Living in Alanya: what to know before you move

Every year thousands of people from many countries move to Alanya — some for good, others for the winter or a few years. The mild climate, the sea, affordable prices and developed infrastructure make it one of the most comfortable places to live on the Turkish coast. This article gives practical answers to the questions everyone planning a move asks.

Climate and seasons

Alanya enjoys around 300 sunny days a year. Summer runs from June to September and can be hot and humid, with the sea warming to 28 degrees. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons: warm, with the sea still or already warm and fewer tourists. In winter, daytime temperatures are usually 15–20 degrees; there are rainy days but virtually no snow on the coast. Most buildings have no central heating, so people heat their homes with air conditioners, electric heaters and sometimes gas or underfloor heating.

Cost of living

Living in Alanya is generally cheaper than in most Western European cities, although inflation in Turkey has pushed prices up noticeably in recent years. The main expenses are the service charge or rent, utilities (especially electricity in summer), groceries, insurance and transport. Fruit and vegetables are best bought at the weekly markets held in every neighbourhood on set days.

Healthcare

Alanya has a state hospital and several private clinics and hospitals with English- and Russian-speaking doctors. A residence permit requires health insurance valid in Turkey — either a private policy or public cover. After one year of legal residence, foreigners can join the state health insurance scheme (GSS). There are pharmacies in every neighbourhood, and duty pharmacies take turns to open 24 hours.

Education

• state schools are free and teach in Turkish — children pick up the language quickly, especially in the early grades;
• private schools offer intensive English and other languages, small classes and extra activities;
• kindergartens and learning centres operate in all residential areas, including some with foreign-language staff.

Families with children tend to choose Oba and Cikcilli, where schools are closer to home. See our detailed comparison “Oba or Cikcilli”.

Transport

Municipal buses and dolmuş minibuses link every neighbourhood with the centre, and taxis are inexpensive by European standards. Many residents manage without a car, especially in the centre, Oba and Mahmutlar. Gazipaşa airport is about 40 minutes away and Antalya airport about two hours, served by transfers and buses. If you plan to drive, check the rules for using a foreign licence and exchanging it for a Turkish one in advance.

Phones and internet

Mobile and internet services in Alanya are fast and affordable, and most complexes can connect fibre. One important detail: phones bought abroad work with Turkish SIM cards for a limited time (about 120 days), after which the device must be registered by IMEI for a fee. Residence permit holders go through a simpler procedure.

Paperwork and public services

• a tax number — needed to buy property, open an account and connect services;
• a Turkish bank account and card — for utility bills and everyday spending;
• a residence permit and address registration — see “Turkish residence permit through property purchase”;
• access to the e-Devlet portal — to check your property, tax and document records online.

Language

In everyday life you can get by in English or Russian, especially in Mahmutlar and the centre. Even basic Turkish, however, makes life much easier and helps you make friends with neighbours. Turkish courses for foreigners are run by municipal adult education centres, and there are private schools and online tutors too.

Leisure and community

Life in Alanya is not just about the beach. Taurus mountain trails, canyons and caves, boat trips, diving, tennis and fitness, concerts in ancient amphitheatres and festivals — there is something to do in every season. The town has active international communities with meet-ups, hobby clubs and charity fairs, and many newcomers make friends within their first weeks.

Pets

Cats and dogs can be brought in with a microchip, a rabies vaccination and veterinary documents. Alanya has plenty of vets and pet shops. Before buying an apartment, check the complex’s rules on pets.

How to start your move

1. Visit in the shoulder season — spring or autumn — to see the town outside the peak tourist months.
2. If you are unsure about the area, rent for a couple of months first.
3. Decide on the type of home and your budget, and read our area guide and buying guide.
4. Prepare residence permit documents in advance: apostilles and translations are easier to arrange at home.

We help you not only buy property but also settle in: connecting utilities, arranging insurance and residence permits, and finding tradespeople and services. Browse the catalogue or write to us — we will tell you about life in Alanya first-hand.