Dalaman international airport on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey is one of three top touristic airports. Every year, two terminals run domestic and international flights that accommodate millions of air travel passengers living and holidaying in the Mugla province. Currently running flights to more than 120 destinations worldwide, Dalman first opened its doors in 1981 and covers 6 million square metres. To prove the efficiency of this award-winning airport, we only need to look at the stats that say it can handle up to 35 flights at any point in time. If you are holidaying on the Mediterranean coast or plan to buy a home there, you will most likely use Dalaman airport at some time, so let us look at what you need to know.
Air passengers can expect a healthy range of shopping and dining facilities through the check-in, car park, domestic and international terminals. There are five shopping points and 15 places to eat, including well-known brands like KFC, McDonald's, and Burger King. Additionally, there are also two lounges. CIP lounge is in international and domestic, and reservations can be made online via the official Dalaman website. Services included are snacks, hot and cold drinks, wi-fi, a workstation and a playground. Alcoholic beverages are extra.
Dalaman airport also operates a fast-track service for arriving and departing guests, also bookable on their website at an extra fee. This includes separate security checks; priority passes through passport control lanes, and check-in assistance service. In addition, Dalaman airport is disabled friendly and operates the sunflower badge scheme to give more support and time to people with difficulties. The badge can be obtained from the information desk. Wi-fi is also available in the departure areas after passport control. Lastly, please follow the airports latest advice for COVID social distancing and mask-wearing.
In front of the terminal, there is a 24-hour taxi service running to all major areas. Ask for the price before agreeing to get in. Otherwise, you can book private shuttle transfers with many tour operators in all the major holiday resorts. Havas bus services run to Marmaris and the Fethiye areas and drivers will stop at most points if given a warning. The Muttas service also runs to Fethiye, Marmaris and Datca. Otherwise, six rent-a-car companies offer good discounts and deals.
Fethiye: This delightful collection of small holiday resorts and a major city centre forms a region that lures people back year after year. Popular resorts include Calis beach, Oludeniz, Ovacik and Hisaronu. Fethiye is known for its many landmarks of natural beauty, including the Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley and Saklikent gorge. It also delivers many historical sites, including Kayakoy Ghost Village and Tlos ancient ruins. Discover more about Fethiye.
Dalyan: Ah, welcome to the home of mud baths and the blue crab. Everyone who comes across Dalyan instantly falls in love with the rustic vibes, the dramatic Lycian rock tombs and the Dalyan delta. Dalyan is also home to Iztuzu beach, which is one of the best in Turkey. We strongly recommend that at some point, you rent a private villa and spend a week in Dalyan getting to know it.
Dalaman: Although it is not one of the most popular holiday resorts, Dalaman is home to many expats who enjoy the agricultural background and places of natural beauty. The Akkaya lake district is particularly popular with those who love the great outdoors and want to commission their villa to be built in spectacular scenery.
Gocek: On Turkey's Mediterranean coast, Gocek earns fame as a sailing and yachting hub. Six marinas and the upmarket lifestyle perfectly portray the beauty of the Turkish riviera. Sitting just a 30-minute drive from Dalaman airport, many foreigners also own marina property there. Once again, it is a small town but offers a great base from which to explore the surrounding coastline.
Marmaris region: Sitting on the edge of the Aegean and Mediterranean, Marmaris has expanded to become a popular holiday and expat destination. Set among a backdrop of pine covered hills, Marmaris has also earned a solid reputation for sailing excellence. The main things to do in the resort is beaches and waterparks, but tour operators sell a variety of day trip to other landmarks in and around Dalman international airport.