Fethiye Turkey: Fethiye, a gem on Turkey’s southwestern coast, offers a plethora of activities for travelers seeking history, adventure, and relaxation. From exploring ancient ruins to indulging in Turkish cuisine, here are the top 15 things to do in Fethiye:
1. Explore the Lycian Rock Tombs
Step back in time as you marvel at the ancient Lycian Rock Tombs carved into the cliffsides overlooking Fethiye. Dating back to the Lycian period, these architectural marvels offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and can be easily reached on foot from the Old Town.
Location: Amyntas Rock Tombs, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla
2. Relax at Ölüdeniz Beach
Unwind on the pristine shores of Ölüdeniz Beach, renowned for its turquoise waters and picturesque surroundings. Spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming in the lagoon, or exploring the vibrant beachfront restaurants and clubs.
Location: Ölüdeniz Beach, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla
3. Visit the Blue Lagoon
Adjacent to Ölüdeniz Beach lies the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon, a protected nature reserve famous for its tranquil ambiance and stunning shades of blue. Whether you lounge on the sands or snorkel in the clear waters, a visit to the Blue Lagoon is a must.
Location: Mavi Lagün, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla
4. Take a Boat Tour
Embark on a leisurely boat tour to explore Fethiye’s scenic coastline, hidden coves, and picturesque islands. Choose from a variety of tours, including full-day excursions and sunset cruises, for an unforgettable maritime adventure.
5. Paraglide over Ölüdeniz
Experience the thrill of paragliding from above Ölüdeniz Beach, soaring through the sky with panoramic views of the coastline below. With experienced instructors and breathtaking scenery, paragliding offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure like no other.
6. Hike the Lycian Way
Follow in the footsteps of ancient traders on the Lycian Way, Turkey’s first long-distance hiking trail. Stretching over 500 kilometers along the rugged coastline, this trail offers hikers the chance to explore remote villages, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes.
7. Visit Saklıkent Gorge
Escape the summer heat by venturing into the cool depths of Saklıkent Gorge, one of Turkey’s deepest canyons. Hike along wooden walkways, wade through icy streams, and marvel at the towering cliffs that surround you in this natural wonder.
Location: Saklikent Gorge, 48850 Muğla
8. Explore Kayaköy
Explore the eerie ruins of Kayaköy, a deserted village nestled in the hills above Fethiye. Once home to a vibrant community, Kayaköy now stands as a haunting reminder of the region’s history, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.
Location: Kayaköy, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla
9. Shop at Paspatur Bazaar
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Paspatur Bazaar, Fethiye’s charming old town market. Browse through colorful textiles, handcrafted souvenirs, and aromatic spices as you soak in the sights and sounds of this bustling marketplace.
Location: Paspatur Çarşısı, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla
10. Relax in a Turkish Bath
Indulge in a luxurious spa experience at one of Fethiye’s traditional Turkish baths, known as hammams. Treat yourself to a steam bath, invigorating scrub, and relaxing massage for the ultimate pampering session.
11. Explore Fethiye Museum
Dive into the region’s rich history at Fethiye Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts spanning various periods of antiquity. From intricately carved sarcophagi to delicate pottery, the museum offers valuable insights into the area’s cultural heritage.
Location: Fethiye Müzesi, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla
12. Sample Turkish Cuisine
Indulge in the flavors of Turkey at Fethiye’s many restaurants and eateries, where you can savor traditional dishes such as kebabs, mezes, and fresh seafood. Don’t miss out on trying baklava, a sweet treat beloved by locals and visitors alike.
13. Attend a Turkish Night
Experience the vibrant culture of Turkey at a traditional Turkish night show, featuring live music, folk dances, and delicious cuisine. With colorful costumes and lively performances, Turkish nights offer an entertaining glimpse into the country’s heritage.
14. Go Scuba Diving
Discover the underwater wonders of Fethiye with a scuba diving excursion, exploring colorful reefs, marine life, and ancient shipwrecks. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, Fethiye offers dive sites suitable for all skill levels.
15. Visit Butterfly Valley
Escape to the natural oasis of Butterfly Valley, a secluded paradise nestled between towering cliffs along the coast. Accessible only by boat or hike, this tranquil haven offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant flora and fauna.
Bonus: Have a Budget-Friendly Beach Day at Çalış Beach
Relax on the sandy shores of Çalış Beach, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and scenic views. With its affordable amenities and laid-back vibe, Çalış Beach is the perfect spot for a budget-friendly day by the sea.
Day Trips from Fethiye: Kas, Turkey
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Fethiye to Kas, Turkey, where you’ll discover a world of stunning coastal landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultural experiences. Located just a scenic drive away from Fethiye, Kas offers an array of exciting day trip opportunities. The journey itself is a feast for the senses, with panoramic views of turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and lush green hillsides stretching as far as the eye can see. Along the way, you’ll pass charming villages, olive groves, and citrus orchards, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this picturesque region of Turkey.
