We’ve all been there. You are three days into the holiday. The kids have been in the hotel pool for 72 hours straight, they are turning into prunes, and they are starting to get bored.
While the All-Inclusive buffet is great, Alanya is one of the best resorts in Turkey for family adventures. It’s not just about history; it’s about pirate legends, caves, and cable cars.
If you need to get the family out of the hotel in 2026, here are the top 7 tried-and-tested activities that won’t break the bank (mostly).
1. The Alanya Teleferik (Cable Car)
This is a must-do. The station is right near Cleopatra Beach.
- Why kids love it: It feels like flying. The glass cabin climbs 300 meters up the cliff to the ancient castle.
- Parent Tip: Go just before sunset. It’s cooler, the views are golden, and you can grab an ice cream at the top while watching the harbor lights come on.
- Price: Reasonable (cheaper than UK attractions), but prices change with inflation, so bring Lira.
Check this out for -> Alanya City Tour
2. Sail on a Real "Pirate Ship"
Look at the harbor. It looks like the set of Pirates of the Caribbean. Dozens of wooden boats with skulls, massive masts, and foam parties.
- The Experience: Most tours leave at 10 AM and return at 4 PM. They include lunch, soft drinks, swimming stops, and usually a foam party/disco on board.
- Warning: Some boats are LOUD party boats. Ask for a "Family Boat" (Babaoglu is often a good calmer choice) unless you want banging techno music all day.
- Why kids love it: Jumping off the boat into the sea and the foam party madness.
Check this out for -> Alanya Pirate Boat Trip
3. Cool Down at Dimçay (Dim River)
In July and August, Alanya is hot. Like, really hot.
- The Secret: Drive (or take a taxi/bus) 20 minutes up to Dimçay. It’s a river flowing from the mountains with ice-cold water.
- The Vibe: Restaurants are built on floating platforms on the water. They have slides that go directly into the river.
- Why kids love it: The water slides and splashing in the freezing water while eating pancakes (Gözleme).
4. Explore Damlataş Cave
Located right at the foot of the castle hill on Cleopatra Beach.
- Why go? It’s small, so it won’t take all day (20 mins is enough). It’s famous for its "healing air" for asthma, but kids just love the spooky stalactites and stalagmites.
- Bonus: It’s naturally cool inside, offering a nice break from the midday sun.
5. Jeep Safari into the Mountains
If your kids are a bit older (5+), this is a brilliant day out.
- The Adventure: Open-top jeeps take you off-road into the Taurus mountains. You’ll visit villages, see waterfalls, and have water fights with other jeeps.
- Why kids love it: The water fights. Passengers buy water guns and soak the other passing jeeps. It is chaotic fun.
- Note: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and dusty!
Check this out for -> Alanya Jeep Safari
6. Sapadere Canyon
A bit further away (about 45 mins drive), but worth it.
- The Scenery: A massive wooden walkway suspended over a rushing river between giant cliffs. It feels like an Indiana Jones movie.
- Activity: You can swim in the natural rock pools (freezing cold!).
- Parent Tip: It’s a great photo opportunity. It feels adventurous but is perfectly safe with handrails everywhere.
Check this out for -> Sapadere Canyon Tour
7. The Alanya "City Train" & Cat Parks
For toddlers who can't walk far, this is a lifesaver.
- The Train: A fake rubber-wheeled train that tours the streets of Alanya. It’s bumpy, cheesy, and toddlers absolutely adore it.
- The Cats: Alanya loves cats. There is a dedicated "Kedi Evi" (Cat House) park near the harbor where well-looked-after stray cats live. It’s like a free petting zoo.
A Final Note on Safety for 2026
Alanya is very family-friendly. Turks love children—don't be surprised if waiters ruffle your kids' hair or give them free lollipops. It’s part of the culture.
- Sun Safety: The midday sun (12 PM - 3 PM) is fierce. Plan your outdoor adventures (like the Castle or Boat) for the morning or late afternoon.
Enjoy making memories!