Residing along a resplendent aquamarine coastline called the Turquoise Coast, Fethiye is like sensory overload. A bustling port city, Fethiye can catch you by surprise with mesmerizing ancient ruins one moment and lure you with its mountainous landscape and shimmering lagoons the next. With this otherworldly ambiance, there seems to be no shortage of outstanding heritage sites, archaeological wonders, untouched beaches, frenetic outdoor markets, and yummy food such as juicy local meats and fresh-caught seafood. If this far-off land has captured your imagination then you have to scroll down to view this amazing list of things to do in Fethiye, Turkey!
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1. Be mesmerized by the Ancient City of Telmessos
Fethiye was once known as the ancient city of Telmessos, one of the primary cities of the Lycian civilization. Many monuments and remnants still stand today. A true highlight is the Fethiye Fortress perched high on a hill overlooking the city. The ruins date back to the 11th century and an enormous Turkish flag marks the fortress’ summit. If you choose to venture to the top you are rewarded fully with fantastic views of Fethiye below. You may also encounter a few stray and curious mountain goats inhabiting the area.
Ancient City of Telmessos
Address: Kesikkapı, 123. Sk. No:12, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
2. Enjoy blissful seclusion at Butterfly Valley
Considered one of the most picture-perfect and heart-stopping spots in all of Turkey, Butterfly Valley is a true gem. A huge and deep canyon that also boasts a remote beach, Butterfly Valley can only be reached by boat. This isolated area is also home to no less than 80 species of colorful and diverse butterflies. A rustic bar and restaurant along with fun outdoor recreation make this a paradise getaway. Swimmers, snorkelers, hikers, and shutterbugs always have a great time at Butterfly Valley.
Butterfly Valley
Address: Fethiye, Muğla Province, Turkey
Website: Butterfly Valley
3. Marvel at Amyntas Rock Tombs
Fethiye’s most notable sight is the amazing Lycian rock tombs dramatically carved into the sides of the towering cliffs. These elaborate structures overlook Fethiye and are nothing short of awe-inspiring. One of particular note boasts striking Doric-style architectural columns and facades that exude a grand presence. This tomb dates back to the 4th century and was dedicated to a king during the Hellenistic period. Truly worth a look. To get an intimate view, a set of steps is available.
Amyntas Rock Tombs
Address: Kesikkapı, 117. Sk. No:3, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Opening hours: 8:30am - 7:30pm (daily)
Price: 1 USD
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4. Drink in the gleaming beauty of Günlüklü Koyu
Surrounded by sweet gum trees, Günlüklü Koyu is a public beach that affords a lovely place to spend a lazy summer afternoon. Günlüklü Koyu’s setting is tranquil during the week but is busy with locals on the weekends. The signature rich dark-hued sand contrasting the pretty aqua-blue surf gives you something beautiful to admire and offers an almost hypnotic effect. The Bay Beach Club hotel oversees the beach so beachcombers can order a refreshing drink or sample some delicious food from the inviting establishment.
Günlüklü Koyu
Address: Günlüklü Koyu, Katrancı Mesire Yolu, 48308, Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
5. Set up a campsite at Katrancı Bay Nature Park
Tucked away amongst wooded forests filled with fragrant eucalyptus trees and tall pines, Katrancı Bay Nature Park is one of Turkey’s premier nature parks near the water. Natural beauty surrounds this park that houses expert swimming facilities in two separate bay areas. Popular with avid campers, visitors can pitch a tent and enjoy plenty of fun water recreation. Handy beach umbrellas are available when you’re ready to lounge near the water’s edge. If you need some extra refreshments head to the tasty restaurant and bar located nearby.
Katrancı Bay Nature Park
Address: Yanıklar, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Website: Katrancı Bay Nature Park
6. Revel in cool-water fun at Sultan's Aqua City
Sultan’s Aqua City provides lots of big-time water action for the entire family. A nice layout with an emphasis on sensational waterslides, Sultan’s Aqua City is the go-to attraction on a hot day. This aquapark may not be a sprawling complex but it does possess the right amount of splash-town thrills. Various slides cater to different age groups so the little ones aren’t competing with bigger kids. There are also large sparkling swimming pools and interactive water features.
