Nestled along the brilliant turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the charming town of Fethiye attracts visitors with its intoxicating mix of natural wonders, rich history, and warm Turkish hospitality. This sun-drenched corner of Turkey’s Riviera region offers a mesmerising escape, to explore its ancient ruins, harbour towns, pine-clad mountains, coves and beaches. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or seeking a rejuvenating seaside escape, Fethiye promises a kaleidoscope of experiences to suit every taste and plenty of things to do in Fethiye. From exploring the iconic rock tombs of the Lycian civilisation to sailing the azure waters of the tranquil bays, immersing yourself in the local culture at vibrant markets, or basking on secluded beaches, this idyllic destination is a true gem waiting to be discovered.
7 Best Things To Do In Fethiye
From exploring historic sites to indulging in outdoor adventures, this seaside town has no shortage of things to do. Some of the top things to do in Fethiye, Turkey, to make the most of your time in this enchanting destination are as follows:
1. Explore The Patara Beach
Image Credit: Elelicht for Wikimedia Commons
Patara Beach stretches 12 kilometres along the Mediterranean coast and boasts fine golden dunes. Its natural beauty is enhanced by loggerhead sea turtles, which lay their eggs here between May and August. The beach is protected as part of the Patara Special Environmental Protection Area, ensuring visitors a more natural and relaxed atmosphere.
Apart from its stunning scenery, Patara Beach offers various activities. One popular choice is horseback riding tours through the Ancient City of Patara. This historical site features temples, baths, sarcophagi, and other ancient structures, allowing cultural exploration and outdoor adventure.
Location: Gelemiş, 07976 Kaş/Antalya, Türkiye
Distance from Fethiye: 75 Km
Travel time from Fethiye: 1 Hour 22 minutes
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2. Enjoy The Sunrise & Sunset At Calis Beach
Image Credit: DarwIn for Wikimedia Commons
Calis Beach is a resort town on the western coast of the Fethiye Peninsula, offering plenty of things to do in Fethiye, Turkey. It’s a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing beach vacation. The beach is a long stretch of sand and pebbles, with calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and families with young children. One of the significant draws of Calis Beach is its stunning sunsets.
Many beachfront restaurants and bars have terraces or balconies with prime sunset views, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal or drink while taking in the scenery. Beyond the beach, Calis Beach offers a variety of tourist activities. The town has a lively promenade with shops, restaurants, and bars. Here, you can find everything from traditional Turkish souvenirs to international cuisine.
Location: Fethiye/Muğla, Türkiye
Distance from Fethiye: 2.6 Km
Travel time from Fethiye: 6 minutes
3. Explore The Ruins Of Kayaköy
Image Credit: Nikodem Nijaki for Wikimedia Commons
Kayaköy, also known as Levissi, is a village in the Fethiye district of Muğla Province, Turkey. Once a thriving Greek town, Kayaköy is now a haunting yet fascinating ghost town. Among the things to do in Fethiye, exploring the history and atmosphere of Kayaköy is a unique experience that is not to be missed. In 1923, a population exchange treaty between Greece and Turkey forced the Greek residents of Kayaköy to leave their homes. Turkish Muslims then briefly resettled the town, but they soon abandoned it as well.
Kayaköy has remained largely untouched since then, and its empty houses and churches now stand as a silent reminder of its past. Today, Kayaköy is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can wander through the abandoned houses, imagining the lives of the people who once lived there. Two Greek Orthodox churches are still in relatively good condition. A small museum of the town’s history is also worth a visit.
Location: Kayaköy, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Türkiye
Distance from Fethiye: 14 Km
Travel time from Fethiye: 26 minutes
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4. Visit The Beautiful Butterfly Valley
Image Credit: Acar54 for Wikimedia Commons
Butterfly Valley is a paradise for nature lovers. Declared a nature reserve in 1995, this valley is famed for its diverse butterfly population, with the peak season being early June. But there’s more to Butterfly Valley than just fluttering wings. The valley boasts a stunning beach, a cascading waterfall accessible by hiking trails, and lush vegetation.
For the adventurous, there’s canyoning, canoeing, and scuba diving to be enjoyed. Camping enthusiasts can pitch a tent under the starlit sky, while glamping options offer luxury. Boat tours from Oludeniz ferry visitors to the beach, making it easily accessible. Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, a thrilling adventure, or a chance to commune with nature, Butterfly Valley offers an unforgettable experience. Hence, visiting this valley is one of the things to do in Fethiye, Turkey.
