Experience the white sand and clear waters of the Turkish Aegean coast in Datça, a large town on a peninsula of the same name. Discover local markets, fresh seafood and a region that celebrates its ancient history. Explore the bays and coves near the town and relax on the beach. See the breathtaking beauty of the Datça Peninsula by boat or on foot through fragrant forests of pine, eucalypt and almond trees.
Datça is an ideal base for your journey around the Datça Peninsula, which is connected at its narrow east end to mainland Turkey. Stroll along the town’s stunning harbor and watch the yachts rock gently in the marina. Visit on Saturdays to discover a local market offering aromatic spices, Turkish sweets and snacks, and regional handicrafts. Take a seat in a café by the water and try delicious dark Turkish coffee with sweet lokum (Turkish delight).
Gaze out at the Aegean Ocean as you swim in Datça’s local beaches. Kumluk, in the center of town, has soft sands. Taslik is a nearby pebble beach with hot mineral springs.
Explore inland to find olive farms and forested landscapes peppered with pink bougainvillea. The scent of jasmine, orange blossoms, wild thyme and rosemary carries in the warm air. In April, pluck almonds from the trees and eat them fresh with salt.
Stop by Old Datça (Eski Datça), a historic village with narrow streets lined with original Mediterranean stone houses. Don’t miss the ancient city of Knidos, 21.6 miles (34.8 kilometers) west, on the peninsula’s tip. The ruins of this Hellenic city are famous for once housing a nude statue of Aphrodite, which attracted visitors for her lifelike beauty.
Datça is located on the peninsula’s south coast. The town has a mild climate with warm summers and lush springs. Reach Datça by car or bus from the port city of Marmaris, 43.9 miles (70.7 kilometers) away. Catch a ferry to Datça Peninsula’s north coast from the historic city of Bodrum.