Fethiye is about 200 km (3 hours drive) west of Antalya and 131 km (about 2 hours) east of Marmaris. Located on a wide Mediterranean bay, Fethiye is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Turkey - especially for its crystal clear sea, excellent sailing conditions and breathtaking natural beauty.
The city offers a wide variety of accommodation - from luxurious resorts to affordable guesthouses, and thanks to its proximity to the airport, it is very easily accessible to tourists from all over the world.
How to get to Fethiye?
The nearest airport is Dalaman Airport, approx 50 km from Fethiye.
Arrival options:
- Plane + transfer: The most common option - after landing in Dalaman, the transfer takes about 45-60 minutes (taxi, shuttle or rent-a-car)
- Bus: Direct lines from major cities such as Antalya, Marmaris and Kas
- Car: Excellent roads and beautiful panoramas make driving a real pleasure
- Ferry: Seasonal lines to the Greek island of Rhodes
Transportation in Fethiye
The main modes of transport are: Minibuses - the cheapest and most common way of moving, Taxi– available, but more expensive, Car rental - ideal for exploring the surrounding beaches. There are regular bus lines: From Kas (about 2 hours drive), and from Antalya (2-4 hours, depending on the route)
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Accommodation in Fethiye
Three luxury hotels
- Liberty Hotels Lykia - An exclusive resort with a private beach, several pools and rich all-inclusive content.
- Hillside Beach Club - One of the most famous hotels in Turkey, perfect for a luxurious and peaceful vacation.
- Jiva Beach Resort – A modern hotel with large swimming pools and excellent service, ideal for families.
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Three budget hotels
- Hotel Unique Fethiye - Boutique hotel with a beautiful view and excellent prices in the off-season.
- Infinity City Hotel - Great location in the center, perfect for exploring the city.
- Ideal Pension - Simple and affordable accommodation with a homely atmosphere.
Attractions and activities in Fethiye
Fethiye offers the perfect blend of nature, history and adventure:
1. Shopping in Paspatur bazaar - Fethiye
Paspatur Market (Pazar Paspatur) is a historical and tourist area in the center of the city of Fethiye, Turkey. It is known as the "old bazaar" of the city, a place where traditional Turkish architecture, local crafts and contemporary souvenirs and restaurants meet. Paspatur is one of the oldest settlements in Fethiye, with roots dating back to the Ottoman period. Buildings in traditional style, with wooden balconies and shady passages, bear witness to the commercial spirit of the old seaside town. Over the centuries, the market remained the center of local life and the meeting place of travelers.
2. Tombs of Amyntas - Fethiye
The Tombs of Amyntas are ancient stone tombs carved into the cliffs above the Turkish city of Fethiye, dating back to the 4th century BC. They represent one of the most prominent examples of Lycian civilization and an important archaeological landmark in southwestern Turkey. The tombs are part of the former city of Telmessos, an important center of Lycian culture. The inscription on the most famous tomb is dedicated to Amyntas, probably a local ruler or nobleman. The Lycians believed that digging into the high cliffs brought the soul closer to the gods, which explains their monumental position.
3. Calis Beach – Fethiye
Çalış Beach is a popular coastal destination in the resort of Fethiye, on the southwest coast of Turkey, in the Mugla region. It is known for its long sandy beach, stunning sunsets and a pleasant atmosphere that attracts both families and water sports enthusiasts.
Çalış beach stretches northwest from the center of Fethiye, along the lagoon and the sea of the Ionian basin. The beach promenade is filled with cafes, restaurants and small hotels, creating a casual but lively atmosphere. The wind that often blows during the day makes the beach particularly suitable for windsurfing and kite surfing.
Nature and view
The beach offers a panoramic view of Fethiye Bay and nearby islands. The sunset, reflected on the calm sea, is one of the most famous features of the location. There is also a nature reserve lagoon in the area where you can sometimes see wading birds like flamingos.
4. Oludeniz and Blue Lagoon - Fethiye
Oludeniz and the famous Blue Lagoon Oludeniz are considered the most beautiful beaches in Turkey - perfect for swimming, diving and water sports.
5. Butterfly Valley – Fethiye
Butterfly Valley is a dramatic, picturesque bay near Fethiye, on the southwest coast of Turkey. Known for its steep cliffs, turquoise sea and rich butterfly population, the valley is a protected natural area and a popular destination for ecotourism and camping.
The valley is a narrow, deep gorge surrounded by high cliffs that descend directly into the Aegean Sea. A mountain stream flows through it, creating a small waterfall. Due to the microclimate and rich vegetation, the valley is home to dozens of species of butterflies, especially during the summer months.
Tourism and activities
Butterfly Valley is known for its relaxed, unspoiled ambiance. Visitors come for camping, hiking, climbing and diving. The easiest way to get to the beach is by boat from nearby Oludeniz, while the path from the cliff is only suitable for experienced mountaineers. Electricity and commercial facilities are limited to preserve the natural balance.
