You're Going to Love Dalyan
A peaceful town surrounded by an environmentally protected area in the southern Mugla Province, Dalyan offers an escape from city living. With baths, riverside trails, and a laid-back vibe, it's a must for any lover of tranquility.
The area is a major draw for history buffs. Kaunos, an important sea port dating back to the 10th century BC, is located near Dalyan, while lakes, Roman ruins, and fantastic rock tombs dot the Dalyan landscape.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Dalyan
1. Lycian Rock Tombs
The spectacular rock tombs lining the Dalyan channel are a must, both for their beauty as well as their significance.
2. Iztuzu Beach
The nearby beach boasts shallow turquoise waters and loggerhead sea turtle nesting grounds, and is home to the Kaptan June Sea Turtle Conservation Foundation.
3. Roman Ruins
From a large palaestra to mighty temples, the architecture buff will have plenty to take in.
4. Kaunos City Walls
Over 4,000 years old, these mighty walls were built along with the city of Kaunos and represent solid Hellenistic construction technology.
5. Mud Baths
In use since ancient times, the towns mud baths have a warm sulfur pool and offer great outdoor relaxation.
When to Visit Dalyan
While the weather is moderate around the year, winter can see heavy rains. Thus, spring, summer, and fall make the best times to visit. If you're in town for the sea turtles, nesting season runs from May to October.
How to Get to Dalyan
Plane
Dalaman Airport (DLM) sits just 40 minutes away from town and sees flights from many international destinations. Taxis are there to take travelers into town for about ₺100. A bus runs from the domestic terminal for about ₺20.
Car
Dalyan is located just off the D400 highway, which runs northwest to Izmir and southeast to Antalya.
Bus
Most buses connect to Ortaca, which is just eight miles east of the city. You can then take a dolmus minibus into town. The trip from Izmir should take six hours and cost about ₺80.
Airlines serving Dalyan (Mugla)
Where to Stay in Dalyan
The best places to stay are located around the river. The Hotel Portakal and the Keysan Yunus Hotel are both comfortable options offering scenic views.
Most popular hotel in Dalyan (Mugla) by neighborhood
Where to stay in popular areas of Dalyan (Mugla)
Most booked hotels in Dalyan (Mugla)
How to Get Around Dalyan
Public Transportation
Dalyan is very small and there is no official public transport, but minibuses (dolmus) operate; a ride to beach costs about ₺12.
Taxi
Water taxis charge ₺15 to go from the town to the beach. Standard taxis charge between ₺10 and ₺15 for most trips in town.
Car
It's possible to rent cars in Dalyan. Prices vary, but average around ₺65 a day for an economy model.
Where to Eat in Dalyan
Dalyan has many Turkish restaurants as well as many Mediterranean eateries. Cagri Pide and Pizza Restaurant is popular with locals. The Begonville House Restaurant is a well-known mid-range option that sells burgers, pasta dishes, and local cuisine. A quick meal costs about ₺15 in Dalyan.