purpose of travel is tourism or commerce. For other purposes, such as work and study, visas are given by Turkish Embassies or Consulates.

• The term "official passports" covers diplomatic, service, special and official passports.

You are kindly advised to have a travel document/passport valid for at least 6 months as from the date of your arrival in Turkey. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues efforts to strengthen the e-Visa system and to better enable foreign nationals to easily obtain their visas.

In this context,

- In addition to English, French, and Spanish; Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, German, Arabic and Chinese language options will be added to the e-Visa system.

- In addition to Visa and Master Card, payment is accepted from other commonly used credit cards and debit cards.

Tour operators may apply for group e-Visas and make lump sum payments for them.

- Visitors arriving in Turkey without visas may obtain their e-Visas via interactive kiosks placed in Turkish airports.

- Necessary arrangements will be made to allow foreign visitors to obtain e-Visas from authorized airline companies offices, including those companies’ offices in airports.

- Fees for e-Visas obtained via the e-Visa website (www.evisa.gov.tr) are lower than the fees for visas obtained upon arrival to Turkish airports. Information regarding visa fees can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.(http://www.mfa.gov.tr/data/KONSOLOSLUK/vize-harc-miktarlari-en.pdf).

Visa regime for truck drivers of a country may differ from the overall visa regime effective for citizens of that particular country. For further information, please contact the nearest Turkish mission.

Regardless of the visa regime applied towards the citizens of a country, the travel document holders of that country need to obtain a visa from Turkish missions beforehand.

Foreigners who will shoot a documentary film conduct a research or an archeological excavation should get a special permission from the Turkish authorities in advance.

If you have a valid visa, you do not need a residence permit up to 90 days. On the other hand, foreigners who shall reside, work or study in Turkey, should register themselves at the nearest local police department upon their arrival in Turkey, regardless of the validity of their visa.

Information on Work Visa: To work in Turkey, you must apply to the nearest Turkish mission to obtain work permit and visa. Your passport, visa application form and a letter from your employer are the necessary documents for your application. Other documents should be submitted to the Turkish Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) by your employer within ten working days after your application.

You may find the list of those documents in the MLSS’s website (http://www.csgb.gov.tr). Applications are finalized by the MLSS within thirty days at the latest. Right after your arrival in Turkey (before starting to work), you should be registered at the local police department within one month to obtain the necessary residence permit.

As of 1 January 2015, in accordance with the article 7.1b of “the Law on Foreigners and International Protection” no. 6458, foreigners wishing to enter Turkey should carry a travel document (passport) with an expiration date at least 60 days beyond the “duration of stay” of their visa, e-Visa, visa exemption, or residence permit.

The citizens of the countries which are stated at the below link are exempted from this Article;

Example A: In order to enter Turkey having a visa with 90 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 150 days (90 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance.

Example B: In order to enter Turkey having a visa with 30 days “duration of stay”, foreigners should hold a travel document valid at least for an additional 60 days which totals to 90 days (30 days + 60 days) of validity at the time of entrance."

The following categories are exempted from this provision:

- Citizens of countries who are allowed to enter Turkey with their national ID’s in accordance with “European Agreement on Regulations governing the Movement of Persons between Member States of the Council of Europe”,

Holders of diplomatic and official passports are also exempted from this Article.

Afghanistan: Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one-month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Albania: Official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Turkey, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit from Turkey, up to 90 days within six months starting from the first entry date.

Algeria: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Algerian nationals aged below 18 and over 35 holding ordinary passports may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Andorra: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Angola: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr

Antigua-Barbuda: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Turkey at the ports of entry.

Argentina: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Armenia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain one-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Australia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Austria: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Azerbaijan: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa requirement for their travels to Turkey up to 30 days. Official passport holders are exempt from visa requirement for their travels up to 90 days.

Bahamas: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Bahrain: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey and they can obtain their 90 day period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr

Bangladesh: Bangladeshi nationals holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Barbados: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travel up to 90 days.

Belarus: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. The total period of stay should be no longer than 90 days within 1 year.

Belgium: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Belize: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Benin: Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Bhutan: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

Bolivia: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Bosnia-Herzegovina: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 60 days.

Botswana: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Brazil: Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Brunei: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

Bulgaria: Diplomatic and service passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Burkina Faso: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Burkinabe passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Burundi: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Cambodia: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Cameroon: Official passport (Diplomatic, Service and Special) holders and members of official delegations are exempted from visa requirements to enter into, exit from, transit through and stay temporarily in Turkey for a maximum period of 90 days, reckoned from the first entry date. Official passport (Diplomatic, Service and Special) holders, who are not members of official delegations, are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Ordinary passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Canada: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr

Cape Verde: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Central African Republic: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Chad: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Chile: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

People's Republic of China: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. These passport holders can obtain their 30 days single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr

Colombia: Colombian nationals holding diplomatic, official and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Comoros: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Costa Rika: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Cote d’Ivoire: Diplomatic and service passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Croatia:Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr or from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

Cuba: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Czech Republic: Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Democratic Republic of Congo: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Denmark: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Djibouti: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Dominica: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Turkey at the ports of entry.

Dominican Republic: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Turkey at the ports of entry.

East Timor: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. East Timor citizens may get their 30 days single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr

Ecuador:Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Egypt: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-Visas via www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they have a valid Schengen or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit and that they travel to Turkey with Turkish Airlines or Egypt Air.

Besides, those ordinary passport holders who are under 20 or over 45 years old may get their 30-day single-entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

El Salvador: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Equatorial Guinea: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Eritrea: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Estonia: Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Ethiopia: Ethiopian nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Fiji: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders may obtain their one-month single-entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their 90-day multiple-entry visas from Turkish missions.

Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Finland: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

France: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Gabon: Gabonese nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Gabonese passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Georgia: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Germany: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Ghana: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Greece: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Grenada: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Guatemala: Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Guinea: Guinean nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Guinean passport holders who are travelling with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month-period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Guinea-Bissau: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Guyana: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey and they can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

Greek Cypriot Administration: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Both official and ordinary passport holders may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Haiti: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Turkey at the ports of entry.

Honduras: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of PRC: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC: Ordinary and official “Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China ( SAR ) Passport” holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Hong Kong citizens who have "British National Overseas Passport" are subject to visa and they can obtain their three-month period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr Holders of "Document of Identity for Visa Purposes-Hong Kong (D.I)" must get their visas from the Turkish diplomatic or consular missions abroad.

Hungary: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days reckoned from the date of first entry.

Iceland: Ordinary and Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

India: Diplomatic passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels to Turkey up to 90 days. Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary, Special and Service passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Indonesia: Indonesian nationals holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. These passport holders can obtain their one-month period entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Iran: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Iraq: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Ireland: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Israel: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Italy: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Jamaica: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Japan: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Jordan: Diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within six months starting from the first entry date. Diplomatic and official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Turkey, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Truck and bus drivers and co-drivers, crew members of civil airplanes, trains and ships, engaged in international transport of goods and passengers, are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Turkey, up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Kazakhstan: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Kenya: Citizens of Kenya holding diplomatic, official, service and special passport are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary passport holders can get their three-month period multi-entry visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad. Ordinary passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Kiribati: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Kosovo: Citizens of Kosova holding diplomatic, official and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Kuwait: Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days within last 180 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey and they can obtain their three-month period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tror from Turkish diplomatic Representations abroad.

Kyrgyzstan: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Laos: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Latvia: Ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa requirement for their travels up to 30 (thirty) days. Diplomatic, special and service passport holders are exempt from visa requirement for their travels up to 90 (ninety) days.

Lebanon: Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Diplomatic and official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Turkey, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Truck and bus drivers and co-drivers, crew members of civil airplanes, trains and ships, engaged in international transport of goods and passengers, are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Turkey, up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Lesotho: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Liberia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Libya: Diplomatic and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Liechtenstein: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Lithuania: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

Luxemburg: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Macao Special Administration: Ordinary and official Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Macedonia: Macedonian nationals holding diplomatic, service and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Madagascar: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Malawi: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Malaysia: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Maldives: Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Mali: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Malta: Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Marshall Islands: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Mauritania: Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can their 15 day period visa from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Mauritius: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain one-month multiple-entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr or three month period multi entry visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

Mexico: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary and service/official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Holders of such passports may get their 90-day multiple-entry visas from Turkish missions abroad or obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Moldova: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the date of first entry.

Monaco: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Mongolia: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa up to 30 days for their touristic visits to Turkey.

Montenegro: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Morocco: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Mozambique: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Myanmar (Burma): Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Namibia: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Namibian nationals may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Nauru: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

Nepal: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Official passport holders can get one-month period visas and ordinary passport holders can get 15-day period visas from the Turkish diplomatic or consular missions abroad. Nepalese passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Netherlands: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

New Zealand: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Nicaragua: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Niger: Nigerien nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. Nigerien passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Nigeria: Ordinary, official/service passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their single-entry e-Visas valid for one-month e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary and Official passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry visas from Istanbul Ataturk Airport.

Northern Mariana Islands: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Norway: Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr and stay in Turkey up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Oman: Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr and stay in Turkey up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Pakistan: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Turkey up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders with a valid Schengen, the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one month single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Palau Republic: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Palestine: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Only diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Panama: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

Papua New Guinea: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Paraguay: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 6 months starting from the first entry date.

Peru: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days.

Philippines: Nationals of the Philippines holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days

Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. Holders of such passports may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they have a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit.

Poland: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Portugal: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

As of 1 March 2013, Portuguese citizens may also use their valid national identity cards and passports which have expired within the last five years when entering Turkey for touristic purposes. They can obtain their visas through the e-visa system (www.evisa.gov.tr) or upon arrival by submitting identity cards or passports expired within the last five years.

Portuguese citizens who wish to enter Turkey for other purposes such as working, transportation, education, long-term stay etc. should obtain their visas from the Consular Section of the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Lisbon by submitting their valid passports.

Qatar: Diplomatic, service and special passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders may get their three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Republic of Congo: Congolese nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Congolese passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month-period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Romania: Official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

Russian Federation: Ordinary, service and special passport holders are exempted from visa for their touristic and business travels up to 60 days. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Rwanda: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

St. Christopher (St. Kitts) & Nevis: Nationals of St. Christopher (St. Kitts) and Nevis holding diplomatic, official/service and ordinary passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

St Lucia: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

St Vincent and the Grenadines: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey and can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. They can also get their visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad or they can obtain their three month-multiple entry visas upon their arrival to Turkey at the ports of entry.

San Marino: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Sao Tome and Principe: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Saudi Arabia: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Turkey with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain their three-month period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Senegal: Senegalese nationals holding diplomatic passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Official/service and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. Senegalese passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their onemonth period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Serbia: Diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders and holders of travel document are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Diplomatic and official passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Turkey, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Truck and bus drivers and co-drivers, crew members of civil airplanes, trains and ships, engaged in international transport of goods and passengers, are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Turkey, up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Seychelles: Seychelles nationals holding diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Sierra Leone: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Singapore: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Slovakia: Ordinary passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels to Turkey with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date.

Slovenia: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Turkey with touristic purposes up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Turkey up to 90 days within six months.

Solomon Islands: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

Somalia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

South Africa: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three-month period multiple entry visas from Turkish representations abroad or one-month period single entry visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Republic of Korea (South Korea): Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

South Sudan: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary, service and special passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Spain: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Sri Lanka: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Sudan: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels and transit to/from Turkey up to 90 days within 180 days, starting from the first entry date. Ordinary, service and special passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Surinam: Diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Surinamese nationals may obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Swaziland: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Sweden: Official and Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days within 180 days starting from the first entry date.

Switzerland: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Syria: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Taiwan: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders may get their single entry e-Visas valid for one month via the website www.evisa.gov.tr, provided that they meet certain conditions.

Tajikistan: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Turkey up to 30 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Turkey up to 90 days within six months, starting from the first entry date. Service passport holders, who are appointed to the diplomatic, consular missions or representations of international organizations accredited in Turkey, are exempted from visa for the period of their assignments. Service passport holders, who are not appointed to Turkey, are exempted from visa for their travels with touristic purposes and transit from Turkey, up to 60 days within six months, starting from the first entry date.

Tanzania: Tanzanian nationals holding diplomatic and service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Thailand: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Togo: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Tonga: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Trinidad and Tobago: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Tunisia: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa.

Turkmenistan: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa requirement for their travels to Turkey up to 30 days.

Tuvalu: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Uganda: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Ukraine: Ukrainian nationals holding diplomatic and official/service passport are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 60 days.

United Arab Emirates: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can obtain their three-month period multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

United Kingdom: Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days. Ordinary, service and special passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders (British citizens) can obtain three month-multiple entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. UK passports holders with “British National Overseas", “British Subject” and “British Protected Person” nationality are subjected to visa and they can only get their visas from the Turkish diplomatic or consular missions abroad.

United States of America: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. They can obtain three month-multiple entry visas from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad and also via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Uruguay: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Uzbekistan: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa requirement for their travels to Turkey up to 30 days. Diplomatic passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels to Turkey up to 90 days. Service and special passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Vanuatu: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Ordinary passport holders can get their 15 day period visa from Turkish diplomatic representations abroad.

Vatican (Holy See): Ordinary and official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Venezuela: Ordinary passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days in each six-month period. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days.

Vietnam: Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr. Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 90 days.

Western Samoa: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey.

Yemen: Official passport holders are exempted from visa for their travels up to 30 days. Ordinary passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Zambia: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. Zambian nationals may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

Zimbabwe: Ordinary and official passport holders are required to have a visa to enter Turkey. These passport holders with a valid Schengen members or the USA, UK, Ireland visa or residence permit may get their one-month period single entry e-Visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.

In accordance with international agreements and special legal provisions, the following categories are exempted from this provision:

a) Citizens of countries who are allowed to enter Turkey with their national ID’s in accordance with “European Agreement on Regulations governing the Movement of Persons between Member States of the Council of Europe”;

1- Germany

2- Belgium

3- France

4- Georgia

5- The Netherlands

6- Spain

7- Switzerland

8- İtaly

9- Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

10- Liechtenstein

11- Luxembourg

12- Malta

13- Portugal

14- Greece

b) Citizens of countries holding passports which are expired but considered as valid for a certain period

1. Germany – Passports expired within the last year / ID’s expired within the last year

2. Belgium - Passports expired within the last 5 years.

3. France - Passports expired within the last 5 years.

4. Spain - Passports expired within the last 5 years.

5. Switzerland - Passports expired within the last 5 years.

6. Luxemburg - Passports expired within the last 5 years.

7. Portugal - Passports expired within the last 5 years.

8. Bulgaria – Valid ordinary passport

c) Holders of diplomatic, special and official passports

Visa for foreighners who buy real estate

Residence Permission for foreigners who buy real estate in Turkey have been extended from 3 months to one year, according to updated law from the 11th April 2014.

As per new law, the processing of Residence Permit in Turkey is not handled by the police of foreigners affairs department anymore. Now, It is followed by the Interior Ministry's Directorate General of Migration Management. At this time all applicant can apply in Turkey. After registration, all document are currently will send to Ankara for their approval. The residence permits should be renewed 1 month prior to the expiry day and not later then 15 days after the expiry date of the existing residence permit.

If the foreigners with existing residence permit stay outside Turkey for more than 6 months in a year or more than 1 year in 5 years period then this stopage residence permit occurs. This means that foreigners who residence permits are stopped they have to apply again as if they are applying for the first time. It should be noted that compulsory public services, educational and health factors are exceptional. Foreigners who reside 5 years without a stoppage can apply for citizenship.

For the first time and renewal applications we have to prepare following necessary documents of Residence Permit:

1- Valid Passport

2- Four copies passport-size photo (white background / New and face recognizable)

3- Photocopies of following pages from passport: The page includes your picture, info and validity and expiring date of your passport. plus the page stamped at custom at your last entry.

4- Recent Bank statement which showing you have a minimum balance of 22,000 Turkish Lira in your hand (for each person). It has been announced as per new regulation of 2015.

5- Full health insurance which will price as per your age and other specifications.

6- Photocopy of your tapu (title deed) along with the original copy.

7- Turkish Tax number (Vergi)

8- The existing Residence permit (Blue notebook) (when you applying for renewal)

9- Certificate of your recent living address in Turkey which obtain from Nufus office (Civil Registry Office)

10- Police Check Record (Adli Sicil Kaydi) which should be prepared from the courthouse and must be signed and stamped by a court officer.

Note: copies of requested document need for each person even for the married couple.

Turkish Visa Renewal

Pursuant to Turkish government regulations instituted on January 12, 2012, "90-day tourist visa" means that you can visit Turkey for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This means that, after staying 90 days,you cannot simply cross the border into another country, stay outside of Turkey for a day or two, then re-enter Turkey on a new 90-day tourist visa. Instead, you must apply in advance at a Turkish consulate for a residence visa and, when you arrive in Turkey, for a residence permit (İkamet Tezkeresi)

If you're coming to Turkey for a short tour of, say, a few weeks, and not returning to Turkey in the near future, this restriction would not affect you. But if you come to Turkey for long periods (several months) frequently, you may be affected.

The regulations are meant to restrict foreigners who are, in effect, living in Turkey for part of the year but have not applied for a residence permit as required. Waivers are granted to certain groups, such as retirees who spend part of the year in Turkey, or foreigners who own property in Turkey and come to live for part of each year.

Working Visa:

You must apply, at least a month before you plan to arrive in Turkey, to the nearest Turkish diplomatic mission to obtain a work permit and visa.

You'll need your passport, a visa application form, and a letter from your employer in Turkey.

Your school, university or employer should submit other documents to Turkey's Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) within three working days after you apply for your work permit and visa. Fully-complete applications are supposedly finalised (that is, a permit is granted or not granted) by the MLSS within 30 days.

Before starting to work or study, and within one month after your arrival in Turkey, you must register with the police near where you plan to live in Turkey to obtain the necessary residence permit (İkamet Tezkeresi).

At some times in the past, foreigners have entered Turkey on tourist visas, worked illegally, crossed the border into Greece or Bulgaria at the end of the visa period, re-entered Turkey, and obtained a new visa (valid for 90 days for some passport holders). They would do this repeatedly, perhaps even for years.

Note that after you've entered Turkey on a work visa and applied for your residence permit, it may take as long as two months for your residence permit to be sent to you, and during that period you may not leave Turkey! You cannot leave the country legally without your residence permit, or you may have to pay a large fine.

So plan to stay in Turkey for at least two months after you enter to work or study.

What's it like to move to Turkey and work? Everyone's life is different, but here is one person's view, from Tina Keleş, a UK native who moved to Turkey in the late 1990s, married, and lived there for years.

Turkish Customs Regulations

Turkey uses the Red/Green Channel system at major airports, so unless you have something to declare, or you're carrying something unusual, or you get spot-checked by the customs officers, you just walk right through the Green Channel.

What can you bring into and take out of Turkey duty-free? It's the usual suspects: 600 cigarettes, two liters of wine, one bottle of spirits, etc.

You may bring one personal mobile device into Turkey and use it for up to 120 days via international roaming or with a Turkish SIM card without having to pay Customs duty or to register it.

After 120 days, you must register your device and pay the registration fee or your device will be blocked from the three Turkish mobile phone networks.

For firearms, you need to get a permit in advance (talk to a Turkish consulate in your home country).

Duty-Free Shopping

Arriving in Turkey on an international flight, duty-free items may be purchased in most Turkish airports after you pass through Immigration but before you pass through Customs. Yes! In some large international airports in Turkey, there are duty-free shops right there in the hall where you retrieve your luggage before going through Customs.

Antiquities Warning!

While in Turkey, be careful not to buy any antiquity (more than a century or two old), as it is forbidden by law to buy, sell, possess or export it.

