Altinkum Turkey Resort Information

Altinkum Turkey: A Complete Guide to the Aegean Coast Resort

Altinkum is a charming holiday resort on Turkey's stunning Aegean coast. Once a small fishing village, it has evolved into a popular destination that attracts thousands of international visitors each year. While the resort has gained attention for its British-influenced atmosphere, it offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Turkish culture that appeals to holidaymakers seeking both comfort and authenticity.

The area has experienced significant development over the past two decades, transforming from a traditional fishing community into a thriving resort destination. This evolution has created a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can enjoy everything from beachfront relaxation to exploring ancient historical sites nearby.

Understanding Altinkum's Character

Altinkum's transformation from fishing village to resort has created an interesting dynamic. The area has adapted to what tourists want while maintaining its Turkish identity. Business owners have responded to demand, creating a resort that feels familiar to international visitors while still offering authentic Turkish experiences for those who seek them.

Most visitors to the resort compare Altinkum to sunny Blackpool, and they're not wrong. Walk along the beachfront and you'll see plenty of signs advertising English breakfasts and traditional British Sunday lunch. The international influence is evident, with restaurants staffed by workers wearing English football tops and speaking in perfect English accents.

However, this international character coexists with traditional Turkish culture. Patrick's Day, Halloween, and Christmas are widely celebrated events in the resort, creating a multicultural atmosphere that feels far from the traditional Turkish vibes many first-time visitors to the country might expect.

Altinkum and Didim: Two Sides of the Same Resort

The Beachfront Area: Altinkum

Altinkum's beachfront area caters primarily to international tourists, particularly British visitors. The main promenade features numerous restaurants offering familiar international cuisine alongside Turkish dishes. International brands like McDonald's and Burger King are present, making it easy for visitors who want familiar options.

The resort has three beaches—First, Second, and Third Beach—each with its own character. Third Beach features a marina and funfair, making it particularly popular with families. During peak season (July and August), the main beach can be packed sunbed to sunbed, so consider exploring smaller beaches on the outskirts of the resort for a quieter experience.

The Traditional Center: Didim

Didim, located inland from the beaches, offers a more authentic Turkish experience. This area serves as the resort's administrative and commercial center, housing essential amenities, offices, and shops. For visitors seeking traditional Turkish culture, Didim provides an opportunity to experience authentic local life.

Wander into a bar and sit on floor cushions while listening to live singers playing Turkish love songs on their guitars. Head to lokantas (traditional restaurants) and grab a traditional meal for just a few Turkish lira. Not everyone in Didim speaks English, so it's a perfect chance to practice Turkish if you're learning the language.

Didim is classed as the resort center and is an important place especially for expatriates because all amenities and many offices and shops are based there. This dual character—modern beachfront tourism and traditional Turkish town center—gives visitors the best of both worlds.

Practical Information for Visitors

Getting Around

Altinkum is well-connected and easy to navigate:

Bodrum Airport: The transfer time from Bodrum airport is approximately one and a half hours
Local Dolmuş Buses: Frequent service within summer months, with destinations listed on the front of the bus
Taxis: Yellow taxis operate on a fixed-rate system within Altinkum (15 lira per journey, regardless of distance)

Local Amenities

Atatürk Boulevard is the main road running through Altinkum and is where everything happens. You'll find supermarkets, cash points, bus routes, bars, restaurants, and international fast-food chains all along this central thoroughfare.

The main local market happens on a Saturday near the bus station, offering fresh produce, local goods, and a chance to experience Turkish market culture. This weekly event is popular with both locals and visitors.

Beaches and Recreation

The resort's three beaches offer different experiences:

First Beach: The main beach, popular but can be crowded in peak season
Second Beach: Well-known for family-friendly bars, particularly around Dolphin Square
Third Beach: Features a marina and funfair, ideal for families

At the end of the long promenade near the harbour are bars and nightclubs which are not for children. The nightclubs stay open till 5 am, catering to visitors seeking nightlife.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation in Altinkum is plentiful and includes bed and breakfast hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and self-catering apartments. This variety means visitors can choose the option that best suits their travel style and budget.

Climate

The hottest months are usually July and August when temperatures can reach the high 40s Celsius. For those who prefer milder weather, visiting in May, June, September, or October offers pleasant temperatures while still enjoying good weather.

Exploring the Region: Day Trips and Attractions

Altinkum's location on the Aegean coast provides excellent access to historical and natural attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Historical Sites

The area is rich in ancient history, with several significant sites within easy reach:

Apollo Temple: Ancient ruins at the entrance to Didim, offering a glimpse into the region's classical past
Ephesus: One of Turkey's most impressive ancient sites, approximately 2 hours away. This well-preserved ancient city is a must-see for history enthusiasts
House of Virgin Mary: Located near Ephesus, this sacred site attracts visitors from around the world
Miletus and Priene: Ancient ruins located less than an hour away, offering fascinating insights into ancient Greek and Roman civilizations

Natural Attractions

Beyond historical sites, the region offers beautiful natural landscapes:

Bafa Lake: The traditional village of Herakleia is about 1 hour away, offering a peaceful retreat from the resort
Dilek National Park: Near Kusadasi, featuring pristine beaches and natural landscapes perfect for nature lovers
Sirince: A charming wine-making Greek village, approximately 2 hours away, known for its traditional architecture and local wines

Activities and Excursions

Visitors to Altinkum can enjoy various activities:

Jeep Safari: Book a jeep safari trip to explore Akbuk and the surrounding countryside
Boat Trips: Daily boat trips leave from the harbour, offering opportunities to explore the coastline
Water Sports: Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular in this area, with several operators offering excursions
Turkish Bath: Experience a traditional Turkish bath (hamam) for relaxation and cultural immersion
Exploring Nearby Towns: Visit the nearby town of Söke if you like exploring new areas and experiencing local Turkish life

Surrounding Resorts

Altinkum is part of a larger resort area along the Aegean coast. Surrounding resorts close by include Akbuk, Mavişehir, Yeşilkent, and Yeşiltepe. Each offers its own character and can be easily visited during your stay, giving you a chance to explore different parts of this beautiful coastline.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Local Customs and Etiquette

While Altinkum has a strong international influence, respecting Turkish customs enhances your experience. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases goes a long way, and locals appreciate the effort. In Didim especially, you'll have more opportunities to practice Turkish and experience authentic local culture.

Stray Animals

Altinkum does have a stray dog population, which is common in many Turkish resorts. There is a shelter that always accepts volunteers who want to help. Many visitors find the local animals friendly, but it's worth being aware of this aspect of the resort.

Best Times to Visit

While July and August offer the hottest weather and most vibrant atmosphere, they also bring the largest crowds. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in May, June, September, or October when the weather is still excellent but the resort is less crowded.

Why Altinkum Appeals to Different Types of Visitors

Altinkum's unique character—combining modern resort amenities with traditional Turkish culture—makes it appealing to different types of visitors. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly beach holiday, interested in exploring ancient history, or looking to experience authentic Turkish culture, Altinkum offers something for everyone.

The resort's dual nature means you can enjoy familiar comforts when you want them, while also having easy access to authentic Turkish experiences. This balance makes Altinkum particularly attractive to first-time visitors to Turkey who might feel more comfortable starting with a resort that offers both international and Turkish options.

26/04/2020