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There are great many things to do in Turkey, and so are in Didim.
As the sun rises over the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, the ancient city of Didim beckons with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a history buff, a sun-worshipper, or an adventure seeker, this enchanting destination on the coast of Turkey offers a wealth of activities and experiences to capture your imagination and leave you mesmerized.
Join us as we explore the top things to do in Didim and discover why this hidden gem is the perfect destination for a memorable getaway.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Didim:
1. Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo in Didim is an ancient Greek temple that was dedicated to the god Apollo. It was one of the most important oracles in the classical world.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s ruins, which include impressive columns, the remains of the cella (the main building), and the sacred road that leads up to the temple.
Don’t miss: The temple’s monumental columns are a must-see. Of the original 122 columns, only 3 remain standing.
They are each over 60 feet tall and are intricately carved with sculptures of mythical beasts.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
2. Altinkum Beach
Altinkum Beach is a popular sandy beach located in the coastal town of Didim, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea or sunbathing on the long stretch of soft sand.
The beach offers a variety of water activities including parasailing, banana boat rides, and jet skiing.
Don’t miss: The vibrant restaurants, bars, and cafes lining the beach promenade are a must-visit for delicious Turkish cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Additionally, the Temple of Apollo, one of Turkey’s most important ancient monuments, is a short drive away and definitely worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon as the beach can get quite crowded during midday. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin from the strong sun.
Bargaining is a common practice when shopping in the area, so be prepared to haggle for a good price. Lastly, don’t forget to try the local summer drink, Ayran, for a refreshing treat.
3. Didim Marina
Didim Marina is a world-class marina located in Didim, Turkey.
What to see or do: – Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, which is home to numerous shops and restaurants.
Don’t miss: – Watching the sunset over the marina from one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Insider travel tips: – The marina can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
4. Miletus Ancient City
Miletus is an ancient city in Didim, Turkey, once a prosperous metropolis with a rich cultural heritage.
What to see or do: Walk through the vast open-air museum and get a glimpse of how the ancient Greeks once lived.
Admire the impressive ruins of the former city, including the well-preserved amphitheater, the magnificent public baths, and the remains of the grand temple of Apollo.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Museum of Miletus, where you can see a collection of artifacts, including sculptures, coins, mosaics, and many other historical items.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as Miletus is a large site with uneven terrain.
5. Didyma Ancient City
Didyma Ancient City is an archaeological site located in the Didim district of Aydın Province in western Turkey.
What to see or do: The main attraction at Didyma is the Temple of Apollo, which dates back to 800 BC.
This impressive temple was one of the largest temples in the ancient world, and the scale of the remaining ruins is truly awe-inspiring.
Visitors can also explore the ruins of the surrounding city, including the impressive theater and the sacred way.
Don’t miss: Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to see the temple’s famous oracle. This oracle was consulted by many ancient Greeks seeking advice from the god Apollo.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the ruins.
Finally, if you’re interested in learning more about the ancient history of the area, consider hiring a guide, as there is a lot of fascinating information to take in.
6. Akbuk Bay
A picturesque bay located in the Aegean region of Turkey, near the town of Didim.
What to see or do: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the sandy beaches. Take a boat tour to explore nearby coves and islands, or indulge in water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Try delicious local seafood at restaurants along the beach.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking sunset over the bay’s calm waters. You can also visit the nearby Temple of Apollo, one of the most important ancient Greek sites in Turkey.
Insider travel tips: Visit Akbuk during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) to avoid the crowds and enjoy more pleasant temperatures. Consider renting a car to access nearby attractions such as the stunning Bafa Lake and the historic town of Priene.
7. Dolphin Square
A large open square located in the heart of Didim, Turkey featuring a dolphin-shaped fountain as its centerpiece.
What to see or do: Take a stroll, have a picnic, or simply sit and enjoy the surroundings. The square is also a popular spot for locals to gather and socialize.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a photo with the impressive dolphin fountain, which illuminates at night.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early evening when the temperature cools down and the square becomes lively with local families and street vendors selling traditional Turkish treats.
8. Yenihisar Museum
Yenihisar Museum is a small museum located in Didim, Turkey that showcases the history and archeological finds of the ancient city of Didyma.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered during the excavations at the Didyma ancient site, including statues, columns, and coins.
