The Dalyan River in Turkey connects to the Mediterranean Sea, forming a uniquely lush environment along the southwest coast of the country. Just across from the river sits the ruins of an ancient town, complete with rock tombs from Lycian times.

The turquoise-blue water creates a pristine scene with mountain landscapes and the red roofs of the local homes. Take a day trip to Dalyan from Fethiye to visit reclusive beaches and explore loggerhead turtle nesting grounds.

Here's all you need to know about Dalyan, one of the most exciting day trips from Fethiye.

How to get to Dalyan from Fethiye?

The town of Dalyan is located about one hour northwest of Fethiye. The Dalyan River connects the Mediterranean Sea to Köyceğiz Lake, with beautiful sights scattered along the way.

From Fethiye to Dalyan by car

The drive to Dalyan from Fethiye takes about 1 hour and includes tolls. Leave the city center and drive north for about 5 minutes until you reach the D400 to Atatürk Blv. Follow the expressway for about 38 minutes, passing by Katrancı Koyu Tabiat Park and Inlice Beach. When you reach Ortaca, head west on Atatürk Blv and follow the road directly into the Dalyan town center.

Guided tour to Dalyan from Fethiye

Book a guided tour to Dalyan from Fethiye for ease of travel and the help of a professional guide. These excursions last a full day, somewhere between 8 and 15 hours, and visit multiple stops along the way. Most excursions include hotel pickup, drop-off, and a boat ride in the ticket price.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical day trip from Fethiye to Dalyan begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in the coastal town. You’ll usually ride in an air-conditioned bus with a professional driver for the drive to the Dalyan port. When you arrive at the marina, you’ll board a spacious boat and begin your river cruise down the Dalyan.

As you wind your way down the river, you’ll spot stunning views of the natural surroundings, and pieces of the area’s ancient past, such as the 4th-century B.C. tombs of the ruined city of Caunos. After some time, you’ll stop for a relaxing and revitalizing mud bath in one of Dalyan’s mud pools.

Later, you’ll head to where the river meets the Mediterranean Sea at Turtle Beach. Here you’ll be able to swim in both the river and the sea while keeping your eyes peeled for Caretta or Loggerhead Turtles. The day trip finishes with a hotel drop-off back in Fethiye.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Dalyan?

Guided tour to Dalyan from Fethiye

This 12-hour excursion combines the sparkling waters of the Dalyan River with the Mediterranean beauty of Iztuzu Beach. You’ll begin with a morning hotel pickup in Fethiye from where you’ll head north to the Dalyan. After about a 40-minute ride, you’ll board your boat cruise and begin the journey upstream. Along the way, your professional guide will inform you of the historical significance of the region while you take in the stunning views of the lush nature reserve.

Throughout this breathtaking cruise along the Dalyan, you’ll learn about the area’s ancient past, passing by the 4th-century B.C. tombs of the ruined city of Caunos before stopping for a traditional Turkish lunch at a riverside café. Next, your group will visit the Dalyan mud baths for a relaxing dip in the mineral-rich mud followed by a cool dive in the sulfur pools.

Afterward, you’ll head to where the Mediterranean Sea connects with the river for a visit to Turtle Beach, also known as Iztuzu. Here you can swim in both fresh and saltwater while keeping an eye out for the Caretta or Loggerhead Turtles that are native to the region. As the afternoon comes to a close, you’ll return to Fethiye.

Private tour to Dalyan from Fethiye

Book a private tour from Fethiye to Dalyan for a more exclusive experience and personalized time with an expert guide. This unique excursion begins with a visit to Iztuzu Beach to see the Sea Turtle Research Hospital and Rescue Center. Learn about how biologists rescue and help rehabilitate Loggerhead sea turtles who have been injured in their natural habitat.

Later, you’ll head to Dalyan to board a cruise boat down the river. You’ll stop at an estuary to enjoy a relaxing mud bath to refresh your skin before diving into a sulfur pool to clean off. Afterward, your professional guide will take you to the ancient ruins of Caunos, one of the most important commercial cities of the Lycian period.

You’ll get as close as possible to the tomb remains while learning about the rich history and story behind the civilization. Finish your private tour with a return trip to Iztuzu Beach, this time to relax on the sand and swim in the water, before returning to Fethiye.

How much does a day trip to Dalyan from Fethiye cost?

A full-day group tour to Dalyan from Fethiye that includes a boat ride, mud bath, and visits to both Turtle Beach and Caunos typically costs about €70 per adult ages 13 and older, €35 per child from ages 4 to 12, and is free for infants.

For a private excursion to Dalyan, you can expect to pay around €185 per person, regardless of age.

What will you see and do?

Caunos

The ancient city of Caunos was once a bustling trade port of the Koycegiz district. Now, all that is left are the ruins of the former metropolis. The most popular part of Caunos is the rock tombs that sit gallantly on the cliffs overlooking the Dalyan River. The beautiful catacombs were built in the 4th century B.C. but were also used in the Roman period.

Iztuzu Beach

Iztuzu Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is a stunning inlet along the Mediterranean coastline of Turkey. During the day, the beach is used for swimming and sunbathing, but at night it is a carefully protected nature reserve for the Loggerhead Turtles native to the region.

Dalyan Mud Bath

The Dalyan mud baths are an exciting part of any Dalyan River tour. The locals claim that a dip in the mud baths helps cure rheumatism, lower back pain and sciatica. The sulfur involved in the mud also works against wrinkles and adds elasticity to the skin. According to legend, the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra bathed in the Turkish mud to maintain her youthful beauty.

When is the best time to visit Dalyan?

The best time to visit Dalyan is during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November). These periods offer mild weather, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the town's archaeological sites, natural beauty, and mud baths. Spring provides a landscape adorned with blossoming flowers, while autumn offers a less crowded experience. Avoid summer's high temperatures and winter's cooler climate.

Are there any tours to Dalyan from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey:

Travel tips

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking and hiking when you visit Dalyan.
Don’t forget sun protection essentials such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
While visiting Dalyan, you can try the fresh local fish and other traditional Turkish dishes at local restaurants and tavernas.
If your trip falls on a Saturday, don't miss the local market in Dalyan where you can buy fresh produce, spices, textiles, and more.

Dalyan: Day Trips and Tours from Fethiye