Fethiye Guide

Discover Fethiye: The Heart of the Turkish Riviera

Introduction to Fethiye

Fethiye, located on Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, is a historical and natural gem. Once known as Telmessos, the city was the most significant in Lycia, dating back to the 5th century BC. Today, Fethiye is a world-class travel destination, known for its vibrant marina, ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes, and as the ultimate starting point for a Blue Cruise along the Turkish Riviera.

Named the best tourism center in the world by The Times and The Guardian in 2007, Fethiye is an essential stop for travelers seeking history, adventure, and relaxation.

Top Attractions in Fethiye

1. Ancient Lycian Rock Tombs & The Tomb of Aminthas

One of Fethiye’s most iconic landmarks, these 2,400-year-old tombs, carved into towering cliffs, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the bay.

2. Kayakoy – The Ghost Town

A short drive from Fethiye, Kayakoy is an abandoned Greek village with eerie ruins of hundreds of stone houses and churches spread over a hillside. It’s an open-air museum that offers a glimpse into history and breathtaking views.

3. Fethiye’s Historic Center & Roman Theatre

The Telmessos Roman Theatre, built in the 2nd century BC, once seated over 6,000 people and is currently being restored. Located near the marina, it’s an excellent stop for history lovers.

4. The Famous Blue Lagoon – Oludeniz

One of Turkey’s most photographed beaches, the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz offers crystal-clear waters, white sand, and calm seas perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Optional Adventure: Try paragliding from Babadag Mountain, one of the best paragliding sites in the world, offering breathtaking views over the Blue Lagoon.

5. Saklikent Gorge

Located 45 minutes from Fethiye, this 18km-long canyon is one of the deepest in Turkey. You can hike through cool mountain waters, explore the caves, or simply enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.

6. 12 Islands Boat Tour

Fethiye is the gateway to the 12 Islands, a cluster of hidden coves, turquoise waters, and untouched nature. Many day cruises leave from Fethiye harbor, offering a relaxing journey through stunning scenery.

7. Butterfly Valley

This secluded paradise, accessible only by boat or hiking, is home to over 130 butterfly species and offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in Turkey.

8. The Fethiye Museum

Perfect for history lovers, the Fethiye Museum showcases artifacts from Telmessos, Kaunos, and Tlos, including ancient jewelry, pottery, and Lycian tombstones.

How to Get to Fethiye

Fethiye is well-connected by bus, car, plane, and ferry.

• By Plane:

  • The nearest airport is Dalaman Airport (DLM) – 50 km from Fethiye.
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) – 200 km from Fethiye.
  • From both airports, shuttle buses and private transfers are available.

• By Bus:

  • Regular bus services connect Fethiye to Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Bodrum, and Marmaris.
  • The D400 highway connects Fethiye to major cities in Turkey.

• By Boat:

  • Fethiye is 1.5 hours from Rhodes, Greece, with daily ferry services available.

Where to Eat in Fethiye

Fethiye offers delicious Turkish cuisine with plenty of fresh seafood, kebabs, and local delicacies. Here are some top recommendations:

1. Seafood Lovers 🦞

• Fethiye Fish Market – Pick your fresh seafood and have it cooked at a nearby restaurant.
• Popeye’s Boat – A budget-friendly balik ekmek (fish sandwich), a must-try Turkish street food.

2. Traditional Turkish Cuisine 🍢

• Mozaik Bahce – Eastern Turkish dishes with amazing flavors.
• Pasa Kebab – Known for the best Adana and Iskender kebabs in town.
• Nefis Pide – A must-visit for delicious Turkish-style pizza (pide).

3. Street Food & Quick Bites 🌮

• Yengen Burger – Some claim it has the best doner kebab in Turkey!

4. Beachside Cafes & Bars 🍹

• Calis Beach – Great for seafood and sunset dining.
• Kayakoy Restaurants – Traditional Turkish cuisine in a peaceful, historic setting.

Things to Do in Fethiye

1. Take a Blue Cruise Along the Lycian Coast

One of the best things to do in Fethiye is to sail on a traditional Turkish gulet and explore the stunning Lycian coastline. Popular routes include:

• Fethiye to Kekova Blue Cruise
• Fethiye to Olympos Blue Cruise

2. Visit Patara Beach

Turkey’s longest sandy beach (18 km), Patara is famous for its golden dunes and ancient Lycian ruins nearby.

3. Jeep Safari to Saklikent, Tlos, and Yakapark

Take a jeep safari adventure through the countryside, visiting waterfalls, ancient ruins, and natural canyons.

4. Go Scuba Diving in Kas

The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean make Kas one of Turkey’s best diving spots, filled with shipwrecks, caves, and marine life.

5. Trek the Lycian Way

For hiking enthusiasts, the Lycian Way is a world-famous 540km trail stretching from Fethiye to Antalya, passing through ancient ruins and breathtaking coastal cliffs.

Day Trips from Fethiye

1. Rhodes, Greece 🇬🇷

• Just 1.5 hours by ferry
• Explore the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Marmaris

• A vibrant coastal city with a beautiful marina, lively nightlife, and stunning beaches.

3. Antalya

• Visit the Old Town (Kaleici), Duden Waterfalls, and Konyaaltı Beach.

Final Thoughts

Fethiye is one of the most beautiful destinations in Turkey, offering a perfect blend of history, adventure, relaxation, and nature. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed trip or a leisurely escape, Fethiye has something for everyone.

Plan your trip now and explore the magic of Fethiye!