Written by Missy Johnston

Datca, Turkey at Sunrise

Datca, Turkey at Sunrise

The best way to experience this stone-paved fairytale of a town on the peninsula of Datca, Turkey is with a private luxury yacht charter, with your own captain, chef, and crew. This small port town in southwestern Turkey is positioned on the Datca Peninsula and is most accessible from the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The picturesque views of the town with bougainvillea-covered walls and ancient Greek ruins are reasons enough to book this charter, but this sleepy little town has many other things to do and see.

When you dock in the bay of Datca, one of the first things you will want to do is take a walk around Kumluk Yolu (translates to “Sandy Way”). This brick-lined pedestrian walkway winds along the main stretch of the town, giving you perfect views of the sea and town. Restaurants are conveniently located along the path to satisfy your appetite as you stroll.

Old Datca Streets, Turkey

Old Datca Streets, Turkey

If you prefer to eat in Datca, you will find delicious local fare combining the flavors of the sea with local and international cuisines. If you want a wonderful blend of Turkish and Mediterranean fare, you’ll want to try Sarihos. For more modern cuisine, Culinarium offers an array of European dishes such as steak, saffron ravioli, and homemade ice cream. 

For upscale dining with a killer view, try the D-Hotel’s Zuma. This gorgeous venue high above the cliffs features Japanese cuisine made by chefs at the robata grill. Enjoy dishes such as miso-marinated black cod or ribeye steak with wafu sauce and a cocktail as you watch the boats sail past the peninsula.

Colorful streets of Old Datca, Turkey

Colorful Old Datca, Turkey

For a bit of culture and a short excursion outside of town, cruise into a nearby ancient harbor to see the ruins of Knidos. Here you can explore the ancient ruins of the Greek City in Caria, which was at one time partly on the mainland and partly on the island connected by the causeway. The site is open to explore during the week. You can see the small amphitheatre and then walk by the stoa with reconstructed columns. In front of the stoa are the ruins of the Temple of Dionysus. And if you are in the mood for a hike, the remains of several more temples and altars are located up the ancient road before you reach a spectacular view of the surrounding islands.

Amphitheater of Knidos in Datca, Turkey

Amphitheater of Knidos in Datca, Turkey

Datca is a beautiful little gem best encountered  by sea. Your luxury yacht charter is the perfect way to cruise into port in style. Let us design a customized itinerary for  sightseeing, shopping, fine dining, nightlife, or enjoying the beautiful beaches. Whatever you want to experience, we can plan the perfect vacation for you on your luxury yacht.