Red Tower Kızıl Kule
Iconic 13th-century Red Tower in Alanya, housing a museum with historical artifacts and offering stunning Mediterranean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Red Tower Kızıl Kule
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 13th-century Red Tower in Alanya, housing a museum with historical artifacts and offering stunning Mediterranean views.
"The Red Tower is a must-visit, offering a rich historical story and stunning sea views, especially at sunset."
🌅 Sunset Magic
Stay for sunset; the views of the sea and boats are unforgettable.
🚢 Explore Shipyards
Don't miss the nearby historical shipyards for a deeper dive into Alanya's past.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Red Tower Museum
Inside the tower
Explore 13th-century history and ethnographic exhibits within this iconic octagonal structure.
Panoramic Sunset Views
Upper parts of the tower and castle
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the sea, with ships and boats dotting the horizon.
Historical Shipyards
Near the Red Tower
Discover ancient shipyards, a fascinating contrast to the tower's historical narrative.
AI Cartoon Exhibition
Inside the Red Tower
Experience a unique blend of history and modern art with rotating exhibitions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring the Tower and Beyond
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Magic
Stay for sunset; the views of the sea and boats are unforgettable.
🚢 Explore Shipyards
Don't miss the nearby historical shipyards for a deeper dive into Alanya's past.
Give a tourist some tips on what to do in Alanya
🚠 Cable Car Views
Take the cable car for amazing coastal vistas, but be ready for a stepped walk up.
♿ Accessibility
Staff may offer free entry for disabled visitors; inquire politely.
Going to Turkey for the first time
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Magic
Stay for sunset; the views of the sea and boats are unforgettable.
🚢 Explore Shipyards
Don't miss the nearby historical shipyards for a deeper dive into Alanya's past.
🚠 Cable Car Views
Take the cable car for amazing coastal vistas, but be ready for a stepped walk up.
♿ Accessibility
Staff may offer free entry for disabled visitors; inquire politely.
🎨 Art Exhibitions
Check for temporary exhibitions, like the AI cartoon competition, for a unique twist.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Red Tower for its historical significance, stunning sea views, and the unique experience of its museum, often enhanced by temporary exhibitions. The surrounding shipyards and the overall atmosphere, especially during sunset, are highly recommended. Some minor drawbacks include potential crowds and the stepped walkways from the cable car.
"the red tower (kızılkule) is definitely a must-visit spot. the sea below is very clean, the view is stunning, and the tower itself tells a rich historical story — it’s truly wonderful. i highly recommend exploring both the inside and outside of the castle, as every part has something unique to offer.
for me, this place will always remain a part of my childhood, and i deeply love it. it gives me an incredible sense of peace and connection. the view of the ships and boats during sunset is absolutely breathtaking.
at the upper parts of the castle, you can also find different restaurants and tourist spots where you can take a break, enjoy the scenery, and fully experience the magical atmosphere of this historic landmark."
cemre
"great place worth visiting. In addition to the history of the tower and ship yard there was an exhibition as a part of the 9th ALANYA INTERNATIONAL CARTOON COMPETITION with the topic "Living in a world with artificial inteligence". The exhibition was a great contrast to the surrounding history. Highly recommend."
Dragan Andjelkovic
"Staff was generous let me in for free because I am disabled.
There was an exhibition about AI inside.
The view from up is breathtaking."
Aurél Erdős
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule) is located in the heart of Alanya's harbor. You can easily walk to it from most central hotels. Alternatively, many visitors opt for the cable car that ascends to Alanya Castle, with the Red Tower being a prominent landmark visible from the top and accessible via a walk down.
Parking can be challenging in the busy harbor area. It's best to walk if staying nearby or consider public transport. If driving, look for paid parking lots a short distance from the main tourist spots.
Yes, local buses frequently run through Alanya and stop near the harbor area, making it accessible by public transport.
Many visitors combine a visit to the Red Tower with Alanya Castle. You can take the cable car up to the castle and then walk down, exploring the Red Tower and shipyards along the way.