Customs agents spot-check bags on departure. Enforcement is strict and penalties are severe, often including jail time.

It's illegal to buy, sell, possess or—especially—export from Turkey antiquities (usually defined as carpets, coins, icons, colored tiles and ceramics, paintings, statues and sculptures, metal objects, etc.) more than one or two centuries old (ie, older than antiques.)

Penalties are stiff, and usually include a prison sentence for serious offenses.

How can you tell if the Turkish carpet you're buying is an antiquity or just old? If you have doubts, legally you're supposed to take it to a museum and have an expert examine it and write an official assessment telling whether or not it can be exported.

This is impractical, of course, and usually unnecessary. Many carpet shops in Turkey now provide you with a form from a museum certifying that the piece you're buying is not an antiquity and may be legally sold, bought and exported.

A true antiquity will normally be priced so high that you wouldn't buy it if you didn't know you were buying an ancient treasure. Most carpets you'd buy as souvenirs have been made in the last 100 years, probably even the last 10 years, and perhaps in China or India, so you needn't worry—unless you really are shopping for 17th and 18th-century carpets.

What about old statues, statuettes and coins? Farmers often come across these items while plowing. They may offer them to tourists for sale, not knowing it's illegal and that these items by law must be surrendered to the nearest museum.

Don't buy them!

For one thing, you may be buying a fake, because there is a brisk trade in fake ancient statuettes, figurines and coins. Unless it's an obvious fake (with, say, "Made in China" on the bottom), you may still be arrested for violating antiquities law when you leave the country because the customs officer spot-checking your bags may not be able to tell a fake from the real thing, either.

Turkey holds a treasure trove of antiquities, and Turks rightly want to protect this patrimony for present and future generations. A huge amount of this cultural patrimony was taken from Turkey during the 19th century and now resides in museums in Europe, America and other places. Lawsuits brought by the Turkish government against museums which had procured Turkish cultural treasures illegally have resulted in some treasures being returned to Turkey.

The illegal international trade in stolen antiquities is a dirty business. Don't let yourself be associated with it in any way, even by innocent error. Stay clear of antiquities of all kinds—except for admiring them in Turkey's museums.

Standards of health care in the country

As Turkey’s economic power and status as a global political influencer has grown, so too has its infrastructure and quality of services, particularly within the healthcare sector.

Turkey’s Ministry of Health is responsible for the delivery of health services, from preventative care to hospital amenities, development of policy and overseeing regulatory and statutory functions. The ministry also supervises private medical facilities, pricing regulation and the provision of health personnel within the sector. Funding for the system is derived from a mix of government budget allocations, general taxation, fees paid by insurance companies, and individual out-of-pocket payments. The healthcare sector overall has recently undergone a comprehensive restructuring with government support and new investment raising the quality of the country’s health services, promoting the use of technology and expanding the availability of advanced procedures. Turkey’s private health sector is now recognised as world-class, with state-of-the-art technologies, delivering a high quality of care.

Public facilities consist of a network of government-run hospitals, university hospitals and Ministry of Defence hospitals, supplemented by a network of clinics and health centres. However, in contrast to the facilities available in the private sector, state-run hospitals are still suffering the effects of poor funding, resulting in critical shortages of medical personnel as well as outdated and poorly maintained equipment. While doctors in the public sector are well-trained, treatment options can be limited due to the lack of necessary medical supplies. Many of the doctors do not speak English, and expats who cannot speak Turkish usually arrange to bring along their own translator. As with most public hospitals in the world, public hospitals in Turkey also have to deal with overcrowding and lengthy waiting periods.

Expats who are legally employed in the country or who have a Turkish spouse are eligible for publicly funded healthcare in Turkey. Treatment at public facilities is cheap, particularly in comparison to the premiums charged within the private sector, however many basic services one might expect to be provided during a hospital stay, such as the provision of meals, for example, are non-existent. Patients must therefore rely on family members and/or friends for these types of amenities. Health services in rural Turkey are provided through local clinics, however these are limited in the type of treatment they can provide, and anything other than minor ailments are usually referred to a regional hospital for treatment.

International recognition of Turkey’s private hospitals

The country now has more private hospitals internationally accredited by the worldwide healthcare body, Joint Commission International (JCI) than any other country in the world. Turkey actually has more accredited hospitals than established medical tourism destinations such as India and Thailand combined. Some of the major private hospitals have forged connections with prestigious healthcare institutions in the United States, such as Boston’s Harvard Medical International, the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, and Johns Hopkins Medical International in Baltimore.

Health insurance for expats in Turkey

Expats in Turkey favour private medical treatment over public due to the higher quality of treatment available, access to internationally recognized English speaking doctors and high standards overall within the sector. The private health insurance market is well developed in Turkey, with many residents paying for private cover as well as contributing to the state insurance system in order to guarantee access to the best quality health services available, and to cover any extra unexpected costs or treatment not usually covered by the state. While the cost of treatment is much lower than in the United States or the United Kingdom, the expat patient can still face considerable expense when using private facilities, especially if there are complications. It is also worth noting that the EU health card, which allows the holder to access free medical treatment in European countries, is not valid in Turkey.

Local medical expertise, high-quality private health infrastructure, coupled with ease of access and convenient location have resulted in Turkey becoming the regional hub for health and medical services for both Eastern Europe, the Baltic states and the Middle East. Neighbouring countries such as Syria, Iran and Azerbaijan rely on Turkey’s services for medical emergencies, as hospitals within some areas do not have the capacity or capabilities to respond to complex medical needs. Expats living in the region also travel to Turkey for treatment when local facilities cannot provide adequate care. Many health insurance plans offer emergency evacuation benefits, ensuring that transport to the nearest suitable hospital is arranged and paid for, if a medical emergency should arise in an area that does not have the necessary facilities to provide treatment. This kind of benefit can prove invaluable in countries where you do not speak the local language and have no idea how to go about arranging emergency transport. Emergency evacuation by air always comes at a steep price, and many air ambulance services require payment up front, so ensuring that you have the appropriate level of insurance can literally be a life-saver.

Turkey’s health tourism sector

High-quality healthcare, driven by the medical tourism market, has become increasingly competitive on a global scale over recent years. An estimated five million patients are expected to travel across borders in order to undergo a medical procedure in the coming year, and another fifteen million are predicted to visit a foreign country for traditional and preventive medicines as well as spa and wellness treatments. According to a report commissioned by the Turkish Industrialists and Business Association, the health tourism sector is expected to account for more than 36% of overall tourism revenue, generating US$8 billion in revenue by 2020. This rapidly emerging sector is driven by a reputation for lower medical costs, high quality of healthcare delivery, and geographical location. Turkey is in a unique position as a global healthcare hub to serve the American, European and Near Eastern markets, especially given the shorter flying times involved from Europe and the the USA when compared to other established medical tourism destinations. Turkey is now recognized as a premier medical tourism destination, gaining an increasing share of the market traditionally held by established medical tourism destinations such as Singapore, India and Thailand.

Turkey’s leading healthcare facilities are concentrated in the country’s three largest cities - Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara. They offer a full ‘one-stop’ service to international visitors seeking treatment, making all arrangements between the time of arrival to the day of departure, from organising consultations to booking accommodation. The global economic crisis has reportedly played a major role in the increasing number of foreign nationals choosing Turkey as a destination, combining low-cost medical procedures with vacations. This is particularly true for American travellers who have now surpassed the number of Europeans visiting for such purposes. The patient profile changed during the global financial crisis; US citizens have increasingly sought affordable alternatives to the high cost of care in the United States, especially those who no longer benefit from US health insurance due to job loss or because of being under-insured.

While Turkey’s estimated 40,000 annual health tourists have also been made up of citizens from the likes of Russia, Belgium, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, there has also been a marked increase in Middle Eastern visitors, who are increasingly choosing Turkey’s services over those previously sought in Europe. Many of these patients opting for services in the health tourism framework are seeking treatment for diagnosed illnesses and looking for specialty care in orthopaedics, medical oncology, radiation therapy, bone marrow transplants, cardiovascular and neurosurgery. Dental treatments, plastic surgery, laser eye surgery and in-vitro fertilization are also in high demand. Health-conscious travellers are also attracted to Turkey’s mud baths and thermal spa resorts, which receive around half a million visitors each year. These travellers focus mainly on maintaining and promoting wellness, combining health screenings and comprehensive check-ups with vacations.

The price comparisons below provide an example of costs associated with a number of procedures available to medical tourists, and show that the cost of treatment in Turkey is also comparable to established medical tourist destinations such as Thailand. Treatment in Turkey is also demonstrably more affordable than in the United States.

Hip Replacement (US$)

Turkey: $10,750

Thailand: $11,000 - 14,000

United States: $45,000

Bone Marrow Transplant (US$)

Turkey: $40,000 - 70,000

Thailand: $50,000 - 60,000

United States: $300,000

Heart Bypass (US$)

Turkey: $11,375 – 15,000

Thailand: $11,000

United States: $129,750

Medical facilities and consulting firms have teamed up with tourism services to attract a greater number of patients seeking treatment for diagnosed medical conditions, elective surgeries and wellness promoting procedures. Turkish Airlines, for example, has developed a support package for health care facilities who invest in medical tourism to increase their market share and support the national economy. This is being done through providing incentives to those individuals visiting Turkey for treatment, such as special discounts on airfares, excess luggage allowances, no rebooking penalties and fare reductions for travelling companions.

Universal Healthcare Scheme for residents

It is not compulsory for foreign nationals to join the Social Security Institution health scheme. Those wishing to join may do so after one year of residency in Turkey with a residence permit. Applicants will be required to undergo medical tests before being accepted on to the scheme and pre-existing conditions will not be covered. Married couples may qualify for joint membership under the scheme where one is the policy holder and the other is the dependant spouse. However, a British national in receipt of a UK state pension can only be a member of the scheme as a policy holder not as a dependant spouse. Anyone who joined the health scheme before 29th May 2013 and who no longer wishes to remain in the scheme has the option of withdrawing by informing their local SGK office.

Most Alanya transport comes by way of Antalya.

The region's major airport is at Antalya, 115 km (72 miles) west of Alanya, but the smaller airport 33 km (21 miles) southeast of Alanya near Gazipaşa has some flights as well.

Most bus service comes through Antalya to Alanya.

There is no train service to Antalya or Alanya.

Bus

Bus and minibus service along the coast between Antalya and Alanya is very frequent in the warm months, and sufficiently frequent at other times of year.

There are basically three main streets in Alanya: Atatürk Street,25 mt. Street and D-400 Intercity Road. There are two kinds of busses operating in Alanya;municipality busses(white and orange coloured) and private busses(blue coloured).

Municipality busses are providing the public transfer in the town centrum and ending at the beginning of Mahmutlar. If you bought a property in Alanya centrum,you can go everywhere with municipality busses.If you bought a property in Alanya in the district of the town,you can take either municipality busses or private busses.

The private busses are providing the public transportation between Alanya Centrum and districts and villages such as Konakli,Incekum,Avsallar,Kestel,Mahmutlar,Kargıcak,Demirtas and Gazipasa.Their starting point is in Friday Market(Cuma Pazarı) and the price per person is between 2,5 and 3 TL.

The municipality busses stop only at bus stops while the private busses can stop anywhere you wish.The average driving periods of the busses are every 15 minutes.

If you would like to go to different cities such as Antalya,Ankara,Adana,Izmir,Istanbul etc.,you can easily buy ticket at Alanya Bus Station(Otogar) and go with air-conditioned latest brand of busses.

Taxi

Local transportation is possible by taxies. Alla taxies are yellow and they have a special sign of "taxi".There are taxi stops in almost every streets at city center.You can also want help from your hotel's reception for calling taxi.Taxies are scheduled. The schedule begins at a fixed price and increases in every 200 metres.

Airports

Gazipaşa - Alanya Airport is an airport currently in service in the Gazipaşa, Anamur, Alanya, Kargıcak,Kestel, Payallar, Avsallar, Okurcalar, Kızılağaç and Side areas of the Antalya Province in Turkey. The airport opened for domestic flights in July 2010 with daily flights from Istanbul with Bora Jet. International flights began in the 2011 holiday season, with flights from Amsterdam. The new airport is only 30 minutes by road from Alanya compared to a travel time of two hours between Alanya and Antalya Airport, which was previously the nearest airport, 120 km away.

The airport has an annual passenger capacity of 1,500,000 passengers, a terminal area of 6,700 square meters and a parking lot with a capacity of 105 vehicles.

Offcial website where you can check all information http://www.gzpairport.com/

You can order transfer here www.724transfer.com

Antalya Airport is an international airport located 13 km (8.1 mi) northeast of the city center of Antalya,Turkey. It is a major destination during the European summer leisure season due to its location at the country's Mediterranean coast. It handled 25 million passengers in 2011, more than 20 million of which were international passengers. The airport has two international terminals and one domestic terminal. Antalya is one of the major airports on the Southwest of Turkey, the others being Bodrum and Dalaman.

The International terminal 1 was built in 1996-1998. The new International terminal 2. The terminal 3 serves all domestic flights.

Both terminals serves about 40% of all tourists coming to Turkey by air.

Antalya arport has flights to most European cities.

Official website where you can check all information: http://www.aytport.com/

You can order transfers form airport here:

www.getyourguide.com

http://en.transferantalya.nl/

Rent a car

Over the last few years, car rentals have become very popular thanks to the affordable prices and the freedom that they provide. It’s easy to find a car for any purpose, whether it’s a luxury car to break out of the routine, or a practical car which will help you get where you want to go.

We gathered a few important tips regarding car rentals which you should be familiar with:

- Be sure you have the car rental company’s phone number – most of the companies have a 24/7 service number.

- Adjust the car to the driving conditions where you will be driving. This will prevent unwanted issues, and will save you time and money. If you’re unsure, ask regarding driving conditions for your destination – you can ask the rental company, people you know or search on the internet.

- Make sure all of the dents and scratches on the car are documented before you sign the rental forms. You should also make sure that everything is working properly, such as the air conditioner, heating and lights. Report any problems which are not listed. Remember that from the moment you sign you are responsible for the car, including its damages. This brings us to the next matter:

- Insurance: Inquire whether car insurance is needed, and if it includes a deductible in the event of a collision. The different companies offer relatively cheap insurance plans which cover the client. It’s in your interest and the rental company’s interest that you will be fully covered.

Cutting down on costs:

- Returning the car at a different branch may cost you more. Avoid this if possible. o In certain countries, using vehicles with diesel engines will be significantly cheaper than using vehicles that run on gasoline. o Return the car on time to avoid stress and extra fees that are incurred with a late return. It’s important to take enough of a buffer in unfamiliar places.

- If you are returning the car to an airport, remember to leave enough time to check in to your flight. This is especially important during high season when there are many people and long lines. o In most cases, it is recommended to get insurance which can save you money in the long run. However, you should not get insurance which is irrelevant to you, such as insurance for young drivers which costs more in certain companies.

- Don’t forget to fill the gas tank before returning the car. This will save you extra fuel and service fees.

- Do you have a GPS? Consider bringing it with you to save on the cost of renting one. If you have a navigating application on your smartphone, such as Waze or Google Navigator you can use that program as long as you have a data plan with sufficient coverage. In the event that you do not have a data plan at your destination, it is recommended to find out the costs in advance. You should be able to calculate whether it’ll be cheaper to get a data plan at your intended destination or to rent a GPS from the car rental company.

Here are some links where you can rent a car:

http://www.rentacar-alanya.com/en/

http://www.trophyrentacar.net/

http://www.save70.com/cars/

http://www.airportcarrentalgazipasa.com/en/

Distances & Travel Times from Alanya

Adana: 440 km (273 miles) E, 8 hours

Ankara: 665 km (413 miles) N, 11 hours

Anamur: 135 km (84 miles) E, 2.5 hours

Antalya: 115 km (72 miles) W, 2 hours

Istanbul: 840 km (522 miles) NW, 14 hours

Konya: 320 km (199 miles) N, 6 hours

Side: 63 km (39 miles) W, 1.25 hours

Silifke: 275 km (171 miles) E, 5 hours

Tarsus: 352 km (219 miles) E, 6.5 hours

Ürgüp (Cappadocia): 600 km (373 miles) NE, 9 hours

Rules of driving in Turkey

Roads in Turkey have always been of high quality. For most Turks, traffic violations (SDA) is an unfortunately common. Sitting behind the wheel in the Turkish Republic be prepared for unexpected maneuvers that would occur without warning. Pedestrians as well as drivers like to break the rules of the road and run across the street at a red light.

There is a right side driving.

The city has a limit of speed - 50 km / h, and for the city - 90 km / h Advised to be especially careful at night because locals love to go not including lights and can stay right in the middle of the road.

If you are travelling to Turkey for your transportation for a period of less than 3 months to issue customs documents are required. International driving license is not necessarily enough to have Russian law the passport vehicle and certificate of liability insurance. An insurance policy can be purchased at the border. International (Green) insurance certificate is valid all over the country, if it has a special mark of the insurance company.

The influence of alcohol at the wheel is allowed to land in Turkey after drinking 200 ml of wine or 800 ml of beer or 74 ml vodka, this corresponds to 0.5 ppm.

Road signs in Turkey are mainly used in the international format, although you can see some changes. Some signs and did not look normal, but note that it is quite understandable. For example, "No passing" or "End of prohibition of overtaking", or sign DUR instead, familiar to us, a sign STOP. In warning of the signs up or down, why is no indication of the percentage of measurements.

Motorway in Turkey designated green informational signs, entrance to it - blue.Instruction plates of different sites - brown with white lettering.

But signs of a "ban parking" and "Stop the ban" generally looking at this have their own distinctive features, in the form of labels, whose presence allows, but limits the time the parking lot.

Warning sign "traffic light regulation" is present in front of each traffic light. Also often paired with this sign are single-section warning lights, which operate in a flashing yellow warning signal.

At major intersections where signal switching time interval is large enough, use a four-lights. The advantage of them is a very good informative. In place of the upper section of the traffic lights in the timer that shows the time remaining until the switch signals.

Sometimes, when the traffic lights do not cope with the traffic, they come to the aid of traffic police officers and act as a regulator. A raised hand means no movement in all directions, two outstretched hands towards prohibiting move from the back and chest officer, and one horizontally outstretched arm allows the passage to the Parties.

Rules in Turkey are better not to break, because the penalties for violation of them are quite high, at least in comparison with ours. Police themselves very correct and principled people, so they are not a bribe to pay off, and if you do not know the Turkish language, it is unlikely you will get an agreement with them.

Vintage Brasserie & Winehouse

Cuisine: International, Mediterranean, French, Turkish, Wine bar

In a jungle of restaurants in Alanya, we are trying to do something different than everyone. Fewer courses, more quality. As fresh as it's possible, as detailed as it's possible.

Customer review: «Really unique restaurant, one of a kind. Delicious food for an adult taste, made with love using the best ingredients. Always hard to decide what to eat, as everything is so tasty :) Not to forget the atmosphere and staff, very different from all the other restaurants in Alanya. Definitely worth visiting, no matter if you are alone, a couple or with friends.»

Dining options:Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Off-Street Parking, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Parking Available, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Street Parking, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer

Good for: Families with children, Bar scene

Address: Damlatas Street, No:48, Alanya +90 532 381 0017

Prima Restaurant Bar

Cuisine: Italian, French, International, European, Mediterranean

Alanya, Oba and Tosmur area fine dining Restaurant. Prima is the perfect selection for an excellent dinner in Obagol - Tosmur, Alanya. Our aim is to be the best restaurant in town serving highest food quality with fair prices. Our customer's satisfaction and happiness is our happiness.

