Didim and the surrounding area link three of the most important settlements of antiquity, each around half an hour from the next: Didyma, Miletus and Priene. You can fit all three into a single day, but choosing the right order and season is what makes the trip enjoyable.
Didyma and the Temple of Apollo
Didim's modern name comes from the ancient sanctuary of Didyma. At the heart of the site, the Temple of Apollo, with its giant columns and stonework, is the symbol of the region. The temple stands within the town itself; being within walking distance of the bus station and the coast makes it the ideal first stop of your trip.
Mornings are ideal for a visit: there is little shade at the site, and the light is softer for photographs. Opening hours change with the season, so it is a good idea to check the latest information before you go.
Miletus and Priene: Two Stops on the Same Day
Miletus lies on the Great Meander (Buyuk Menderes) plain, near today's village of Balat. The theatre of Miletus, a port city in antiquity, is far larger than you might expect at first sight and is the most impressive structure on the site. Priene, near Gullubahce, is known for its regular street grid laid out on a hillside; it is of special interest to anyone who wants to see an ancient example of town planning.
Priene is on a slope, so the walk is a little tiring; comfortable shoes and water are a must. If you want to combine your sightseeing with a beach day, take a look at our guide to Didim's beaches too. If you are fitting all three sites into one day, visiting them in the order Didyma → Miletus → Priene makes it easier to get back to the centre at the end of the day. If you have time, you can add the area around Lake Bafa to the route.
Lake Bafa and Herakleia
If you would like to add one more stop to your route of ancient sites, the area around Lake Bafa is a good choice. The ancient city of Herakleia, in the lakeside village of Kapikiri, was built at the foot of the Latmos mountains; with its rocky scenery and lakeshore setting, it has a different atmosphere from the other three sites.
Lake Bafa is about an hour's drive from Didim, and public transport there is limited. If you are thinking of adding this stop, start the day early and leave plenty of time before your return.
Tips for Visiting the Ancient Sites
- Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, both for the temperature and for the crowds.
- Shade is limited; take a hat, water and sunscreen with you.
- The ground at the sites is stony; wear shoes with non-slip soles.
- The Museum Pass and entry fees can change; check the latest information before your visit.
- Plan your return coach so that it leaves at least an hour after you expect to finish your visit.