Sultan's Aqua City
Address: Foça, Mustafa Kemal Bulv., 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Website: Sultan’s Aqua City
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 12 - 14 USD
7. Soak up some sun rays at Gemile Bay
Possessing wonderful hidden coves, beautiful bays, and simply gorgeous scenery, Gemile Bay is an ideal beach destination with a low-key vibe. This shingle-shore beach offers calm, shallow waves lapping the coast making it a big draw for families with very young children. Grab your snorkeling gear and dive into the crystal-blue water and explore the vibrantly colored array of fish. The reefs may be magnificent but they’re jagged so use caution. You can also pack a picnic and dine al fresco under a nice carob tree.
Gemile Bay
Address: Kayaköy, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
8. Discover age-old artifacts at Fethiye Museum
You may think with all the historic remains found throughout Fethiye visiting a museum is kind of pointless but you’d be wrong when it comes to the remarkable Fethiye Museum. Housed in a stunning structure that was a Byzantine church erected in the 11th century, Fethiye Museum showcases two spacious halls and a wonderful open-air gallery filled with an amazing selection of artifacts dating from 3000 B.C. to the Byzantine era. Be sure to check out the museum’s gorgeous 14th-century mosaics!
Fethiye Museum
Address: Kesikkapı, 505. Sk. No:4, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Website: Fethiye Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 13 USD
9. Sail across the translucent waters of the Fethiye Bay
Fethiye Bay offers one beautiful bay after the next and if you’re a fan of boating then this area of Fethiye is paradise. Surrounded by incomparable aquamarine-colored waters, Fethiye Bay is definitely where you want to raise a sail and glide across this splendid section of Fethiye’s coastline. Much of the bays are not crowded so you can blissfully relish the cool sea air and warm sun virtually uninterrupted. You’re in for a true treat if you take a guided boating excursion where the host prepares scrumptious homemade food while you lounge on the boat’s roof.
Fethiye Bay
Address: Belen, 48300 Kayaköy/Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
10. Grab the catch of the day at Fethiye Fish Market
Residing not far from the busy port, Fethiye Fish Market boasts an easygoing yet vibrant atmosphere. A genuine institution in this town, Fethiye Fish Market is the ultimate stop for locals and tourists. From fish and octopus to lobster and squid, this market has every kind of fresh seafood. Grab a bite to eat or check out the latest fish catch for serving later at dinnertime. No worries if you’re not a fan of fish because Fethiye Fish Market also provides succulent meats and fresh veggies.
Fethiye Fish Market
Address: Babataşı mh, Adnan Menderes Blv. No:89 D:89, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 7pm; Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
11. Play 'til you drop at Sehit Fethi Bey Park
Originally a boggy wasteland, Sehit Fethi Bey Park’s transformation into an outdoor activities area with many fanciful features creates a pleasing space for everyone to enjoy. If you’re in the mood for some lively action hit the large climbing frames, bouncy trampolines, zip-lines, or skateparks. If you desire a slower pace simply take a stroll across rope bridges and admire intriguing sculptures and eye-catching walkways. Whimsical features like a Bugs Bunny swing set keep younger kids entertained.
Sehit Fethi Bey Park
Address: Taşyaka, 163. Sk. No:32, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
12. Take a refreshing dip at Towered Beach
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you want to enjoy an invigorating swim in teal-hued waters then Towered Beach is the right place. Located on a patch of well-manicured lush surroundings with tropical vegetation and a network of convenient, paved walkways, Towered Beach is a prime swimming haven. Canvas tents line the water’s edge and many other parts of the area so there are ample spots to relax in shaded comfort. A large pavilion that stretches across the water offers plenty of friendly services, tasty food, and cool beverages.
