Things to Do in Dalyan: A Local's Guide

Dalyan is a small riverside town on Turkey's Turquoise Coast, about half an hour from Dalaman Airport. The Dalyan river winds through reed beds from Lake Köyceğiz to the Mediterranean, and almost everything worth seeing here is connected by that water.

Take the classic river boat trip

The best way to see Dalyan is from the water. A full-day boat trip passes beneath the rock-cut tombs of ancient Kaunos, stops at the mud baths and ends at Iztuzu Beach. Lunch is usually served on board.

See the rock tombs of Kaunos

The tombs carved into the cliffs opposite the town date back to the 4th century BC. They look most impressive in the late afternoon light, seen from the riverside promenade or from a boat.

Relax in the mud baths

Near Lake Köyceğiz you can cover yourself in mineral-rich mud, let it dry in the sun and rinse off in warm thermal pools. It is one of the most fun moments of any Dalyan holiday.

Spend a day at Iztuzu Turtle Beach

Iztuzu is a long sandy beach between the river mouth and the sea, protected as a nesting site for loggerhead turtles. Calm water on one side, open sea on the other.

Go off-road on a jeep safari

A jeep safari takes you through pine forests and mountain villages, with swim stops at Lake Köyceğiz and the sea. Expect water fights and lots of laughter.