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Air Travel

Air Travel

Mediterranean Coast, Turkey

Airlines & Routes

Domestic Flights

Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet operate frequent domestic flights connecting Dalaman to major Turkish cities. These include Istanbul (Istanbul Airport - IST and Sabiha Gökçen Airport - SAW) and Ankara.

Connectivity

  • Connections are available for travelers coming from other parts of Turkey.
  • Useful for those with layovers in Istanbul for international arrivals.
  • Flight availability and prices vary seasonally.

International Flights

Many European airlines offer direct seasonal flights to Dalaman, typically from April to October. These include major carriers like easyJet, TUI, Jet2, British Airways, Lufthansa, and SunExpress.

Global Access

  • Direct routes connect from major European hubs like London, Manchester, and Amsterdam.
  • Flights from North America, Asia, or Australia usually require at least one connection.
  • Connections typically happen in Istanbul or a major European city.

Price Trends

High Season (June-August) sees the highest prices. Book flights well in advance.

Shoulder Season

April-May, September-October. Flight availability is good, prices are competitive.

Low Season

November-March. Direct international flights are limited. Prices are lowest.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Dalaman Airport Services

  • Duty-free shops for last-minute purchases.
  • Restaurants and cafes.
  • ATMs and currency exchange services.
  • Car rental agencies (international and local).

Transfer Options to Ölüdeniz

  • Havaş Shuttle Bus: Cost-effective from Dalaman Airport to Fethiye Otogar.
  • Shared Shuttle Services: Pre-book online for direct hotel drop-off (TRY 200-400 / USD 6-12 per person).
  • Private Taxi/Transfer: Direct, door-to-door service (TRY 1000-1500 / USD 30-47).
  • Car Rental: Agencies at Dalaman Airport for maximum flexibility.

Flight Planning Resources

Cheap Flights

Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.

Flight Comparison

Skyscanner for comparing airline options.

Visa Services

Consider IVisa or VisaHQ for visa application assistance.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

Fethiye Otogar (Bus Terminal) is the main hub for long-distance bus travel in the region. It is a modern facility. No train services connect to Fethiye or Ölüdeniz.

Major Companies & Routes

  • Reputable companies: Pamukkale Turizm, Kamil Koç, Metro Turizm, Anadolu Ulaşım.
  • Direct buses connect Fethiye to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Denizli (for Pamukkale), and Cappadocia.
  • Book tickets online, at the terminal, or through local travel agencies. Booking a day or two in advance is suggested.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for foreign nationals. The minimum driving age for most rentals is 21. A credit card for a deposit is typically needed.

Driving Information

  • Major international rental companies operate at Dalaman Airport and in Fethiye. Local Turkish companies offer competitive rates. Consider DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.
  • Roads around Ölüdeniz and to Fethiye are generally well-maintained. Rural roads can be winding.
  • Turkish drivers can be aggressive. Defensive driving is a good practice. Adhere to speed limits and avoid driving under the influence.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Scooters are a popular way to get around for shorter distances and are widely available for rent in Ölüdeniz and Hisarönü.

Rental Details

  • A motorcycle license (A class) is necessary for motorcycles. For scooters, a full car license (B class) might be accepted.
  • Helmets are typically provided and should always be worn. Insurance is important.
  • Roads can be busy, and Turkish drivers can be aggressive. Carefully check the vehicle's condition.

Cycling & Walking

Bicycle rentals are available from various shops in Ölüdeniz and Hisarönü. Most are mountain bikes or city bikes. Dedicated cycling paths are limited.

Navigation on Foot or Bike

  • The Ölüdeniz Promenade is pedestrian-friendly. Paths around the Blue Lagoon are pleasant for walking.
  • The Lycian Way offers day hikes, like the popular 5-7 km walk from Ölüdeniz to Kayaköy (2-3 hours).
  • No specific "no-go" areas. Avoid steep roads and heavy traffic for cycling. Unlit rural roads at night are not recommended for pedestrians.

Road Safety Reminders

  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits are enforced (50 km/h urban, 90 km/h rural, 120 km/h highways).
  • Drunk driving laws are strict (zero tolerance for commercial drivers).
  • Be aware of speed cameras.
  • Parking is challenging in Ölüdeniz center during peak season; seek designated paid lots.
  • Driving at night on unfamiliar roads is not recommended due to limited lighting.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Services

While Ölüdeniz lacks a major international port, nearby Fethiye acts as a gateway for sea travel, specifically for connections to the Greek islands, most notably Rhodes.

Fethiye Port Connections

  • High-speed catamaran services operate daily during the high season (April-October) to Rhodes.
  • The journey to Rhodes takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Companies like Tilos Travel and Sea Dreams run this route.
  • Fethiye is a port of call for some smaller cruise lines and traditional Turkish gulet cruises.

Immigration & Connections

For international ferry arrivals (e.g., from Rhodes), standard passport and visa checks occur at Fethiye Port. This process resembles airport immigration.

Post-Arrival Travel

  • Allow sufficient time for immigration procedures.
  • Fethiye Port is conveniently near Fethiye Otogar (bus terminal).
  • From the Otogar, easy connections to dolmuşes for Ölüdeniz, Hisarönü, and Ovacık are available.

River Travel

No significant river transportation options exist directly in Ölüdeniz. The Dalaman River mainly serves white-water rafting excursions.

Blue Cruises

Many multi-day gulet cruises, or "Blue Cruises," depart from Fethiye or nearby Göcek and Marmaris. These cruises present an experience of coastal Turkey from the sea.

Day Trips to Rhodes

The ferry connection to Rhodes makes a day trip or an extended visit to the Greek island a viable option for travelers.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied for departing Turkey from Dalaman Airport for international travelers. Any such fees are generally included in your airline ticket price.

Timing Recommendations

  • For international flights, arrive at Dalaman Airport at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours before departure is usually sufficient.
  • Online check-in often streamlines the airport process.

Airport Facilities

Dalaman Airport offers a range of facilities for departing passengers.

Available Services

  • Various cafes and restaurants for food and drink.
  • Duty-free stores for last-minute souvenirs, tobacco, and alcohol.
  • VIP lounges are available for eligible passengers.

Transfer to Airport

Travel Time

Allow approximately 1 hour for the transfer from Ölüdeniz to Dalaman Airport.

Buffer Time

Add buffer time for traffic or unexpected delays, especially during peak season.

Security Checks

Standard airport security checks apply. Electronics often need removal from bags.