Things to do in Sarigerme

Ancient Ephesus tour with Virgin Mary House visit and lunch

It's home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis, and holds layers of history from the Bronze Age, Classical Greek and Roman times. On this full-day tour to the beautifully preserved site of the ancient city of Ephesus, it's easy to imagine the toga-clad crowds that filled the streets 2,000 years ago. One of our local expert guides, Ahmet, says, "my favourite spot in Ephesus is the Library of Celsus. Its soaring columns still radiate a sense of grandeur, offering a glimpse into what was once one of the greatest libraries of the Roman world – home to more than 12,000 scrolls.”When you arrive, you'll wander down marble-paved streets, gaze at mosaics in ancient Roman houses and see the once imposing buildings of the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Grand Theatre. As well gaining a wealth of knowledge from the museum there, your guide will explain the historical context and point out the most interesting features. After this, it's time for a buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant – the perfect chance to refuel before the next stop.Round things off with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a modest chapel with hundreds of years of history. The foundations date back to the 1st-century, when St John the Apostle supposedly carried Mary to her final resting place, here in the hills of Mount Koressos. Whether you follow any faith or none, there's an undeniable spirituality to this place that makes it a great spot for some quiet reflection at the end of your trip.

Tour of Oludeniz Beach, Babadag cable car and ghost town Kayakoy

The area around Fethiye is packed with intriguing sites and areas of outstanding natural beauty. On this full day tour, you'll visit the eerie ghost town of Kayakoy, ride the Babadag cable car and have time to relax and swim at Oludeniz's famous Blue Lagoon. Elif, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘From the top of Mount Babadag, you can see a beautiful stretch of the Turquoise Coast, including the curving beach and lagoon at Oludeniz, which you've just visited. Watch the paragliders gliding down to land near the beach.'You'll start the morning heading straight to Oludeniz. It's a small resort best known for the two-kilometre-long curl of beach that shelters the Blue Lagoon. Basking on the warm sand, your toughest decision is whether to paddle in the bay or the calmer, shallower lagoon. Next, you'll ride the Babadag cable car for stunning views from the mountaintop. You'll have time to get something to eat at the top, after which you'll head back down to Kayakoy, one of the best-preserved ghost villages in Turkey.Wander silent streets that bristled with life before the population abandoned them over a century ago. Peek into the tiers of roofless houses, see the little school, and visit the basilica – still decorated with old frescos. Elif says, ‘There are close to 1,000 deserted stone houses in Kayakoy, as well as churches and chapels, even a bakery. The Greek villagers who lived here – and called it Leivissi – were forced to flee after WWI, and no one replaced them.'

Half-day Dalyan visit with river boat cruise

Winding its way from Lake Koycegiz to the Agean, the River Dalyan is home to freshwater and loggerhead turtles. And with a little help from our local guide Gökhan, you might get to see both species on this trip. ‘Home to bubbling hot springs and one of Turkey's top beaches – Iztuzu Beach – this place is a paradise on earth,' says Gökhan.

Full-day Pamukkale and ancient Hierapolis tour

Pamukkale means 'cotton castle' in Turkish – and you'll soon see why as you set eyes upon this magical landscape. You'll also visit the adjacent ancient city of Hierapolis. Both are UNESCO-listed, so it's a two-in-one deal of Turkish historical gems.

Ancient Ephesus tour with ceramics centre and lunch

The ancient world comes to life during this excursion to Ephesus. The classical Greek city of Ephesus was the location of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Temple of Artemis. Gökhan, one of our expert local guides, says, "It's easy to imagine you're walking in the footsteps of the toga-clad crowds that chattered in the streets 2,000 years ago – the archaeological site of Ephesus is so well-preserved, you'll feel like you stepped back in time."You'll travel into sun-soaked hills and olive groves to discover one of the most extensive and complete archaeological sites in the world. On arrival at Ephesus, you'll wander down marble-paved streets, gaze at mosaics in ancient Roman houses and admire epoch-defining buildings such as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Grand Theatre. Your guide will explain the historical context and point out the most interesting features. You'll also walk through the museum here, too, which is filled with digital exhibits that're designed to help reimagine what Ephesus looked like back during its golden years. After this, it's time for a buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant – the perfect chance to refuel before the next stop.You'll round things off with a visit to a ceramics factory to see how Turkish pottery is made. Marvel at the precision of the master potter – working only by eye – as he decorates and paints traditional pieces. It's one of the best places to snap up some authentic souvenirs and support local livelihoods.

