Zara

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Zara's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Ancient Ruins
morning
:

Visit the ancient city of Ephesus to witness incredible structures like the Library of Celsus. Spend time walking through the well-preserved ruins to get a sense of history.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby House of Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine. Stroll through the old town for a charming evening atmosphere.

day 2
Beach Day Bliss
morning
:

Start your day at Cesme Beach, soaking up the sun and swimming in the clear waters. Rent a beach chair for a comfortable spot to relax.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shops and grab a refreshing drink at a beachside café. Try some local seafood for lunch while taking in the ocean views.

evening
:

Watch the sunset from the beach, capturing stunning pictures of the coastline. Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant with live music for a festive end to the day.

day 3
Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a guided hike in the beautiful ‘Ilıca Waterfalls’ area. Enjoy the pristine nature and perhaps have a morning picnic near the falls.

afternoon
:

Experience paragliding over the stunning landscapes for a thrilling adventure. Appreciate the breathtaking views from above for a truly memorable experience.

evening
:

Relax with a visit to a local thermal spa to unwind after an active day. Share your experiences over dinner at a cozy restaurant in the area.

day 4
Wine Tasting Experience
morning
:

Visit local vineyards in the surrounding area for a wine-tasting tour. Learn about the winemaking process and taste some exquisite local wines.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard bistro, pairing food with your favorite wines. Take a stroll through the vines and appreciate the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Dine at a fine dining restaurant that specializes in local dishes paired with wines. Savor the flavors while soaking in the ambiance of the local culture.

day 5
Fishing Village Tour
morning
:

Explore the quaint fishing village of Alaçatı. Visit local markets and get a feel for the traditional coastal culture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a seafood restaurant overlooking the marina. Explore more of the village, wandering through narrow streets and enjoying local shops.

evening
:

Relax by the harbor, watching boats come in as the sun sets. Have dinner at a place recommended by locals for an authentic experience.

day 6
Historical Castle Visit
morning
:

Visit the Cesme Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning ocean views. Take time to learn about its history through the on-site museum.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the gardens of the castle and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cafe nearby. Continue your exploration by visiting nearby art galleries.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner in the town's lively square, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere. Sample local delicacies and perhaps join in on some cultural entertainment.

day 7
Water Sports Extravaganza
morning
:

Start your day with some water sports, such as jet-skiing or paddleboarding. Feel the thrill and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a beach bar, savoring light bites and drinks. Try your hand at windsurfing or kiteboarding as the wind picks up.

evening
:

Wind down with a sunset cruise along the coast. Indulge in a seafood barbecue dinner onboard, accompanied by lovely views.

day 8
Shopping and Culture
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting local markets and shops in Zara. Look for handmade crafts and souvenirs to bring home.

afternoon
:

Take a break at a local café to enjoy traditional Turkish coffee. Visit a cultural center or museum to learn about local history.

evening
:

Dine at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the town. Enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Turkish dishes while soaking in the ambiance.

day 9
Sunset and Starlight
morning
:

Start with a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation. Spend the morning at a nearby beach, swimming and lounging under the sun.

afternoon
:

Explore the coastal path on foot, taking in stunning views of the sea. Stop for lunch at a beachside café to recharge.

evening
:

Find a quiet spot for a picnic dinner while watching the sunset. Stay out to enjoy stargazing as the sky darkens, wrapping up a beautiful day.

day 10
Local Culture and Tradition
morning
:

Visit a local village market early to see the region's produce and crafts. Chat with local artisans and learn about their crafts.

afternoon
:

Take part in a traditional Turkish cooking class to learn how to make classic dishes. Enjoy tasting your creations for lunch.

evening
:

Go to a folk dance performance to celebrate the local culture. Share your thoughts over a dinner at a restaurant offering a traditional menu.

Discover Zara

Read more in our Zara 2024 Travel Guide.

Zara Travel Guide