Datça, one of the most beautiful tourist districts of Muğla, Turkey, is built on a peninsula extending into the Aegean Sea. With its mountainous and rugged terrain, Datça is completely surrounded by the Aegean Sea. Archaeological excavations have revealed that Datça dates back to 2000 BC, with the ancient city of Knidos established there. The city later came under Hittite dominion and was captured by the Persians in 546 BC. Afterward, Datça was occupied by Alexander the Great and experienced the Roman Empire and Kingdom of Pergamon periods. Following the Byzantine era, it was annexed to the Menteşe Principality in the 13th century and became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century.
Datca Harbour view. Datca is populer tourist destination in Turkey.
Climate and Cuisine
This lovely town has a climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making it a comfortable destination to visit year-round. The average temperature throughout the year is around 19 degrees Celsius, making it very suitable for tourism. Local cuisine is based on fish and seafood, enriched by locally harvested vegetables and herbs. Regional specialties include snail dishes, carob, and various authentic flavors. Here, you can enjoy delicious treats like sakızlı muhallebi (gum mastic pudding), ütmek kavurması (a local dish), mürdümük, Bademli sultan dessert, and börülce (black-eyed peas).
Turkish Dessert Muhallebi Homemade Pudding.
Places to Visit
Amphitheater of ancient greek city knidos in Datca, Turkey.
The town, known for its mild climate and quieter atmosphere compared to other tourist locations, has become one of the most preferred destinations in the last decade. There are many important ancient cities and historical structures to visit in Datça, along with natural beauties and nightlife spots.
- Knidos Ancient City: Once a center of trade, culture, and art, this ancient city is located 38 kilometers from Datça.
- Old Datça: A haven for photography enthusiasts, Old Datça is adorned with flower-covered stone walls and streets, offering peaceful walks.
- Windmills: The Kızlan windmills of Datça, located just 8 kilometers away, can be visited on foot. Some of these stone windmills now serve as restaurants and are a must-see for photography enthusiasts.
- Aktur: In the blue-flagged Aktur area, you can swim in the sea or take a ferry tour.
- Ovabükü: Located 15 kilometers from the city center, Ovabükü stands out with its quiet geography and white stone beach.
- The Harbor: If you’re planning a blue cruise, be sure to visit Datça Harbor. You can rent houses near the harbor, join yacht tours, and visit the art gallery at the port.
- Kumlubük Bay
- Palamutbükü: Known for its olive and almond cultivation, Palamutbükü is one of the quietest tourist centers in the Aegean.
Palamutbükü, Datça
Festivals
The Almond Pilaf Festival, held on April 25, is a new event gaining interest. Other lively events include the flea market festival, Fancy Women’s Bicycle Tour, and the International Knidos Culture and Arts Festival.
How to Get There
You can reach Datça by a 1.5-hour road journey from the central area. Alternatively, you can take a 2-hour ferry ride from Bodrum or use Dalaman Airport.
