The Didim district of Aydın, famous for its natural beauty, offers a rich environment with different features: a clean sea, long beaches, lush nature, historical heritage, and wonderful sites to discover. Didim, with its low humidity and abundant fresh air, is one of the best destinations for those who are overwhelmed by the summer heat and seek a little calm.
Temple of Apollo
The city, also known as Didyma, is a holy temple. The Temple of Apollo, located within, is regarded as the most important ruin in this region. Didyma, one of the ancient centres of prophesy, is one of the best-preserved temples. Didyma means “twin” in Greek and is named after the twin gods Artemis and Apollo. The ancient port city of Miletus is also linked to the sacred path. Even Herodotus, known as the first historian, cites the origins of oracle at Didyma. The city, which was destroyed by the Persians in 494 BC, was rebuilt somewhat larger in 311 BC. The temple is a magnificent structure with the dimensions of a monumental building and a well-drawn layout. The ruins, one of the most significant sanctuaries from Ancient Greek and Roman times, is one of the most important attractions to see in Didim.
Miletus Archaelogical Site
Miletus, which is located in Balat Village, is an ancient port city. The historic city, also known as the ‘City of Philosophers,’ is located where the Büyük Menderes River flows into the sea. This city was initially settled during the Neolithic era, between 3500 and 3000 BC. Hippodamos, Tales, and Anaksimandros, one of the The Seven Sages of Antiquity, are known to have resided in this city. While the ancient city attracts with its surviving architecture, it is also a site that will stimulate your interest in history and philosophy. Many buildings, including Roman baths, a theatre, an agora, and a parliament building, may be explored in depth. The theatre carries traces of the culture of the Hellenistic period. It can host up to 15,000 spectators at the same time while yet retaining its majesty. The Miletos philosophical and scientific approach pioneered by Thales was significant in the advancement of the ancient Greek civilisation. While touring the ruins of the ancient city you will see the influence of multiple civilizations, including the Eastern Roman, Roman, Hellenistic, and Turkish eras.
Miletus museum
With the same ticket, you can visit the Miletus Museum after visiting the ancient city. After leaving the ancient city, a lovely seven-minute walk leads you to the museum. Earthenware, ornaments, and coins from several eras were discovered during excavations in the Miletus Ancient City. Along with Miletus, relics from the Temple of Apollo and the Ancient City of Priene can be found. Artefacts, including sarcophagi, columns, and inscriptions are displayed in the museum’s garden and greet visitors at the entrance.
Baths of Faustina
This historical bath is one kilometre away from the centre of Didim’s and can be reached after a further eight-minute walk from the Miletus Museum. The Baths were built for Faustina the Younger, wife of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. A statue of the River God Maendros was discovered in one of the bathing pools and is now on display in the Miletus Museum. The lion statue, which was used as a fountain at the head of the enormous pool, continues to astonish tourists in its unspoilt condition. The Baths of Faustina, with its mystical beauty, is one of Didim’s most popular historical sites.
Altınkum Beach
Altınkum, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean, is a popular destination. The beach’s reputation stems mainly from the prominence it affords water sports; it is ideal for activities like sailing, diving, and windsurfing. If you enjoy water sports, you should certainly visit this location. This lovely beach awaits you with its many shades of blue and white sand.
You can choose the best hotels near Altınkum Beach and enjoy your vacation for a long time.
Akbük Bay
Akbük Bay, 20 kilometres from Didim, is a lovely vacation destination. If you like to camp, this is one of the spots you should plan to visit, as it is a location that can satisfy the need for a peaceful vacation. The bay, also a popular site for tourists on a yachting vacation, is ideal for nature camping. Furthermore, the Greek Church and Chapel structures are among the places you should not miss for an opportunity to learn about the region’s history. Another of these is the historical water cistern, which serves Akbük’s water needs and dates from the Byzantine period. When visiting Akbük Bay, do not forget to stop at Kömür Island and Saplı Island.
Lake Bafa
Lake Bafa and its surroundings are on one of the alternative routes near Didim. It is a beautiful oasis 30 kilometres from Didim that you can reach in half an hour by car. This wonderful body of water, located on the slope of Beşparmak Mountain, features five small islands that can be explored by boat. Aside from being a getaway place for a day, this is a destination that needs to be explored thoroughly. Starting from Kapıkırı Village, you may explore the historical and natural wonders — it is especially good for trekking. If you come to the region in the autumn, you must plan to participate in the organic olive harvest — an entirely new experience. If you want to bring a different atmosphere to your sea holiday, Lake Bafa is a great option!