Visitors can also see detailed models of the Temple of Apollon and gain insight into the daily life of the ancient population through exhibits showcasing household items, tools, and ceramics.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the impressive collection of sculptures and architectural elements from the Temple of Apollon.
Be sure to check out the intricate carvings and impressive scale of these ancient works of art.
Insider travel tips: – Consider hiring a local guide to lead you through the museum and provide additional historical context.
9. Bafa Lake
Bafa Lake is a stunning natural lake located in southwest Turkey near the town of Didim.
What to see or do: Tourists can explore the beautiful and tranquil scenery of the lake by hiking or renting a boat. There are also several historic rock tombs from ancient civilizations such as Lycians, Persians, and Romans, that are worth visiting.
Don’t miss: A visit to Bafa Lake is incomplete without stopping at the charming villages of Kapıkırı and Kapikiri Beach. Also, do not miss catching a glimpse of the stunning wildlife and birdlife in the area.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection during the summer months. Hikers should also wear sturdy shoes.
Additionally, tourists can opt to visit the nearby Temple of Apollo, a must-see attraction located within a 30-minute drive from the lake.
10. Soke Market
A bustling bazaar in the town of Didim, Turkey.
What to see or do: Soke Market is a great place to shop for an array of items such as clothing, shoes, bags, jewellery, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables, and souvenirs.
The market is spread over a large area and has a lively atmosphere with Turkish music playing in the background.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on trying some Turkish street food, such as gozleme (a savoury stuffed pancake) and Turkish baklava (a sweet pastry).
Insider travel tips: Bargaining is a common practice here, so remember to negotiate the price with the vendor before making a purchase. Additionally, it’s best to visit the market early in the morning to avoid the crowds and find the best deals.
Also, make sure to bring cash as most vendors do not accept cards.
11. Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a stunning natural pool located near the beach in Didim, Turkey.
What to see or do: Swim or float in the crystal clear blue water of the lagoon that is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery.
Located in a cove, the lagoon has calm and shallow waters with a white sandy bottom, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Don’t miss: Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world of the lagoon, which is home to colorful fish, and small underwater caves.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when the crowds are thin.
12. Panormos Beach
Panormos Beach is a popular tourist destination located in Didim district of Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a dip in the turquoise water, bask on the golden sands and indulge in various water sports activities.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby ancient Greek city of Miletus, which is just a short drive away from the beach.
Insider travel tips: The beach can get crowded during peak season, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot.
13. Hera Beach
Hera Beach is a stunning beach located in Didim, a seaside resort town in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can soak up the sun on this beautiful stretch of sand, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and go for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
There are also plenty of water sports available for the more adventurous.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a walk down the pier and enjoy the incredible views of the Aegean Sea. In the evening, Hera Beach also offers a fantastic sunset-watching experience.
Insider travel tips: For a more secluded experience, head to the far end of the beach. Bring plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the Turkish sun can be quite hot.
Additionally, consider visiting during the off-season for fewer crowds and more tranquility.
14. Love Beach
Love Beach is a beautiful secluded cove located in Didim, Turkey.
What to see or do: The crystal-clear turquoise waters of Love Beach are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the soft white sand provides a great spot for sunbathing and relaxation.
Visitors can also take a kayak or boat tour to explore the nearby caves and islands.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning sunset views at Love Beach and the opportunity to have a romantic dinner by the beachfront restaurants.
Insider travel tips: – Love Beach is quite remote and access can be difficult, so it is recommended to rent a car or take a taxi to get there.
15. Kusadasi Aqua Park
A water park located in the city of Kusadasi in Turkey with fun rides and attractions for all ages.
What to see or do: Explore the exciting attractions of Kusadasi Aqua Park, featuring thrilling water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and various other adrenaline-pumping activities.
Don’t miss: Experience the unique rides such as the Black Hole, Rainbow, Kamikaze, and Space Bowl. Don’t miss the chance to soak up the sun on the sunbeds in between water adventures.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines and crowds. Don’t forget to bring sun protection, towels, and comfortable footwear.
Buy a combo ticket to access various attractions at discounted prices. Make sure to try out food and drink stalls inside the park.