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EXCITE TRAVEL (Oludeniz) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Is Fethiye Worth Visiting? Here Are The Pros and Cons…

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Fethiye has become a hugely popular destination in Turkey in recent years, and there is a good reason for that. Its proximity to Oludeniz, home to the iconic Blue Lagoon, as well as some of the most beautiful beaches on the Turquoise coast, means it’s the ideal place to visit if you’re looking to soak up some sun.

For beach lovers, Fethiye is definitely worth visiting. Fethiye’s beaches are Blue Flag beaches, which means they have been recognized for their cleanliness and environmental efforts.

However, in the summer, Fethiye is crowded with families and groups of young people who want to soak up the beaches during the day and explore the vibrant nightlife after the sun goes down, so Fethiye might not be for everyone.

In this guide, we share the pros and cons of visiting Fethiye so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right destination for you…

Planning a trip to Fethiye last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Fethiye/Oludeniz:

• Airport Shuttle From Dalaman Airport To Fethiye or Oludeniz (Best way to get into town!)

Here are our recommended tours in Fethiye/Oludeniz:

• Paragliding in Oludeniz (The best way to experience the beauty of The Blue Lagoon!)
• 12 Island Boat Trip (A must-do in Oludeniz)
• Oludeniz Turkish Bath (Great for relaxing!)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Fethiye/Oludeniz:

• Endemik Hostel in Fethiye (Where we stayed, a quieter location near the bus stop, perfect for couples)
• Blue Star Hotel (near Oludeniz Beach, quiet location)
• Morina Deluxe Hotel (located in Oludeniz Town, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts)
• Butterfly Beach Glamping (the only glamping experience in Butterfly Valley!)

Reasons to Visit Fethiye

1. close proximity to oludeniz.

Many people confuse Fethiye with Oludeniz and often think they are the same place. For transparency, Fethiye is the city, and Oludeniz is a small town just a 10-minute drive away from the city center.

Most of the attractions in Fethiye are in Oludeniz , such as the famous Blue Lagoon, the Cable Car to Babadağ Teleferik, and the trailhead for The Lycian Way. It’s also where you find world-class paragliding experiences that make this region so famous.

However, Oludeniz can be extremely crowded, especially in the summer. Oludeniz is a small town, so when it’s busy with tourists, it feels very busy. So Fethiye provides a bit of an escape from other tourists.

Because it’s only a 10-minute drive away, and there are regular dolmus (minibusses) that run between Fethiye and Oludeniz ( every 5 minutes ), it’s really easy to travel between the two places.

2. Excellent Beaches Nearby

One of the main reasons to visit Fethiye is for the beaches. Nestled on the Mediterranean Sea, the beaches in Fethiye are known for their glistening, turquoise waters.

The beaches come in many shapes and sizes, some with soft sand and others with pebbly beaches. They are usually clean and well maintained since Turkey prides itself on having Blue Flag Beaches (a status given to beaches with impeccable cleanliness and environmental conservation efforts).

They are also usually sheltered by the rocky, mountainous landscape, creating soft waves that the waters perfect for swimming in. However, families should note that most of the beaches we visited in Fethiye didn’t slope gradually, so watch your little ones who are paddling in the shoreline and make sure they don’t fall in.

3. World-Famous for Paragliding

Fethiye is known as one of the best places in the world to go paragliding. From here, you can launch from 6500 ft (1960 meters), which is known as one of the highest take-off points in the world, and get a flight time of around 25 minutes.

There are hundreds of thrill seekers paragliding throughout the day, and it’s the best way to experience the beauty of the Blue Lagoon and the arid mountains surrounding it.

What’s more, is that the weather is usually always good for paragliding. It’s said that  80% of days are flyable .

4. Plenty of Modern Conveniences

If you’re looking for a destination that has modern conveniences, such as top-quality hospitals, pharmacies, dentists, as well as supermarkets, and fast WiFi, then Fethiye has you covered.

Nowadays, more and more travelers are working remotely whilst on the road, and so need to have access to facilities they use at home. Fethiye is more than adequate for travelers who need the same modern conveniences you find at home.

5. Lots of Boat Trips You Can Take

For those who enjoy getting out on the water, the boat tours in Fethiye are some of the best in Turkey. They sail past ancient ruins, take you to secluded beaches, and to crystal-clear snorkeling spots. The boat trips from Fethiye are a great way to soak up the natural wonders of the region.

There are also several different types of boat trips you can take. You can take an iconic pirate ship cruise, which plays loud music and even has BBQs and foam parties, or you can take a more relaxing, small group boat trip on a catamaran.

Either way, it’s the best way to experience the best of the Turkish Aegean coast.

6. Close to The Lycian Way Hiking Trail

For hiking enthusiasts, Fethiye is where you will find the Lycian Way, one of the most famous hiking trails in Turkey. The trail spans from Antalya to Fethiye, covering a distance of 500+ kilometers.

The ancient trail was once used by merchants during the Lycian period but is now more famous for its stunning coastal views, olive groves, rustic towns, and awe-inspiring ancient ruins.

The varied landscapes and changing scenery make the Lycian Way an exhilarating adventure for nature lovers.

7. Vibrant Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife, Fethiye has got it all. From vibrant bars to energetic clubs, this Turkish coastal town offers a nightlife scene that tourists travel from far and wide to experience.

Whether you’re into dancing the night away at VIP Dance Bar or sipping cocktails at Mango Bar, Fethiye has something for everyone.

The mix of local DJs, live performances, and cheap happy hour deals, makes the nightlife in Fethiye a memorable experience.

8. Interesting Historic Attractions

What we personally loved about Fethiye was its historic attractions, which are unique to the area. From the ancient ruins of the Amyntas Rock Tombs, or the crumbling ruins of Kayakoy Ghost Village , Fethiye has many sites that allow visitors a chance to glimpse at an era now gone.