Review: “Beautifully designed restaurant with comfortable chairs, lighting, soft music, and a welcoming host. Free assorted starters, The three of us choose different main courses and they were perfectly made, the wine one of Turkish best, the dessert creme brulée so different but so good...We will definitely come back again! “

Dining options: Late Night, Dinner, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Cash Only, Free Off-Street Parking, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Parking Available, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Street Parking, Takeout, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible

Good for: Bar scene, Families with children

Address: 8. Sokak | Tosmur, Alanya 07400 +90 555 553 8393

Bistro Bahama

Cuisine: Italian,Mexican, Turkish, European, Seafood

Review: “I was there in may with my family. They were so nice and the food was actually amazing. The waiter recommended food all bahama special. It was absolutely excellent. All the guys were dancing in the night, making all costumers happy. Or they were doing their best for it. And I am sure they do. I hope to see you all in this summer again.”

Dining options: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Drinks, Dinner, Delivery, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Takeout, Television, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer

Good for: Large groups, Families with children, Dining on a budget, Bar scene

Address: Carsi Mah. Damlatas Caddesi No:59/E, Alanya +90 242 511 8990

Nordic Point Restaurant & Bar

Cuisine: Mexican, European, Turkish, International

Review: “This should be the number one restaurant in Alanya, we ordered a table for the next night( the lamb must be ordered the day before) and we were not disappointed, the food was excellent as was the wine and the service was a delight, very friendly staff,I would highly recommend this place and especially the lamb, thank you for a meal to remember.”

Dining options: Breakfast, Dinner, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Cash Only, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Parking Available, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Street Parking, Takeout, Television, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible

Good for: Large groups, Bar scene, Families with children

Address: Mehmet Akif Ersoy Caddesi, Alanya 07400 +902425133310

Olivia Gourmet Restaurant & Cafe Bar

Cuisine: Steakhouse, International, Mediterranean, Turkish

Review: “Delicious stakes, pizzas etc... great drinks and every night happy hour. Located on the main street, Ataturk Caddesi. Highly recommend!»

Dining options: Brunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Drinks, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Delivery, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Takeout, Television, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer

Good for: Bar Scene, Groups, Child-friendly

Address: Guller Pinari Mah, Ahmet Tokus Bulvari, No: 35, Alanya 07400 +902425190907

Milano Restaurant & Martin Baari

Cuisine: Bar, Turkish

Review: “First time was here in July 2015 and just love this place .Place cook was amazing!! Food so delicious and absolutely best at Alanya! After the meal, you were for sure full. Just couldn't have left anything without eating it. Good prices also. And for dessert Martins drinks!! Happy Hour every hour and drinks really good!! Try Sex on the beach and Long Island ice tea, never had anywhere better than here! Staff lovely and very nice ❤ Atmosphere and place so great! Here you can sit and enjoy by listening music, you can sing karaoke, the list is quite long! Or just relaxing and watching for example sport. I just want to come back here again and again !"

Dining options: Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible

Address: KIzlar pInarI mah. Mehmet Akif Ersoy cad. 41/B, Alanya 00905379634192

Theo's Place restaurant & bar

Cuisine: Italian, Mexican, Dutch, European, Turkish

Review: Welcome to Theo's Place restaurant & bar, meeting place for all tourists and residents of Alanya. Theo's Place is a cosy familydining- and party cafe-restaurant in the 25 meters street from the popular resort of Alanya on the Turkish Riviera. Over the years, many guests felt at home and return year after year.

Hospitality and hygiene are our advantages. Theo's Place Restaurant & Bar serves great international, Dutch and Turkish dishes, has excellent service, an open atmosphere, free internet, all international TV channels.

We also provide the cheapest and the best day trips in the area. Almost 50% cheaper than your travel agent Theo’s Place is the place to be in Alanya where you will find the Dutch, Turkish, Swedish and other nationalities. In the high season there is always a way of entertainment like good music and fireworks. We are open until very late and you can come to us for a drink or a snack even after all the other places have closed.

Dining options: Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Parking Available, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Street Parking, Takeout, Television, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible

Good for: Child-friendly, Groups, Bar Scene

Address: Hasan Akcalioglu Caddesi 28 | 25 Meter Street, Alanya 07400 +90 532 724 5836

http://www.theosplacealanya.com/

Eski Ev

Cuisine: Turkish, Mediterranean

Description: Since 1987, Old House (Eski Ev) Restaurant has been serving for its customers as a family friendly restaurant. From the day, the current owner of Old House started to manage there have been only traditional Turkish dishes in this restaurant. We are known for good service and high quality on our vegetables, fruit, meat and wine. For 8 years we have more and more customers with allergic, so we also offer them rich alternatives. For our vegan friends at least we have 6 different choices....

Review: This Restaurant is run by a Turkish Chef who has won prizes for his cookery. The are normally two set meals each day which change each day. The first course normally comprised 5 - 6 Meze dishes; such as different salads with cheese often with unusual ingredients such as Strawberries or Water Cress. Yummy Cheese sticks are also another favourite.

The Main Course are Turkish favourites such as Turkish Meatballs, Kebabs, Dolmades etc, all very tasty. The staff are helpful and friendly and will explain the contents of any dishes you are not familiar with.

Dining options: After-hours, Dinner, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, Groups

Address: Saray Mah. Damlatas Cad. No:44, Alanya 07400 +90 242 511 6054

Bistro Floyd

Cuisine: Dutch, European, Turkish, International

Description: Dutch, International and Turkish cuisine since 1990. Our new location is a MUST SEE. Our beautiful old Turkish house with large garden in the center of Alanya is a true oasis.Great cup of coffee, home made apple pie, Typical Dutch dishes but of course also Turkish and International dishes.Nice bistro style atmosphere. Feel at home!

Review: One of our first days in Alanya we randomly stumbled in to Bistro Floyd, after this first time we went here quite often during our vacation.

The menu has variety and offers different courses inspired by the whole world and the Dutch owner Leonie introduced us to much more than one tasteful experience. They also offer a three-course menu of your choice for an extremely nice price. You have to try the traditional dessert Helva, it was excellent in every way.

We, two boys from the northern parts of Norway enjoyed every moment at this restaurant and had several great talks to Leonie and Fatos, we guarantee a friendly welcome, and we will be back when we go to Alanya next time

Good for: Groups, Child-friendly

Address: Damlatas 19, Alanya 07400 242-5114444

http://www.echt-hollands.com/

Green Heaven Restaurant Dance & Bar/p>

Cuisine: Mexican, Steakhouse, Mediterranean, Turkish

Review: We have eaten here twice during our stay in Alanya and the reviews are true, this is one of the best restaurants in the area. You start with the standard Turkish bread, included in all the meals, but this time with olives, garlic butter, red salsa and some yoghurt sauce. Very nice touch.

We have tried the Osmanish which was good but needed a little extra salt, the Iskender which was very good and the Fajitas. All very good and the portions are generous.

At the end of your meal they offer you coffee which is a nice touch but for all the coffee addicts please be aware the coffee taste like instant and is very weak.

Good for: Special Occasion Dining, Groups, Bar Scene, Local cuisine, Child-friendly

Address: Damlatas Street, No: 63/D, Alanya 07400 +905399443204

Seasons Restaurant

Cuisine: French, Japanese, Fusion

Award-winning chef and owner Mutlu Sevket Yilmaz wishing You a warm welcome to his restaurant. The menu changes according to season and you will always find something new and interesting on the menu. Our Seabass and sushi are famous as well as our steaks. Wishing You welcome for a nice dinner experience.

Review: “After having a bad experience with sushi in Alanya. We found a place where sushi is made with love! I've been in Japan too guys as I told this in previous! but you gotta try this taste in Alanya! after having dinner here I said that's what I'm talking about! if you like sushi I strongly suggest you come to this restaurant!»

Dining options: Dinner, Drinks, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer

Good for: Child-friendly, Romantic, Groups

Address: Oer Erkenschwich Caddesi, 15 Oba Gol | Euro Sitesi, Alanya 07400 +90 530 010 5656

Dinner Restaurant

Cuisine: French, International, Mediterranean, European, Turkish

Fine dining experience, exciting creations and expertly designed menus reflecting the freshest seasonal ingredients. Superior wines, a stylish atmosphere.

Review: “Very nice to visit a place that has a complete meal for nice money! We ordered a menu, with 5 dishes and both food and choices of wine were excellent! Extra "surprises" during the meal. This turned out to be a "full evening" of food and drinks. Seldom experience in the Turkish restaurant world! And as we travel to Turkey often, it is nice to have a place offering quality and different experience!»

Dining options: Dinner, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Parking Available, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: Cumhuriyet Mh. Yasar Dogu Cd. | Gungor Apt. No: 54 / B, Alanya 07400 +90 530 772 6702

http://en.dinner.com.tr/

Bar Celona Tapas Bar

Cuisine: Turkish, Mexican, International, Spanish

Welcome to BARCELONA, Alanya's first tapas bar in the heart of the city! Enjoy the great atmosphere and choose your favorite meal from the menu; Spanish, Mexican, Turkish, BBQ & International cuisine WITH A FIRE PLACE in winters.

ALL EUROPE & SCANDINAVIAN FOOTBALL LIVE BIG SCREENS. LIVE MUSIC

The best food & beverage from all corners of the world, wireless internet, international TV & free pick up service!

Dining options: Breakfast, After-hours, Dinner, Delivery, Free Wifi, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Romantic, Child-friendly

Address: Ataturk Blv 77 | Saray Mh +90 242 512 4005

http://www.alanyatapasbar.com/

Ravza Restaurant

Cuisine: Turkish, Mediterranean

Review: “A very good place to taste a variety of Turkish dishes especially kebabs for reasonable money. Prices are 15-20% less than in restaurants for tourists. Serving quite many guests each day guarantees the freshness of the products used and the food itself. Quite a remarkable place in Alanya - here they serve a special Alanya kebab in a curry sauce with walnut. It should be marked that liquor is not served here so the best drinking choice is ayran (açık ayran). Bon appetite and Afiyet olsun!»

Dining options: Dinner, After-hours, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Cash Only, Delivery, Free Wifi, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Takeout, Television, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible

Good for: Child-friendly, Cheap Eats, Groups

Address: Carsi Mah. Zambak Sok. No. 16, Alanya +90 242 513 3983

A Different Taste

Cuisine: European, International

Taste Restaurant in Cikcilli may not be the easiest to find, but is more than worthwhile.

Every evening, Monday through Saturday, between 6 and 11 you can choose from various gourmet starters, main courses and desserts.

Our glass board menu changes from evening to evening, so you will always have something new to try.

In this Scandinavian designed restaurant, you will enjoy great food, a cosy atmosphere, personal and friendly service and very affordable prices.

Pay us a visit! You won’t be disappointed.

Dining options: After-hours, Dinner, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: Hasan Suvari Sokak | Cikcilli, Alanya +90-539-471-1068

Karnivora Steak & Burger House

Cuisine: European

Karnivora Steak & Burger House is a famous restaurant serving in Alanya. It serves hand-made, big-patty burgers and large steaks. Karnivora never uses frozen or cold-shocked meats. You should definitely try the famous Carnivor, a burger which has caramelized onions and avocado in it with a 240 gr-patty.

Review: “Nicely located in the center of Alanya, Karnivora is not only your burger joint, but also a place to go if you are fed up with all the "dance-on-the-table-only-animation" restaurants in Alanya. Yes, the menu is mainly centered around the burger, but you will also get the chance to taste probably the best cocktails in town, listen to some great music, in short, you'll have the chance to spend a different evening (or lunch, or afternoon) Karnivora style.

5* welcoming team, tasty burger, nice music, excellent cocktails, in short, a must-go/must eat place in Alanya!"

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: Saray Mahallesi, Guzelyali Caddesi No: 37 / A | Aroma Otel Alti - Damlatas / Alanya, +90 242 511 4244

http://karnivora.com/

Chef's Salt'N Pepper

Cuisine: Turkish, Mediterranean

Review: Visited this restaurant for dinner one evening with my boyfriend and we both ordered the plank steak with creamy mushroom sauce and we were not disappointed.

Firstly, they had menus for different languages which impressed us as many restaurants didn't. The presentation of the food was brilliant and the steak was one of the best steaks we had eaten and the mash potato was lovely. We later visited during the day and I got a cheese burger and my boyfriend got a Hawaiian pizza which we both enjoyed.

Dining options: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinks, Dinner, After-hours, Delivery, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: Kizlarpinari Mah. Ataturk Cad. 1504.Sok No:1 +90 242 511 78 77

Redtower Brewery Restaurant

Cuisine: European, Brew Pub, Turkish, Pub

Review: “I sincerely recommend you to visit Red Tower Brewery Restaurant in Alanya – the hospitality, feeling of love, care and attention weigh over any other restaurant in the region. And of course the food – delightful. As my sister is a designer and loves photography I am also paying attention to the details in exterior design, natural views from the restaurant, outfit and warmth of the personnel, table design and serving manners, quality of the materials used in the design and technological progress with a traditional touch.

I especially enjoyed the open kitchen with baker baking delicious bread – as a mother of two small kids I prefer high technology and cleanness in cooking.

Warm, attentive and observant personnel with a perfectly harmonical approach and natural views opening up from the restaurant to the harbour surrounded by city lights while sky bar just across the street even emphasizing the natural view .

I give my highest recommendations to the restaurant and I hope you will find your way to travel to Turkey, Alanya and dine in the Red Tower Brewery restaurant."

Good for: Child-friendly, View, Bar Scene, Romantic

Address: Iskele Cad. No. 80, Alanya +90 242 513 6664

http://www.redtowerbrewery.com/

Mahperi Restaurant

Cuisine: Turkish, International

Review: “ Excellent. Extremely friendly staff. Very comfortable & inviting. Delicious food. Very relaxed & perfect setting near the harbour. Whole restaurant very clean & that is always a very good sign. The food was lovely. I had the sea bass which came on a griddle with loads of different spices. It was very generous with two fillets and vegetables. My boyfriend had the lamb escalopes . They are more like a rack of cutlets but were cooked really well served on a board with really creamy mash covered in creamed spinach. It was delicious! The barman gave us a free strawberry daiquiri which was really yummy. And free desert which was a chocolate fondant and frozen yogurt which was amazing! Best pudding ever! We would definitely recommend! Good value for money too! ”

Dining options: Dinner, Breakfast, After-hours, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: Iskele Cad. Carsi Quarter No. 20, Alanya 512 5491

http://www.mahperi.net/

Villa Okan restaurant

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish, International

Villa Okan is situated in the former Kocbank Building, on the corner in Alanya’s City Centre. Part of the Okan Family, this old Alanya House was opened in June 2006. Comfortable wicker chairs, a well-stocked bar and a comprehensive Italian and Mexican menu are the reasons to spend your evening here.

Review: “ Delicious and very tasteful dishes of Turkish cuisine in the center of Alanya. It serves food with pride, matched in flavor and strength, served uncompromisingly. There seething mood for beautiful tones from mellow live music. Thanks for an experience beyond the expected. ”

Dining options: Breakfast, Dinner, After-hours, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: BostancIpInarI Cad. No:85, Alanya +90 242 512 3302

http://www.villaokan.com/

Kasikara Ocakbasi Restaurant

Cuisine: Turkish, Mediterranean

Review: “ This is our second visit here in two weeks. I'd happily visit again and again... The starters are brought over on a massive tray to show you what the choices are. They bring a hot, sesame seeded flatbread out with your food and several complementary side dishes...and then they keep them coming. The main is so tasty and could easily be eaten without side dishes but they bring an assortment of delicious grilled vegetables to go with it. Just when you think you can't eat another bite, they bring out complimentary fruits and a sweet, spiced pumpkin with halva. It is a delicious dining experience from start to finish. I would recommend to anyone wanting a traditional Turkish meal in traditional surroundings. The staff are attentive, kind and courteous from start to finish. A truly amazing place with remarkable food at extremely good prices. Fantastic hidden gem of a restaurant. ”

Dining options: Breakfast, After-hours, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Takeout, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: House mh. Sk Kasapoglu, Alanya +90 242 519 34 47

http://www.kasikaraocakbasi.com/

Bistro Paradise

Cuisine: Bar, European, Turkish, Cafe, International, British

Our restaurant has great food, good staff we are very friendly and welcoming. We have children's play area good cocktails and very good wine and beer. So please come join us!

Review: “Got to visit this restaurant in Alanya. There in September 2015. Had good nights out in this restaurant English hospitality and fantastic food. Atmosphere 100% owner Linda makes you feel so relaxed A must visit.”

Dining options: Breakfast, Free Wifi, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Takeout, Waitstaff

Good for: Groups, Bar Scene, Child-friendly

Address: Gullerpinari Mh Yenilmez Cd Cimen Otel Sk | No 18c Alanya, 00-90-242-515-05-18

Iskele Sofrasi

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish, Middle Eastern

Our homemade Turkish specialties include meze, Aegean green (seaweed, kelp, algen), grilled octopus, calamari, jumbo shrimps and the freshest seasonal fish.p>

We have many kinds of kebab. We do not use beef. We use the best fillet steak, with our special homemade sauces.

After your meal, we will surprise you with a delicious homemade dessert or a local home made schnapps drink… on the house!

Come and try our unique foods,whilst enjoying the warm atmosphere of our cosy family restaurant and taking in great views of Alanya’s harbour.

Dining options: Dinner, Breakfast, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Cash Only, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor

Seating, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Television, Waitstaff, Wine and Beer

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: Çarşı, Tophane Cd. 905327824647

http://iskelesofrasi.blogspot.com.cy/

Green Beach Restaurant

Cuisine: Turkish, International, Mediterranean

Description: Green Beach Restaurant is in the center of town but at the same time far away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated on the famous Kleopatra Beach, facing the turquoise blue sea surrounded by palm trees, Green Beach has an almost magical hidden garden effect which you will enjoy time and time again.

Why not spend a great family day together? Relaxed, child-friendly atmosphere with staff who are keen to attract families. Perfect for a relaxing day for parents with children of all ages. Knowing they are in a safe environment enables you to enjoy time for yourselves while letting the children play happily on their own. Children’s menu, baby food and bottle warming services, high chairs and baby changing facilities available.

Good for: Bar Scene, Child-friendly

Address: Ataturk St. Behind Grand Okan Hotel, Alanya +90 242 512 5489

http://www.greenbeachclub.com/

Yosun Resturant and Bar

Cuisine: Mexican, European, Norwegian, Turkish, International, Mediterranean

Description:A great restaurant with superb food and the guy's give the best service. If you not are hungry you can take a moment to sitt down take a drink or beer,you need to drink when it's warm autside. Some evenings you can listening to live music. And real turkısh food thats the most important really ....And you feel homely ....Good coctails the mojıto ın Alanya you can drink enjoy your time there Promise you a good time with friends.

Dining options: Breakfast, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Takeout, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, Bar Scene

Address: Dalmatas Str.No 69/A, Alanya +90 537 250 5372

La Luna Restaurant

Cuisine: Seafood, International, Turkish, Mediterranean, Pizza

La luna restaurant was born at 1989 in the heart of the harbour. Come and enjoy a great meal, fine drink, friendly staff and much more...

