Icmeler holidays

How to reach İçmeler

• Flight time: Flights to Dalaman from Dublin take about 4 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: The journey from Dalaman Airport to İçmeler takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by taxi. Muttaş and Havaş buses connect with the main bus terminal in Marmaris. From here, you'll need to change to a service to İçmeler, adding 20 minutes to your travel time.

• Price: Taxi fare will come in around TRY2,000 (€45). The bus trip to Marmaris costs around TRY200 (€5) with both Havaş and Muttaş. A dolmuş on to İçmeler will cost around TRY30 (€0.70).

Weather and best time to visit İçmeler

The best time for your İçmeler holidays depends on whether you prefer hot, sunny days for beach time or milder temperatures for exploring.

• April to June can be a Goldilocks period, with low precipitation, plenty of sunshine and temperatures ranging from an outdoorsy 22°C to a beach-going 32°C.

• July to August is perfect for serious sunseekers. With the mercury rising to around 35°C and sea temperatures in the low to mid-20s, this is the time to hit the beach. Just be prepared to share your stretch of sand, as this is the busiest time of year.

• September to October sees temperatures dip into the high 20s, still perfect for the beach but cool enough for day trips to nearby attractions.

• November to March brings a further drop in temperatures, from 22°C to around 16°C, and an uptick in rain, with December averaging 230mm for the month. With most hotels, restaurants and bars shutting in October and November, İçmeler is not far off a ghost town out of season.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Turkish is the official language. Most locals can speak a little English, but a phrase book or translation app will be helpful.

• Currency: The Turkish Lira is the local currency.

• Getting around: Dolmuş minibuses and water taxis are the most popular ways to travel locally, with frequent, inexpensive services to Marmaris and Turunç available. However, a hire car may be handy if you intend to explore further afield. Be prepared for narrow roads in the countryside.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 220V (frequency 50Hz). Turkey uses type C and F plug sockets.

• Time zone: Turkey is 3 hours ahead of Irish time year-round.

Best things to do in ƒ∞şmeler

Nestled along Turkey's stunning Turquoise Coast, ƒ∞şmeler holidays are guaranteed to recharge your batteries: loaf on the beach, get active outdoors or dip in and out of bustling Marmaris or sleepy Turunş.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• ƒ∞şmeler Beach Promenade: Some of the best views are at vantage points along the coastal promenade between ƒ∞şmeler and Marmaris.

• ƒ∞şmeler Aşıklar Tepesi: On the outskirts of ƒ∞şmeler, this is a romantic spot to soak in the scenery, rugged mountains, pine-clad hills, calm blue sea and the Greek island of Rhodes in the distance.

The best districts

• ƒ∞şmeler Old Town: Tucked back towards the mountains and centred around the old mosque, this quiet neighbourhood is more traditional with terracotta-roofed stone buildings, a refreshing change of pace from ƒ∞şmeler's purpose-built resort areas.

Parks and gardens

• Atatürk Science and Education Park: The perfect place to escape the day's heat, this shady park is truly lovely, with winding paths, water features and loads of interactive activities for kids.

Museums

• Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum: A 15- to 20-minute drive away in Marmaris, the castle is the perfect showcase for limestone statuettes, baked clay figurines, amphorae, tombstones and other finds from nearby archeological sites.

• Marmaris Bal Evi: There's no better place to learn about all things bee – the Muğla Province is famous for producing pine honey – than this niche museum in nearby Osmaniye village.

Historical monuments

• Amos: A settlement of ancient Caria near Turunş, there's not a tremendous amount to see beyond some defensive walls and a hillside amphitheatre, but the views over the water are stunning.

Day trips in the area

• Dalyan: Set on the river of the same name, Dalyan offers everything from cliff-cut tombs to therapeutic mud baths and loggerhead turtles.

• Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island): Said to be a gift from Mark Antony to Cleopatra, this tiny island packs a punch with its seashell beach, endemic plants and age-old ruins.

Activities for families in ƒ∞şmeler

ƒ∞şmeler is brilliant for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and parents will enjoy.

• Family-friendly beaches: ƒ∞şmeler's main beach is ideal for families. The gentle shelf means the water deepens gradually, making it safe for young children. There are plenty of water sports at hand, too, for older kids.

• Playgrounds: Atatürk Science and Education Park isn't the only game in town; there are basic but colourful playgrounds at Cumhuriyet, 75th Anniversary and 19 Mayıs parks.

• Waterparks: Aqua Dream Waterpark and Atlantis Water Park in Marmaris offer chutes, slides, wave pools and kids' areas.

• Boat tours: The next best thing to a trip to an aquarium, kids can have a close encounter with marine life on a glass-bottomed boat tour, with stops for swimming and snorkelling.

Free things to do in ƒ∞şmeler

Enjoying ƒ∞şmeler doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag, whether you stick to sunning on the local beaches or tool up and down the coast.

• Annual festivals: Regattas, parades, concerts and street performances – the Marmaris Maritime and Spring Festival is held in May.

• Free events: Many hotels have entertainment programmes, with live music and shows in the evenings.