Walking through the Old Town of Fethiye and traversing its winding streets feels like stepping back in time, while if you head further afield, you can take a day trip to see the impressive Lycian Rock Tombs near Dalaman.

For history enthusiasts like us, Fethiye’s historic attractions provide an opportunity to connect with the past and learn about ancient civilizations and their contributions.

9. Stunning Natural Beauty

Perhaps the most notable reason to visit Fethiye is to experience its natural beauty. Surrounded by picturesque, rugged mountain ranges, verdant forests, and stunning beaches, there is no shortage of places to escape the crowds and unwind in nature.

Perhaps one of our favorite nature sites in Fethiye is Butterfly Valley , which is famous for its quiet, azure beach and arid landscape, which is where hundreds of butterflies call home.

Kabak Cove, another hidden gem, showcases the unique natural beauty of the region. From tranquil nature parks to breathtaking coastal panoramas, Fethiye is not short of nature spots.

10. Excellent Spot for Sailing

One of the best sailing spots in the world is the Aegean Sea in Turkey, which is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and idyllic coastline. The wind conditions are perfect for sailing, with an average wind speed of 8.8 mph (14.2 kph) in the summer.

The landscape in Fethiye is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable sailing experience. Just like on a boat tour, you can explore the tranquil bays and hidden coves, but from a sailing boat, you’ll feel a sense of freedom and serenity like no other.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, Fethiye offers a range of sailing tours and charters to suit your preferences.

Reasons NOT to Visit Fethiye

1. crowded in the summer.

Although Fethiye is undeniably a captivating destination and has a lot of beauty, it can sometimes be hard to appreciate it amid the throngs of crowds.

During peak tourist seasons, such as summer, the popular attractions and beaches can become quite congested, especially on the beaches. Even when visiting quiet beaches, such as Butterfly Valley’s beach, the boat tours with their loud music and the sheer volume of people can diminish the tranquility of the place.

You can also expect long queues, crowded streets, and packed restaurants, which can make traveling stressful when take away from the serenity that Fethiye has to offer.

However, you can visit during the winter or Autumn and escape the crowds, though it may be too cold to sit on the beaches.

2. Not Relaxing

A consequence of the above – large crowds means less relaxation. While many praise Fethiye for its natural beauty, I must confess that it may not be the ideal destination for those seeking a truly relaxing experience.

The bustling atmosphere, especially during the peak tourist seasons, can create a sense of constant activity and energy. The vibrant nightlife, lively markets, and crowded streets may not offer the serenity and tranquility that some travelers desire.

The popularity of Fethiye means that certain areas can be crowded no matter what time of day or time of year you visit, making it challenging to find a peaceful spot to unwind. If you’re in search of a more secluded and tranquil getaway, then we recommend visiting Kas or Alanya on the East Coast of Turkey.

3. Expensive Compared to Other Turkey Destinations

Turkey is not expensive compared to other destinations in Europe, but Fethiye and other destinations on the coast are more expensive than other popular destinations inland, such as Cappadocia, Istanbul, and Izmir.

The reason for this is that being by the beach is one of the main reasons to visit Turkey, and these coastal towns are not short of tourists looking to part with their cash and enjoy a beach vacation.

The cost of hotels, transport, and food in restaurants, was more expensive than other parts of Turkey from our experience.

4. No Backpacker Vibes

While Fethiye is undoubtedly a popular destination for travelers, it’s more suited to families and groups of people, as opposed to backpackers and solo travelers.

The town attracts a significant number of tourists, which can drive up prices for accommodations, food, and activities.

We found the hostels in Fethiye and Oludeniz to be of poor quality (compared to other parts of Turkey) in terms of facilities and price. There are not too many hotels or experiences that cater to a budget-conscious traveler.

Additionally, Fethiye’s popularity means that it can be crowded, making it challenging to find available accommodation last minute, especially during peak seasons.

For backpackers looking to immerse themselves in local culture and travel on a shoestring budget, there are other destinations in Turkey that offer a more authentic and affordable experience whilst also allowing you to experience the beauty of the Turkish Coast, such as Antalya.

5. Highly Commercialized / Limited Local Experience

Fethiye may not be the ideal choice of destination for those seeking an authentic and non-commercialized experience. The town has become increasingly commercialized over the years, with a multitude of tourist-focused establishments and activities dominating the scene.

From bustling markets selling mass-produced souvenirs rather than locally made handicrafts to crowded beaches lined with sunbeds that you have to pay 100 Lira to use – the charm of Fethiye can sometimes get overshadowed by its commercial nature.

For travelers yearning for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, where they can connect with the local culture and traditions in a more genuine way, Fethiye is not for you. We recommend exploring destinations like Cappadocia or Konya where you can still get an authentic experience whilst still being tourist friendly.

6. Scorching Summer Heat

Summer is peak season for Fethiye, but it’s also the time when the scorching summer heat can get unbearable, which can be a deterrent for some travelers.

With temperatures soaring well above 30 degrees Celsius, the intense heat can make outdoor activities and exploration uncomfortable, especially during the peak summer months.

The relentless sun may limit the enjoyment of popular attractions such as the ancient ruins or hiking trails. While the nearby beaches offer respite, many of them lack shade (unless you pay for the use of an umbrella) and they can also be crowded during this time.

For those who prefer milder climates or are sensitive to extreme heat, it might be worth considering visiting Fethiye during cooler seasons when the temperatures are more pleasant for outdoor adventures.

7. Limited Things To Do Besides The Beach

Fethiye is known for its stunning beaches, but for those travelers longing for more diverse attractions, you may find that Fethiye doesn’t offer much.

Beyond the beaches, Fethiye may lack the abundance of cultural and historical landmarks found in other Turkish destinations.

Although there are some notable sites like the Lycian Rock Tombs and the Ghost Village of Kayaköy, the options can feel limited.