6. Paragliding from Mount Babadag - Fethiye
Babadağ (Babadag) is a mountain near the city of Fethiye in southwestern Turkey, within the Mugla Province. It is known for its impressive landscape above Oludeniz Bay and is one of the the most popular paragliding destinations in the world.
Key facts
- Highest peak: Around 1,969 m (Tepesjiga peak)
- Location: Mugla Province, southern Turkey
- Main activity: Paragliding over Oludeniz beach
- Access: Asphalt road and cable car from Oludeniz
- Mountain range: Western part of the Taurus Mountains
Geography and nature
Babadag Mountain rises sharply above the Aegean Sea, offering views of the turquoise waters and Oludeniz Lagoon. Its slopes are covered with dense forests of cypress and pine, and the higher zone consists of rocky cliffs and pastures. This combination of altitude zones makes it a biodiverse area, with numerous endemic species of flora.
Paragliding and tourism
Babadag is a world-famous center for paragliding, especially for its strong thermal currents and views of the coast. With multiple take-off points at different altitudes, pilots can choose the ideal conditions all year round. Every September, the international "Oludeniz Air Games" is held here, attracting hundreds of athletes and tourists.
Access and infrastructure
A modern cable car leads to the top., Babadag Cable Car, opened in 2021, which provides easy access to visitors and offers panoramic views. There is also a mountain road suitable for vehicles, as well as numerous hiking and cycling trails. At the top there are viewpoints and restaurants overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Significance
Apart from the touristic value, Babadag also has cultural significance in the regional tradition as a symbol of the protection of Fethija and the coastal villages. The mountain is part of the natural habitat conservation program in Turkey and is protected as a national park and nature reserve.
7. Lycian Way
The Lycian Way is a long hiking trail in southwestern Turkey, known for its combination of coastal landscapes, mountainous terrain, and ancient ruins. It stretches along the Lycian Peninsula, connecting ancient sites and villages between Fethiye and Antalya.
The trail starts near Oludeniz near Fethiye and ends in Geyikbayırı near Antalya. It leads through pine forests, cliffs above the Mediterranean and mountain villages. The road passes by ancient cities like Olympos, Myra, Patara and Xanthos, making it a unique blend of nature and history.
8. Excursions and cruises - Fethiye
Popular are the "12 Islands" cruises, a visit to Gemiller Island, as well as a tour of the ghost village
Kayakoy.
Gemiler Island
Gemiler Island (Turkish: Gemiler Adası) is a small island archaeological site near the city of Fethiye on the southwest coast of Turkey. It is known for the ruins of early Christian churches and the impressive views of Gemillera Bay, making it a popular destination for tourists and sailors.
Key facts
- Location: Near Olüdeniz, Muğla Region, Turkey
- Area: About 1 km²
- Historical period: 4th–7th century AD.
- Main attraction: Ruins of churches dedicated to Saint Nicholas
- Access: By boat from Fethiye or Olüdeniz
Historical significance
The island was an important pilgrimage site during early Christianity. It is believed that Saint Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of sailors, lived or preached in this place. During the 7th century the inhabitants left the island due to Arab attacks and moved to the nearby town of Gemiler on the mainland.
Archaeological ruins
On the island there are four early Christian churches, monastic buildings, stone paths and sarcophagi carved into the rocks. The largest church, probably dedicated to Saint Nicholas, contains the remains of frescoes and floor mosaics. Archaeologists believe that the island was the center of religious life in this part of Lycia.
Tourism and accessibility
Gemiler Island is a popular anchorage for yachts sailing the Turkish Riviera. Visitors can explore the ruins, enjoy views of the Aegean Sea and watch the sunset from the top of the island. Entry to the island is regulated and a small conservation fee is usually charged.
Kayakoy
Kayakoy is an abandoned village near the city of Fethiye in southwestern Turkey. It is known as a "ghost town" because of the hundreds of abandoned stone houses left after the Greek-Turkish population exchange in 1923. Today it is a historical landmark and a tourist attraction that testifies to the multicultural past of the region.
Key facts
- Location: Fethiye, Mugla Province, Turkey
- Original name: Levis (Levis)
- Abandoned: After 1923
- Heritage: Greek-Orthodox community until population exchange
- Status: Opened as an open air museum and historical site
Historical context
The village was inhabited by Greek Orthodox Christians who lived in harmony with the local Turkish population for centuries. After the signing of the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923, there was an exchange of population between Greece and Turkey, which led to the complete abandonment of the village. The new immigrants from Greece did not settle permanently because of the difficult living conditions.
Architecture and appearance
Kayakoy is located on a hillside and contains over 350 houses, two large churches and numerous chapels. The stone houses are arranged in a terrace so as not to block the view of each other. The architecture shows the traditional Aegean style with arcades and small courtyards.
Cultural significance and tourism
The place is a symbol of the former coexistence of Greeks and Turks and a reminder of the consequences of forced migration. Today it is visited by tourists, artists and historians; it often serves as a film location.
Condition and protection
Kayakoy is protected as an open-air museum under the supervision of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Although partially restored, a large part of the buildings remains in ruins, which preserves its authentic spirit and "ghost town" atmosphere.
