Dalyan - Ortaca / Muğla

Dalyan is a small yet enchanting town located in the Ortaca district of Muğla, situated along the Dalyan River that flows into the Mediterranean Sea. Nestled on the natural canal (ancient "Calbis") connecting Köyceğiz Lake to the Mediterranean, Dalyan offers a unique experience for nature and history lovers alike.

Places to Visit in Dalyan

1. Lycian Rock Tombs

Dalyan’s most iconic landmarks are the Lycian rock tombs carved into the steep cliffs overlooking the river. These monumental tombs, part of the ancient city of Kaunos’s necropolis, date back to the 4th century BC and were dedicated to nobles and important figures of the time.

Architectural Features: The tombs resemble temple facades with Ionic columns, friezes, and pediments. Some contain stone beds or altars inside. Their elevation on the cliffs reflects the Lycian belief in the soul’s ascent to the heavens.

Visiting Experience:

• Boat Tours: The best way to view the tombs is via boat tours along the Dalyan River, offering stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

• Combined with Kaunos Visit: Tours often continue to Kaunos Ancient City, enhancing the historical experience.

• Night Lighting: The tombs are illuminated at night, creating a mystical sight from afar.

Visitor Info:

• Access: Reachable by riverboat from Dalyan town center

• Entrance Fee: None (viewing via boat tours, which are paid)

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting

2. Ancient City of Kaunos

History & Location: Dating back to the 10th century BC, Kaunos was a strategic port city founded by Kaunos, son of Miletus. Over centuries, it transitioned through Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Due to silt buildup, it lost its access to the sea and declined in importance. Today, it is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Highlights:

• Lycian Rock Tombs: Seen from the river, carved in the 4th century BC.

• Theatre: Seating about 5,000, well-preserved and scenic.

• Agora: The city’s commercial and social hub.

• Roman Baths: Large bath complex from Roman times.

• Stoa and Aphrodite Sanctuary: A coastal structure for sailors to honor the goddess Aphrodite Euploia.

• Temples: Temples of Apollo and Demeter, the latter with a three-day women-only fertility festival.

• Byzantine Church: Reflects Christian period occupation.

• Acropolis: Offers panoramic views over the Dalyan Delta.

• Harbor Agora and Ancient Port: Now filled with silt (known as "Leech Lake"), includes stoa remains.

Visiting Kaunos:

• How to Get There: By riverboat from Dalyan, followed by a short walk

• Entrance Fee: Required (Museum Pass valid)

• Opening Hours: 09:00–20:00 in summer, 09:00–17:00 in winter

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for comfort and lighting

3. Iztuzu Beach ("Caretta Beach")

Overview: Located near Dalyan, Iztuzu Beach is a 4.5 km-long sandy strip separating the Mediterranean Sea from the Dalyan River. It’s a globally recognized nature wonder and a key nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).

Key Features:

• Unique Geography: Offers both freshwater and saltwater swimming options.

• Sea Turtle Habitat: Nesting season is from June to September. Strict regulations are enforced to protect turtle habitats (no beach access between 8 PM and 8 AM, no lights or loud noise).

• Awards: Named "Europe’s Best Open Space" by The Times in 2008 and "Europe’s Best Beach" in 2011 by a Dutch travel site.

• DEKAMER: The Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation Center on the beach provides information and rehabilitates injured turtles.

Getting There:

• By Boat: From Dalyan center via boat shuttle (~30–40 min), scenic through reed-lined channels

• By Road: Via minibus or private car (~20 min), offering great views of the delta

Visiting Info:

• Hours: Open 08:00–20:00

• Night Access: Forbidden due to turtle nesting protection

• Fees: Free pedestrian entry, vehicle access and sunbed/umbrella rentals cost extra

Tips:

• Visit July–September for a chance to see turtle hatchlings.

• Facilities for food and drink available.

• Ideal for those seeking a serene, natural setting.

🚣 Tourism & Activities

• River Boat Tour: Likya Tombs – Kaunos – Iztuzu route. Price: 30–75 USD (may include lunch/guide)

• Thermal Baths & Mud Baths: At Sultaniye Spa, 39 °C mineral-rich waters and therapeutic mud

• DEKAMER: Visit sea turtle recovery centers, support conservation work

• Cycling & Hiking: Dalyan is bike-friendly; riverside paths offer scenic routes

• Local Market Tour: Saturdays; discover local honey, spices, blue crab, and other specialties

🍽️ Food & Drink

• Riverside Restaurants: Offer mezes, fresh fish, and organic produce with sunset views

• Blue Crab: Regional delicacy; high in protein and budget-friendly

• Daily Budget: Around £50 (~1000 TL) for three meals at local restaurants

🏨 Accommodation & Transport

• Lodging: Family-run guesthouses and boutique hotels in the town center. Weekly packages range from £400 to £900 depending on the season.

• Transportation:

  • Dalaman Airport: ~17 km / ~25 min by car; minibuses and transfers available

  • Boat Shuttle: Operates frequently on Dalyan–Iztuzu–Kaunos route; check return times

📊 Prices (As of 2025)