Upon reaching Kas, you’ll be greeted by a charming seaside town steeped in history and culture. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and bohemian vibe, Kas is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation. For history enthusiasts, we recommend a visit to the ancient city of Antiphellos. Perched on a hillside overlooking the town, this archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into Kas’s rich past.
Whether you prefer secluded coves, sandy shores, or rocky cliffs, Kas offers a variety of pristine beaches to choose from, each offering crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Day Trips from Fethiye: Demre, Turkey
Upon reaching Demre, you’ll discover a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks waiting to be explored. Start your day trip with a visit to the ancient city of Myra, an archaeological site renowned for its well-preserved Lycian rock-cut tombs and Roman-era ruins. Wander through the ancient streets, marvel at the intricate carvings and reliefs adorning the tombs, and imagine life in this ancient city centuries ago.
One of the highlights of any visit to Demre is the Church of St. Nicholas, also known as the Church of Santa Claus. Located in the heart of Demre, this historic church is believed to be the final resting place of St. Nicholas, the inspiration behind the modern-day Santa Claus.
For a memorable day trip from Fethiye, Kas and Demre offer an abundance of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences just waiting to be discovered. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an adventure to these captivating destinations in Turkey.
Where to See the Best Views in Fethiye
For breathtaking vistas of Fethiye and its surroundings, head to Babadağ Mountain, Afkule, or Fethiye Marina. Whether you hike to the summit, visit an ancient watchtower, or stroll along the waterfront, these vantage points offer panoramic views that are sure to impress.
Fethiye, with its blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, promises an unforgettable experience for travelers of all interests. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, indulging in culinary delights, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, Fethiye has something for everyone to enjoy.
Best Things to Do in Fethiye Turkey – Complete Guide
Ancient ruins, azure waters, and vibrant marketplaces… Fethiye is much more than your average beach resort, remaining at the top of Turkey’s best traveler pilgrimages to this day. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Turkey, Fethiye is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, adventure, and relaxation. With its roots dating back to ancient times, the city boasts a rich collection of historical sites, including the awe-inspiring Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs overlooking the city. But there is much to Fethiye’s charm than the ancient ruins that effortlessly embellish its land. Fethiye is the ideal summer spot for youthful travelers, merging contemporary social hubs and the authentic Mediterranean vibes of the Turkish coast.
Best Things to Do in Fethiye – FAQs
1. What is Fethiye Turkey famous for?
Fethiye is famous for its ancient Lycian rock tombs, carved into the cliffsides overlooking the city. These impressive burial sites date back thousands of years. One of Turkey’s most iconic beaches, Ölüdeniz Beach, is famous for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque surroundings. Fethiye is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as paragliding, hiking, sea kayaking, and scuba diving.
In addition to the Lycian rock tombs, Fethiye is home to other ancient ruins and historical sites, including the ancient city of Telmessos, the Fethiye Museum, and the ruins of Kayaköy, a ghost town abandoned during the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in the 1920s.
2. What is the best time to visit Fethiye?
The best time to visit Fethiye is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these times, the weather is pleasantly warm, and the crowds are relatively smaller compared to the peak summer season. Spring offers blooming flowers and lush landscapes, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures for some of the best things to do in Fethiye. But, to experience Fethiye in its most popular season, visit in the summer months (July to August) and revel in all that the Turquoise Coast has to offer.
3. Is there an old town in Fethiye?
Fethiye does have an old town area known as Paspatur. Paspatur is a charming maze of narrow streets lined with old stone houses, vibrant shops, cafes, and restaurants. It retains much of its traditional Turkish character and offers visitors a glimpse into Fethiye’s history and culture. The area is perfect for leisurely strolls, exploring local crafts, sampling authentic Turkish cuisine, and soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
Paspatur also hosts a bustling bazaar where you can find everything from spices and souvenirs to handmade crafts and jewelry.
4. Why is it called Fethiye?
Fethiye is named after Fethi Bey, an Ottoman air officer who died in a plane crash during a military mission in the Balkans in 1914. The city was renamed in his honor in 1934, previously known as Makri. Fethi Bey is remembered as a hero in Turkish history, and the renaming of the city was a tribute to his bravery and service to the country.
5. Is Fethiye worth visiting?
Absolutely, Fethiye is definitely worth visiting! It offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that cater to various interests. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, or vibrant culture, Fethiye has something to offer every traveler. Plus, its convenient location on Turkey’s southwestern coast makes it easily accessible for travelers seeking a memorable holiday destination.
Fethiye, with its blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, stands as a testament to Turkey’s allure as a travel destination. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, lounging on pristine beaches, or indulging in outdoor adventures, Fethiye offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. So, pack your bags, and embark on a journey to discover the best of Fethiye’s treasures.
