One of the best shopping experiences on the Aegean coast is also one of its best-kept secrets. The night market at Mavisehir, a lovely resort on the opposite end of the Altinkum peninsula, is not just a great spot to grab a bargain, it's also buzzing with activity. Browse, haggle, taste and maybe even buy.
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This day trip to Kusadasi offers you the chance to discover of the most famous resorts on Turkey's Aegean coast. As well as enticing beaches, you'll find castles, mosques and shopping opportunities to tempt your curiosity. We'll pick you up from your hotel and drop you off in centre, where you'll be free to do as you choose.
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Dalyan River Tour by Boat with Lunch
Surround yourself with natural beauty on a relaxing river cruise from Dalyan. One of Turkey's most pristine beaches is the destination, with stops at the mud baths and a riverside restaurant en route. Ceren, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Due to the presence of endangered Loggerhead turtles nesting here, Iztuzu Beach is also known as Turtle Beach. The beach was all set to be developed with new resorts in the 1980s, but luckily conservation was prioritised and instead it remains a sanctuary for the endangered turtles. It's a magical spot with very little human interference.' First, we'll meander down the River Dalyan on an eco-friendly boat – which doesn't harm marine life – and have fun smoothing on the anti-ageing clay at the mud baths. Great for glowing skin, it's believed that Cleopatra visited for a pampering soak in the mineral-rich liquid mud. Finish with a dip in the warm sulphur pool before cruising across the river for a freshly prepared lunch of local dishes. Adding a little history and culture to the mix, you'll continue on the riverboat past Lycian Rock Tombs carved into the cliffs, dating back to 400BC. At the point where the river widens into a lagoon, you'll have the chance to spot birdlife before docking at Iztuzu Beach. The 4km sweep of golden sand divides the river from the sea, a natural oasis which is a true haven for wildlife. Sheltered by mountains, the beach shelves gently into a calm bay where an afternoon of pure relaxation beckons. Round off your day with the return river cruise to Dalyan.
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Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour with Lunch in Sirince
Ephesus is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites from the classical era. Highlights include the Celsus Library and the Great Theatre. You'll also discover the House of the Virgin Mary and stop by Sirince for a spot of lunch. Gökhan, one of our local guides, says, ‘During the time of Emperor Tiberius, Ephesus was the most important city in Europe apart from Rome. It was wealthy due to its flourishing commercial activity, home to 250,000 people and culturally very advanced. The site is truly impressive – so much detail remains.'Let your expert your guide transport you back in time, learning about the living past of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the Celsus Library, built with double walls to protect its scrolls from the heat. Peek into houses still decorated with frescoes, and nose around the public baths, brothel and shops. Walk down Marble Street to see the Great Theatre, a spectacular 24,000-seater dug into the hillside, which once rang with the cries of gladiators and the sermons of St Paul.Next, we'll visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a Catholic and Muslim shrine. There's a wishing wall, where you can leave written prayers, and a fountain whose waters are believed by some to have miraculous powers. We'll round off the day in Sirince – a little less ancient but still with a sense of yesteryear. Here, you'll have lunch at a family-run restaurant before tasting the local fruit wine and enjoying free time to stroll along the town's cobbled streets.
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Ready to relax? Then escape the hustle and bustle and head out into the Aegean on this relaxing cruise. You'll spend the day gliding along the coastline around Altinkum, passing sandy beaches, seaside resorts and hideaway bays. What's more, you'll enjoy lunch on-board.
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Where to go
Things to do in Altinkum-Didim