For travelers craving a mix of beach relaxation and immersive cultural experiences, exploring other regions in Turkey with a more varied array of attractions, such as Antalya, could be a more fulfilling choice.

8. Limited Snorkeling Opportunities

Snorkeling enthusiasts may find themselves disappointed by the lack of colorful fish on the beaches in Fethiye. While there are a few spots suitable for snorkeling in the area, especially if you take a boat tour out to where the corals thrive, the options can be somewhat restricted since you need to travel to find them.

The lack of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life may leave avid snorkelers yearning for more immersive experiences. For those seeking a destination with a wider range of underwater wonders, exploring other regions along the Turkish Riviera may provide a more fulfilling and diverse snorkeling adventure.

9. Mosquitoes

Fethiye is known for its mosquito population, especially during the summer season. The presence of mosquitoes can be a nuisance for some people, and these tiny creatures can disrupt outdoor activities and make evenings less enjoyable.

Despite efforts to control their population, it’s important to come prepared with mosquito repellents and protective clothing.

Although the issue can be managed with precautions, those who are particularly sensitive to mosquito bites or prefer destinations with fewer insects may want to explore alternative options.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, those are the reasons for and against visiting Fethiye, and as you can see it’s a destination that will suit beach lovers and those who don’t mind crowds of people. It also has beautiful nature nearby, and hikers will love exploring the mountains around the Fethiye region.

However, it’s not the best destination in Turkey for backpackers or those who want peaceful relaxation. It’s also not the best destination to visit if you want cultural experiences, since it has become highly commercialized and relies heavily on tourism, so you’ll find a lot of Western-style restaurants and bars.

Ultimately, deciding whether Fethiye is worth visiting comes down to the type of traveler you are and what you want to get out of your vacation, but we hope our guide helped you figure out if it’s right for you.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

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Excite Travel

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Excite Travel - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

17 Best Things to Do in Fethiye (& Day Trip Ideas!)

Fethiye is most famous for its strikingly beautiful Ölüdeniz beach, which attracts thousands of tourists every year both locally and internationally. However, this charming coastal city located in the southwest of Turkey is full of other gems to discover.

Let’s first take a look at the city center of this once-ancient city of Telmessos, one of the most significant cities of Lycian civilization, and then focus on the other sightseeing activities in Fethiye region with a section on the best day trips from Fethiye.

Things to Do in Fethiye: Inside the City Center

Fethiye is home to several structures that still stand today showing the city’s cultural and flourishing background.

Shop at the Old Orient Carpet and Kilim Bazaar

If you are into Turkish carpets and kilims, you should definitely check out this shop.

Celal Coşkun, the owner of Old Orient Carpet & Kilim Bazaar, offers classes and workshops to teach the art of carpet making and repairing, a dying tradition day by day.

Address: Çarşı Caddesi 45 Sokak No: 5, Paspatur, Fethiye

Get cultured at the Fethiye Museum

If you are a history enthusiast, you should visit Fethiye Museum that displays Trilingual Stele  dating back to 338 BC.

There are exhibits of statuary and votive stones like Stelae of Promise and Grave Stelae as well as pottery and jewelry. There is a mosaic featuring a floral center, a bow and arrow, and a lyre from Letoön’s Temple of Apollo.

This small museum has also a garden where you can see Roman tombstones and Lycian sarcophagi. Get your museum pass card ready! The museum can be visited between 9 AM and 5 PM.

Address: Kesikkapı, 505. Sk. No:4

Grab a bite at Yeşil Asma Yapraği

Tired of walking around? You can try Yeşil Asma Yaprağı restaurant, a “lokanta” favorite of locals. The menu concentrates on Turkish cuisine like roasted chicken, “sarma,” spinach “börek,” and meat casseroles.

The restaurant has air conditioning so that you can escape the hot weather for a while, especially important if you are visiting during summer. The restaurant is open between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM

Address: Cumhuriyet, Dispanser Cd. No 15/A

Shop with locals at the Weekly Market

If you really want to get to know the culture of a city, you should definitely visit local weekly markets, and Fethiye is no exception.

Taking place along the canal next to the stadium every Tuesday, this enormous market offers vegetables, fruits, clothes, house equipment, food…everything you can think of. It is the cheapest way to shop, as well as the richest in its diversity of offerings.

Address: Between Atatürk Street and Pürşabey Street

Sun yourself like James Bond at Çalış Beach

Are you a Daniel Craig fan? Remember the scene James Bond was waking up in a cozy place by the sea in “Skyfall” with actress Berenice Marlohe? Well, the scene was shot in Çalış Beach!

The props were taken from Güven’s Bar and Restaurant while Daniel Craig stayed at the Yacht Classic Hotel on the beach – which, incidentally, is a fantastic place to stay when in Fethiye .

The Best Things to Do Around Fethiye

Visit the marvelous ölüdeniz beach.

Meaning “dead sea” in Turkish, Ölüdeniz is far away from being dead! Rather, it is full of life thanks to thousands of tourists coming to visit this heavenly blue sea.

Being one of the most famous beaches of Turkey, 15 kilometers of white soft sand lays rimmed by dense trees. The sea does not get deep quickly, therefore you can walk a lot till you can dive in the water completely.

That’s why families with kids also prefer the lagoon, which gives them a safe environment to play. The sand is so fine and thin — great for walking on the beach, but it also means that you take a lot of it home!

Jump from the peak of Baba Dağ

Ölüdeniz is also famous for paragliding! If you head to Baba Dağ, you can find paragliding facilities. Be careful to go with a reputable tour company! We recommend this paragliding company as they are the best-rated in Fethiye.

You might change your mind when you encounter the heights… so you can have a few drinks at Zirve Bar & Restaurant next to the takeoff area if you chicken out. You can watch people taking off every 5 minutes, and maybe you pluck up your courage to paraglide yourself (just don’t let it be liquid courage – it’s definitely not safe to fly while intoxicated!)