Dalyan riverboat tour with lunch and Iztuzu Beach visit

Surrounding yourself with natural beauty on a river cruise from Dalyan is a great way to unwind. One of Turkey's most pristine beaches is the destination, with stops at mud baths and a riverside restaurant en route. Ceren, one of our local guides, says, "Iztuzu Beach is also known as Turtle Beach because endangered loggerhead turtles nest here. It's a magical spot with very little human interference. The beach was all set to be developed with new resorts in the 1980s, but luckily conservation was prioritised."Sail down the Dalyan River on an eco-friendly boat – which doesn't harm marine life – and have fun smoothing on the anti-ageing clay at the mud baths. It's great for glowing skin, and it's believed that Cleopatra visited for a pampering soak in the mineral-rich liquid mud. Finish with a dip in the warm sulphur pool before gliding across the river for a freshly prepared lunch of local dishes. You'll then add a little history and culture to the mix, as you continue on the riverboat past Lycian Rock Tombs – dating back to 400BC – carved into the cliffs.As the river widens into a lagoon, you'll have the chance to spot birdlife before docking at Iztuzu Beach. This four-kilometre-long sweep of golden sand divides the river from the sea, a natural oasis that's a true haven for wildlife. Sheltered by mountains, the beach shelves gently into a calm bay, where an afternoon of pure relaxation beckons. Round off your day with the return relaxing river cruise to Dalyan.What is the itinerary for this experience? The itinerary for this experience is...- 7:45am to 8:30am – pick-up from your hotel - 8:30am to 9:30am – travel to Dalyan - 9:45am to 10:00am – river boat ride to mud baths and sulphur pool - 10:00am to 11:30am – free time at the mud baths - 11:30am to 11:45am – another short boat ride back to the other side of the river - 11:45am to 12:45pm – lunch at Paradise Restaurant (drinks cost extra)- 12:45pm to 1:45pm – river boat ride to Turtle Beach - 1:45pm to 3:00pm – free time at Turtle Beach - 3:00pm to 3:45pm – river boat ride back to Dalyan - 5:15pm to 5:30pm – arrive back at your accommodation Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day

Monster buggy, jet boat, and zipline experience with boat cruise and lunch

Get set for a trio of heart-pounding activities. After cruising across the reservoir on a river boat, dive into this three-in-one experience: tear up the terrain with a monster buggy ride, zoom across the water in a jet boat, and soar through the air on a thrilling zip-line. This fast-paced feast of activities is not for the faint-hearted. After all that action, you'll get to refuel with a buffet lunch then cruise further into the canyon on a boat trip.

Full-day 4x4 adventure with swimming and lunch from Sarıgerme

This action‑packed day shows off Turkey's gorgeous lake landscapes while keeping the fun factor front and centre. You'll head up to Radar Hill for sweeping views over Sarigerme, then check out the Kaunos Rock Tombs – carved around the 4th-century BC – before diving into a 4x4 water fight at Nasuh Dede. After cooling off, you'll explore Lake Akkopru, eat lunch and visit a waterfall with time for a swim. At Indos Camp, you'll jump into foam‑party fun, sip a cosy village tea, stop by ancient tombs and roll back to your hotel feeling happily worn out.

Fethiye VIP Sunset Yacht Cruise

A sunset boat trip on Turkey's glistening waters is one of the top things to do when you're on holiday here. And this adult-only cruise serves up a VIP experience with all the little luxuries you'd expect, alongside dinner, drinks and two swim stops. What's more, you won't be battling for space onboard, with a maximum of just eight guests.With the sea breeze in your hair, settle down on your sunbed and enjoy the sound of the waves. Take in the fabulous scenery along the coast as you soak up the afternoon sun. There'll be a short swim stop and ample time to relax, before dinner is served. Tuck into a first-class feast, washed down with selected drinks from the bar.The sunset will soon form your backdrop, and as the sky showcases its nightly display, you can either watch on deck or from the water. Take advantage of the calm, warm waters as night draws in – a perfect way to unwind. This cruise is the ideal option for those looking for a more exclusive and luxurious way to cruise the Turkish coast.

Gocek half-day Turkish market tour

Gocek is a typical coastal Turkish town known for its lively weekly market. After pick-up from your hotel, you'll set off on the scenic drive to Gocek while your guide sets the scene on what to expect. Once you arrive, they'll help you get your bearings, then it's time to immerse yourself in the market.It's a bustling atmosphere, with friendly locals welcoming tourists and families to enjoy the stalls, but it's not overwhelming like some markets can feel. You'll spend the morning browsing stalls piled high with aromatic spices and a myriad of local wares, like ceramics, scarfs and jewellery.There are plenty of stalls offering samples of their tasty treats, from fresh fruits to olives and cheese. Kids will be mesmerised by the vendors rolling out the dough and making gozleme – a Turkish savoury flatbread filled with a combo of cheese, meats, potatoes and spinach – make sure you grab a taste. . There's time to revel in the charm of this Turkish town and check out the palm-lined harbour before returning to base in the early afternoon.

VIP Yacht Cruise from Fethiye

With the sea breeze in your hair, settle down on your sunbed and enjoy the sound of the waves. This VIP yacht experience promises all the little luxuries you'd expect on board an exclusive cruise. With a maximum of 10 passengers on board, you're guaranteed a cozy and personal experience. Relax on your own sun bed between swim stops, make the most of the all-inclusive bar and take in the fabulous scenery of the Turkish coast.The tour includes three swim stops at Boncuklu Bay, Turunç Bay, and Aquarium Bay, where you can swim and snorkel in the limpid waters. Enjoy a delicious lunch of Turkish meze and all-inclusive beer, wine, soft drinks, and hot beverages throughout the day.This adults-only tour offers a more intimate and refined experience than larger boats. It's the perfect option for those looking for a more exclusive and luxurious way to cruise the Turkish coast. So get settled on deck and enjoy a trip designed with relaxation, scenery, and indulgence in mind.

Dalaman Airport VIP service and lounge from Sarigerme area

Travel in style with the full VIP service at Dalaman airport. Avoid all the usual hassle as you're fast tracked through check in and security to enjoy unlimited drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi and more in the exclusive departure lounge. An altogether more relaxed way to round off your stay.