Review: “ This restaurant is not on the waters edge. However, it is across the road from the harbour so sitting outside you can view the ships. I had fish of the day which was sea bass. The fish was well cooked and nicely presented. The price was reasonable about the same price as the other restaurants in the row. The owners offer a pick-up service from your accommodation ”

Dining options: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, After-hours, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Cash Only, Delivery, Free Wifi, Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, Special Occasion Dining, Local cuisine, View, Romantic, Groups

Address: Izzet Azakoglu Cad. No:12, Alanya +90 242 5136179

Kale Panorama Restaurant

Cuisine: Turkish

Review: “ The restaurant is situated on the way from the Kale = Castle = above Alanya, Kleopatra beach. The view was amazing and the host on the street assured we will have nice time. Went there to celebrate my 24th birthday, because of good review. And were not disappointed! Place was amazing. Beautiful view, very professional waiters, helpful and kind. We ordered only main course but they bring me the birthday cake as surprise. It was so nice of them, because we actually didn't order it. Must visit, especially if you have an important event :)

If you in the daytime visit the castle on the top of the mountain and want to walk down from there, you can always pop in and have a big ice cold very good Efes beer here too! ”

Dining options: Dinner, After-hours, Lunch, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, Romance, Bussiness meeting, special events

Address: Kale Yolu, Alanya 02425126282

http://www.alanyapanorama.com/

Picasso Restaurant

Cuisine: Steakhouse, Seafood, Mediterranean, European, Turkish, Pizza, Barbecue

Description: Welcome to Picasso Restaurant. Our restaurant has live music nightly and his combined with our outstanding menu and excellent service will provide you with a memorable evening out. Picasso restaurant was Alanya’s first hotel built a century ago. After some years it became the home of Alanya’s respected citizen and his family. In 2001, it was once again opened as a restaurant.The house is of typical Mediterranean style, with high ceiling and wooden floors. The Windows are of a special design with various colours.

Dining options: Brunch, Lunch, Drinks, Dinner, Breakfast, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Buffet, Cash Only, Free Off-Street Parking, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Parking Available, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Street Parking, Takeout, Television, Valet Parking, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer

Good for: Groups, Bar Scene, Child-friendly

Address: Saray Mahalllesi, Sirenevler Sok No:12 | Saray Mah, Sirenevler Sok No. 12, Alanya +90 242 512 9515

http://www.alanya-picasso.com/

Emerald Garden Restaurant

Cuisine: Sushi, European

Description: As soon as you enter Emerald Garden’s wooden planked terrace, you know it is going to be a warm winter. This cosy restaurant in Oba will remain open the coming months as well, and on a chilly afternoon or dark night, it is the perfect getaway for picking a nice bottle of wine from their wide variety of choice and a nice dish from the regularly changing menu. The warm atmosphere at Emerald Garden can be attributed to the use of a lot of wood and rustic colours, like dark red and moss green. It evokes images of laughing people and warm family dinners. The menu of Emerald Garden is balanced and has a something to offer to everybody’s taste. Every three months new dishes are added to the menu and others are taken off. Or ingredients change according to the offer of the season. “By changing the menu regularly we keep surprising our guests and even our regular guests will have something new to choose from.” There are several dishes that don’t change because they are always popular: the Beef Carpaccio, the Garlic Shrimps and the specially prepared lamb.

Good for: Groups, Child-friendly

Address: Merkez Oba Kasabasi Gol Mah.Fatih Cad.Tasdemir Apt NO:55/A, +90-242-514-3522

Merlot Food & Drink

Cuisine: French, Turkish

Review: “Had a lovely meal here. The view is beautiful and the atmosphere is great. They have live music every night which was fab.

My partner just happened to mention is was my birthday and they gave me a free tiramisu and sang me happy birthday which was a great surprise.

The staff go above and beyond to make sure you have a wonderful evening!"

Dining options: Breakfast, After-hours, Dinner, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, special occasions, romantic, groups

Address: No.76 Iskele Caddesi, Alanya 90.242.519 42 42

http://www.merlotcafe.com/

Johnny Cash Cafe & Bistro

Cuisine: Mexican, American, Seafood, Turkish, Pizza

Dining options: Breakfast, Dinner, Free Wifi, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Takeout, Waitstaff

Review: “Visited this restaurant together with four good friends. Although I never go back to the same restaurant twice when on a short vacation, all my friends disagreed . So we ended up eating at the Johnny Cash twice ! The atmosphere including the good music in the Johnny Cash way gives a relaxing setting around a very good meal. The first time I ate the Colombo steak. This is served with cheese on the top. This meal is the best I have had in a very long time, and I can highly recommend it. As a dessert, I had a chocolate soufflé or something similar. Also very good. The second time I ate a Mexican steak of some kind and fried ice as a dessert. This meal was good, but not at the Colombo level. If you like nuts, you will love the fried ice ! Some of my friends ate the hamburger, and said it was the best hamburger ever ! And believe me, they have been eating a lot of hamburgers! The waiters are spot on every time you need something. Dividing the bill among five hungry amigos went without making a single mistake . The price level is ok making this an absolute favorite for food lovers in all ages, also for families. ”

Good for: Child-friendly

Address: Gullerpinari Mah. Acikalin Sokak No:4/A, Alanya 902425132513

Lokanta Su

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish

Review: A restaurant situated in the courtyard of a very old, original house. The menu, whilst not too extensive, was sufficient. Service was outstanding, well worth waiting for the food as everything is cooked to order.

All in all, a beautifully presented, very appetising meal.

Booking is recommended as it is not very easy to just walk in and get a table.

Superb food at a surprisingly modest price, treat yourself, I don`t think that you will regret it.

Dining options: Breakfast, After-hours, Dinner, Delivery, Reservations, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, special occasions, romantic, groups

Address: Kadipasa Mahallesi, Damlatas Caddesi, No:20, Alanya +90 242 512 1500

http://www.lokantasu.com/

Elite restaurant

Cuisine: International, Turkish

Review:”This restaurant has been my second home for at least 10 years. The staff and owner have become very great friends of mine and my family and to this day, I still love coming there.

Other than that the food is superb. I'm vegetarian and there is a small section for vegetarian food. The place is nice, they aren't pushy, simply kind and funny. I would recommend this restaurant to everyone. "

Dining options: Breakfast, After-hours, Dinner, Lunch, Drinks, Reservations, Seating, Takeout, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, Groups, special occasions

Address: Guzelyali Caddessi, Alanya, 02425110176

http://www.elitealanya.net/

En Vie Beach

Cuisine: Pizza, Cafe, International, Dinner

En Vie Beach Restaurant enfolds in the evenings and will satisfy all your senses. There is no better way to enjoy a candlelit dinner than in this perfect scenery by the beach. In the background, you have the illuminated castle and glittering lights from the harbour.

The menu is delicious Mediterranean cuisine and we offer a wide range of wines and champagne. There is breakfast buffet for hotel guest and we also serve a delicious breakfast platter for those who wants to get an early start on the beach.

We have a tasty Lounge menu for lunch and afternoon snacks.

Good for: groups, Children-friendly, special ocassions, romantic

Address: Ahmet Tokus Blv. Keykubat Cad. 24, Alanya 07400 +(90) 242 511 12 56

http://enviebeach.com/

Stay Kitchen and Bar

Cuisine: Turkish

Excellent food quality at a good time, and pricing to fit most budgets. To enjoy delicious food with us or take home food in the middle of the week is something we strive for everyone to have the opportunity to treat themselves.

In this authentic restaurant, you can enjoy delicious food in a cosy and quiet setting with calm music.

We offer lunch. a la carte, children's menus and of course our popular pizzas baked in our stone oven. And not to forget our coveted barbecues with live music.(Reservation is required these evenings)

In our menu, you can choose from STAY's own classics and dishes with influences from the Mediterranean Sea.

Warmly welcome from the staff.

Good for: Child-friendly, groups, business meeting

Address: Sadullahoglu Caddesi Alanyum Avm Karsisi Evzen Mobilya Arkasi | 31 a, Alanya +90 242 514 03 23

Tepe Mountana

Cuisine: Seafood

Review:” Welcome same as all the service was warmhearted and authentic.

We (4) had some delicate Turkish style starters, chicken with rice&fries for the kids, a whole fish for every adult. The taste was excellent and was presented really lovely with a burning candle inside an onion on each plate. When finished they came with refreshing towels and guess what...toothbrush with paste already on it!!!

Very thankfully we left 50€ and tried to leave, but not just like that with them, they waited at the exit for us with fragranced hand disinfection and candies for everyone (kids got candies with the free watermelon before). So many small acts of kindness, with a huge impact on our evening, er can only say: that's Turkish hospitality at it's best and "tesekkür ederim"!!!!(( thank you so very much for the lesson lovely evening, we come back here!!!! ”

Good for: children-friendly, groups, special occasions, romantic

Address: Tepe Mah. Cataloluk Mevki No:34 | Alanya Merkez, 5221818

Vikingen Restaurant

Cuisine: Turkish

Review: Viking Restaurant is a Turkish and international restaurant located in Alanya, Turkey. In addition to Turkish, employees speak Scandinavian languages (Norwegian, Swedish, Danish and English). Specialties of Viking Restaurant is traditional Turkish food, but we also make Scandinavian dishes. Brothers Ahmet and Beyazit Demirkan started Viking Restaurant in 1991 with several years of experience in hotel and restaurant sector. Brother Demirkan comes from a family north in Turkey (Corum) with rich tradition when it comes to Turkish cuisine and culture. Viking Restaurant currently has space for 250 guests.

Dining options: Breakfast, After-hours, Dinner, Seating, Waitstaff

Good for: groups

Address: Saray mah. HacI Hamdioglu cad. No 24, Alanya +90 242 512 8156

http://www.vikingenrestaurant.com/

Kaptan Filika Restaurant

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Turkish

If you want to speand a romantic evening, this is place for you. Amazing scenery, fresh air, spacious venue, nice service, delicious food of different countries.

Review: ”We had lunch here two days in a row! It's right next Kleopatra beach. You walk in straight from the beach or order and they serve you on the beach. They speak English quite well and the kids loved the staff. We had pasta both days and we were very satisfied, me, my wife and the kids. ”

Good for: romantic, special occasion, groups, children-friendly

Address: Saray Mahallesi, Guzelyali Caddesi, No:7, Alanya +(90)2425131094

http://www.kaptanhotels.com/

Konak Beach Restaurant

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish, Pizza, Seafood, Grill

Beautiful sandy beach of more than 800 meters long, wood-fired barbeque, catch of the day fish, and always fresh seafood and meat!

“Singing Restaurant”

Instrumental music” Every Friday, from 20:00 to 22:00

“Kids’ Party” The program includes entertainment and games for children, led by an activities organizer. Held on Mondays after 19:00.

Japanese Cuisine Days” Once a month, the restaurant holds a Japanese cuisine week. Japanese dishes are prepared by the best chefs invited from Moscow and European restaurants.

“Turkish night.” Pageant Turkish national dances and dinner

Dining options: Dinner, Breakfast, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Buffet, Cash Only, Delivery, Digital Payments, Free Wifi, Full Bar, Highchairs Available, Outdoor Seating, Parking Available, Reservations, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Takeout, Television, Validated Parking, Waitstaff

Good for: Child-friendly, romantic, special occasions, groups

Address: Kulak Caddesi 49 | 0700 Antalya Konakli Turkiye, Konakli, Alanya 905321539579

Grand Okan Hotel

Make yourself at home in one of the air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and LCD televisions. Rooms have private furnished balconies. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Conveniences include phones and laptop-compatible safes.

Pamper yourself with onsite massages or enjoy recreation amenities such as an outdoor pool.

Enjoy a satisfying meal at a restaurant serving guests of Grand Okan Hotel. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge.

Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services and an elevator (lift).

With a stay at Grand Okan Hotel in Alanya, you'll be near the beach and minutes from Alanya Aquapark and Alanya Culture Center. This 4-star hotel is within close proximity of Alanya Archeological Museum and Milli Egemenlik Stadium.

http://www.grandokan.com/en

Antique Roman Palace Hotel

Hotel Antique Roman Palace with 326 beds is a new and elite All inclusive facility in Alanya a city of the unique beauties and historical prosperity. Luxurious decorated 110 rooms sighting the sea are carpet covered, and have telephone, air-conditioning, satellite TV, music channels, safe, mini bar, balcony, WC, bath, hair-dryer and telephone in bathroom.

Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and complimentary bottled water.

Head down to the water and enjoy a day at the private beach, or take advantage of other recreational amenities including an outdoor pool and a lazy river. Additional features include complimentary wireless Internet access, gift shops/newsstands, and a hair salon.

All-inclusive rates are available at this aparthotel. Meals and beverages at onsite dining establishments are included in all-inclusive rates. Charges may be applied for dining at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, some beverages, and other amenities. You can enjoy a meal at a restaurant serving the guests of Antique Roman Palace, or stop in at a snack bar/deli. Relax with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge or a beach bar.

With a stay at Antique Roman Palace in Alanya, you'll be by the sea and close to Alanyum Shopping Mall and Alanya Harbour. This 4-star aparthotel is within close proximity of Alanya Castle and Alanya Aquapark.

http://www.antiqueromanpalace.com/

Kleopatra Fatih Hotel

Kleopatra Fatih hotel is located near the beach and approximately 2 km from the center of Alanya.

The hotels services and facilities include a 24h reception, bar, restaurants, outdoor pool with sun terrace, children’s pool and waterslides (open limited hours), Turkish bath and sauna are available for extra charge.

All the rooms are equipped with telephone, TV, WIFI, safe (extra charge), air conditioning, mini fridge, bathroom (bath/shower) and hairdryer.

In case of choosing the option of “all inclusive”:

The All Inclusive-concept includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks) and mealtime drinks such as soft drinks, beer, wine, water and alcoholic drinks, all of local brands.

Drinks are served from morning until late evening (approx until 22.-23.00 hrs). Opening times vary between different hotels. In certain hotels, the activities program is also included.

*A la carta restaurant for extra charge.

http://www.fatihhotel.net/

Hotel Bella Bravo

Make yourself at home in one of the air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchenettes with refrigerators and stovetops. Rooms have private furnished balconies. Digital television is provided for your entertainment. Conveniences include coffee/tea makers and sofa beds, and housekeeping is provided daily.

Enjoy the recreation opportunities such as a seasonal outdoor pool or make use of other amenities including complimentary wireless Internet access.

Satisfy your appetite at the aparthotel's restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or stay in and take advantage of room service (during limited hours). Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge.

Bella Bravo is a 3-star property only 1.8km from Alanya State Hospital, Dim River and Alara Kalesi. A 24-hour reception and wake up service as well as a safe deposit box, a lift and currency exchange are available at the hotel. Just 5km from the center of Alanya known for Alanyum Shopping Mall, House of Ataturk and Alanya Milli Egemenlik Stadium. Bella Bravo overlooks gardens and a harbour and provides quick access to a sandy beach. 35km to Gazipasa airport.

http://bella-bravo.alanyahotelsturkey.net/en/

Palmiye Beach Hotel

On the outskirts of Alanya Castle with its unique view, at Palm beach on the same level with sea and at famous Kleopatra beach you will live unforgettable moments. With capacity of 55 standard and 4 single rooms furnished to make you feel at home, the hotel is situated in town centre and easy accessible. You can at the same time enjoy vivid and entertaining atmosphere in Alanya and at the same time, if you like, you can visit historical sites and touristic places.

Our hotel is situated only 120 km far from Antalya Airport and 44 km far to Gazipasa Airport. All rooms are equipped with air condition, TV, music device, fan, safe deposit box. Every single detail has been taken in consideration. Your day will start on the balcony in embrace with Mediterranean sea and continue at Cleopatra beach where velvet like sand will touch your soul with each step you make… you need only to enjoy surprises and activities we have prepared for you

http://palmiyebeachhotel.com/

White City Resort Hotel

Make yourself at home in one of the 205 air-conditioned rooms featuring free minibar items and LED televisions. Rooms have private balconies. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. After a day at the private beach, you can enjoy other recreational amenities including an indoor pool and a waterslide. Additional features include complimentary wireless Internet access and an arcade/game room.

This resort is all inclusive. Rates include meals and beverages at onsite dining establishments. Charges may be applied for dining at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, some beverages, and other amenities. Grab a bite at one of the resort's 3 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of 24-hour room service. Relax with a refreshing drink at a beach bar, a poolside bar, or one of 2 bars/lounges.

Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, an elevator (lift), and coffee/tea in the lobby. This resort has 2 meeting rooms available for events. Free self-parking is available onsite.

http://resort.whitecityhotels.com/

Yalihan Una

With a stay at Yalihan Una - All Inclusive in Alanya (Avsallar), you'll be close to Sealanya. This all-inclusive resort is within the vicinity of Konakli Mosque and Konakli Clock Tower Square.

Make yourself at home in one of the 168 guestrooms featuring minibars. Rooms have private balconies or patios. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.

Head down to the water and enjoy a day at the private beach, or take advantage of other recreational amenities including an outdoor pool and a sauna. This resort also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and an arcade/game room.

This resort is all inclusive. Rates include meals and beverages at onsite dining establishments. Charges may be applied for dining at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, some beverages, and other amenities. Grab a bite at one of the resort's 3 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of room service (during limited hours). Relax with a refreshing drink from a beach bar or one of the 2 bars/lounges.

http://yalihan.com.tr/#

Riviera Hotel & Spa

Riviera Hotel & Spa is convenient for both business and leisure travelers comfort and invites you to the discovery of the world.

Entertainment/Activities - During your holiday boredom relief from physical and mental health,a good,exciting and gripping; inside of the hotel - outside of the hotel/non paid and unpaid.

Comfortable and Cosy Rooms - Every attention to detail has been our rooms offer sea, pool, garden and mountain views, spacious, comfortable enjoy a rest for the domestic structure.

Delicious Food and Drinks - Riviera, we thoroughness of the highest standards of health and hygiene in a variety of flavors of world cuisines is proud to service.

With a stay at Riviera Hotel in Alanya, you'll be minutes from Alanya Aquapark and Alanya Culture Center. This 4-star hotel is within close proximity of Alanya Archeological Museum and Damlatas Caves.

http://www.riviera.com.tr/spa/en/

Green Garden Suites Hotel

Make yourself at home in one of the air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchenettes with full-sized refrigerators/freezers and stovetops. Rooms have private furnished balconies. LCD televisions with satellite programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected. Conveniences include safes and separate sitting areas, and you can also request cribs/infant beds (surcharge).

Take advantage of recreational opportunities offered, including an outdoor pool, a sauna, and a steam room.

Satisfy your appetite at the aparthotel's restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or grab a snack at a coffee shop/café. While enjoying a refreshing dip in the aparthotel pool, you can order your favorite drink at the poolside bar.

Featured amenities include a computer station, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge at scheduled times

http://www.greengardensuite.com/EN/GreenGardenSuite/

White Gold Hotel & Spa

White Gold Hotel & Spa is located on Mediterranean beach line in the Alanya city and has wonderful sea view. The hotel has 165 standard rooms, 4 Junior Suit rooms and 4 Family rooms, totally 480 beds for comfortable staying. All rooms have a separate balcony, air condition, hair dryer, fridge for mini bar, satellite TV, direct dial telephone, safe box and wireless internet connection. In our hotel, there are panoramic restaurant, bars, opened and indoor pools, mini aqua park, Turkish bath, steam rooms, fitness gym, massage and rooms for therapy and skin care.

At the beach of the hotel, there are comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas and various sport and beach animation. In the hotel you can also find game rooms and TV set, mini club with children animation, a lot of possibilities for sports activities, animation both during day and night with disco and night show programs. We will be happy to say you're welcome in our complex.

http://www.whitegoldhotel.com/

Vikingen Infinity Resort&Spa

The journey, which will turn into unforgettable moments in the imaginary infinity of the blue, starts. Vikingen Infinity Resort&Spa, the favorite of the region, offers “happiness at first sight” to its guests with its architecture.

Our facility, located in the vicinity of Alanya-Türkler 90 km from Antalya airport, 35 km from Manavgat and 10 km Alanya , offers an ultra all-inclusive package.

You will find the traces of private, authentic and modern architecture on our private beach meeting you and your family with every tone of blue, in our rooms where we will have the opportunity to reintroduce to comfort and at any corner of our facility.