At this altitude, the air can get cold pretty quickly, especially as it gets closer to sunset. Don’t forget to take your coat with you in case you decide to hang out at the peak for more drinks to watch the stars sparkle overhead.

Walk around the abandoned village of Kayaköy

Once ancient Karmylassos, today’s Kayaköy is an eerie, mostly abandoned stone village located just 8 kilometers from Fethiye.

Until the 1923 Population Exchange was signed, this was a village full of Greeks and Turks living together. The law changed everything, making the people depart from the village to Greek islands and other parts of Turkey.

Today, this abandoned village attracts tourists who would like to see the ruins from that time, Katapongagia Church and Taxiarchis Church (two Greek churches) being some of them.

Visit the majestic ancient city of Kaunos

Dating back 3,000 years, the Ancient City of Kaunos has made to UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List with its rock tombs, temples, and theater. The ancient city is located in Dalyan, a one-hour car drive away from Fethiye city center.

If you are interested in the history of the region, Kaunos is a must-see, where merchant ships once departed to the Mediterranean and the Aegean Seas. To best experience Kaunos, take a boat ride by the Dalyan River in order to see the tombs with temple facades.

Take a mud bath

By the way, do not forget to take a mud bath on Iztuzu Beach! The mud is famous for healing skin ailments, and locals often come to the area to relax.

The gray mud dries on the skin, quickly working like a body mask to heal the irritated areas. It doesn’t smell that nice, just saying! The smell comes from the sulfur in the mud, which is part of what makes it so healing.

There are plenty of boat operators that work in Dalyan, therefore you don’t have to book in advance. Just be spontaneous!

Visit sea turtles

Iztuzu Beach is also home to the Sea Turtle Rescue Center (DEKAMER), a facility that helps injured turtles, as well as newborn sea turtles, reach the sea. You don’t have to pay anything to see the sea turtles in the conservation. Note that feeding and touching them are strictly forbidden.

Be careful with the season! Iztuzu Beach is a nesting site and closed from 8 PM to 8 AM during nesting months. If you’re visiting in the non nesting months (which vary by year), you can visit in the evening freely. The 5 kilometer-long beach is also fantastic during sunset time.

Take a safari tour at Saklıkent Gorge

The ravine is located in the mountains of Akdaglar and 30 kilometers away from the city center. The area is famous for trekking on the wooden boardwalks built above the river. The water is extremely cold, therefore do not consider swimming… unless you are from Russia or Sweden! You can go rafting, however, along the river.

There are safari tours starting from Saklıkent, a full-day activity diving into the deep forest areas, hiking through the gorge, having lunch by the river, and then heading to Patara to relax on the beach. The final destination of the safari tours is the ruins of Tlos. The tours include transfers from and to the hotel you are staying.

Check out the longest beach in all of Turkey

Being Turkey’s longest beach, Patara is the idyllic spot for a sunbathing break. Once a significant city of Lycia, you can also see several ruins by the beach in Patara, a perfect combination of history and seaside. Legend says that St. Nicholas of Myra who is “Santa Claus” as we call it today, was born in Patara in the 4th century!

The nearby archaeological site Pinara is less populated with tourists, compared to other Lycian sites in the region. There are more than 900 monolithic house tombs and rock tombs in the ruins of the Lycian city of Pinara. The area around the antique theater is fantastic, as you enjoy the mountain peaks and dense forest that surrounds you.

Visit the historic cities of Letoön and Xanthos

Letoön is another UNESCO protected city in the Fethiye region. The legend says that it was dedicated to the God Leto, who had an affair with Zeus. Leto was sent to exile to Lycia by Hera, Zeus’s wife. There are three temples in the religious center dedicated to Apollo, Artemis, and Leto.

You should also check out Apollo Temple in Xanthos, once the capital of Lycia, supposedly the oldest republic of the world. The city walls by the Hellenistic city gate date back to the 3rd century.

While under UNESCO heritage listing, unfortunately, the city’s most stunning monuments were sent to England in the 19th century. What remains are acropolis, the theater, and the agora.

Get some peace and quiet in the Butterfly Valley

Do you want to break free from all humanity? Then we have good news for you. Butterfly Valley is only reachable by boats that take off from Ölüdeniz or hiking from the cliffs of Faralya. Either way, it requires effort to get there… meaning tourists often don’t go there.

Going by boat from Ölüdeniz is the safer choice. We encourage you not to choose the trekking option unless you are an expert. There have been fatal incidents reported in the area due to losing concentration during hiking because of hot weather and the steep cliffs. Don’t forget to check out the schedule of the buses that will take you to the boats, as they are limited in number.

Once you are in the valley, you will find yourself surrounded by lush forest and spectacular beaches to discover. There are tree houses and humble accommodations here and there. Local and international visitors to Butterfly Valley make it a tradition to come here for the campfires at night, and the community spirit resembles the 60s hippie movement.

There are more than 85 different species of butterfly live in the valley, hence the name. The best time to see the butterflies is in June. If you really want to see the butterflies at rest, be careful not to be noisy and avoid crowded groups.

There is also a waterfall at the end of the valley. The road to the waterfall involves climbing, so get your water-resistant, well-tractioned shoes ready because you might slip with your flip-flops!

If you are planning to spare only a day for the valley, we recommend this day trip.

Spend the night in lovely Faralya

I have saved the best gem at the end of this article. A hidden hilltop village, Faralya is home to spectacular boutique hotels. Locals prefer these hotels for their honeymoon. Other people come to visit them for their yoga lessons that take place either by the Mediterranean or in the depths of the forest. You can only imagine how fresh the air is here!

Kabak Bay is a beautiful body of water that is under state protection is located just beneath Faralya. This is a valley of clean beaches and lavish nature with campsites. There are different kinds of animals and plants in the region. If you like camping, there is not a better camping atmosphere around! You don’t have to come ready with your own tent; there is equipment available for camping if you have a change of heart!

