We first stumbled upon Didim while looking for a quieter alternative to Turkey’s more famous resorts like Bodrum and Marmaris — and we’ve been hooked ever since. Think turquoise waters, rich history, affordable prices, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. So if you’re wondering whether Didim is worth visiting, the answer is a resounding YES. Let’s dive into everything this charming Aegean town has to offer in our Didim travel guide!
Why Visit Didim? A Mix of History, Beaches & Local Charm
What makes Didim special, you ask? Well, for starters, it offers a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and culture. Sitting along Turkey’s stunning Aegean coast, Didim is famous for its golden sandy beaches, ancient sites like the Temple of Apollo, and a friendly local atmosphere.
Unlike some of Turkey’s larger resorts, Didim retains a more authentic, local vibe, while still offering all the comforts and amenities travellers look for. Plus, it’s less crowded and more affordable, which makes it perfect for families, couples, and even solo travellers.
Here are some of our favourite reasons to visit Didim:
- Beautiful beaches with crystal-clear water that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Rich ancient history, including one of the most important temples in the ancient world.
- Affordable accommodation and food – seriously, you’ll get more for your money here than in nearby tourist hotspots.
- A friendly expat and local community that makes you feel welcome, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth.
Top Things to Do in Didim — What Not to Miss
1. Marvel at the Temple of Apollo in Didyma
The Temple of Apollo is hands down one of the most impressive historical sites we’ve ever visited, and it’s a must-see on any Didim travel itinerary. As soon as we walked up to the enormous, towering columns (some still standing, others beautifully ruined), we felt like we had stepped back in time.
Once a sacred oracle site (second only to Delphi in Greece), the temple was a major centre of worship in the ancient world. You can still see the intricately carved Medusa heads and explore the remaining stone walls that hint at its former grandeur.
💡 Our tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos. Entry is about £3-4, and local guides are available at the entrance if you want to dive deeper into the history — highly recommended if you love mythology and ancient cultures like we do.
2. Relax and Swim at Altinkum Beach (Golden Sands)
If there’s one place that captures Didim’s beachy charm, it’s Altinkum Beach. Stretching along the town’s shoreline, Altinkum is famous for its soft golden sand and shallow, calm waters — perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
We love spending lazy mornings here with a good book and a Turkish coffee from one of the many beachfront cafes. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, so you can easily grab a snack or enjoy lunch without straying far from your sun lounger.
💡 Tip: You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for around £5 a day, but there are also free sections if you prefer to just lay out a towel.
In summer, Altinkum gets lively with beach parties, live music, and families enjoying the warm weather. But if you visit during spring or autumn, you’ll find a much quieter, peaceful vibe — just the way we like it when we want to unwind.
3. Mavişehir Night Market & Sunset Stroll
For an authentic local experience, head to Mavişehir Night Market in the evening. It’s one of our favorite spots to wander, shop, and eat! The market is filled with stalls selling handmade jewelry, Turkish textiles, spices, souvenirs, and local street food.
We always pick up some Turkish delight (lokum), fresh fruits, and sometimes handmade crafts to take home. The atmosphere is buzzing — locals and tourists mingling, kids running around, and music in the background.
After shopping, don’t miss Mavişehir Sunset Point, where you’ll see one of the most beautiful sunsets along the Aegean coast. We always grab a drink at a waterfront cafe, sit back, and watch as the sky turns stunning shades of pink and orange. It’s one of those magical moments that keeps bringing us back to Didim.
4. Take a Day Trip to Miletus and Priene Ancient Cities
As history lovers, we couldn’t resist taking a day trip to the ancient cities of Miletus and Priene, both just a short drive from Didim (about 30–40 minutes).
- Miletus is famous for its massive Roman theatre, which is still in great shape — we climbed to the top for breathtaking views. It was once a powerful ancient city, home to famous philosophers and scientists.
- Priene, set against a hillside, is smaller but equally fascinating. The Temple of Athena, with its columns still standing, is picture-perfect with a mountain backdrop.
💡 Tip: If you want to see both, consider booking a tour that includes both sites and Didyma — it’s a fantastic way to get a full day of history.
5. Enjoy a Relaxing Boat Trip from Altinkum Harbor
A trip to Didim wouldn’t be complete without a lazy day boat trip! These tours take you to secluded coves and islands, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The water is crystal clear — you’ll want to jump in as soon as the boat stops.
Most trips include lunch — usually grilled chicken, salad, and rice, simple but tasty. Prices are super reasonable at around £15-20 per person, and tours often last from 10 AM to 4 PM.
💡 Tip: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera! Some boats even provide snorkelling gear, but we usually bring our own.
Where to Stay in Didim – Best Hotels and Areas
When it comes to where to stay in Didim, there are great options for every budget. Here’s a quick breakdown based on where we’ve stayed:
- Altinkum Beach area: Perfect if you want easy beach access and nightlife. Hotels range from £30 to £100 a night depending on the season.
- Yesilkent: Quieter and more upmarket, surrounded by greenery — great for families or couples wanting privacy.
- Akbük Bay: Ideal for a peaceful retreat. Smaller hotels and boutique stays by a stunning bay.
Our favourites? Venosa Beach Resort for an all-inclusive beachfront experience, and Tuntas Beach Hotel for a more budget-friendly option right on the sand.
Where to Eat and Drink in Didim – Our Faves
You know we love good food, and Didim did not disappoint!
- Mercan Pide: Best place for Turkish pizzas (pide) — simple, delicious, and affordable (around £5 for a meal).
- My Eden Restaurant: Romantic seafront dining — we had a grilled sea bass and meze platter for around £35 for two.
- Key-f Restaurant: Perfect for a traditional Turkish dinner with raki and live music.
- Street stalls: Try gözleme (stuffed pancakes) for £2-3 — our favourite is spinach and cheese!
And of course, Turkish tea and coffee at a beachfront café is a must.
Didim Travel Tips – Everything You Need to Know
- Best time to visit Didim: May–June and September–October for lovely weather without the crowds.
- Getting to Didim: Fly to Bodrum (1.5 hrs away) or Izmir (2 hrs) and arrange a transfer.
- Getting around: Dolmuş minibuses run everywhere and are super cheap.
- Currency: Turkish Lira, but many tourist places accept GBP/EUR.
- Safety: Very safe for travellers — we felt totally comfortable walking around at night.
Final Thoughts on Didim
Didim has become one of our favourite destinations in Turkey, and we hope this guide inspires you to visit. From ancient ruins to golden beaches and delicious food, Didim offers a little something for everyone.
If you have questions, reach out to us at VayCay Couple — we’d love to help you plan!