The hotel offers a wide array of facilities for guests to indulge in including a 650m long private beach which is ideal for all the family to relax on and soak in the delightful sunshine. There are also two swimming pools including an outdoor pool and seven waterslides where guests can let their hair down and relax. For those wishing to relax further, there are spa facilities available including a Turkish bath, sauna, steam room and Thai massages, plus there is an indoor heated pool and fitness centre for those seeking to stay active.

http://www.vikingenhotels.com/

Club Sidar

Our hotel is located 10min of walking distance from city center and 300m to the famous Cleopatra Beach, Milli Egemenlik Stadium and close to Alanya Aquapark. This hotel is within close proximity of Alanya Culture Center and Alanya Archeological Museum. Club Sidar has 158 suit, 6 family and 8 standard rooms. The total capacity of our hotel is 530 persons.

In Club Sidar, you can find a market, unisex hairdresser, souvenirs shop, jewelers shop, Turkish bath, massage rooms, conference hall, billiards, table tennis, laundry, TV hall, doctor, beach volley, water basketball, aqua park and mini club.

http://www.clubsidar.com/

Villa Sonata

Make yourself at home in one of the 25 air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchenettes. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available to keep you connected. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and refrigerators.

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 2 outdoor swimming pools, a sauna, and a steam room. This aparthotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and tour/ticket assistance.

Satisfy your appetite at the aparthotel's restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner, or stay in and take advantage of 24-hour room service. While enjoying a refreshing dip in the aparthotel pool, you can order your favorite drink at the poolside bar.

Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. A roundtrip airport shuttle is available for a surcharge.

http://www.villasonata.com/

Hotel Villa Turka

Located in the heart of the Alanya castle, hotel Villa Turka, welcomes you to a beautifully restored and tastefully decorated 19th-century castle mansion.

Take a break from routine and follow the traces of one magnificent civilization.

Get used to waking up to the sounds of birds chirruping, the sun rising over Taurus mountains across your window and watching the Alanya bay glitter at night.

Here, you get to pick up your food straight from the organic vegetable garden, drink the tastiest brew, and indulge yourself in the manner that the orient is "renowned" for, as ehlikeyif, literally a "connoisseur of joy".

Enjoy recreation amenities such as an outdoor pool or take in the view from a garden. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and a fireplace in the lobby.

http://www.hotelvillaturka.com/

Xperia Saray Beach Hotel

Our Hotel is situated in Alanya at the world famous Turkish Riviera. It is the pearl of the Mediterranean coast where sun, sea & sand come together with a fantastic history. Saray Beach Hotel is located directly on the Cleopatra Beach and 40 km to Gazipasa Airport, 120 km to Antalya Airport.

Outdoor swimming pool, children’s Pool, water slide, Spa & Massage (Turkish Bath, Sauna, Steam Bath, Jacuzzi, Massage Rooms, Thalassotherapy and Therapy Room), coiffeur, meeting room, TV room, children’s playground, table tennis, dart, internet corner, wireless internet, beach volleyball, all water sports possibilities at the beach, once a week Turkish night and live music, outdoor tennis courts 250 m.

http://www.xperia.com.tr/

Remi Hotel

In the center of Alanya - the Turkish Riviera - 150 m far from Cleopatra-Beach, within the paradise of sun, sea, sand and historical places where is the Hotel Remi.

Everything you desire is here that is a quiet place for your holidays. Moreover, the Hotel's housekeeping staffs obtain you find your room tidy.

Our Hotel has got 79 rooms, a capacity of 158 beds. All rooms offer air condition, TV, balcony, shower, WC, telephone, safe box and hair dryer.

Also Remi Hotel has got a lobby, bar, restaurant, swimming pool, meeting room, Turkish bath (hamam), steam bath, sauna, massage room, gym, laundry, elevator, generator, billiard, table top soccer and wireless internet.

The Doctor exists whenever need. At the beach you will use many possibilities which are tennis, basketball, volley ball, beach volley and any kind of water sports. We invite you to be our guest. Therefore, you can start your exploration in Alanya.

http://www.remi.com.tr/en

Sirius Deluxe Hotel

Located on 15 thousand m2 area in Alanya, Sirius Deluxe brings a new breath of fresh air to tourism of the region with its comfortable living spaces, meeting rooms, seafront location, and specially designed service and entertainment facilities. Beyond the high level of hospitality, Sirius Deluxe offers quality and comfort for its guests. Come, let’s explore this new rising star together…

Where hospitality and quality service meet, Sirius Deluxe has many alternatives available with its Standard, Connected, Disabled, Large, Honeymoon and Suit rooms all of which prioritise comfort.

With a carefully selected variety of world cuisine, your meals turn into a feast at the Turkish and Italian A’ la Carte Restaurants in our hotel.

With the great variety of taste alternatives available and the opportunity for romantic dinners on our piers which open from two sides into the warm waters of Mediterranean you will attach and keep coming back…

http://siriusdeluxe.com/index.html

Sifalar Apart Hotel

The hotel has 60 luxury apartments with a capacity of 280 beds. For a relaxed holiday, you have got the choice out of a one bedroom apartment and for big families a two bedroom apartment.In our aparthotel following is available for you; reception, lobby, elevators, two pools with a children's pool, two pool bars and a snack bar. Our restaurant offers a big area with the possibility to dine outside on our terrace, a la carte service, breakfast and dinner from our open buffet. For laundry, ironing and dry cleaning, are our ladies from the housekeeping staff at your service. We take care of your sport and fun with table tennis, water ball and several other sports as well as an internet corner. For our small guests we have a playroom and a playground next to the pool.

Our rooms; The apartments are comfortable and cosy. There are one or two balconies, air conditioning in bedrooms, bathroom with a bathtub and hairdryer, safe and a telephone. The kitchenette has a refrigerator, an electric and gas stove, coffee machine, radio and television with satellite t.v.(with English, German, Dutch and Turkish channels). All rooms have stone floors, except for the bedrooms they have got carpet floors.

http://www.sifalarhotel.com/

Alaiye Resort & Spa Hotel

Make yourself at home in one of the 443 air-conditioned rooms featuring free minibar items. Rooms have private balconies. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and hair dryers.

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 2 outdoor swimming pools, a health club, and a sauna. Additional amenities include complimentary wireless Internet access and a hair salon.

his resort is all inclusive. Rates include meals and beverages at onsite dining establishments. Charges may be applied for dining at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, some beverages, and other amenities. Grab a bite at one of the resort's 4 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of 24-hour room service. Relax with a refreshing drink at one of the 5 bars/lounges. A complimentary buffet breakfast is included.

For handicapped - 6 special equipped rooms

Languages - Turkish, English, German, Russian

Flag and Beach Type - 80 meters long sandy beach, Blue Flag

Location - 20 km from Alanya, 105 km from Antalya airport

Credit Cards - Visa, Master Card

Electricity - 220 Volt

Domestic pets - Not admitted

Non-smoking area - Non-smoking rooms, non-smoking areas

Transportation - Taxi, Minibus, Private vehicle

www.alaiye.com.tr

Hildegard Hotel

Hildegard, 3- Star boutique hotel is ready to welcome guests to discover the city of Alanya, the old and the new and enjoy the sun of Mediterranean. There are 18 rooms with air-conditioner, satellite TV and balcony. Rooms are furnished with simple and colourful furniture, each representing different countries with different themes. Each room has a private bathroom with shower. Daily breakfast is served in traditional style during low season and in open buffet style in high season. You can have traditional and delicious meals at the restaurants and cafes around the hotel. Hildegard Hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and WiFi is available throughout the hotel with complimentary use for guests. You can sunbathe and rest around the swimming pool. There is also a playground where children can have fun and joyful time.

Front desk is available 24/7

Check-in time : 14.00 p.m

Check-out time: 11.00 a.m

Extra facilities: Turkish Bath-Sauna-Massage Turkish Bath gives service in hygienic way. It is a special place for your body care where you will feel very relaxed and comfortable.

http://www.hildegardalanya.com/

Kahya Hotel

The excellent 4-star Kahya Hotel offers air-conditioned guestrooms.

A complimentary breakfast is served every morning. Mediterranean dishes are served in the indoor restaurant. At the small terrace bar guests will enjoy a selection of juices.

Guests at Kahya Hotel can take advantage of a barber shop, a beauty salon and free parking and such services as 24-hour reception, ironing service and dry cleaning.

Guests will enjoy a Turkish bath, hammam and a sauna on-site. Guests will take advantage of beach volleyball, boating and canoeing available on-site.

Kahya Hotel is located just a short stroll away from the beautiful sandy beach. Alanya Aquapark, Alanya Archaeological Museum and Damlatas Caves in Alanya are located nearby.

Quick access to restaurants and an aqua park is provided.

40 minutes' drive from Gazipasa airport.

http://kahyahotels.com/

Ozgur Bey Spa Hotel

Make yourself at home in one of the 50 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and LCD televisions. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.

Relax on the private beach or enjoy other recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool and a sauna. Additional features include complimentary wireless Internet access and tour/ticket assistance.

Grab a bite at one of the hotel's 2 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of 24-hour room service. Relax with a refreshing drink from a poolside bar or one of the 2 bars/lounges. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily.

Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. A roundtrip airport shuttle is available for a surcharge.

http://www.ozgurbeyspahotel.com/

Grand Zaman Beach Hotel

Our hotel with its 147 rooms is located at the marvellous Cleopatra beach and accommodates since 2006 in an all-inclusive system.the facility is a part of Alanya ,the pearl of the Mediterranean offers you besides sun and sea a palette of historıcal place cultural property and nature as well you will enjoy a wide range of activities accompanied by the breeze blowing down from the Toros mountains.

You will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of sun and sea, and because of our central location you have the chance to reach in a walking distance the historical Red Tower, the Alanya Castle, old Alanya houses, the Damlataş Cave, the Harbour with several entertainment centers, shopping areas and 2 times weekly the bazaar, and various interesting activities, as well. The reception team will organise for you different daily tours you can experience Alanya.

All rooms are decorated with the intention to present our guests comfortable and relaxing stay. The hotel consists of 145 standard rooms and 25 family rooms, in total 170 rooms with 370 beds capacity all together.

1 indoor main restaurant for 350 persons, with air-condition, non-smoking area, 1 snack bar, 1 lobby (air-conditioned) Tv room, wireless.

http://www.grandzamanhotels.com/grandzamanbeach/en/

Xperia Grand Bali Hotel

The Grand Bali Hotel is located in a quite part of Damlatas Street in Alanya, which is worldwide known as Pearl of the Turkish Riviera. The hotel is centrally situated and only 150 m away from the Cleopatra Beach, 40 km from Gazipasa Airport, 120 km from Antalya Airport and 80 meters from Alanya Museum and Tourism Information.

All rooms with Satellite plasma TV, Wireless, Minibar, Safe Box, Direct-Dial Telephone, Air-Condition, Shower cabinet, WC and Hair Dryer, a Balcony with Land View, Telephone and Tv speaker in Bathroom. We have 2 executive VIP King suit (max 2+1), 4 family room (4 adult + 1 child , max 5 pax:) , 12 Large Standard (max 4 pax ), 1 Handicap room and 77 dbl. rooms.

Treat yourself with massages, body treatments, and facials. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including a spa tub and a seasonal outdoor pool.

Land Sports – Turkish bath, backgammon, chess, playing cards, beach volleyball, near the hotel basketball area.

http://www.xperia.com.tr/xperia/grandbali_welcome.html

Sunset in Alanya gives a piece of good news that the night life begins. Bars, discos are waiting for those who are young in spirit. Unlimited dance, music and fun. Pop music, Turkish pop music. Lots of different kinds of drinks. Different kinds of music come from everywhere in town. Even the stars in the sky are dancing. The yellow light which lightens the great city walls of the Medieval Castle takes you to a trip in the time tunnel. The nights in Alanya are far beyond human imagination.

It is like any other European town. Everybody enjoys total freedom whether alone or with a group of friends. We have tours to discos which are out of town totally free of charge. The boats that are covered with colourful lights, people dancing, sounds of cheers under the moonlight...

On the other hand, people who come out of the cinema rush to their beds. For the next morning, other activities are waiting so they have to get some sleep.

James Dean Night Club

In Alanya a night out is not complete unless you have been to James Dean Night Club - here the choices are so numerous that you will definitely find something to suit every taste. Major renovation recently means the disco is now ready for all party people with its 10 bars and 4 different dance floors and at least two kinds of music on the different floors. The James Dean disco is arranged in small sections with their own character and you will also find plenty of opportunities to either dance or sit down and relax in comfortable sofas and seating areas. The music is controlled by experienced DJs from Alanya, Istanbul and Germany and the style is a mix of pop, r´n b, dance and lounge. If you enjoy discos with a good international atmosphere then James Dean in Alanya is THE place for you to be. Opening Hours: 20.00 - 04.00

Bistro Bellman Night Club

If you go to Alanya, you have to go to the Robin Hood and Bistro Bellman, cause there's a lot of good music for everybody, great atmosphere and nice crew for every request.

Although Bistro Bellman made its name as part of Alanya's nightlife it is much more than just a disco. Before dark Bistro Bellman is open for dinner guests who get an amazing view of the harbour, Alanya castle and the Red Tower whilst choosing from a varied menu with Turkish, European and Latin dishes. Later the bar opens and the music changes from quiet to more lively and modern. Around midnight both style and mood change when the dance floor is full and young party people take over Bistro Bellman to have a good time. Bistro Bellman is Alanya's largest open-air restaurant/disco and on the two floors, there are different dance floors, five bars and several terraces with soft sofas. Once you have stepped into Bistro Bellman you don't have to go anywhere else -with its superb food, good atmosphere in the bar and partying till the morning comes. For restaurant customers, a pick up service is offered.

Havana Night Club

Visit the Havana Club in the lively harbour area. This dance bar opened in April 2005 and is ready to entertain you with a mix of music styles. Starting with the music of the 60's, 70's and 80's through to pop, R&B, Hip Hop, Latin and finishing with House and Techno. So there is something for everyone no matter your age!

Set on 3 floors, with views over the Castle and Red Tower, the harbour and the coast, this wonderful bar has a Cuban cigar theme. Fantastic pictures of famous cigar-smoking personalities adorn the walls and you can buy cigars from the wide selection on offer.

In keeping with the Cuban theme, try one of the Havana Club special cocktails which include delicious fresh fruit! Come on one of the special theme nights for even more fun. There is also a big screen for displaying international music channels or special sporting events.

Opening Hours: 20.00 - 04.00 all year

Capacity: 2000 (on 3 floors)

4 bars , 2 dance floor ,Vip , Two Big Screen

Theme & Music type: oldies to techno

Crazy Horse Restaurant Bar

Since the opening in 2001, Crazy Horse has become a big success. Delicious food, professional staff and good music in a perfect combination have made it meeting point number 1 for all tour guides as well as many many tourists.

Crazy Horse is the perfect place to start the evening and warm up before continuing to the night clubs. Try some of our latin foods and move on to the bar for a drink while enjoying the music played by our DJ. Whichever is your taste he will play them all, from old goodies to the latest hits.

Crazy Horse is the place you will visit more than once during your stay in Alanya!

Robin Hood Latino Bar

Robin Hood, on four floors in the busy harbour area, is the largest disco in Alanya. Robin Hood Club is on the first two floors with Hawaii Beach Club on the third and Latino Club on the top. Each Club has its own theme and music style and a live webcam.

Every night is Party Night on one of the floors so there are plenty opportunities to join in the fun and dance till the early morning light! With 6 DJ's providing the music from r'n'b and pop to hip hop and golden oldies, you are sure to find a style that suits you.

Robin Hood provides an excellent vantage point for enjoying the wonderful sea and mountain views on offer or just sit in the garden and watch the bustle of the harbour crowds. Happy hour is 21.30 to 23.30

Auditorium Disco

With a capacity of 4.000 people it is the biggest and most beautiful disco in Alanya; doing great benefits in Europe with its nightlife it is one of the ''musts'' of the city. It has always been a great question mark when it is going to be opened and closed.

In Alanya, people say ''summer has not come before Auditorium has opened'' and the closing of Auditorium means that the season is over. Like having all the galas and the best audiences within, Auditorium always has the last word to say. For short, the local people call it ''THE KING OF THE NIGHT'' The music genre and style changes from day to day and time to time.

Sky Lounge Bar

This is the first lounge bar in Alanya! Something new, something different, something that you will love!

Gaze out over Alanya and its harbour from one of our comfortable sofas directly under the stars.

In the good care of our staff will you be able to try some of our tasty drinks from the menu.

Early hours we are playing soft chill out music and later on we'll get the party started with a mix of Club and House music.

Come and visit us on the 6th floor of the Red Tower Brewery & Restaurant.

Alanya Castle

Alanya Castle is a magnificent Seljuk ruin which sits atop a 250-metre high peninsula overlooking the Mediterranean sea. With walls stretching over 6km, Alanya Castle – sometimes called Alanya Fortress – encloses a number of fascinating sites and structures which are well worth exploring today.

The origins of the city today known as Alanya date back thousands of years. References to the ancient city of Coracesium, the name for the early settlement, can be found from the 4th Century BC. During much of antiquity, Alanya notoriously sheltered pirates thanks to its perfectly designed bay and harbour. However, during Pompey the Great’s famous campaign to rid the Mediterranean of pirates, Alanya was the site of an important battle in which the pirates were defeated. For the remainder of the Empire period, the city remained under Roman and subsequently Byzantine control but it was not one of the region’s more prominent settlements during this time.

It wasn’t until 1221 that the city really rose to prominence. After the city’s conquest by the Seljuk Turks, Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat I decided to make Alanya his winter home and the city entered its zenith.

The harbour and port that shielded Sicilian bandits and pirates in the 3rd Century BC, referred to as the Tersane or Dockyard, was turned into the main naval base of the Seljuk navy; defensive walls were restored and the Red Tower, perhaps the most striking of monuments that remain at the site, was constructed. From then until the 18th Century Alanya, incorporated into the Ottoman empire in 1471, became an important port for trading with other Mediterranean countries, particularly Egypt, Syria and Cyprus. Today Alanya is the best-preserved dockyard of the Mediterranean basin.

The Red Tower

The Red Tower (sometimes referred to as Kizilkule) ranks among the most impressive elements of Alanya Castle and stands 29 meters high. The Castle walls start here and pass through the middle battlements (Ehmedek), the Citadel or Inner Castle (Ickale), the Arab Saint bastion (Arap Evliyasi), the Esat bastion, the arsenal (Tophane) and the historic shipyard (Tersane) before finishing once again at the Red Tower.

Inside the Castle walls are a number of interesting buildings and monuments, including the palace of Alaaddin Keykubat, as well as several Mosques (including the 16th Century Suleymaniye Mosque) and even a church, proof of the often diverse and tolerant nature of the city.

Opposite the Suleymaniye Mosque is a covered Bazaar or Bedesten, used during the 14th and 15th centuries as a trading base. There are numerous other buildings and fortifications surrounding the Castle, including the Ehmedek (middle battlements), an arsenal (or Tophane) and a Mint (Darphane), although interestingly not a single coin was minted there. There are also many sea caves that can only be reached by boat. The Castle Citadel (or Ickale), dating to the 6th century, contains a platform that today offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean peninsula.

That Alanya Castle is currently on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list is testament to its diverse and sprawling history. With over 6km of defensive wall reinforced by 140 bastions and 400 cisterns, Alanya was perhaps one of the best-defended cities in the Mediterranean.

Ehmedek - Egri Gate

This is where the Hellenistic architecture fades to stop before leaving the town. After Aladdin Keykubat invaded Alaiye, the Seljuks did not ruin the found architecture but built what was necessary on top of it. This used to be where the commander of the fortress lived. It was built a year after the Kiziikuie was. The large tower of Ehmedek consists of a couple of parts. It contains many water tanks, Turkish baths and stoves. All of Alanya can be seen from this tower. The grands of the Seljuks were hosted here when they came to Alanya. This monument has been well preserved at all times and it is noted that Savcızade Emir Karaman restored it last time in 1423. I am going to mention more about the mosques found in the Tophane region and in the fortress region with the other historical mosques.