The locals of Faralya are really into bees and making organic honey. The honey here is a premium quality, so be sure to buy a few jars on the way back home!. If you are into cooking, you should also buy some sage. If you get a cold, you can consume in in the form of tea in winter, as well – it’s very good for you!

Since you are into the heart of the Aegean region, don’t leave before you have breakfast or dinner. The ingredients used are all organic and hence healthy. You can also buy olive oil produced from the local olive trees!

If you hike all the way up to Faralya, you have earned watching the sunset from the cliffs. Just take your time to relax, enjoy the views, and think about your life as you gaze into the hypnotic view of the Mediterranean!

Where to Stay in Fethiye

Budget | Infinity Exclusive City Hotel

For a budget-friendly place to stay that doesn’t sacrifice location, comfort, or quality, check out Infinity Exclusive City Hotel. It’s only a short walk from the sea, but it’s also surrounded by lively restaurants and bars that offer a buzzing atmosphere to have the best of both worlds, with the marina right at your fingertips.

The rooms are decorated elegantly yet simply, offering personalized charm beyond your standard hotel. The bathrooms are bright, spacious, and clean, great for a longer stay in Fethiye. There’s an on-site breakfast which you can also have delivered to your room if you feel like breakfast in bed.

>> Check prices, reviews, and availability here

Boutique | Orka Boutique Hotel

In the heart of Fethiye, Orka Boutique Hotel offers impeccable sea views, an unbeatable location, and classic style. Many of the rooms offer terraces and balconies to better appreciate the gorgeous sea views.

Located right on the harbor with a stunning view of boats bobbing in the waves, you can dine in their ground floor restaurant while marveling at the sea in front of you.

The rooms are minimalist and classic, with streamlined decor and modern elements. Some rooms, like their Large Room with Terrace or their Deluxe Room with Spa Bath, have interesting architectural elements and amenities that take the design a step above – perfect for a special occasion.

Luxury | Yacht Classic Hotel

Just outside the main town of Fethiye, a short walk from all the city’s restaurants and bars, you’ll find the lovely boutique hotel, Yacht Classic Hotel, located right on the seafront.

In addition to its gorgeous rooms with hot tubs in the bathrooms — many with seafront balconies, and some even with private pools! — the hotel offers several phenomenal 5-star amenities, including a swimming pool, Turkish bath, and a sauna. It even has free parking – perfect if you’re renting a car to explore the Fethiye region.

On-site dining includes Mori Restaurant, which serves fine Mediterannean cuisine, as well as Skyfall Bar (I mean, it was a James Bond filming location!) which serves Turkish wines… which are delicious [Chamlija is a personal favorite]. There’s also the Blue Pool Bar for poolside cocktails!

What to Pack for Fethiye

We have a guide of  what to pack for Turkey , but here are five things you definitely want to bring with you!

The Lonely Planet Turkey :  a good guidebook can help you with the kinds of safety tips you need if you’re out in the city and feel a bit lost, especially if you don’t have internet or a cell signal. These also have specific neighborhood information that will help you in different parts of the city, and it’s a great supplement to blog posts like this one!

Unlocked Cell Phone:  Stephanie and I both have unlocked cell phones that we bought in Europe (Stephanie uses a  Samsung  and I use an  iPhone ). This allows up to get sim cards when we travel so that we always have the internet. This has gotten us out of so many jams! If you don’t have an unlocked cell phone that can use a Turkish sim card, you can buy a cheaper  unlocked phone online  and bring it with you!

Pacsafe Citysafe  or Other Anti-Theft Bag:  This is the bag both Stephanie and I use for all our travels. It has a pouch with RFID technology so our credit cards can’t get scanned from afar, interlocking zippers to make it harder to pickpocket, and it’s roomy enough to be a perfect sightseeing day bag, yet it’s still quite stylish for all of its security features. If you’d rather bring something smaller, you can pack a  money belt   instead. 

Grayl Water Filter :  While the water is *technically* safe to drink in much of Turkey, I would still avoid it. If you don’t want to be buying millions of plastic water bottles, you can get a reusable water bottle that comes with a water filter so that you can stick to the tap water and reduce your plastic waste. If you’ll be traveling outside of the major tourist centers, check if the water is potable locally.

Seabands:  If you get seasick easily, pack some Seabands or   seasickness pills  so you don’t miss out on the best parts of Turkey – being on the water! A trip to Turkey isn’t complete without a cruise or at least a quick boat trip, so make sure you’re prepared to enjoy it to the fullest!

More Turkey Travel Resources

We have a ton of resources to help you plan your trip to Turkey!

If this will be your first time  traveling to Turkey , check out this guide to  planning a trip to Turkey (including visa information)  and this guide  beautiful places to visit in Turkey . You can also check out our  Balkan currency guide , which explains how the Turkish lira works and guidelines for tipping in Istanbul.

If you’re spending time on the coast , we have guides to Antalya, Bodrum, Alanya, and more on the way.

If you’re heading to Istanbul as well as Fethiye, we have you covered.  Start with our  essential Istanbul Travel Tips  and guide to  staying safe in Istanbul

We’re working on our massive  things to do in Istanbul  post, plus you can check out our  guide to the best Instagram spots around Istanbul,  tips for  shopping in Istanbul , the best  Turkish food  to eat, how to plan an  Istanbul honeymoon , and  what to do in Istanbul at night.

If you want to be in the city for just a few days (four or less), check out our  Istanbul city break guide , which breaks down the best of the city so you won’t miss anything!

Headed to Cappadocia?  If you’re curious about the most  Instagrammable places in Cappadocia , we’ve got you covered. We also have posts on the  best things to do in Cappadocia , and how to plan a perfect  3 day Cappadocia itinerary , plus  how to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul.