Towered Beach
Address: Keçiler, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Opening hours: 8am - 12am (daily)
13. Witness the variety of birds at Calis Beach Bird Sanctuary
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
A splendid bird refuge in the heart of Calis, Calis Beach Bird Sanctuary is the unquestionable attraction for diehard bird lovers. Bird watching amongst this scenic spot is nirvana for those who can never witness enough avian action. This sanctuary is pleasing to the eye and boasts hundreds of colorful bird species. Take a pleasant stroll by a tiny lagoon surrounded by tall reed beds and catch glimpses of everything from dark-colored Eurasian coots to pink flamingos.
Calis Beach Bird Sanctuary
Address: Foça Mh. Çalış Plajı, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
14. Head to Esilay Hamam & Spa for complete rejuvenation
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Dedicated to reinvigorating your mind, body, and soul is Esilay Hamam & Spa. Conventional spa services are available at this facility like massage therapies, relaxing sauna sessions, and, of course, the traditional Turkish bath. This spa also affords guests unique indulgences such as Peeling & Foam Massage treatments that release harmful toxins from the body and Salt Room care where an underground salt cave environment simulates major stress-relieving benefits.
Esilay Hamam & Spa
Address: Foça, Çalış Taksi Durağı Yanı / Çalış, 1077. Sk., 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Website: Esilay Hamam & Spa
Opening hours: 9am - 11pm (daily)
15. View dazzling Lycian sarcophagi around the city
Scattered throughout Fethiye is an intriguing collection of sarcophagi built by the Lycians around the 4th century. Left in their original locations, these large sarcophagi are constructed of local limestone. They reflect Lycians’ impressive architecture with the lid shaped like an upside-down boat and the body comprised of sturdy wooden beams and expert joints. The best-preserved and most striking sarcophagus is situated on the waterfront just north of the town hall building in a garden setting.
Lycian sarcophagus
Website: Lycian sarcophagus
Price: Free
16. Delight in water recreation at Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parkı
For pristine sandy shores and turquoise oceans, Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parkı is unequaled. A protected lagoon and nicely maintained public beach since 1978, Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parkı is the utmost place to enjoy great water sports with calm warm waters. Go swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and more. There are even paddle boats and paragliding activities. This piece of Shangri-La showcases where Fethiye’s rich green landscape meets breathtakingly blue waters. This nature park provides handy showers, clean toilets, and pleasant cafes.
Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parkı
Address: Belceğiz Mh., Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parkı, 48340 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
17. Sample authentic Turkish cuisine at Yengeç Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Seasoned chefs serving food with only high-quality ingredients is what you’ll find at Yengeç Restaurant. Offering a full menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections, this adorable harborside eatery is a choice spot to unwind and relish a hearty meal. Grilled to-perfection meats and pasta dishes are plentiful and the seafood appetizers like fried calamari and butter shrimp are very tempting. Another appetizer worth sampling is the Turkish Delight, a savory stuffed meatball.
Yengeç Restaurant
Address: 2. Karagözler, Fethiye, Muğla, 48300, Turkey
Website: Yengeç Restaurant
Opening hours: 8am - 2am (daily)
18. Sunbathe on beautiful Calis Beach
A well-maintained public beach boasting fine-grain sand, Calis Beach provides a delightful respite from everyday hecticness. Rows of dynamic bars and delectable eateries line the shore so you’re certain to remain fed with some delicious eats and hydrated with your drink of choice. Calis Beach is an important nesting ground for sea turtles so - as not to disturb or damage any turtle eggs - beachgoers should use care when planting a beach umbrella into the sand. Every visitor should make a point to stay through the evening so you can witness Calis Beach’s amazing sunset.
Calis Beach
Address: Foça, 1289. Sk. No:46, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
19. Taste fresh breads and more at Baba Fırın - Cafe Çalış
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Before you even enter Baba Fırın - Cafe Çalış you can smell the delicious aroma of freshly made bread wafting in the air. Baba Fırın - Cafe Çalış’ store case is packed with warm baguettes, soft Italian-style ciabatta, tiny-rounded baps topped with seeds like poppy and sunflower, and buttery croissants. Though bread is this bakery’s specialty that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of other scrumptious goodies. Visitors would be wise to load up with flaky pastries, sweet or savory cookies, and a variety of flavorful baklava. A standout item is a baklava with pistachio or chocolate.