Location: Faralya, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Türkiye
Distance from Fethiye: 23 Km
Travel time from Fethiye: 35 minutes
5. Swim In The Blue Lagoon At Oludeniz Beach
Image Credit: Andrzej Szkopiński for Wikipedia
Oludeniz Beach, also known as the Blue Lagoon, is a stunning beach on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. It’s famous for its calm turquoise waters, pebble beach, and dramatic backdrop of Mount Babadağ. The beach itself is a protected area, and it charges a small entrance fee. It’s well worth the price as the water is evident and perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding.
One of the most popular things to do in Oludeniz is paragliding. You can take a tandem paragliding flight from Mount Babadağ, which offers incredible views of the lagoon and the surrounding coastline. Other activities include scuba diving and boat tours. Thus, it is a must addition to the list of things to do in Fethiye.
Location: Ölüdeniz, 48340 Fethiye/Muğla, Türkiye
Distance from Fethiye: 17 Km
Travel time from Fethiye: 26 minutes
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6. Go To Gemiler Island
Image Credit: Cobija for Wikimedia Commons
Gemiler Island, also known as Saint Nicholas Island, is a historical island off the coast of Fethiye, offering some of the best things to do in Fethiye. Measuring just 1 kilometre long and 400 meters wide, the island is known for its significant historical and archaeological importance, scenic beauty, and religious sites.
Tourists visiting Gemiler Island can explore the ruins of several churches built between the 4th and 6th centuries AD. The most prominent of these is a rock-hewn church, believed by some archaeologists to be the original tomb of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and children (better known today as Santa Claus). Besides exploring the historical ruins, visitors can hike the island’s gentle slopes for breathtaking coastline views. The island also has a small beach with clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Location: Gemiler Adası, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Türkiye
Distance from Fethiye: 21 Km
Travel time from Fethiye: 39 minutes
7. Stroll Through The Fethiye Old Town
Image Credit: Elelicht for Wikimedia Commons
Fethiye Old Town, also known as Paspatur, provides a variety of unique experiences and is a must-visit destination in Fethiye. Whether you spend a day or an afternoon there, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy. One can wander its narrow streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses, now converted into shops, restaurants, and cafes.
One can find a treasure trove of Turkish handicrafts, souvenirs, and several other local produce. Be sure to try some gözleme, a Turkish flatbread filled with savoury or sweet ingredients. For history buffs, Paspatur is also home to a few interesting historical sites, including the Old Town Mosque and a restored caravanserai. This inn once served as a resting place for traders on the Silk Road.
Location: Cumhuriyet, 40. Sk No:10/28, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Türkiye
Distance from Fethiye: 5.5 Km
Travel time from Fethiye: 11 minutes
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Fethiye is a true gem on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, offering every traveller a diverse range of experiences. Fethiye provides an unforgettable adventure with its ancient Lycian rock tombs, the ghost village of Kayaköy, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking for relaxation on sun-drenched beaches, thrilling water sports, or a historical journey, this charming town has something for everyone. So why wait? Go on an extraordinary journey and book your trip to Turkey today, where memories await. When planning your itinerary, make sure to explore the myriad of things to do in Fethiye.
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Cover Image Source: Tarih for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Fethiye
What is Fethiye known for?
Fethiye is known for its stunning beaches, particularly the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz. Beyond the beaches, history buffs will love the ancient ruins and rock tombs, while nature lovers can explore Butterfly Valley and Saklikent National Park. Fethiye also offers a variety of water sports and adventure activities.
Is Fethiye open all year around?
Fethiye's tourist season peaks during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town remains open year-round. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain, but some hotels and restaurants may be closed.
What is the best time to visit Fethiye?
The best time to visit Fethiye depends on your preferences. If you prioritise warm weather and sunshine, aim for the summer months. However, it can get crowded and expensive. Consider the shoulder seasons for comfortable weather and smaller crowds.
Is Fethiye cheaper than Istanbul?
Yes, Fethiye is a more budget-friendly destination than Istanbul. Accommodation, food, and transportation are more affordable in Fethiye. However, the exact cost will depend on your travel style and choices.
How many days are enough for Fethiye?
The ideal time in Fethiye depends on what you want to see and do. If you wish to relax on the beach and soak up the sun, 3-4 days might be sufficient. However, if you want to explore the historical sites and natural wonders and enjoy various activities, plan for a week-long trip to fully experience Fethiye's charm.
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