We have tons more Turkey and Balkans resources, and we publish new content nearly daily. Bookmark our  Turkey  and  Balkans  travel pages so you can find any new resources that come out before your trip!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, make sure to travel with a valid  travel insurance  policy. While we feel safe in Turkey, it’s a good idea to be covered in case of an emergency. Travel insurance covers you in case of theft or an accident, which can save your trip if there’s an incident.

For travel insurance, we both use  World Nomads .  I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

>>  Get your free quote from World Nomads here  <<

Pin this Guide to Things to Do in Fethiye Here!

After studying literature, Dize started to work as a freelance blog writer. She is the mother of a baby girl and 2 dogs. She lives in Istanbul with her family.

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48 hours in Fethiye – A 2 day Itinerary

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is a prime sun-and-sea area, so it’s no surprise that this is where you’ll find Fethiye.

While you could while an entire week in this small resort town strolling around the Old Town and lounging on the beach, this 2-day itinerary for Fethiye will allow you to see all the highlights of this Turkish paradise.

Fethiye, Turkey is on Turkey’s southwest coast around 200 km west of Antalya on the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea.

It is a port city with a beautiful natural harbour, a long stretch of beach, blue waters, and a long, varied history with ruins and caves dating back to the 4th century BC. There are many things to do in Fethiye, Turkey no matter what kind of trip you take want.

This part of Turkey has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. The best time to visit Fethiye for the hottest weather is June to September when temperatures often climb to 35°C (around 95°F). This is also Fethiye’s busiest and most expensive season. 

May and October are the shoulder seasons with warm weather and cheaper prices. Avoid visiting in the winter months as Fethiye is a resort town and many restaurants and attractions will be closed.

The best part of Fethiye to stay in for tourists is Downtown Fethiye in the heart of the city close to all the amenities and harbour. If you’re only spending 2 days in Fethiye, you don’t want to spend your entire trip taking transportation everywhere!

This 48 hours in Fethiye itinerary will break down exactly what to do and where to eat and drink when visiting Fethiye. It also includes tour recommendations so you will have the most amazing 48 hours in Fethiye!

In a hurry and need help quick?

Making last-minute plans for your Fethiye itinerary. We’ve got you covered. Our recommended hotels and tours for a getaway to Fethiye are listed below.

Recommended hotels:

• El Camino Hostel & Pub (hostel)
• Ten Apart Hotel (budget hotel)
• Yacht Classic Hotel (mid-range hotel)
• Infinity City Hotel (family hotel)
• Liberty Fabay – Ultra All Inclusive (luxury hotel)

Recommended tours:

• Paragliding Oludeniz, Fethiye, Turkey
• Daily Boat Trip
• Buggy Safari
• Saint Nicholas Island Sea Kayaking Tour
• Fethiye Oludeniz Boat Trip With Butterfly Valley And Six Islands

Other Helpful Links

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Wise Card : hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Table of Contents

Overview of 2 Days in Fethiye Itinerary

Here’s a glance at what you’ll see and do in two days in Fethiye:

Day 1 in Fethiye

Enjoy breakfast at kamkat cafe, lake köyceğiz, visit i̇ztuzu beach, grab lunch at turtle beach restaurant, amyntas rock tombs, eat dinner at middoor restorant cafe&bar, shop at the fethiye market in old town, day 2 in fethiye, enjoy breakfast at gogo the eatery, discover the ghost town of kayaköy, swim in the ölüdeniz blue lagoon, grab lunch at inci_restaurant, boat ride to butterfly valley , sunset paragliding experience, eat dinner at the pinehill alacarte restaurant.

Start your 48 hrs in Fethiye with breakfast at Kamkat Cafe , a relaxed restaurant near Fethiye’s Çalış Beach.

They have a covered outdoor terrace and serve a range of local Turkish and Mediterranean dishes as well as more classic breakfast dishes (bread, preserves, pastries, etc.) that you might be more used to back home.

Lake Koycegiz is 100 km up the coast from Fethiye but it’s totally worth travelling the distance. Plus, there are other things to do in this area that make the journey worthwhile.

Lake Koyegiz isn’t just a beautiful lake, but it also has natural mug baths, a sandy lake-side beach and beautiful views of the surrounding area.

You could also take a boat ride on the lake or simply stroll around the promenade if you don’t feel like getting wet (or getting muddy).

There are many great beaches in Fethiye but some are better than others. While Fethiye’s local beach Çalış is long and sandy with great waters for swimming in, Iztuzu Beach has something that it doesn’t: loggerhead turtles! Plus, it’s just a short distance away from Kale Koycegiz.

These turtles lay their eggs from May to October and access to the beach is usually prohibited during the night at this time to protect the eggs. Hatching season is from November to April. 

While you’re at Iztuzu Beach, stay for lunch at the local beachside restaurant . It’s a relaxed seafood eatery with excellent reviews. You can either consume your catch in the restaurant or get your food to take away and eat on the beach.

Head back to Fethiye and discover one of the most important historical ruins in the town. The Anyntas Rock Tombs of Fethiye are similar to the Lycian Rock Tombs of Myra which are much further down the coast. 

These rock tombs are much closer to Fethiye as they literally overlook the harbour so they’re in a much more convenient location at the end of the Fethiye Kordon hiking trail. Or you can take this day tour to see Anyntas Rock Tombs .

They are the remains of the Greek ancient city of Telmessos dating back to the 4th century BC. Like Petra in Jordan, they are hewn into the cliff face.

They are one of the ancient architectural wonders of Turkey and are well worth visiting up close. Not to mention the view of Fethiye from where the rock tombs are is spectacular.

Back in Fethiye, enjoy eating dinner at Middoor . It’s located right on the beach and has a relaxed, covered outdoor terrace overlooking the coastline. They serve a mix of local Turkish dishes and seafood.

Fethiye is a beach town that really comes alive at night. Take the opportunity on the first night of your 2-day itinerary for Fethiye to get lost in the winding cobbled streets of the Old Town. Stop by Fethiye Market to see if you can source any cool, local items or souvenirs to take home with you. 

