Things To Do
in Mahmutlar

Mahmutlar is a coastal neighborhood of Alanya in Antalya Province, Turkey, stretched along a broad sandy coastline. It blends relaxed beach life with a buzzing promenade, modern hotels, and a growing expat community. The area is known for warm Mediterranean waters, a friendly atmosphere, and easy access to the broader Alanya region.

Visitors come for sun, sea, and a gateway to the Taurus Mountains and historic sites nearby.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Mahmutlar
morning
:

Arrive at Gazipasa Airport and transfer to your hotel in Mahmutlar. Settle in and enjoy the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea from your balcony. Spend some time relaxing by the pool or on the beach to unwind after your journey.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant promenade, dotted with cafes and shops. Explore the local market, where you can sample fresh fruits and vegetables while picking up souvenirs. Enjoy a light lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring the local flavors.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a beachside bar for a refreshing drink while enjoying panoramic views. Experience local Turkish cuisine at a nearby restaurant, featuring dishes like mezes and grilled seafood. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

day 2
Exploring Alanya Castle
morning
:

After breakfast, take a short trip to Alanya, known for its stunning castle perched on a cliff. Explore the ancient stone walls and admire the breathtaking views of the coastline. Discover the fascinating history of the castle and its strategic importance throughout the ages.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a quaint café in Alanya before heading to the nearby Damlatas Cave, famous for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Marvel at the natural beauty and unique atmosphere of this underground wonder. Spend some time shopping in local boutiques for authentic Turkish handicrafts.

evening
:

Return to Mahmutlar and freshen up at your hotel. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional kebabs and baklava for dessert. Cap off the night with live music at a local venue or a quiet evening stroll along the beach.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-40
🚌One-way public transport$0.80-1.50
🍺Local beer (0.5L)$2-3
🏥Basic healthcare visit$20-60 (varies by clinic)

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful Mediterranean beaches and long promenade
  • Close access to Alanya's attractions and natural areas
  • Seasonal crowds during peak summer
  • Some areas feel very tourist-oriented and can be noisy at night
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / sorry
  • "Ne kadar?" - How much?
  • "Nerede?" - Where is?
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?

Places to Visit in Mahmutlar

Visit one of these nice places.

Mahmutlar Beach Promenade at sunrise

Wide golden sands and calm sea with early-morning light ideal for long exposure and candid shots.

Promenade sunset and palm-lined boulevard

Colorful reflections on water, string lights, and silhouettes of locals and boats.

Viewpoints along the coast near Mahmutlar

Coastal cliffs and distant Alanya skyline offer dramatic horizon shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mahmutlar

Mediterranean Turkish coastal cuisine here emphasizes seafood, fresh vegetables, olive oil, and mezze. Expect simple, flavorful dishes at casual seaside restaurants and lively meze plates that pair well with local raki or ayran.

Mahmutlar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seafood meze platter

A spread of small fish, calamari, and vegetable meze often served with bread at seaside restaurants.

Must-Try!

Grilled fish (levrek, çipura)

Freshly caught fish grilled with lemon and herbs, common along the promenade.

Pide (Turkish flatbread)

Stone-baked, boat-shaped or flat, with cheese, meat, or vegetables—great for a casual lunch.

Mantı

Turkish dumplings topped with yogurt and garlic, a comforting option at family-run eateries.

Kabak dolması (stuffed zucchini)

Vegetarian-friendly stuffed zucchini with rice and aromatic herbs.

Çoban salatası (shepherd’s salad)

Fresh tomato, cucumber, pepper, onion, and feta with olive oil.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mahmutlar Market

A lively local market with fresh produce, olives, simit, and seasonal snacks; great for sampling street treats.

Simit and gözleme stalls

Offerings along the promenade: sesame-covered bread rings and stuffed flatbreads hot off the griddle.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mahmutlar has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine most of the year. Summer highs typically reach the mid-30s Celsius; winters stay mild, with daytime temperatures often in the teens. The sea remains warm enough for swimming from late spring through early autumn, with cooler evenings in shoulder seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress modestly in religious sites

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or religious sites; remove shoes if required.

Greetings and gestures

A friendly handshake or kiss on the cheek is common among acquaintances; use the right hand for gifts and exchanges.

Public behavior

Polite, calm conduct in public; avoid loud public displays and public criticism of locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mahmutlar is generally safe for travelers; typical precautions apply: watch belongings on crowded beaches and markets, stay aware of traffic when walking near busy roads, and use reputable transportation. Be cautious of sun exposure, heat exhaustion, and dehydration in peak summer. Follow local advisories and stay informed about weather conditions during the hiking season.

Tipping in Mahmutlar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service is not included; round up for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common; some places also accept mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, sunny days with turquoise seas; expect crowded beaches and peak hotel rates. Hydration and sun protection are essential.

Autumn

Milder temperatures, pleasant for strolling and outdoor dining; occasional rain showers.

Winter

Mild and cooler but rarely freezing; some attractions may have reduced hours; sea remains relatively warm for Mediterranean standards.

Spring

Warm days with blooming flowers; ideal for hiking in nearby hills and sightseeing without peak heat.

Nightlife Guide

Mahmutlar at Night

The nightlife in Mahmutlar is laid-back and beach-focused, with a mix of seaside bars, cafes, and late-night lounges. Expect relaxed venues with live music, DJ sets at popular beach clubs during peak season, and opportunities for sunset drinks and casual dining along the promenade.

Hiking in Mahmutlar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sapadere Canyon Walk

A scenic canyon near Alanya with a safe, easy-to-moderate trail and a waterfall.

Coastal trails around the Alanya region

Gentle and moderate hikes with sea views and cliff viewpoints.

Airports

How to reach Mahmutlar by plane.

Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP)

Closest airport, about 40-60 minutes by road to Mahmutlar; serves domestic and seasonal international flights.

Antalya Airport (AYT)

Larger international hub about 2-3 hours by road; frequent connections and wide range of flights; ideal for longer trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mahmutlar is fairly walkable along the coastline and through the central streets, with most hotels, restaurants, and shops accessible by foot. The beachfront promenade makes for pleasant day or evening strolls, but some inland areas require a car or shuttle to reach. Hilly sections can be challenging for strollers or travelers with mobility constraints.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Turkish families and retirees who live year-round in the area.

Seasonal visitors

Tourists from across Turkey and international travelers, especially from Europe and Russia.

Expat communities

A growing number of expats seeking a coastal lifestyle near Alanya.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Beach volleyball

Common at beach clubs during summer; casual to organized bouts.

Water sports (jet-ski, parasailing, paddleboarding)

Available along the shore at major beach areas.

Football

Local communities and visitors play in parks and fields; informal games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typical of resort towns: seasonal crowds on coastal roads, with frequent minibuses (dolmuş) and taxis. Parking can be limited near the promenade in peak season; plan for extra travel time during holidays. Public buses connect to Alanya and other towns, but a car offers more flexibility for day trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mahmutlar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable meze platters, salads, grilled vegetables, and egg-based dishes; ask for olive oil-based recipes and avoid stock-based sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are private clinics and pharmacies in Mahmutlar, with more extensive medical facilities available in Alanya and Antalya. For serious care, you’ll be directed to larger hospitals in Alanya or Antalya; international travelers should expect Turkish health insurance or travel insurance to cover visits.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide