Dalaman vs Antalya: Which Airport is Best for Your Turkey Holiday?

1 Şubat 2017 By Genel No Comments

Planning your Turkey holiday from the UK? Compare Dalaman and Antalya airports to choose the best one based on location, travel time, and convenience.

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey from the UK, one of the first decisions you’ll face is which airport to fly into: Dalaman or Antalya. Both are popular international airports located on Turkey’s southwestern coast and serve as gateways to the country’s most beautiful holiday spots. But which one is better for your travel plans?

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the best airport for your Turkey holiday.

1. Flight Availability from the UK

  • Dalaman Airport (DLM):
    Direct flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol, and more. Flights are frequent, especially between April and October.

  • Antalya Airport (AYT):
    More year-round flights due to its larger size and popularity with resort chains. Ideal for off-season travel.

✅ Winner for summer travel: Dalaman
✅ Winner for year-round options: Antalya

2. Distance to Key Holiday Destinations

Destination From Dalaman From Antalya
Fethiye ~45 min ~3.5 hrs
Ölüdeniz ~55 min ~3 hrs
Marmaris ~1.5 hrs ~4 hrs
Kas & Kalkan ~2 hrs ~3.5 hrs
Side & Alanya ~4 hrs ~1-2 hrs

✅ Winner for Fethiye region: Dalaman
✅ Winner for Alanya & Side: Antalya

3. Airport Size and Experience

  • Dalaman:
    Recently renovated with modern facilities. Smaller and easier to navigate, with shorter walking distances and less crowding.

  • Antalya:
    One of Turkey’s busiest airports. Efficient but can be crowded during peak season. Better duty-free and lounge options.

✅ Winner for speed and simplicity: Dalaman
✅ Winner for shopping & lounge access: Antalya

4. Transfer Options & Comfort

Whether you’re heading to your hotel or villa, transfer time matters.

At Premium VIP Transfer, we specialize in private, comfortable, and English-speaking transfers from Dalaman Airport to all major destinations including Fethiye, Ölüdeniz, Marmaris, Dalyan, Göcek, and more.

  • Dalaman offers shorter and more scenic transfer routes to Turkey’s southwest gems.

  • From Antalya, transfers to Fethiye area can take over 3 hours, often requiring a break.

✅ Winner for relaxing, short transfers: Dalaman

5. Best Airport for Your Holiday Type

Holiday Type Better Airport
Adventure & Nature Dalaman (Oludeniz, Dalyan, Saklikent)
Luxury & Yachting Dalaman (Gocek)
City + Beach Combo Antalya (Antalya City, Lara Beach)
Family Beach Holidays Both – depends on destination

Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re heading to Fethiye, Ölüdeniz, or Marmaris, and want a peaceful, scenic start to your holiday, Dalaman Airport is the clear choice.

If you’re looking for resorts near Side or Alanya or travelling outside peak season, Antalya might suit you better.

✅ Flying to Dalaman? Book your VIP transfer now at www.premiumviptransfer.co.uk for a stress-free arrival.

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