According to the epigraph, it was built in 1227. This gate is very different from the others. The view from this point is spectacular. You can watch the city center and the deep blue sea of Alanya from 150-160 meters height. The Taurus Mountains also look marvelous from this point. In one of the towers is also a Turkish flag. From this gate, you can observe that the walls of the fortress are made of larger bricks and are taller than the rest. It's like this all the way to Ehmedek. You can see specialities preserved from various periods: The Hellenistic feature of the large bricks, the late Byzantine period and the architecture of the Seljuks and the Ottomans. This gate is not in use today and is kept closed. This gate is special to the people of Alanya. During Ramadan in the days when there was no electricity, a gun would be fired to let the people know it was time for dinner and they would come here to watch this. The sound of the fire would echo from the Taurus Mountains and even all the nearby villages would hear. Though there is no more need for this, as there are electricity and clocks, the tradition is kept and the gun is still fired even today. There are three more gates which are secret and used for military purposes. The most important is the one near the lighthouse. There is a little Byzantine church similar to the ones near the Arab Saint. This is said to be where the priests retired to obscurity. The Alaiye Rulers of the time would coin money here and it has been preserved as a mint. Still today people come here to make wishes like the Greeks used to once upon a time. Special traditions continue at where is called Erkapi. Now let's mention about the inner fortress which is used for military purposes. There is no entry here at the moment. The entry is on the south side. You can enter the museum here but the curving path is passing the lighthouse. This museum is directed by the directorate of museums of Alanya and a fee is paid to enter. The directorate has decided to use the original gates from this year on.

Alanya Shipyard (tersane)

Sultan Aladdin Keykubat had started the shipyard construction to make his dream to become real and become "the sultan of two seas" two years after the construction of the tower. At the north side of the shipyard there is an epigraph and at the left side of the epigraph, there is a small mosque, at the right side there is a dormitory for the soldiers. When you enter you can see the small holes, each one of them is 7.70 in width and 42.30 in length. These holes are tied to each other with arcs. One of these holes used to be a well. But now it is filled with waste. There is a parade to the Arsenal, and the villagers call it "the pit of hell". A foreign writer says: "it is the most famous work of art in the world and Alanya. I think that this shipyard is the only shipyard of the Seljuks."

This shipyard was active during the Ottoman period. In 1361, when the King of Cyprus invaded Antalya, the Ruler of Alaiye sent ships to Antalya Ruler Mahmut. Moreover, he agreed with other Turkish Rulers and sent their navy to Cyprus. At that time, there were good ship masters. But today it is abandoned to loneliness and it is trying to still stand. We think that these works of arts have to be restored. I still remember when the shipyard was used by the sailors.

Kizil Kule

A minor masterpiece of Mediterranean military architecture, the 100-foot-high Kızıl Kule was built by the Seljuks in 1225 to defend Alanya's harbour and the nearby shipyard known as the tersane (arsenal). Sophisticated technology for the time was imported in the form of an architect from Aleppo who was familiar with Crusader castle building. The octagonal redbrick structure includes finely judged angles of fire for archers manning the loopholes, cleverly designed stairs to cut attackers off, and a series of troughs to convey boiling tar and melted lead on to besieging forces. Nowadays the Red Tower's cool passages house temporary exhibits, usually less captivating than the view from the roof. A short walk south along the water—or along the castle walls, if you prefer—is the tersane, which is made up of five workshops, all under an arched roof. Ships could be pulled up under the vaulted stone arches for building or repairs, and the cover was likely also useful for storing war supplies.

Aya Yorgi Church

The church within the fortress is said to be dating back to the 11th century. Inside of the dome of the church, there are still drawn figures of people belonging to that date. Even though it is much frayed, it still preserves its historical identity. The shrine also adds integrity to this historical building. Many churches can be found in this region.The largest is in the upper Tophane district and next to Alaaddin Keykubat School. (It was built in 1839 by the Greeks who lived in Alanya).

Hidirellez

This place is like a border between Tepe Vicinity and Hacimehmetii Village. While going to Tepe Vicinity from the city center the road turns to left in Sugozu Vicinity in Kocahasanli district. After driving through this road which is full of turns (3-4km) you arrive at Hidirellez. In this area, there is a church, built in the1800's. In 1873, this church was repaired and some additions were made. It will be restored this year (2002) with the money from some foundations. The word Hidirellez is a compound name made with the combination of Hizir and llyas. Hizir is one of God's emissaries who drank the water of life and became immortal. He helps people and spreads abundance, fruitfulness and health among people especially in spring time, llyas was one of God's prophets. He was sent as a prophet before Prophet Moses. People celebrate Hidirellez festival on 6th of May in everywhere. But in Alanya, it's not only celebrated on 6th of May but also in every day of a year. This festival gains more importance for Alanya because there is a place with the same name. There is a myth about Hizir. There was a creek in a place today called Kirk Merdiven (in Cleopatra Beach). In ancient times, daughters of Alanya's chieftains and kings were killed by a dragon which appeared suddenly in this creek. One day one of these mourning parents started to pray to God. At that moment, when the dragon came out from the water, a man with a white beard, white horse and in a heavenly light appeared. He sundered the dragon with his sword, saved the girl and disappeared. When he came to Hidireilez a shepherd saw this man and at that moment, he disappeared. It's believed that this man is Hizir. That's why here is called Hidireilez. People who have desires come here and pray to God for their desires. You can find other approximately 20 sightseeing places in my other book "Alanya, Since Yesterday Until Today".

Ancient Cities

In Leartis Learty you can visit ancient ruins with baths, wells, churches, amphitheatre and columns preserved.

Karaburun is a small coast town with antique city Dzastiniano ruins close to it. There were a lot of expeditions at all times. There is Alarahan near Karaburun.

Old Town and Kasra Baths are worth visiting if you are in Alanya. Tourists are walking along the city's narrow streets and inspecting Kasra Baths. For the first time in Anatolian art history figured frescos were used in dome's decorating. Damlatash Cave and Ethnographic Museum are also of a great importance.

Aital is a port city famous for its perfectly preserved castle, antique streets, baths and numerous tombs./p>

Mosques

Suleymanye Mosque was built just outside İçkale on the top of the castle in 1231 when the city was being reconstructed by Alaaddin Keykubat, the Sultan of Selcuks. However the mosque was not in good condition in the following years and it was rebuilt by Kanuni Sultan Süleyman in the 16th century during the Ottoman Era. The mosque with a single minaret is known as Alaaddin, Kale or Sülaymaniye. The building is made of rubble stones and it is square in shape.

It has a brick dome based on an octagonal frame. Fifteen little earthenware jars were placed in the part functioning as the hanger of the dome in order to ensure its acoustics. That quality is felt during religious practice, the final public place is found below three brick domes on a four-foot basis. The covers of doors and windows are fine examples of wood carving of the Ottoman.

The Andizli Mosque is in Tophane district. The mosque named so because of a tree called elecampane nearby was built in 1277 by Emir Bedrüddin. It has some characteristics peculiar to the architecture of the Selcuks period. It's made of stone blocks and has a minaret which is not high. Its pulpit is one of the finest examples of Selcuks art of carving wood. You can go to the mosque through the door below; near Kızılkule minaret that ends with a balcony has an interesting look.

Caravan Saray

Alara Saray is situated 35 kms from Alanya, close to Alara River. Alara Saray is an arquitecture set built in 1232 by Alaaddin Key Cubat. It includes Caravan Museum, mosque, chapel, spring and baths.

Sharavsin Caravan Saray is situated 15 kms far from Alanya. It was constructed by Alaaddin Key Cubat's son in XII century.

Caves

The Damlatash Cave was found in 1948 while building works in the port. Amazing 15 000 year stalactites and stalagmites of all possible shapes were inside. From those times, the cave was under protection and numerous studies began. Together with its natural beauty Damlatash Cave is also known for its great atmosphere that makes people who have sick of asthma better. If you have such an illness you should definitely visit Damlatash Cave when you are in Alanya.

The Dim Cave is a natural formation that offers amazing scenery of stalagmite and stalactite for the visitors. There is a small salt lake in the middle.

This place was well-known among local hunters as a shelter. It was introduced to the visitors in 1998 and it is the second biggest cave known to the visitors.

Kizlar Magarasi and Phosphoric Caves are marine antique caves that have a rich history. According to the legend, pirates hided abducted women in Kizlar Magarasi cave. Phosphoric Cave got its name because of unusual lighting effect.

The Lovers’ Cave

After Korsanlar Cave you move around the castle and reach to Asiklar Cave. It's not possible to enter this cave with a boat as the entrance of the cave is three or four metres high from the surface of the sea. People who are brave enough climb till the entrance and enter the cave. This cave is like a tunnel inside the Cilvarda Promontory. Alanya Castle is on Cilvarda Promontory. The cave is 50 or 60 meters long. At the end of the tunnel, we reach to the exit of the cave which is higher than the entrance. You can feel the rising ground anyhow while you're walking inside of the cave. While you are walking inside the cave your boat goes around Cilvarda Promontory and when you exit from the cave you will see the boat waiting for you. To reach the boat you need to jump into the sea from the exit of the cave which is five or six meters high. Asiklar Cave used to host lovers in old times. The word "Asiklar" means lovers in Turkish. In 50's and 60's people used to look for the lovers who escaped from their families in this cave. After Asiklar Cave, you go further towards north and while watching the castle you can see the small church, the mint and the hurling platform. While going further with a great excitement you'll come across a cave which is similar to Korsanlar Cave. You can enter this cave with your boat also.

Museums

There are four museums in Alanya. These are The Museum of Archaeology, that of Ethnography, Museum of city castle and Museum of Ataturk's House. All of the museums are under the control of the head Office of Museums in Alanya and you have to pay for a visit. They are all open for the visitors every day except lunch breaks.

The most important work in Alanya is the statue of Heraclius exhibited in the museum of Archaeology. Red Tower works as The Ethnography Museum. Ickale built as the palace of the Sultan Alaaddin during the reconstruction of the city in the 13th-century, is now a museum and open for visitors.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale, meaning "cotton castle" in Turkish, is a natural site in Denizli Province in south-western Turkey, just 30 minutes from the city of Denizli and in 5 hours from Antalya. The city contains hot springs and travertines, terraces of carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. Before people could walk along this terraces but now it is forbidden and tourists are walking along the path and admire the sight. Pamukkale has been a tourist attraction since long time ago. It is recognized as a World Heritage Sites together with Hierapolis. Hierapolis-Pamukkale was made a World Heritage Site in 1988.

Green Canyon

From the centre of Manavgat, about eighteen kilometres upstream, lies the Green Canyon. This Green Canyon is an artificial lake of almost 5 square kilometres that owes its name to the beautiful green-blue tinted water and a wooded and mountainous environment in which it is located. During the summer months, a boat trip in the Green Canyon is a popular day trip. After all, it is cooler than on the coast, it's very relaxing to float on the water for a day and it makes for beautiful photos.

The Green Canyon is the result of the arch dam, the Oymapinar Dam, in the Manavgat River. It was built between 1977 and 1984 and when it was finished, it was the highest of its kind in Turkey. That first place is currently outdated and nowadays the Oymapinar Dam is the fourth in line of highest dams in Turkey. The reservoir does not have to be filled by rain. For the most part it is filled with water coming through the mountains and the ground from the Beyşehir Gölü, a lake that is located in the provinces of Isparta and Konya. The Canyon is a popular place for all kinds of birds including the Buffy Fish Owl, an owl species that is not seen much in the world anymore.

Very significant- stop during boat trip before we return to Alanya is The Oymapinar Dam. From the top of the dam - the highest point is at 185 meters - we have a magnificent view over the Green Canyon.

Sapadere Canyon

‘A wonder of nature' Sapadere Canyon is located within the territorial border of Alanya, a sub-district of Antalya. It is in the Northeast of the region, 44 km away from Alanya and 179 km from Antalya.

Sapadere means a stream away from the road and it was more or less a hidden treasure known only to natives for many, many years until the Alanya district governors and local investors chose to put Sapadere firmly on the map in the name of alternative tourism. This not only benefited the economy of the village but also gave more people the opportunity to visit this spectacularly beautiful valley. There is now a meandering wooden walkway through the valley which was opened mid 2008.

Sapadere Canyon is 360 metres long, nearly 400 metres high and is located 3 km away from Sapadere Village. The canyon is formed by erosion from water, ice and wind. The layers of rock were formed over thousands of years. Wooden walkways make for easy access for all visitors. The walking platform is sympathetically designed and constructed from wood and steel. The platform is environmentally friendly and can be removed when necessary. You will be amazed by the rapidly gushing water over series of rock steps, the numerous waterfalls, rare plants and different species of animals and birds when walking through this natural habitat. The clean, fresh air and cascading turquoise water over the rocks is therapeutic and refreshing on the human spirit...after all, don’t forget that water means life!

At the end of the pathway, 300 meters inside the canyons entrance, you will find the most spectacular point; the marvellous waterfall. This is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and it is also possible to swim in the natural pool at the bottom of the waterfall. The brave can reach the water by jumping (not recommended!) or using the surrounding step-ladders to enjoy the refreshing water. We really mean refreshing as the water barely reaches 12°C even in the peak of the summer!

You will notice a totally different atmosphere here compared to that of the seaside. Why not spend a day at Sapadere and try the chilling brook which is said to remove all negative energies from the body! You may also enjoy hiking amongst the Torsos mountain range’s rugged and virginal beauty. The flora in this area is varied and interesting and the climate more temperate especially during the hot summer months. Spend your time here swimming, picnicking, relaxing...the choice is yours. Close by to the Canyon is a lovely picnic restaurant built of wood where you can take lunch or just enjoy refreshments in the coolness of the place. You can sample mouth-watering fresh river trout caught right here from the pool. This restaurant also produces its own electricity from the power of the flowing water. Compared with some dim river restaurants, this restaurant serves delicious fresh food and delivers excellent service. We, as one of the most experienced Sapadere Canyon tour operators, have lunch in this restaurant as we feel it caters for our clients extremely and satisfies their expectations. Sapadere Canyon, which has become a popular place for those who want to escape Alanya's strong summer sunshine and refresh themselves, is literally a wonder of nature that is worthy of visiting. The Canyon has been visited by over 200 thousand people in the past 3 years and is open all year round. We organise tours all through the year no matter what the season. There is an entrance fee of 4 Turkish liras (2€). Ongoing projects are being supported by Alanya district governorship, local mayors and an Investor from Sapadere Village, Mr. Osman Yylmaz. One is the wooden walkway located at the point from which Sapadere Brook starts, and others which include picnic areas, village taverns and other similar investments. The best way to experience the area is to join our trip today!

Hierapolis

Hierapolis is located in south western Turkey near Denizli, close to "cotton castle". First buildings date back to the 2 century BC. The city itself was built by Eumen II in 190 BC. The name Hierapolis means "sacred city". The hot springs there have been used as a spa and were popular among Roman aristocracy. The Christian apostle Philip spent the last years of his life here. In 80 AD he was martyred by crucifixion and was buried in Hierapolis. Later Byzantine Empire held the city and only then it passed to Turkey. But in 1534 after a powerful earthquake, the Hierapolis was totally destructed.

PİRCE ALAEDDIN TOMB

It's in the center of Sihlar Village. This village is 38km far from Alanya. People who have various problems visit this tomb. There are countless stories about this tomb. Pirce Alaeddin and his family came to Sihlar Village from Horasan at the time of Mevlana. As a matter of fact, this village took its name from this sheikh. Its name was Şeyhler (sheikhs) at first but it turned into Sihlar because it is easier to spell. All citizens of this village come from this family. These are the stories about this tomb and Pirce Alaeddin: 1-As soon as Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat conquered Alanya he took his cadi, mufti and elocutionist and came to Alanya. They climbed on a castle wall and turned toward the city, to the north. Sultan first showed Hasbahce, Cikcilli, Hacibaba and Oba districts and gave it to cadis. Secondly he showed Sekerhane, Kadipasa and Enisdibi districts and gave them to muftis. Lastly he showed Saray, Sugozu and Kizlarpinari districts and gave them to elocutionists. 800 years passed over this incident but traces of this sharing can still be seen. In Hasbahce, Cikcilli and Oba there are still properties of cadis. In Sekerhane, Kadipasa, Carsi and Enisdibi are still properties of muftis. And in Saray, Sugozu and Kizlarpinari it is still possible to find properties of elocutionists. There are graves, hotels, motels, apartment buildings that belong to families of elocutionists. 2- Pirce Alaeddin's father goes for the pilgrimage to Mecca. In those days going to Mecca and turning back takes 1 year. In the eve of pilgrimage his mother cooks "kuluk helvasi" (a kind of desert special to Alanya). His mother says that 'lf your father were here he would eat with us. He likes this desert very much." Pirce tells his mother: "Mom, put some of this desert to a bowl, I'll take it to dad." Mother says to her son: "Son, have you gone mad? Hedjaz is too far away from here." Pirce makes his mother to put some desert in a bowl and fades away. Pirce comes back home in the evening. He says: "Mom, I gave the desert to dad. He said hi to you." Mother tells him: "Ok, son. But where is the bowl?" Pirce: "Dad will bring it back while coming back from Mecca. You can ask him when he comes back." When his father comes back from Mecca shows the bowl and tells to his wife: "Thanks a lot for the fresh and hot desert that you have sent on the eve of pilgrimage." When his wife hears these words, starts to pray to God: "My God! May a tomb will be made in the name of my son and may it drop until the end of time." If you go to that village and visit this tomb you can see that it drops in summer and winter time. 3-At the time of Cyprus landing, the rod of Pirce Alaeddin got lost and it was found in its place with blood stains.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia region in central Turkey is situated 1000 meters above sea level on the Anatolian Plato. The Cappadocia region is largely underlain by sedimentary rocks formed in lakes and streams, and ignimbrite deposits erupted from ancient volcanoes approximately 7 million years ago. Subsequently, under the influence of rains, the sun, snow and winds, there was a washing away and aeration of soft volcanic breeds which has led to appearance of the surprising natural phenomena - freakish mountains, strange hilly valleys and rocks of such unusual forms that sometimes it is difficult to believe in their natural origin. Cones, pyramids, stone columns and many other things and you think you are in a magic country from children's cartoon films and dreams. "Mushrooms with hats" are especially popular and became Cappadocia's symbol. Cappadocia often named "the forgotten world" or "the Country of lunar landscapes", but, despite these strange and deserted landscapes, Cappadocia has been never deprived by attention of people. There are many places to "must see" in Cappadocia like; Fairy Chimneys, Göreme Valley National Park and rock churches, underground cities of Kaymakli, Derinkuyu or Ozkonak, Zelve Valley and Pasabag, Avanos with its pottery and carpets, Uçhisar rock fortress, Ortahisar rock fortress, Ürgüp and so on. We can describe this wonderful place endless but seeing is believing!

Tombs & Graves

GRAVE OF AKBABA

It doesn't exist anymore. It was a big and long grave and people used to light candles on it in 1920's and 1930's. One day health officer, Deli Sihhiyeci Mustafa Efendi, broke off the iron fence of the grave. At the same day he got the news of his son's death. His son died under a tramcar in Istanbul. The grave was at a few meters north of the stairs which went to the harbour and was located at the place of today's artificial waterfall on İskele Street. It was protected for very long years and was visited especially by the people who were going to set out to sea. It was destroyed in 1950 while İskele Street was being restored.

