Altinkum holidays

Altinkum is also a fantastic starting point for historic excursions. There’s the Temple of Apollo in Didim, the ruins of ancient Greek city, Ephesus (which you can reach on your own via public transport), and Dalyan’s Turtle Beach, about three hours’ drive away.

Like shopping? Head to the seafront for souvenirs and sweet treats. For more original gifts, make a beeline for the shopping centre on Atatürk Boulevard, where you’ll find locally embroidered towels and tablecloths among other handmade gifts. In October, the International Didim Olive Festival kicks off and is a great opportunity to buy delicious oils for less.

Beyond the sun, it’s the nightlife that brings so many holidaymakers to Altinkum – and Dolphin Square is the beating heart of it all with a diverse mix of late-night restaurants, wine bars and English-style pubs. Not only is it affordable, kids are also welcome pretty much everywhere. Meanwhile, couples and groups will love the open-air club Medusa, where live DJs party on well past bedtime.

November, December, January and February are Altinkum’s quiet times, so if uncrowded bars and beaches are your thing, book for this time of year. Highs of 15C and lows of 3C are normal and holidays are cheaper than in other months.

An equine excursion in this part of the world – whether it’s by the sea or through countryside – can make for an unforgettable experience. If you’ve never ridden before, don’t panic; most of the tours are designed with beginners in mind, so you’ll get lots of help saddling up and staying put along the way. Horse-riding regulars can usually opt for a longer route.

The Temple of Apollo

Around 15 minutes’ away by taxi (or about an hour by foot), Didim is home to the ruins of 3rd-century BC Temple of Apollo. Many of the pillars are still standing, making it easy to imagine the scale and former grandeur of the shrine.

Look out for the purification well and altar (where sacrifices were made), as well as the massive Medusa head, which originally sat prominently on a frieze above the columns.

Weekly markets and annual festivals

Every Saturday, Didim puts on a market of fresh fruit and veg, cheese, olives, ceramics and clothing. A bus runs between it and many hotels in Altinkum, just in case you come back with too many bags.

Time your visit for the end of August or beginning of September and you’re likely to catch the three-day Didim Peace Festival, too. Expect sand sculptures, folk dancing and interesting exhibits, which are all free to enjoy. Check the event’s Facebook page for this year’s dates and times.

Cruise the coastline

A boat trip in Altinkum can be whatever you want it to be – there are party boats, speedboats, island hoppers and diving tours. Even on the quieter trips, where there’s more space for lazy bathers, you’ll find the crew have packed snorkels, inflatables and games to keep more restless guests entertained.

For a romantic end to a day, why not hop aboard a sunset cruise and enjoy a three-course meal?

Lap up the nightlife

Whether you want a long, leisurely meal the whole family can enjoy or are eager to hit the dancefloor – fuelled by colourful cocktails – Altinkum will deliver. Make Dolphin Square your starting point for both; it will be obvious which places cater to your needs.

For something a little different, consider hopping in a taxi to nearby Didim. Restaurants here are of the more traditional kind; think mint tea, local dishes and lots of belly dancing.