Baba Fırın - Cafe Çalış
Address: Foça, Yerguzlar Cd. No:49, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Turkey
Website: Baba Fırın - Cafe Çalış
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
20. Soar high at Blue Lagoon Ölüdeniz Tandem Paragliding (from USD 259.41)
Taking place 6,500 feet (1,981.2 meters) above sea level and atop the massive Mount Baba Dag is the ultimate in paragliding experiences. Marvel at captivating sights of the deep-blue water, hilly terrain, and white-sand beaches below as you glide through the air. This adrenaline-fuelled moment can only be described as jaw-droppingly exciting. Flights can reach as high as 10,000 feet (3,048 meters)! Flights are available five times a day and if you want to capture impeccable snapshots opt for the sunset flight.
Fethiye: Blue Lagoon Tandem Paragliding w/Photos & Video
Duration: 3.0 hour
21. Go for an early morning quad bike adventure exploring Fethiye (from USD 48.84)
Spend an active outdoor-infused day exploring Fethiye on a quad bike. Go in the morning or in the afternoon with friends and family to see Fethiye in a unique ATV adventure. Those who book this adventure pass will be entitled to prick up and drop off services, and biking equipment. Get to see the beautiful Southwestern coast and its natural side, from the pine timberlands to the babbling streams across rocky trails.
From Fethiye: Quad Bike Adventure with Transfers
Duration: 1.5 hour
22. See fascinating archeology at Ephesus and Pamukkale (from USD 143.56)
Get an in-depth take on some of the most fascinating historical and archeological sites in the Mediterranean. Book a two-day tour from Fethiye and go all the way to Ephesus and Pamukkale where guests will be able to see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, dubbed as one of the seven wonders of the world, as well as a unique overnight thermal hotel experience in Pamukkale for USD 106.45.
Inclusions to this two-day tour are transfers, a private tour guide, breakfast and dinner, entrance fees to the sites, and thermal hotel accommodation. Snap scenic photos of local villages and the exotic “cotton castles” of Pamukkale over Hierapolis, and bask in the wonder of Turkey one breathtaking moment at a time.
Ephesus and Pamukkale 2-Day Tour from Fethiye
Duration: 2.0 day
23. Enliven your senses with a supreme Turkish bath experience (from USD 30.0)
Known for the ultimate in massage therapies, what’s a trip to Fethiye without indulging in a superb Turkish bath. Enjoy excellent rejuvenation the way the ancient Ottomans did with this once-in-a-lifetime occasion that takes place in a classic hammam structure. This relaxing experience begins with a soothing steam bath to release any toxins from your body. Then, leave your skin feeling ultra silky soft with a heavenly soap massage and brisk body scrub that exfoliates, restores, and boosts your body’s circulation.
Turkish Bath Experience in Fethiye
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
24. Explore the ancient village of Kayaköy
Contributed by Tour Guide, Rose TheGuide
Experience the haunting beauty of Kayaköy, a village frozen in time, and explore its abandoned stone houses and ancient history. You can join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the village. Knowledgeable guides can offer valuable information and enhance your overall experience of this unique destination.
The terrain in Kayaköy can be uneven and rocky, so wear sturdy shoes to navigate the ruins comfortably. The location has open skies and little shade, so ensure you have sufficient sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. You should also carry plenty of water to stay hydrated as you explore, especially during the warmer months.
To avoid the crowds and the midday heat, plan to visit early in the morning. Lastly, remember that Kayaköy is not just a tourist site but also a place of historical significance and tragedy. Be respectful of the site and its past inhabitants.
Fabulous Fethiye
With no limit to the number of things to see and do in Fethiye, this incredible list will at least narrow it down a bit. Whether you want to pamper yourself at a spa, check out local markets, sunbathe on an exquisite beach, or explore past architectural jewels, Fethiye is the destination to enjoy these top touristy activities and so much more!
In light of the February 2023 earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria, Trip101 urges you to be apprised of the latest news if you have any plans to travel to Eastern Turkey. Other parts of the country remain open to travelers.
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