SITTI ZEYNEP DERVISH LODGE AND TOMB

It is in the city center at the west of Kuyularonu Mosque, in Kaleyamaci district. It is one of two buildings which could survive from Ottoman era until today. It's a typical Ottoman building with its appearance. It was built on a square plan with 2 domes. It has 2 rooms. Its entrance door opens towards east. One of the rooms is used as a mosque. In the other room there is a sarcophagus which belogs to Sitti Zeynep. This tomb is visited by people who have various vows. It's still not certain when this building was built and to whom this sarcophagus belongs to. While in some books it's written that it belongs to grandchild of Hüseyin (the third of 12 imams after the death of Prophet Muhammad), some books say that grandchildren of Hüseyin have never been in Alanya. Evliya Celebi says it was used as a Bektashi lodge. According to other sources it belongs to Zeynel Abidin's daughter. Zeynel Abidin was a Muslim holy man (7th century). It is said that it was built by Sitti Zeynep Foundation for a Muslim man. There are 3 rocks under this tomb. These rocks are carved grave from Pamphylia era. In ancient times these graves were used as water depot. If you have the opportunity to visit this tomb, do not forget to see these thousands of years old carved graves. There are lots of stories about this tomb. According to a story it's not the word "Sitti" but it is the word "Sitte". Sitte means six in Arabic and according to the story, Zeynep was 6th of 6 siblings. The first one was Seydi Mahmut, second one was Musa Kazim, third one was mahmut Yusuf Narabi and the other two siblings was not in Alanya. They were in Bozkir (Sirisat).

GRAVE OF HACIBABA

It is located in the graveyard with the same name, Hacibaba Graveyard. Its district is called Çarşamba. Hacibaba was a pacemaker. He used to attracted people's attention with his green gardens, his patterns, his smiling face and soft speeches. But citizens of Gersembe district were jealous of him. They stole Hacibaba's animals, destroyed his gardens. Hacibaba didn't say a word and continued to raise ani- I mals and grow vegetables and fruits. Citizens of Gersembe united and decided to calumniate him. A few people went to cadi (Muslim judge) and complained about him. They told him that Hacibaba fucked a donkey. A day before the court cadi wished that: "If Hacibaba is a Moslem Saint he should bring a red head scarf from Konya." On the day of court Hacibaba came with a package and gave it to cadi. First cadi asked him: "What is this?" And then opened the package and saw the red head scarf. At that moment Hacibaba told to cadi: "I'm so sorry I couldn't go to Konya in this short time. That's why I bought this from Sirisat (Bozkir) (the distance between Sirisat and Alanya in those days was at least 3 or 5 days). Cadi stood up with respect and decided that Hacibaba was an innocent and a holy man. Then he asked Hacibaba if he had something to tell about those people. Hacibaba said that: "Yes I have. I wish all the citizens of Gersembe to work very hard, struggle but not to be able to find time to spend." This wish of Hacibaba is still effective. The most hardworking people of Alanya live here. They work day and night but can not have any abundance. People who have various wishes come to this grave.

SEYDI MAHMUT TOMB

Mahmutseydi is one of the villages of Alanya. It's 25km far from the city center. Seydi Mahmut Tomb is located in the center of this village. This tomb was built between 1460 and 1471 by Bey (chieftain) of Karamanogullari Beylik, Kilicaslan Bey. It was built as a tomb and a mosque because of Kilicaslan Bey's admiration to Seydi Mahmut. In those days the name of the village was Onas but Seydi Mahmut was one of the men of letter who came from Horasan to Alanya, Mahmutseydi and Sihlar villages and their districts between 1270 and 1340. The tomb of Seydi Mahmut is visited by couples who can not have children and people who have various wishes and vows.

DERETURBELINAS TOMB

Dereturbelinas is one of the villages of Alanya. Its distance from the city center is 30km. It was one of the 11 vicinities which were connected to Mahmutseydi Village and its name was Hursitler Vicinity. It's said that Dereturbelinas Tomb belongs to Mahmut Yusuf Narabi. He was the brother of Şeydi Mahmut who was the founder of Mahmutseydi Village. This tomb is also visited by couples who can not have children and people who have various wishes and vows.

KARAMANOGLU ALAADIN BEY TOMB

It's in Ciplakli Town, in Gulefsen Vicinity. The body is made of stone walls and its dome is made of bricks. There is a terebinth tree above its entrance door. It grew so big and thick that it caused the tablet above the door to fall down. Later sometime this tomb was mentioned with the name Süleyman Dede. There is no sarcophagus in this tomb. There are disused graves inside it. It is neglected and needs repairment. It is visited for some diseases and various vows.

TURKISH BATH (Hamam)

The Turkish bath (Hamam) is the Middle Eastern variant of the steam bath, which can be categorized as a wet versıon of a sauna. They have played an important role in cultures of the Middle-East, serving as places of social gathering, ritual cleansing, and as architectural structures, institutions, and (later) elements with special customs attached to them. Europeans learned about the Hamam from contact with the Ottomans, hence the “Turkish” part of the name.

The public Hamam Places are separately-held by men and women. Either you can find separate rooms there or they have different times for using the bath. Most of the hotels offer the hamam for using together.

At the wall in the Turkish Bath, you can find a basin with warm and cold water. This can be used by yourself or you can wait for the masseur who will clean and wash your body. In most of the times (for some more money) you can also get a massage or peeling if you like.

Besides the cleaning and sweating the hamam is also known by a lot of body care. The men is using the very relaxed atmosphere for shaving and the women for epilating their whole body. (the hair removal is a duty in the religion of Islam)

Following the visit of the turkish bath you will rest and relax in a cool room.

The Turkish bath (Hamam) is an advancement of the Greco-Roman bath which were used by the “byzantiner” people. Later the bath has been taken by the Arabian people. The first hamams in the islam area were build in medieval times in Jordan.

Never has it been a place just to cleanse the skin, this is a place with a special atmosphere that makes people come back again and again! Turkish bath includes sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, foam massage and aromatherapy oil massage! This full complex will make your body fitter, your spirit healthier, you’ll feel completely relaxed and full of power!

http://www.kleopatra.com.tr/

Paragliding

Paragliding (from the words "parachute" and "gliding") is a foot-launched, non-motorized type of flying. It's an adventure sport popular with people who enjoy soaring through the sky on a paraglider. The pilot seats in a harness suspended below a hollow fabric wing, which is usually made of rip-stop nylon and attached to the harness by Kevlar lines. Wing designs may vary, but are formed by two layers of fabric connected so they form cells to trap incoming air and keep the wing inflated. Paragliders can be single or double (tandem). Tandem flight is the best opportunity for the first flying experience - all control and responsibility for the flight takes an experienced pilot while passanger enjoying the spectacular views. Normally pilots prefer to start on the slopes of mountains and hills strictly against the wind. In still air paraglider plans - moves forward and down at the same time, allowing to enjoy the flight in full force.

The paragliding center of Alanya is located on the Cleopatra Beach. From there you'll drive up the hill to the start point of the flight - 800 mt above sea level. It'll take about 20 minutes. After pre-flight briefing, your free-flying adventure will start. 20-30 exciting minutes of tandem flight will give you an unforgettable experience. You'll have enough time to enjoy the beauty of Taurus Mountains and Alanya coastline before gently landing on Cleopatra beach.

http://www.alanyaparagliding.com/

Fishing tours

Discover a world of fishing in Alanya like nothing you’ve experienced before .

Enjoy a fishing day out on the open Mediterranean sea, Catch the fish and do the barbeque on board.Try out chance with types of fish including crane fish, Coral,black goby, sea bream and many more exotic mediterranean species,All equipment will be provided on board.

With this special tour, you can enjoy the fishing adventure of a lifetime! Sea angling is a great activity for all ages. We go angling in a traditional small fishing boat. Your captain will take the necessary time to ensure that everyone had fishing rods at the beginning to ensure that everyone had a good experience. We soon arrive at the fishing grounds of our destination.

If you haven’t been sea angling before, don’t worry, it is very easy, and our crew will happily show you the ropes, advising you on bait and passing on their knowledge of the seas.

Alanya Fishing tour is perfectly suited both for experienced fishermen and for those who simply wish to relax and enjoy the beautiful surrounding with a fishing rod in hand.

The boat has a maximum capacity of 4 people plus the skipper but we have also larger boats for big families and groups, You can keep your catch or barbecue it on board .You will really enjoy this trip.

This tour can be arranged early in the morning or in the afternoon.

http://www.famtouralanya.com/alanya-boat-fishing-tours/fishing-tour-in-alanya/

Green Canyon tour

Green Canyon (Oymapınar Dam Lake ) is about 12 miles to the most beautiful and awesome nature city called Manavgat.

Enjoy a quiet and relaxing cruise on the lake reservoir located in the Taurus mountains. Green Canyon boat trip is a full day boat tour for our guests who want to get rid of the stress of daily life and enjoy their holiday in peaceful place. Especially, due to having a concept of appealing every age category the canyon tour is indispensable for those who want to stay alone with the awesome nature.

During the 17 km long cruise, you can enjoy the beautiful landscape and admire the color of the emerald-clear lake.Lunch will be served at our restaurant over the lake.There will also be time for sunbathing and swimming.

Green Canyon is one of the biggest worldwide numbered dam lakes. It has approximately 4.70 km2 surface area in size and it is the fourth biggest one in Turkey.

http://www.famtouralanya.com/alanya-boat-fishing-tours/green-canyon-boat-trip/

Starcraft Night Party Boat Tour

Discover a whole new way to get out and enjoy Alanya nightlife,combine a great party with an amazing cruise with starcraft party boat!

Take our special night cruise on the mediterranean featuring full bar, music and dancing, and you’ll be partying under the stars while you enjoy a wonderful view the city swimming in lights.

During the tour, we can watch a beautifully illuminated Alanya harbour ,promenade,highlighted the historic wall on the castle hill-Kale.Then the Party starts..with the crazy rhythms,foam party,crayz shows and Turkish disco hits.A great place to start the night!

We guarantee all the ingredients for a memorable night! Come and party with us!

http://www.famtouralanya.com/alanya-boat-fishing-tours/starcraft-night-party-boat/

Starcraft Deluxe Daily Boat Tour

Starcraft Deluxe Daily Boat Tour is a luxury alternative to the regular daily boat tours that we offer in Alanya.Turkey_Alanya_activities_Stardelux_Boat_tour.jpg Discover the famous sea grottos of the Phosphorus Cave, the Lover’s Cave and the Maiden’s Cave.This is where pirates used to imprison their female captives! From here the boat sails towards the new marina where you will stop for a sumptuous barbecue lunch.

During the tour, the boat stops 3-4 times for swimming in the beautiful turquoise sea. If You’re lucky You’ll see the dolphins and sea turtles.

Foam party on the boat with animations is also one part of the program. Starcraft deluxe boat trip is one of the things You schould do on Your holidays in Alanya. It’s a great tour for all ages!

http://www.famtouralanya.com/alanya-boat-fishing-tours/starcraft-alanya-boat-tour/

Scuba Diving

The best way to discover how to scuba dive is to try it yourself and this full-day excursion in the waters of Alanya gives excellent opportunities for beginners and seasoned divers alike. Turkey is a perfect area for your first underwater breath, as it boasts warm and clean water. There are no any dangerous animals, and the experienced instructors are attentive to your needs. The laws regulating underwater activities are very strict in Turkey, and all these details provide high levels of safety and service.

Before your dive, the instructor will explain how to breathe and move underwater. He or she will help you choose your scuba gear before setting out on a 2-dive adventure. The first dive is a try dive from the shore, after which you will have time to rest while your instructor explains how the scuba set works. Then you will prepare your scuba set yourself with the help of the instructor. You will dive controlling your descend or ascend, while the instructor watches and helps only when needed.

http://www.dolphin-dive.com/

Sapadere Canyon

A wonder of nature' Sapadere Canyon is located within the territorial border of Alanya, a sub-district of Antalya. Sapadere Canyon is 360 metres long, nearly 400 metres high and is located 3 km away from Sapadere Village. The canyon is formed by erosion from water, ice and wind. The layers of rock were formed over thousands of years. Wooden walkways make for easy access for all visitors. The walking platform is sympathetically designed and constructed from wood and steel. The platform is environmentally friendly and can be removed when necessary. You will be amazed by the rapidly gushing water over series of rock steps, the numerous waterfalls, rare plants and different species of animals and birds when walking through this natural habitat. The clean, fresh air and cascading turquoise water over the rocks is therapeutic and refreshing on the human spirit...after all, don’t forget that water means life!

At the end of the pathway, 300 meters inside the canyons entrance, you will find the most spectacular point; the marvellous waterfall. This is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and it is also possible to swim in the natural pool at the bottom of the waterfall. The brave can reach the water by jumping (not recommended!) or using the surrounding step-ladders to enjoy the refreshing water. We really mean refreshing as the water barely reaches 12°C even at the peak of the summer!

http://www.sapaderecanyon.com/

Manavgat River Boat Tour

Prepare yourself for a different day by Cruise on the boat enjoying the beautiful views of Manavgat River, visiting bazaar and a waterfall.

Manavgat is located 55 km kilometer away from Alanya. You’ll enjoy breathing in the cool and fresh air of this town. During this daily trip, you’ll explore the Manavgat fall. Although the Manavgat fall is not located on a very high point, the waters fall down with a great force.

You will take a boat trip to arrive to the point where the river pours into the sea after sailing over the Manavgat river and by the fish-farms.Having a free time on a very sandy beach of Manavgat where the river meets the ocean. In the same time you will have a delicious lunch and chance to swim in the ice cold water of Manavgat river or in the salt water at the ocean.

After the boat trip, your guide will take you to the marketplace, waiting to be explored. Here, you’ll find almost anything you want, such as vegetables, fruits, spices, dried fruits and any kind of clothes and souvenirs.After having free time at the open public bazaar we will take you back to hotel.

http://www.famtouralanya.com/alanya-boat-fishing-tours/manavgat-river-boat-cruise-bazaar-tour/

Half-Day Quad Bike Tour of the Taurus Mountains

Get your adrenaline thrills on a half-day Quad Bike tour of Alanya, and drive through the magnificent and ever-changing sand dunes of the Taurus Mountains.

Following a pick-up from your hotel in Alanya at a start time that suits you, transfer to the foothills of the rugged, and sometimes snow-capped Taurus Mountains for a safety briefing before the start of your Quad Bike safari. Get tips on how to ride your Quad Bike before you set off.

Explore the desert terrain of the Taurus Mountains that separate the Mediterranean coastal region of southern Turkey from the Anatolian Plateau of central Turkey, stopping to take breaks to swim or capture the scenery on your camera.

Then, make your way back to the Quad Bike safari center for a transfer and drop-off back at your hotel in Alanya.

https://www.getyourguide.com/alanya-l918/quad-biking-tour-at-the-taurus-mountains-from-alanya-t53552/

Bike tours

Bike in Turkey has excellent bike tours all around Turkey, a great way to see a new atractive country. Antalya is one of the most beautiful location in the world. The turquoise colored coastal line, which sometimes being called as Turkish Riviera; is one of the most suitable routes to open the new season Mountain Bike Antalya (Turkey) is located in unspoilt mountain bike friendly mountains south of Taurus in the area of Antalya known as the Mediterranean. There are miles and miles of endless off-road riding on single track, double track, both in the high mountains and also the flatter planes of the Taurus.

http://www.biketourfinder.com/

http://antalyabike.com/

Alanya Archaeological Museum

The museum has 1 exterior and 14 interior exhibition halls where prehistoric and historic artefacts dating back to the Phrygians, Lydians, Greeks and Byzantine peirods, are on display. The exhibits include a large coin colection and a Bronze sculpture of Herakles from 200AD, which has become a popular symbol for the museum. Another section of the museum houses ethnographic artefacts from the Seljuk and Ottoman eras, and the replica of an old Alanya room is well worth a look. The museum garden is dotted with BronzeAge, Phrygian, Lydian and Urartian effecets and Hellenistic pottery items. The garden also boasts a large variety of plant and animal species.http://www.yelp.com/biz/alanya-arkeoloji-m%C3%BCzesi-alanya

Aquapark

Alanya Waterplanet is one of the biggest aquapark in this region covering aproximetly 6500 sq m and 2000 people of daily capacity. It is 40 km from Alanya city center. 25 different slides and 7 pools, wave pool, water football, bungee jumping, disco, restaurant, children pools, kid animation and many, all day lots of fun and adventure...

http://www.touralanya.com/en/Tour.aspx?Id=17

http://www.alanyaaquapark.net/

Caving

Entrepreneurs in Alanya offer boat tours to several caves dotted along the waterline at the base of the promontory. Trips leave from the harbour, and cost from TL20 per person for one hour, or from TL30 for longer excursions that include dolphin watching. If you want to go inside the smaller caves, make sure you take a small boat tour; the bigger ships will simply pull up outside.

http://www.roughguides.com/destinations/europe/turkey/mediterranean-coast-hatay/antalya-alanya/alanya/coastal-cave-tours-alanya/

Swimming with dolphins, dolphin and seal shows, swimming with sea lions, dolphin therapy

Touch them, feel them and swim with them ...

Get ready for this unforgettable experience...

∙ Price : 100.€

∙ Age restriction: 0-4 age not allowed. 5-6-7 age must be accompanied by an adult.

∙ Number of person: In a group of 4-6 person at the same time.

∙ Pool depth : Starting from 0 to 4 mt

∙ Life jackets will be used

Your photos will be taken during these attractions, be sure to visit photoshop before you leave Dolphinpark!

A special program for non-swimmers please ask for help.

Not suitable for a special needed child. (Please get in touch for a special program )

http://www.sealanya.com/

Horse riding

Alanya Horse Club is only 30 minutes away from Alanya. From there will start your unforgettable experience of horse riding through spectacular mountain landscapes above the seaside. A professional guide will take you through the most beautiful places of Alanya countryside to the ancient city of Syedra. You'll ride around the Syedra Castle and enjoy the stunning views over Alanya. From atop the Taurus Mountains, you'll see all Alanya Peninsula with the castle walls aroud it, amazingly beautiful Mediterranean

See and numerous banana gardens.

http://www.toursinalanya.com/tours/detail/30

http://www.horseridingturkey.net/horse-riding-tours.html

http://www.touralanya.com/en/Tour.aspx?Id=34

Walking tours

Alanya is an idyllic small town located at the foot of the Taurus mountains and offers interesting surroundings for hiking lovers. We as Fam Tour offering for the Alanya visitors the South Turkey’s best Hiking tours in and surrounding Alanya.

Hiking and walking in the Alanya area is some of the best in the region! One experiences a unique ambiance of incredible scenery, mountain culture, and natural history. Access to beautiful terrain is easy and the scenery is second to none.

Maximize your time with our Alanya Hiking – Walking and Trekking Tours.Enjoy the exciting Alara Flying Waterfalls, Sapadere Canyon and the Taurus Mountains by embarking on a day or multi-day hike tours with one of our expert guides! Learn about the amazing natural and cultural history of the area you’re visiting as it comes to life with unique stories relayed through your guide. See unique features and visit secret spots that you’d be unlikely to notice or find without a guide. Enjoy the assurance that comes with hiking with a guide who knows the area’s weather, terrain, and wildlife. In other words, focus 100% on hiking and let us take care of the rest!

http://www.famtouralanya.com/alanya-walking-hiking-tours/

ANTALYA GOLF CLUBS

PGA Sultan and The Pasha Course

The courses designed by leading architects European Golf Design,together with design consultant and Senior Tour Professional Davis Jones, provide not only a challange to golfers of all abilities but also wonderful surroundings in which to enjoy your game.

The playing surfaces second to none in their quality, stunning lanscapes and perfect weather all conbine for an unforgettable golfing experience.

http://www.agc.com.tr/AGC-MENU/EN/4/ANTALYA_GOLF_CLUB.aspx

Gloria Golf Club

Gloria Golf Club, designed by renowned architect Michel Gayon, offers a unique atmosphere with its heavenly nature for golf lovers. The Club House completes your joy of golf with its fascinating architecture and terrace.