• Explore ƒ∞şmeler by water taxi: This is one of the loveliest ways to explore the coast. Between May and October, boats for Marmaris and Turunş depart from the jetty halfway along ƒ∞şmeler Beach. One-way tickets cost about TRY200 (€5).

• Beaches: ƒ∞şmeler Beach is divided into public and private areas. If you'd prefer not to slum it with a towel, sunbeds and brollies are free to use if you order from the nearby bars.

Wellness in ƒ∞şmeler

• Spas and thermal baths: Many of ƒ∞şmeler's hotels offer spa facilities that include steam rooms, thermal baths and soothing massages. For a truly indulgent experience, try a thermal circuit, which allows you to relax in different temperature pools for ultimate relaxation.

• Traditional body care: A visit to a Turkish hammam (bathhouse) is a must. Here, you can experience a traditional kese scrub and foam massage.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The hills surrounding ƒ∞şmeler offer scenic trails with breathtaking views over the bay and surrounding pine forests. If you're up to a bit of a challenge, you can trek across the mountain to Turunş.

• SUP: Paddleboard rentals are available along the beach, but if you'd prefer not to go solo, local outfits also run paddleboarding tours.

• Scuba diving: With excellent visibility and reef and cave dive sites to explore, ƒ∞şmeler has plenty to offer both beginners and experienced divers.

• Jeep safaris: If dry land is more your style, a jeep safari is a fun way to discover the countryside around ƒ∞şmeler. These tours often include off-road trails and stops at picturesque villages, waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, making for an exciting day out.

Beaches to enjoy on ƒ∞şmeler holidays

ƒ∞şmeler holidays are a paradise for beach lovers, offering a picturesque coastline where golden sands meet the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera. Whether you're looking for a lively day by the sea, thrilling water sports, or peaceful hidden spots, ƒ∞şmeler's beaches provide something for everyone.

• ƒ∞şmeler Beach: The town's main beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand, framed by lush green hills and calm, clear waters. Perfect for families, the beach's shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, while the promenade offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops for a full day of relaxation.

• Water sports and activities: ƒ∞şmeler Beach is also a hub for water sports. From jet skiing and parasailing to paddleboarding, there's no shortage of adventure for thrill-seekers looking to make the most of the sparkling Mediterranean waters.

• Secluded coves: For those seeking tranquillity, the edges of ƒ∞şmeler Beach and the nearby hidden coves provide quieter, more private spots. These are perfect for couples or anyone looking to unwind away from the main beach's activity.

• Turunş Beach: A short boat ride from ƒ∞şmeler, Turunş Beach offers a peaceful escape with its Blue Flag status, crystal-clear waters, and stunning surroundings. It's ideal for snorkelling, swimming, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere.

• Cleopatra Island: Accessible via boat trips from ƒ∞şmeler, Cleopatra Island features soft white sands and pristine waters. Steeped in legend and natural beauty, it's a great option for combining relaxation with a touch of history.

Whether you're basking on ƒ∞şmeler Beach or exploring the nearby coves and islands, the beaches in and around ƒ∞şmeler promise a memorable holiday experience on Turkey's dazzling Turquoise Coast.

Local dishes in ƒ∞şmeler

One of the joys of holidays to ƒ∞şmeler is sampling the delicious array of Turkish and Aegean dishes on offer, from fresh seafood to mouth-watering meze.

Some typical dishes

• Menemen: Scrambled until just set with tomatoes, peppers and spices, Turkish scrambled eggs may be the perfect start to the day.

• Köfte: Usually made from lamb or beef (though there are veggie versions), these patties come in all shapes and sizes and can be fried, stewed or grilled.

Meze dishes

• Çöp şiş: This kebab is made with lamb scraps and fat, marinated olive oil, oregano and pepper.

• Kalamar Tava: Squid rings, soaked in milk, then lightly battered and fried. This appetiser is usually served with a garlic yoghurt dip.

Meat dishes

• Çökertme kebabı: Crispy fried potatoes loaded with seasoned beef, a tomato sauce and a garlicky yoghurt.

• Kuzu Tandır: Fall-off-the-bone tender lamb slowly roasted in its juices.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Levrek Izgara: This is grilled sea bass, cooked with just a touch of lemon and olive oil to let the natural flavours shine.

• Ahtapot: Grilled, baked or cooked in a Güveş (a traditional earthenware pot), no matter how it's prepared, octopus is a must-try when in the Aegean region.

Street food

• Pide: In a nutshell, Turkish pizza. Leavened dough topped with meat, vegetables and cheese traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven.

• Midye dolma: Stuffed with rice, herbs, nuts and spices, these plump mussels are irresistibly snackable.

Sweets and desserts

• Baklava: A classic dessert, layers of flaky pastry filled with nuts and soaked in syrup.

• Dondurma: With an unusual chewy texture, this isn't your run-of-the-mill ice cream.

Local drinks

• Çay: Served in tulip-shaped glasses, this strong black tea pairs well with meze or sweets.

• Ayran: Slightly salty, this yoghurt-based drink is perfect with traditional dishes and street food.