Holiday homes & rentals in Turkey

Holiday villas in the riverside resort of Dalyan on Turkey's Turquoise coast are the perfect base to explore the region's stunning nature and cultural attractions. Since the area is environmentally protected, the local flora and fauna makes it a particularly unique paradise. The region is also rich in history and culture, allowing for a well-rounded holiday for everyone in your group.

Getting to your Turkey holiday villa

Ataturk International Airport is the primary arrival point for most international visitors. Direct buses to Taksim Square run regularly throughout the day, but at peak times it is advisable to take the metro to avoid the infamous Istanbul congestion. Istanbul’s second airport, Sabiha, is located on the Middle Eastern side of the Bosphorus Strait and is the home to many low-cost airlines.

If you’re hiring a Turkey holiday villa close to the capital, then you can fly to Ankara’s airport, Esenboga. Turkey boasts an efficient and extensive, if chaotic, national bus network. You can reach most destinations by bus but be prepared for crowds and transfers. Car hire is available in all cities and international airports.

Tasting the Best of Local Flavours

The Dalyan river has many restaurants along the waterfront to pick from, most of which offer local Turkish cuisine as well as Western gastronomy. The seafood, lamb, and kebap are typical dishes you'll definitely want to try. Vegetarian travellers need not worry, since most restaurants offer plenty of veggie options.

La Vie, a classy option overlooking the tombs on the opposite side of the river, is perfect for lovers looking for a romantic setting. Come here to taste delicious casseroles. If you're in the mood for classic meat-based or vegetarian meze, the easygoing Saki offers some of the best cooking in the region, with a lovely view over the Dalyan river. Kordon is perfect for fish and seafood lovers, but there is also plenty here to enjoy for those who prefer meat or are vegetarian. If you're just looking for a cafe or a juice, Le Cafe provides a lovely garden in the shade.

What to expect from the weather in Turkey

The varied topography in Turkey makes a generalisation of the climate difficult but can be considered a tale of two halves. In summer you can expect hot, dry days while in winter temperatures plummet and snow is fairly common. Eastern regions are known for being exceptionally hot in summer and coastal regions are cooler, but are subject to more snow in the winter.

What to see during your holiday in Turkey

Istanbul is brimming with attractions for those who hire a Turkey holiday letting in the capital. The confluence of Islam and Christianity is clearly visible in the architecture, seen in the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Sultan Ahmet Mosque. Ankara is home to the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk who founded the Turkish republic and the famous Atakule Tower.

Beyond the cities, Turkey has many natural wonders and points of interest. Thrill seekers should head to the northern Black Sea district. The heavily forested area is home to quaint towns, rivers and hiking trails, perfect for those who want to explore Turkey’s natural beauty. The southern Mediterranean coast offers golden beaches and clear blue waters. The area also boasts lakes, waterfalls, and lagoons.

It’s also feasible to ski in central Turkey, as the winter months occasionally produce snow, but it is not guaranteed.

Exploring the Rich History of the Dalyan Region

Nestled between the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, the city of Caunus used to be a bustling sea port, dating back to the 10th century BC. Today the city, in ruins, is an archaeological treasure revealing a rich and opulent history you can access by rowboat.

By the river, the King Tombs offer a unique sight. The imposing rock-cut tombs greet visitors coming from sea or land to the port city of Caunus. The temple-like facades of the tombs, carved into the cliffs, are highly unique and clearly influenced by Greek Hellenic style.

An acropolis, a theatre, Roman baths, and other ruins are also available for visit by the Dalyan river. There is also the potential to spot tortoises, snakes, and lizards amongst these archaeological findings as well as herons and flamingos, depending on the season.

Going Out for Drinks and a Dance in Dalyan

When the sun sets on the river, head to bars and discos on the outskirts of the village. Usually facing the river, establishments in Dalyan often propose very pleasant settings for night-time drinking. Why not try the traditional spirit raki, the signature Turkish drink? Raki is a local beverage made from twice-distilled grapes and aniseed. Beer-lovers, however, should be sure to order a local Gara Gazu craft beer.

The Jazz Bar was the first live music venue in town and it remains the best. It offers live shows every night. Enjoy the buzzing atmosphere in front of stunning views in the riverfront garden. For travellers looking for a place to dance, there are some discos in the area. The Mango bar, an indoor nightclub, is a local favourite. If you prefer a view over the moonlit beach with a frozen cocktail in hand, the Buzz Beach bar is the place to go.

Bathing in Beautiful Landscapes

Iztuzu Beach, also known as turtle beach, is the perfect swimming beach and likely easy to access from your villa rental. Often considered one of the most beautiful Mediterranean beaches in Turkey, it is unique in its location. Nestled between pine covered mountains and located at the mouth of the Dalyan river, it boasts a sandy stretch of about 4km and is ideal for families with children. Its natural beauty is undeniable thanks the environmental protection it benefits from. Iztuzu is also home to endangered Loggerhead turtles and special rules are enforced to protect them.

If you sail across the lake Koycegiz to access the small village of Sultaniye, be sure to visit its famous hot springs. The sulphurous water can reach 40°C and is believed to rejuvenate and cleanse the skin as well as cure ailments such as rheumatism and skin diseases. Aside from the health benefits, it's a very fun albeit messy activity! The Ilica thermal baths, made of open-air mud pools are also worth a try. These are downstream on the lake shore and can get pretty busy during high season.

Frequently Asked Questions