Instead of eating right on the beach for breakfast on your second day in Fethiye, head into the heart of the Old Town and stop by Gogo The Eatery . This café has a cool vibe and serves artisanal coffee with western breakfasts like eggs benedict. They have a beautiful, upmarket outdoor terrace too. 

Yesterday you explored the coastline west of Fethiye, today it’s time to explore the cool spots along the eastern coast. The first stop on your itinerary will be the ghost town of Kayakoy . 

Kayakoy was first inhabited during the time of the Ancient Greeks and remained inhabited until the 20th century during the Greco-Turkish War. All Greek Orthodox residents (which was most, if not all of them) were exiled and therefore left the village abandoned.

It’s an incredible sight to see so many old houses left completely empty and it’s a must-see when staying in Fethiye.

After visiting Kayakoy, head further down the coast to the Oludeniz Blue Lagoon. Unlike the Blue Lagoon in Iceland , this is simply an area of coastline near Oludeniz that is an incredibly vibrant and vivid blue.

Part of the coastline is almost totally enclosed due to the shape of the beaches so this part, especially, is Oludeniz’s Blue Lagoon.

You can swim in it as the whole coastline is very clean and calm or you can just admire how blue and beautiful it looks! Visiting in summer is key because only then will you see the vibrancy of the water.

Before leaving the area, enjoy lunch at INCI Restaurant on Oludeniz Beach which is also near the Blue Lagoon. It’s in an easy-to-reach location and serves standard western food alongside seafood stews and Turkish dishes. It’s relaxed and the view is lovely.

There are several ways to reach the Butterfly Valley nature reserve, but the easiest is to take a ferry or water taxi from Olundeniz as it’s right on the coast. Otherwise, you’d have a long, arduous hike as there are no main roads that access this largely untouched area! Another option is joining this tour .

Hiking through Butterfly Valley will allow you to be completely surrounded by over 100 species of rare and diverse butterflies. Some of the rare species are the orange, black, and white Jersey Tiger varieties.

In total, the Butterfly valley is around 86,000 sqm. You’ll only be able to see a small fraction of that on your trip but you won’t regret making the effort.

Finish your 48 hours in Fethiye with a bang by braving one of the most popular adrenaline-inducing activities in the area: paragliding! It’s the best way to truly appreciate the vivid blues of the Blue Lagoon and the stunning Fethiye coastline. 

There are lots of tandem paragliding companies by the beach so you’ll have no problems finding one with availability and great reviews.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Paragliding at Fethiye

• Range of departure times

Take the ferry back to Olundeniz and dine at The PineHill A La Carte Restaurant . It’s a beautiful stone building that serves Mediterranean food and has a great wine selection.

Tours in Fethiye

Paragliding in ölüdeniz.

No Fethiye itinerary is complete without taking a tour, half-day, or full-day trip to somewhere in the local area.

There are just too many awesome things to see and experience! One of the top activities for travellers to do outside of Fethiye is to paraglide over Olundeniz .

The harbours, the nature reserves, the beaches… It’s just such a beautiful place! The weather allows for paragliding almost year-round and it’s much cheaper to paraglide here than in many other places around the world.

River Cruise and Dalyan Mud Baths

There are lots of natural wonders around Fethiye and this tour combines many of them. You can take a cruise up the River Ortaca, visit Turtle Beach (its official name is Iztuzu) and explore the Dalyan Coast. 

This tour also includes a visit to Köyceğiz Lake and the Lycian tombs so if you’re short on time you’ll be able to many of the wider Fethiye area’s highlights in one go with a knowledgeable, local guide on hand to explain a lot of the local history too.

Scuba Diving Experience

Fethiye’s calm, clear turquoise waters (it is the Turquoise Coast, after all) make this a fantastic place for a diving experience if you’re a scuba diving newbie and want to try it out. This half-day tour will give you the perfect taster.

You’ll explore coral reefs, submerged caves, and lots of colourful fish on this at least two epic dives. Safety is paramount and lunch is also included.

Day Trip to Saklikent National Park

Turkey has 45 national parks and Saklikent National Park is only 45 km/28 miles or a 50-minute drive from Fethiye. It’s the perfect place for a half-day or full-day tour!

You can hike up the deep river Saklikent Gorge and visit the ancient Lycian city of Tlos near the national park. 

FAQ for 48 Hours in Fethiye

How many days do you need in fethiye.

When deciding how many days in Fethiye you want to spend, you need to know what kind of trip you want. If you want a relaxing beach break, you might want to stay for a week. 

However, if you’re looking for a fun coastal city break or are visiting Fethiye as part of a backpacking trip, you only need two full days in Fethiye. There are plenty of tours and excursions you can take around the local area if you’re spending three or four days, though.

Is it worth going to Fethiye?

It is absolutely worth going to Fethiye! Fethiye has so many historical and natural wonders that it offers something for all types of travellers. Plus, Fethiye is a cheaper alternative to other Turkish resort towns like Antalya.

Is it better to stay in Fethiye or Oludeniz?

Oludeniz is another small, coastal resort town in Turkey only 20 km/12.5 miles along the coast from Fethiye, which is only a 20-minute drive. Oludeniz is a more typical touristy beach resort town with more people, high-rise resort hotels and a busier beach. If you prefer a more typical beach resort town, Oludeniz.

However, most travellers would probably prefer staying in Fethiye. It’s less touristy but still has all the amenities you need and lots of gorgeous resorts and accommodation options to choose from. Plus, you can easily take a day trip to Oludeniz so by staying in Fethiye you will get to explore both Fethiye and Oludeniz.

In a nutshell, it’s better to stay in Fethiye than in Oludeniz!

2-Day Itinerary for Fethiye Wrap-Up

There are so many amazing things to do in Fethiye, it might feel like only spending 48 hours in Fethiye isn’t enough. Using this itinerary, you’ll be able to explore the highlights in and around this beautiful Mediterranean town. You’re sure to want to return to Fethiye in Turkey after such a fun trip anyway!

