Photo: Heri nugroho (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Source 8 places to visit in the Dalaman district of Muğla: Dalaman River and Rafting Course (Dalaman Çayı ve Rafting Parkuru), Kapıdağ Peninsula and Dalaman State Production Farm. Plan your trip to Dalaman with local food, practical tips and transport information.
The district covers 608 km². The average altitude of Dalaman district centre above sea level is 17 metres.
The district is rugged, with mountainous eastern, northern and western parts and a flat south. It is broken up by the Gölgeli Mountains (2,295 m) and Boncuk Mountain (2,265 m). Dalaman Plain is the most fertile plain in Muğla Province, and it is among the most fertile plains in Türkiye and the world.
There is no information on the history of the district, because no sufficient archaeological excavations or surface surveys have been carried out. However, since it lies within the ancient region of Caria, the district’s history is thought to go back a long way. Dalaman, formed by the merger of the towns of Atakent and Dalaman, which previously belonged to Köyceğiz district, became a district in 1983.
Akköprü Dam and Hydroelectric Power Plant, the 6th-largest dam in Türkiye, is also within the boundaries of Dalaman district.
The ancient city of Euhippe is believed to have been right next to Dalaman. The history of Dalaman is thought to go back a long way.
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Founded in 1927 as one of the first agricultural projects of the Republic, the farm covers 60,000 dönüm and is one of Türkiye's largest state farms. Its historic administration building and old railway station still stand.
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Photo: Heri nugroho (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Source The Dalaman River is one of Türkiye's most popular rafting routes. Its 12 km course has class 2 and 3 rapids, and the canyon walls and pine forests around it make for a unique experience for adventure sports lovers.
View on mapThe peninsula stretching between Dalaman and Göcek is known for its unspoilt coves and clear sea. It is a popular stop on the route, close to Tersane Island and the Yassıca Islands, which can be reached by boat tour.
View on mapA 3 km sandy beach, one of the Blue Flag beaches. Its shallow, calm sea makes it ideal for families, and the pine forests behind it provide natural shade.
View on mapCoves within the boundaries of Dalaman district, suitable for yacht tourism.
View on mapDam and hydroelectric power plant within the boundaries of Dalaman district.
View on mapWhile you are in Dalaman, you can also see the highlights of Muğla province. These places are in other districts; Dalaman is about 6 km from the provincial centre.
Çupra fish, caught in the lagoon where the Dalaman River meets the sea, is grilled and served with lemon and rocket. Fresh seafood forms the basis of the district's restaurant culture.
Gözleme made with local herbs and lor cheese, the traditional dish of Dalaman's villages. It is cooked over a wood fire on a griddle and served with butter.
Squash flowers filled with rice, onion and spices, and cooked in olive oil. It is one of the light and healthy flavours of Aegean cuisine.
Dalaman Airport opened in 1981 and is the most important air gateway on Türkiye's south-west coast. Handling more than 5 million passengers a year, the airport is the driving force of the region's tourism.
Dalaman's economy is based on farming, tourism and aviation services. Citrus fruits, greenhouse vegetables and cotton are the main agricultural activities. Dalaman Airport provides significant employment to the district. Rafting tourism is also one of the sources of income.
Dalaman Airport is 6 km from the district centre. Muğla is 80 km away and Fethiye 55 km. The D-400 highway passes through the district and links the Antalya-İzmir route.
The 8 highlights of Dalaman are: Dalaman River and Rafting Course, Kapıdağ Peninsula, Dalaman State Production Farm, Sarıgerme Beach, Akköprü Dam and Hydroelectric Power Plant, Dalaman Airport, Dalaman River and Göcek Coves.
Dalaman Çupra Izgara, Otlu Gözleme and Kabak Çiçeği Dolması are the standout dishes on Dalaman tables.
Dalaman is known for Dalaman citrus fruit and its aviation history. The Dalaman plain is one of Türkiye's major citrus-producing centres. Growing oranges, lemons and grapefruit forms the basis of the district's economy.
Dalaman Airport is 6 km from the district centre. Muğla is 80 km away and Fethiye 55 km. The D-400 highway passes through the district and links the Antalya-İzmir route.
Suggested visit length: 1-2 days. Best time to visit: April-October.