Datça Excursions from Marmaris

Early in the morning, a comfortable transfer will pick you up from your hotel. The coastal drive is a pleasure in itself, with the turquoise waters of the Aegean, green hills and stunning views of the Datça Peninsula drifting past your window. The journey sets the mood and prepares you to meet a truly special place.

Datça greets you with a gentle, almost sleepy beauty. It has a lovely beach, crystal-clear water and an authentic centre with whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes and bougainvillea spilling everywhere. The local market, held on Saturdays, is especially charming. It is the living heart of the town, drawing locals and visitors alike.

The market is a real feast for the eyes and the taste buds. The stalls are piled high with fresh fruit and vegetables: tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet figs and fragrant herbs. You'll also find dried fruit, nuts, local honey with a delicate pine note, olives and their famous oil, which the vendors are happy to let you taste. Be sure to look at the cheeses and fresh pastries, as they carry the true flavour of the region.

Besides food, the market is known for its handicrafts. Traditional handmade Turkish rugs, all kinds of jewellery, ceramics and textiles make wonderful souvenirs and a little piece of Datça to take home with you. And spices and dried herbs such as paprika, cumin, oregano and thyme will fill your home with the scents of Turkey long after you return.

The atmosphere of the market is warm and welcoming. Vendors gladly tell you about their goods, offer you treats and are happy to answer questions. It's easy to swap a few Turkish phrases here and experience the famous hospitality of the locals.