Enjoy a challenging round of golf at Gloria Golf Club, the biggest golf course in Turkey with 45 holes, including two 18-hole championship courses and a 9-hole Verde course.

http://www.gloria.com.tr/en/golf

Nobilis Golf Club

Nobilis boasts a maturity far beyond its years. Dave Thomas designed this glorious course that winds it way gracefully through the mature trees that are such major feature. With generous greens the course might look fairly easy - and so it is to the straight hitters - but cunningly placed hazards and a few dog-legs make this a course that will test every golfer. Add to this the glourious views of the snow-capped Taurus Mountains in the background, throw in a handful of lakes to tease you, and couple of glorious par-3s particulary the 9th and 16th - that look so simple yet can catch you out, and you have a magnificent course that will leave you wanting to play it again. The clubhouse at Nobilis is hugely impressive with fine dining either inside in sumptuous splendour, or outside under the shade of the cork trees.

http://www.homelet.com.tr/en/Nobilis-golf-club.html

National Golf Club

Since the opening of the National on 18 November 1994, the Club has become a popular tourist destination attracting golfers from all corners of the world and in no time, it won the international recognition. Carved through a forest of eucalyptus and pine trees with the backdrop of the snow capped Taurus mountains and an abundance of natural lakes, the National tests all abilities of players.

National Golf Club is the first International standard golf complex on the Turkish Mediterranean coast. Carved through a forest of eucalyptus and pine trees with the backdrop of the snow cappedTaurus mountains and an abundance of natural lakes.

At the National, the 18 hole Championship Course is 6232 meters, par 72 and designed by Ryder Cup Player David Feherty, has played host to the PGA European Turkish Seniors Open in 1996 and 1997. David Feherty has incorporated aspects of the best courses he has competed on in the world, and has ensured that no two holes are similar. The National was opened in 1994, but it has taken only six years to win international recognition in the year 2000 rankings of UK's Golf World magazine as the number 42 and in the year 2001 rankings' as the number 39 golf course in mainland Europe, and also in Germany's Die Welt magazine as the number 9 golf course on the European Mediterranean coasts in 2000.

After your game why not come and spend some time relaxing and soaking up the true beauty of the area in one of the restaurants.

The Meridiana restaurant offers a selection of international cuisine along with true Turkish hospitality.

http://nationalturkey.com/

Tat Beach Golf Hotel

The first and only 27 hole championship Golf Course in Turkey. This International Championship course has been designed according to the demands of European Golfers. You can have the choice of playing 18 holes or with 3 different options of 9 hole arrangements. Three loops of nine offer a range of challenges. A golfer's dream vacation, which has been specifically designed for the avid and demanding European golfer. Offers you all year round golfing and a choice of three championship 9 hole layouts giving you a variety of 18 hole combination.

TAT GOLF BELEK

Belek, Antalya / Turkey. The new target on the list of wishes for all golfers. With the new 27 hole golf course, which has been opened on September 1 st, the TATGOLF Belek International Golf Club offers their first international championship course. Hawtree of England, Golfcourse architecs, created a dream of a golfcourse on 110 ha. In their plannings they have looked especially for the wishes and expections of European golfers. On the three times 9 hole golfcourse you have many possibilities for combining the 27 hole of the course. The course itself is in excellent shape and of perfect design. The various challenges of the different hole and the natural outlook (vegetation) are an unforgettable excitement. The most spectacular views are on the second nine "Belek". The Fairways are running directly beside the beach which gives the golfer a fantastic look to the ocean at 9, 18 or 27 hole, you feel the length of the course. Built between a romantic river and ocean with the gigantic Taurus Mountains in the back this course is in perfect position. The TATBEACH Golf Hotel which is a part of this Golf Area is just around thenext corner. Shuttle servcie direct from the Hotel to the course is naturally free of charge and takes only two minutes.

Tatbeach Golf Hotel P.O. Box 1,

Belek Tourism Center

07507/ANTALYA-TURKEY

Tel: 0 242 725 4080

Festivals and events

Throughout the year, Antalya is a province of festivals, film, football and fun. Antalya with its boulevards, surrounded with palm trees, marina with international awards, old city with its traditional architecture and modern places officiates as host of the International Beach Volleyball Tournament, International Opera and Ballet Festival, triathlon, golf tournaments, skiing competitions, archery, tennis, football tourism and many other sportive activities.

Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival

Turkey’s oldest and most appreciated film festival. It also offers an opportunity for the public to meet with celebrities and the festival lasts in a mood of a carnival.

CARETTA CARETTA

Another thing you should be experiencing, is when the Caretta Caretta, sea turtles will lay eggs! Having swum thousands of miles, they return to their birth place to lay eggs in late May. To see these large, magnificent turtles come up on the beach and dig nests at night is really an experience. The eggs hatch in late July and it is truly a sight to see when hundreds of small Caretta carettas creeps into the water not to return in 30 years. Then they lay eggs with eggs at 2-3 year intervals until they are 60-70 years old. Alanya's agriculture directorate and Alanya’s Blue Flag Association (ALÇED) protects the beaches and the eggs, and in the period June to September it is at some remote beaches, forbidden to light fires, and with dogs and cats at night.

Concerts and theatres performed in historical Aspendos Theatre in the mid-1950’s form the basis of Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival. Performances which the public pays huge attention and occurs in summer time becomes traditional and lasts in a mood of fiesta until the beginning of 60’s. Festival turns into “Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival” taking film under its constitution.

Keen interest is given to festival which is first performed in 1964. The basic mission of the festival is “to give material and moral support to Turkish film sector, to form a basis for Turkish cinema in foreign platform by provoking Turkish film producers to produce qualified masterpieces. Going in this motto between 1964 – 1973, Golden Orange Film Festival takes visual arts under its constitution in 1974.

Adding the International Music Competition Akdeniz, Festival attains a new dimension in 1985.

The festival which has initiated another film competition for international films under the name of Euroasia International Film Festival is organized by Antalya Culture and Art Foundation. Institutor committee of the foundation is composed of 109 people including celebrities of business, politics, media and culture-art of Antalya.

Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival takes place in September and October.

Other Festivals & Tournaments:

Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival; June (http://www.aspendosfestival.gov.tr/index_e.html)

Aspendos Jazz Festivals; June

Kale/Camel Wrestling Festival; In June - first week of January

Greasy Men's Wrestling Festival The last week of May

Abdal Musa Festival; June 5-6

Alanya International Beach Voleyball Tournament; June 7 - 15km

Finike Festival; June 29 – July 01

Manavgat Tourism Festival - July

Ms. Kemer, Altinnar Beauty Festival; July 23 - 26

Alanya Triathlon Games; July 31 Second week of every Augusts International Folk and Song Contest.

Kemer Carnival: September

Korkuteli Greasy Men's Wrestling Festival; First week of September

Altin Portakal (Golden Orange) Film Festival - October

Alanya international Triathlon Games; October 20-30

International St.Nicholas Syphosium in Demre; December 5

INTERNATIONAL ALANYA MOUNTAINBIKE COMPETITION

International Alanya Mountain bike Competition is usually held the 2nd Sunday in October. The race starts at the castle in Alanya, the city's trademark. The trail is 7 km.

INTERNATIONAL ALANYA SWIMMING MARATHON

Held in October each year, a few days before the Triathlon. There are various categories for men and women of all ages. The distance is 5 km, starting at Cleopatra beach, and goes around the peninsula where the famous castle stands on the top, before arriving at the goal in the port on the other side. Registration is done at Alanya Triathlon and Tennis Club.

THE INTERNATIONAL STONE SCULPTURE SYMPOSIUM

International Alanya Stone Sculpture Symposium, was first held in 2004, and is held in November.

ALANYA BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENTS

There are tournaments in beach volleyball in Alanya every year.

STREET HANDBALL (ON THE BEACH)

About 20 km east of Alanya, in the district of Mamuthlar, the beach is rough and grainy, and the area is frequently used for handball. Informal games and tournaments are also held regularly. It’s free to watch and to participate, and there are beach cafes, chairs and sunbeds for rent there. It buses run several times an hour between Alanya and Mamuthlar.

Turkey now boasts the second-largest number of beaches with “Blue Flag” certificates following a large rise this year, according to the Turkey Foundation for Environmental Education (TÜRÇEV). “Blue Flag” is an exclusive eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to beaches and marinas that meet certain criteria, such as water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management and safety. Some 436 beaches acquired the right to display a Blue Flag certificate this year, said Dr. Cenk Halil Bayaz, a TÜRÇEV board member, during a meeting in the Mediterranean district of Manavgat.

Antalya tops list

Bayaz said the Mediterranean province of Antalya possessed the highest number of beaches with a Blue Flag certificate in the world.

Antalya is home to 200 of the 436 beaches with the Blue Flag certificate in total, Bayaz said.

“Antalya now has the highest number of beaches with the Blue Flag certificate both in Turkey and in the world. Some 85 beaches gained the Blue Flag certificate this year in the Antalya district of Manavgat,” he added.

The Blue Flag concept was born in France in 1985 where the first Blue Flags were awarded to coastal municipalities on the basis of criteria ranging from wastewater treatment to bathing water quality. In 1987, with support from the European Commission, the Blue Flag was brought to a European level, functioning as an instrument for the application of the EU Bathing Water Directive and including other areas of environmental management, such as waste management, coastal planning, protection and marinas.

Beaches İn Alanya

You want your Turkey holiday to be totally relaxing and Alanya beaches can provide all the relaxation you need. Getting a nice suntan, swimming in the warm Mediterranean Sea, reading your book, getting a bit of lunch or a refreshing drink, shopping, and of course the water sports like parasailing, jet skis, pedallos, beach volleyball, etc.; it's all there for you. Yet there are some great little spots along the coast outside Alanya where you can have a lot of beach to yourself.

Cleopatra/ Damlataş

Cleopatra/ Damlataş beach is situated on the western side of the peninsula which splits Alanya into two. The beach is said to be Alanya’s best. The sand is finer and there are not many rocks or stones but the water does deepen more quickly than at the eastern beach. When Queen Cleopatra of Egypt was given the area around Alanya as a present from the Roman general Antony, she bathed at the foot of the cliff every day. Originally there was a tunnel, leading from the castle directly to her private beach, through which she was carried whenever she wanted to swim. The 3.5 kilometer long beach is also known as Damlataş Beach because of the Damlataş dripstone cave on the western side of the peninsula discovered in 1948. Today the cave is one of Alanya’s many tourist attractions.

Alanya’s Eastern Beach

Alanya’s Eastern Beach starts at the Alanya peninsula and continues for about 40 km east towards the provincial town of Gazipasa. The beach is also called Keykubat or Begonville beach after Sultan Alaadin Keykubat who conquered Alanya in 1226 and the many begonville flowers growing along the eastern beach promenade. The water here does not deepen as quickly as at Cleopatra beach, making the eastern beach more child-friendly. At the eastern beach a variety of activities is available either on the beach or in the sea.

Incekum Beach

Incekum Beach is often said to be one of the better beaches on the south coast of Turkey. It has fine sand and the crystal clear water deepens very gradually. Set on a beautiful green peninsula in Incekum, this beautiful white sand beach is only 28 kilomteres from the centre of Alanya and the Antalya airport 98 kilometers away. Because of the shallow water, the beach is especially recommended for families with children. It is approximately 2 kilometers in length and umbrellas and sunbeds available on the beach.

Konakli Beach

Konakli Beach is nearly 10 kilometers in length. It is totally sand but some small rocks add a natural look to the beach. Along the beach are buffets and many water sports are available. Formerly known as Telatiye, Konakli is now a popular holiday resort on the Turkish Riviera. Konakli is a 90-and beach thereminute drive by car or coach from Antalya airport and is 15 minutes away from Alanya. Every Wednesday there is the Konakli outdoor market where you can pick up holiday souvenirs. Konakli has a good range of shops, bars and restaurants.

Ulaş Beach

Ulaş Beach is at the edge of the road five miles west of Alanya. There is a slope behind the beach on which is built a hewn stone retaining wall given the image of an old castle. To get to Ulaş Beach there are daily excursion boats and on the rocky hillside is a picnic area for visitors with seating areas equipped for cooking. It is situated in a lush environment with scrub plants, flowers and trees. There is also transportation provided by regular bus service to the city center. For visitors the picnic area and beach, there is an access fee. There is parking space for private vehicles.

Alanya Portakal (Orange) Beach

Alanya Beach is located in the east of the city centre. The shore has 1km length. It has a blue flag. It starts from where Oba Stream meets the sea and ends in where Dim Stream meets the sea. It is a wide beach reaching 100-metre width at some points. It is a sandy beach. Entry is free. It is possible to take advantage of some beach clubs and hotels beach services with a fee.

Certain hotels and restaurants also have private beachfront, & sometimes it can be worth using their bar or facilities to get access to the better spots. These include The Panorama, The Azac, The Begonvil Beach club pool, & many others. There are stretches of beach all along the coastline from Antalya to Alanya and beyond. Kadriye, Belek, Side, Avsellar; all have very nice beaches, but Alanya beaches have the hotels, shops, bars and restaurants that attract the tourists .Scandinavians, Germans, Brits, Russians, Ukrainians, Georgians, and of course Turks, flock to Alanya.

Alanya resort town has 43 beaches awarded with the blue flag:

Aska Baran Hotel, Rubi Platinum - Alanya, Antalya

Aska Buket Otel, Arycanda Deluxe Resort - Alanya, Antalya

Aska Just In Beach - Alanya, Antalya

Caretta Beach Hotel, Telatiye Resort Hotel, Titan Select - Alanya, Antalya

Cleopatra East Public Beach - Alanya, Antalya

Cleopatra West Public Beach - Alanya, Antalya

Club Dizalya, Club Dem, Quattro Beach SPA Resort, Dizalya Palm Garden, Titan Garden - Alanya, Antalya

Club Gunes Garden Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Club Hotel Ulaslar - Alanya, Antalya

Damlatas Public Beach - Alanya, Antalya

Delphin Botanik Hotel, Mukarnas Resort - Alanya, Antalya

Delphin Deluxe Resort - Alanya, Antalya

Drita Hotel, Goldcity Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Eftalia Marin Resort, Aydinbey Gold Dreams - Alanya, Antalya

Granada Luxury Resort Hotel, Vikingen Quality - Alanya, Antalya

Grand Kaptan Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Green Peace Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Incekum Beach Resort - Alanya, Antalya

Insula Resort, Turtas Hotel, Timo Resort Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Jasmin Beach Resort - Alanya, Antalya

Keykubat Public Beach - Alanya, Antalya

Manolya Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Meryan Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Pegasos Club, Pegasos Resort - Alanya, Antalya

Pegasos Royal Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Porto Azzurro Delta Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Rheme Beach Hotel, Mirador Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Rubi Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Sentido Gold Island Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Saphir Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Saphir Resort Hotel, Justiniano Club Alanya, Justiniano Club Park Conti - Alanya, Antalya

Sidera Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Sun Heaven Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Sunset Beach Hotel, Orient Place, Club Paradiso Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Taksim International Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Titan Otel, Dinler Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Top Otel - Alanya, Antalya

TT Hotels Pascha Bay - Alanya, Antalya

Ulusoy Aspendos Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Utopia World Deluxe Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Vikingen Infinity Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Yetkin Hotel - Alanya, Antalya

Water Planet Otel - Alanya, Antalya

Turkey is one of thirty-four of the world’s biodiversity hotspots due to the incredibly diverse flora and fauna found throughout the country. The number of animal species in Europe numbers around 60,000, while in Turkey, they number over 80,000. Of this 80,000 there are approximately 114 mammal species. The most common mammals in Turkey belong to the rodent family, however, the country still houses larger species like the striped hyena, the brown bear, the grey wolf, the caracal (a medium-sized cat known for its black ears) and the Eurasian lynx. Species like cheetahs, lions and tigers once lived in the country but are now locally extinct.

In addition to mammals, there are 150 species of amphibians and reptiles including the loggerhead turtle who finds refuge along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Many successful conservation efforts have been put in place to protect this endangered creature.

Some 400 species of indigenous or migratory birds live in Turkey, some of which are extinct in Europe like the Black Vulture. Due to its unique location connecting Europe and Asia, Turkey is situated on an interesting migratory plan. In spring, migratory birds fly northwards from Africa to Asia and Europe, and in autumn, they leave their breeding grounds to fly south to Africa again.

One of the most incredible flight migrations in the world happens in Turkey, the flight of storks down the Bosphorus (Istanbul Strait). More than a quarter million storks fly above the city over a period of a few weeks.

As Turkey has two distinct climate profiles. One is the subtropical climate of the shoreline, and the other is the drier continental climate of the Anatolian Plateau. Habitats include rugged mountains, windswept grasslands, dry plateaus, and densely populated coastal regions. As such, the animal life varies between each climate and habitat. Common Asian animal species tend to dominate, with a few European ones as well. Large carnivorous animals include wolves, brown bears, lynxes, wildcats, hyenas, foxes and jackals. Prey animals include deer, mountain goats, gazelle and wild boars.

Turkey is also home to many bird species, including five species of grebe, three species of shearwater, one species of petrel, one species of tropicbird, two species of pelican, one species of gannet, three species of cormorant, one species of darter, five species of heron, three species of egret, two species of bittern, three species of stork, two species of ibis, one species of spoonbill, two species of flamingo, three species of swan, ten species of goose, twenty-five species of duck, the osprey, twenty-eight species of hawks, kites and eagles, eleven species of caracaras and falcons, two species of grouse, three species of crane, nine species of owl, and much more. While there are no birds unique to Turkey, the country has long been a merging point for Asian and European species, thus the huge variety.

Animals unique to Turkey include the Asia Minor Spiny Mouse, Taurus Ground Squirrel, Jackass Shrew, Anatolian Vole, Do'ramaci's Vole, Baran's Adder, Central Turkish Mountain Viper, fringe-fingered lizard, Blue Rock Lizard, a kukri snake, a dwarf racer, Pamphylian Lizard, Basoglu's Racerunner, the Anatolian Rock Lizard, Anatolia Lycian Salamander, Anatolian Marsh Frog, Marmaris Lycian Salamander, Atif's Lycian Salamander, the Anatolia Newt, Fazil Lycian Salamander, Fazil Lycian Salamander, the Tavas Frog, Taurus Frog, several species of killfish as well as several species of butterflies and insects.

The total number of monk seals in the world is between 300-400, fifty of which live in Turkish waters.

Other endangered species include turtles which lay their eggs in the long sandy beaches of the Mediterranean. Two species breed in Turkey, where efforts to protect them have been extremely successful. A tourism development project at Köycegiz has been scrapped to preserve the breeding grounds of Caretta Caretta, and the lake and marshes of Köycegiz declared a Specially Protected Area. These measures were received with a standing ovation by the Standing Committee of Bern Convention of the Council of Europe in 1989, and cited as an example for other countries to follow. Studies of the turtles along all Turkey's shores have been launched, and seventeen sand beaches of foremost importance as breeding grounds for turtles are kept under constant observation by the Turtle Preservation Committee. The Ministry of the Environment's Authority of Specially Protected Areas is in charge of protecting the Belek area, and the Ministry of Forestry is responsible for the Yumurtalik and Akyatan wetlands.

There are about 11,000 species of flowering plants; some of the world's staple crops were first cultivated in this area, and many of their wild relatives are still found here.

Turkey is also the home of many cultivated plants, such as chickpeas, lentils, apricots, almonds, figs, hazelnuts, cherries and sour cherries. Their origin is recorded in the Latin names for some of these species, such as Ficus caria, meaning "fig of Caria". Caria was an archaic civilization of Anatolia in the southern Aegean region. Similarly the cherry's scientific name Cerasus comes from the ancient name of its place of origin, today the province of Giresun on Turkey'sBlack Sea coast.

Off the large number of ornamental flowers cultivated from Turkish wild forms, we can cite the tulip, crocus, snowdrop, lily and fritillary.

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