The cable car takes you to Alanya Castle. From there, there's a stepped walkway down towards the Red Tower and shipyards. It's a scenic walk, but be prepared for stairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, but it's generally considered reasonably priced. Some reviews mention free entry for disabled visitors, so it's worth inquiring if this applies to you.
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's advisable to check the latest hours before your visit, as some visitors have arrived just as it was closing.
Advance booking is typically not required for the Red Tower. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance.
Information on combined tickets isn't widely available. It's best to purchase tickets for the Red Tower and the shipyards separately, as they are distinct historical sites.
Discounts for students or seniors are not consistently mentioned. However, it's always a good idea to ask at the ticket counter if any concessions are available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside the Red Tower, you'll find a museum showcasing artifacts and ethnographic exhibits that tell the story of its 13th-century history. Temporary exhibitions, such as cartoon competitions, also take place here.
The view from the upper parts of the Red Tower is breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, Cleopatra Beach, and the Alanya coastline. It's particularly stunning during sunset.
While the tower itself is a historical monument, the upper parts of the castle complex, near the Red Tower, often feature restaurants and tourist spots where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Children can enjoy the historical aspects and the views. The museum exhibits might be more engaging for older children. The surrounding area offers space to explore.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the Red Tower museum and enjoy the views. If you plan to visit the nearby shipyards and castle, allocate half a day.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top of the tower are incredible for photos, especially during sunset. The exterior of the octagonal tower itself is also very photogenic.
Photography rules inside museums can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted inside the Red Tower's exhibition areas.
Drone usage is often restricted in historical sites and populated areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in Alanya.
Late afternoon and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the tower and the sea.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. A tripod can be useful for sunset photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum exhibits might be more suited for older children, the open spaces around the tower and castle complex allow for some freedom to roam. Pack comfortable shoes for the stepped walkways and consider bringing snacks and water, as amenities can be spread out. The sea below the tower is also a beautiful sight for children to enjoy.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider walking to the Red Tower if your accommodation is central, saving on transport costs. The cable car offers incredible views at a reasonable price, but if you're looking to save even more, you can opt to walk up to the castle area, though this is a more strenuous option. Enjoying the sunset views from the tower is a free and unforgettable experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour is particularly magical here; the sunset casts a warm, dramatic light that enhances the colors of the sea and the ancient stone. Don't forget to explore the historical shipyards for unique architectural shots and textures. The cable car ride also presents excellent opportunities for aerial photography of the city and coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Red Tower
Today, the Red Tower houses a museum that offers a glimpse into the region's past. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts and ethnographic displays that tell the story of Alanya's rich history. The tower's architecture itself is a testament to Seljuk engineering and design, making it a fascinating site for history enthusiasts.
Beyond its historical function, the Red Tower is also a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. These can range from art displays to historical reenactments, adding a dynamic layer to the visitor experience. The contrast between the ancient structure and contemporary art, like the AI cartoon competition mentioned by visitors, creates a unique juxtaposition.
Experiencing Alanya from Above: The Cable Car
While the cable car is convenient, it's important to note that it doesn't take you directly to the Red Tower. It transports you to the Alanya Castle complex. From the castle, there is a stepped walkway that leads down towards the Red Tower and the historical shipyards. This walk offers further opportunities for exploration and photography, but visitors should be prepared for the stairs.
The cable car experience is often highlighted for its affordability and the stunning vistas it provides. It's a great way to get an overview of Alanya's geography and appreciate the scale of the castle and its surroundings before delving into the specific historical sites like the Red Tower.
Beyond the Tower: Alanya's Historical Shipyards
The shipyards are characterized by their impressive stone arches and the sheer scale of the construction, designed to protect vessels from the elements. Visitors can walk through these historic structures, imagining the bustling activity that once took place here. The contrast between the open sea and the enclosed, protected bays of the shipyards is striking.
Many travelers recommend visiting the shipyards in conjunction with the Red Tower, as they are closely located and offer complementary historical insights. The entrance fee for the shipyards is typically very low, making it an accessible and rewarding addition to your visit.
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