Fethiye

Fethiye is a coastal town in southwestern Turkey, located in Mugla Province along the Aegean Sea. It’s known for its natural beauty, historical ruins, and laid-back atmosphere. The town sits on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos, and you can still see ruins like rock tombs carved into the cliffs above the city.

Why people visit Fethiye:

• Beaches and Blue Lagoon: Just outside Fethiye is Oludeniz, one of Turkey’s most famous beaches, known for its calm, turquoise waters and a photogenic blue lagoon.

• Paragliding: Mount Babadag offers some of the best paragliding in the world, with jumps that glide over the lagoon and sea.

• Islands and Sailing: The nearby 12 Islands tour is a top boat trip, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in remote bays.

• Historic Sites: You can explore Lycian tombs, the ruins of Kayakoy (a ghost village abandoned after a population exchange in 1923), and parts of the ancient city of Xanthos.

• Lycian Way: Fethiye is a starting point for the Lycian Way, a long-distance hiking trail along the coast through ancient ruins, mountains, and villages.

• Markets and Local Life: Fethiye has a large Tuesday market where locals sell everything from fresh produce to textiles and spices.

The vibe: It’s more relaxed than bigger tourist hubs like Bodrum or Antalya. There’s a good balance between local life and tourism, especially around the marina and old town area.

Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are ideal. It’s warm but not scorching, and it’s less crowded compared to the height of summer.