Altinkum Travel Guide

Located on Turkey's picturesque south Aegean coast, Altinkum is a charming resort town, similar to its larger neighbours, Bodrum and Kusadasi, which are popular among British package tourists. However, unlike these bustling destinations, Altinkum offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for families with young children or anyone seeking a peaceful beach holiday.

The town's main allure lies in its three expansive, golden sandy beaches that stretch along a gently sloping bay, from the small harbour at one end to a rocky cliff at the other. It's no surprise that 'Altinkum' translates to 'golden sands', reflecting its beautiful coastline.

This laid-back resort is perfect for those who want to unwind by the sea. Visitors can indulge in a variety of water sports or enjoy the casual vibe of its beachside restaurants and bars, many of which cater to British tastes. For history enthusiasts, Altinkum is conveniently located near two major ancient sites: the Temple of Apollo in Didyma and the vast Roman ruins of Ephesus.

Shopping

Altinkum offers a vibrant shopping scene, where visitors will find a wide array of souvenir shops, jewellery stores, and boutiques offering designer knock-offs. Bargaining is part of the fun, so travellers should be sure to hone their haggling skills!

Restaurants

Altinkum boasts a variety of excellent restaurants, serving both international and local cuisines, with Turkish and traditional British dishes being particularly popular among holidaymakers. With so many dining options, it's difficult to pick just one, but for a taste of home, Ali Baba's Restaurant stands out for its friendly service, great prices and high-quality food. For those eager to sample Turkish flavours, Barney's Restaurant is renowned for introducing visitors to the rich tastes of local cuisine.

Nightlife

While Altinkum's nightlife is more low-key than larger Turkish resorts, there's still plenty of fun to be had. The main nightlife hub is Dolphin Square and the bars lining the seafront promenade, where visitors can enjoy everything from karaoke and belly dancing to disco dancing and pool. During the summer, Medusa, an open-air nightclub, is Altinkum's hottest party spot, drawing a lively crowd.

Holiday activities

For those who want to relax, Altinkum's sandy beaches offer plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, and the calm, turquoise waters make it an ideal spot for safe swimming. Active beachgoers can try windsurfing, jet-skiing, pedal boating, or a thrilling banana boat ride. Scuba diving lessons are also available for those looking to explore beneath the waves.

In addition to beach activities, visitors can embark on boat trips, sightseeing tours, or excursions to nearby resorts, islands and historic sites. The convenient dolmus (mini-bus) service makes it easy to visit places such as the Roman ruins of Ephesus, the Pamukkale travertine terraces or the bustling resorts of Kusadasi and Bodrum. For a peaceful afternoon, a stroll around the scenic Bafa Lake offers a calm escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.

Any negatives?

While Altinkum remains a tranquil haven for much of the year, it can get quite crowded during the peak summer period, particularly in August, when local Turkish families take their summer holidays. Visitors should expect higher tourist traffic and crowded beaches during this time. Temperatures in the summer months can soar, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), so visitors should be prepared for intense heat.