The impressive ruins of this ancient city include a perfectly preserved theater, remnants of the old city walls, and an awe-inspiring acropolis with panoramic views over Kaunos. You can meander through the remains of a basilica, Roman baths, two Hellenistic temples, and four Roman temples, and see Lycian tombs etched into the cliffs near the Dalyan River, just a stone's throw away.
Kaunos is located just outside the modern resort town of Dalyan, separated from it by the river of the same name.
There is limited shade, so be sure to bring enough water and pack sunscreen.
Wear good walking shoes, as the ground is uneven and there's a bit of walking to do to explore the site.
There are a few explanatory boards around the ruins, in both Turkish and English, to explain the history of Kaunos.
Kaunos is easy to reach from Dalyan. The closest airport is the Dalaman Airport, located 17 miles (27 kilometers) away. You can get to Dalyan by public minibus or dolmus from either Marmaris, Fethiye, or Dalaman throughout the day. From Dalyan, you can then take a local rowing boat service, which takes you from the shores of the Dalyan side of the river over to the ruins.
The Turkish coast has a Mediterranean climate, so the dry, warm summer months are the best time to visit this ancient city (though they can be a little bustling, too). For a quieter and less crowded experience, try spring or fall, when the temperatures are still mild.
The temple tombs of Kaunos are a rare sight that should not be missed. Carved high up on the cliff-side, these stunning rock-cut graves are among more than 170 that form the necropolis. They date back to the mid-4th century BC and are likely the final resting places of royalty or aristocracy. The tombs are best seen from across the river, or from a boat as you cross from Dalyan.
