Altinkum is a beach holiday destination preferred mostly by British and Turkish travelers. Altinkum translates into Turkish as "Golden Sand," named for its golden color lying along the blue of the Aegean Sea.
Altinkum beach is part of Didim municipality, and most Turks mention the area by its general name, Didim. Starting in the late 1970s, Didim and Altinkum became a holiday town for residents of Ankara, many of whom had their summer homes in Didim. In the late 1980s it was discovered by foreign holidaymakers.
Altinkum like Gumbet, Ovacik, and Kalkan is popular among tourists from the UK who fell in love with the region and bought a second home or a retirement home in the area. There is even a local newspaper in English. Restaurants and cafes serve English food and breakfast alongside Turkish food.
Altinkum offers basically a sun, sea, sand holiday where you can spend your days on the beach and go out at night. When it comes to accommodation, Didim and Altinkum offer a large selection of hotels from cheap to luxury, guest houses, and vacation rentals. There are also many cheap holiday packages from the UK to Altinkum.
The main attraction. Three sandy beaches form a continuous stretch: First Beach (close to town), Second Beach (quieter), and Third Beach (farthest, most peaceful). The sand is golden, the water is shallow and safe for children. Sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
The newly constructed Didim Marina accommodates the increasing need for a marina for mega yachts in the Eastern Mediterranean region. A pleasant place for a sunset walk with waterfront cafes and restaurants.
One of the best-preserved ancient temples in the world. Located just 10 minutes from Altinkum by car. The massive columns (some over 19 meters tall) and the mysterious oracle chamber are unforgettable. Combine with visits to Miletus and Priene.
If you want to rent a car or take a tour, there is so much to do in the region. Nearby you can visit the ancient Greek cities of Didyma, Priene, and Miletus. The Temple of Apollo is in Didyma, about a 10-minute car ride. You can also visit Kusadasi or Bodrum in a day trip.
One of the greatest Ionian cities, birthplace of philosophy and science. The massive theater (seating 15,000) is still impressive. The Faustina Baths and the Delphinium are also worth seeing. About 30 minutes from Altinkum.
A beautifully situated ancient city on the slopes of Mount Mycale. The best-preserved example of a Hellenistic city plan. The theater, Temple of Athena, and the bouleuterion (council house) are highlights. About 40 minutes from Altinkum.
The easiest way to reach Altinkum is by air to Bodrum Milas Airport (BJV) — it is closer than Izmir Airport. From there, you can either take public buses or use a private Bodrum Airport Transfer.
You can also fly to Izmir Airport (ADB), though it is about 100 kilometers farther than Milas Airport to Altinkum. Izmir Airport Transfers are also available in addition to buses that depart from the main station.
Location reference: Altinkum is located about two and a half hours (200 km) south of Izmir, one hour (70 km) south of Kusadasi, and one and a half hours (100 km) north of Bodrum.
When it comes to accommodation, Didim and Altinkum offer a large selection of hotels from cheap to luxury, guest houses, and vacation rentals. There are also many cheap holiday packages from the UK to Altinkum. For lodging see Altinkum Hotels.