Recommended tours in Fethiye

• Classical Turkish Bath
• Boat trip from Oludeniz Blue Lagoon to Butterfly Valley and Gemiler Island with lunch
• Private Tour: Dalyan Turtle Beach & Mud Baths from Fethiye and Oludeniz
• Saklikent and Tlos Ancient City Day Trip From Fethiye
• Pirate Boat Trip from Oludeniz
• Half-day Scuba Diving Experience in Oludeniz
• 2-day Ancient Ephesus and Pamukkale Hot Springs Tour from Fethiye

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Travel Guide to Fethiye, Turkey

Fethiye is a small port city located along the Southern Coast of Turkey. It has become more and more popular in recent years with visitors who have become aware of Fethiye’s beautiful blue waters, stunning scenery and rock tombs built into the cliffs high above. With it having become one of the most popular tourist towns in the region, I decided it was time to write a full visitor’s Guide to Fethiye.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on those links and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you I will get a small commission. This will go a long way toward keeping this website running. As always, thank you for your support! Click HERE for more information.

Fethiye is still a sleepy port side town at heart. Even despite the influx of tourists that it receives in the Summer months. The only seemingly different aspect during tourist season, is that it is slightly more busy, and hotel rooms are full. Fethiye herself just keeps humming along as she has done happily for centuries.

So what is there to do in Fethiye, and what makes it such a popular place? Is there an offseason, and if so, what is there to do? What about places to stay in Fethiye, and what is the weather like?

I will cover all of these questions and more in this Travel Guide to Fethiye.

Table of Contents

Where is fethiye, how to get to fethiye, fethiye weather, things to do in fethiye, day trips from fethiye, where to stay in fethiye, places to eat in fethiye.

Fethiye is located on the South Western Coastline of Turkey, facing onto the Gulf of Fethiye. The location is stunning, with a mountain backdrop facing onto a large, crystal blue harbor and gulf dotted with over a dozen islands.

For domestic visitors, Fethiye has always been very accessible. In recent years, travel to Fethiye has also become a lot easier for international visitors as well, due to the construction of an international airport at Dalaman.

Dalaman Airport is approximately 45 kilometers from Fethiye, which means that visitors will have to make their own way from the airport to the city themselves. During the summer months, flights ramp right up, and the airport hosts flights from most major centers around Europe.

The most popular way to get to Fethiye though is by bus. Buses run from all other towns and cities nearby, and bring passengers to the Fethiye Otogar (bus terminal). We caught the bus, and from the Otogar we were able to easily get to our accommodation by using local Dolmus or taxi.

Fethiye has year round weather that makes it the ideal destination. The peak season is summer, with temperatures around August peaking at around 35 degrees. The summer months from June though to August, and even into September are perfect if you are looking to really soak up some sun.

Winter months can get a little chilly in Fethiye, with temperatures around January dropping as low as 4 degrees. This, along with February, is also the wettest month in Fethiye.

The Ideal time to visit Fethiye is around the period between September to November. This is away from the peak summer period, and the heavy tourist season. It also avoids the drop of temperature that comes with winter. So with the friendlier weather, and low cost of shoulder season, it makes it the best time of year to visit Fethiye.

Guide to Fethiye Tip – We visited Fethiye in early December on our last trip. The Temperatures in the mornings were chilly, but during the day very pleasant for walking around and hiking. So if you don’t mind a bit of a nip in the air, consider taking advantage of the end of shoulder season for the best prices.

For a town that is known for vacations in the sun, there is a lot more to Fethiye than just laying on a beach. Although, that IS a big part of the attraction. But why not consider heading PAST the beaches, and discovering a bit of history, mystery and thrills by checking out some of the other incredible things that this beautiful town has to offer?

Here are the Guide to Fethiye choices of best things to do.

• Discover the Tomb of Amynthas – High on the cliff faces above Fethiye you can’t help but notice the incredible Lycian Tombs carved into the rock. They can be seen easily from the town itself, and date back as far as 350 BC. You can hike to the tombs within only a few minutes from town and explore them yourself, and then enjoy the wonderful views back over Fethiye from above.
• Escape to Oludeniz Beach – Wondering where the beautiful people go during the day? This is it. Located just 10km south of Fethiye, this amazing pebbly beach has crystal clear water, a backdrop of green mountains, and is lined with beach clubs and deck chairs.
• Get lost in Fethiye Old Town – Not quite as big as some other “Old Towns”, Fethiye Old Town, or Paspatur, makes up for it with its quaint alleys and shops. Discover spices, local foods, and more modern cafes and bars in this little maze of alleys located just east of the main harbor.
• Check out a real Ghost Town – The abandoned city of Kayakoy, 8 km East of Fethiye, may just be the most extraordinary thing you have ever seen. Around 6000 people abandoned this town over 100 years ago in the Greek/Turkish Population exchange. The town is very intact and you can wander its streets and discover it yourself. It is a couple hours hike from Fethiye or you can take a day trip to get there.
• Chill out on Calis Beach – The most popular beach in Fethiye is the long strip of coastline on the town’s northern eastern end. It is where everyone heads in the summer months in the town, and is very popular at sunset.
• Get your thrills with some paragliding – Head up to the summit of nearby Babadag Mountain and take to the air in what has been described as the most beautiful location in the world for paragliding. Soar over Oludeniz Beach and Lagoon and see the incredible sights from far above.
• Do some hiking – There are some amazing hikes around Fethiye. With the mountains so close, it is no surprise! Besides the hike to Kayakoy, you can hike the famous Lycian Way, or a section of it, as the entire trail is 540km long. The section near Fethiye is a coastal walk, and not as hard as some parts.
• Check out the harbor – The harbor around Fethiye is what this little port town is all about, after all. Stroll along the docks and watch the fishermen, or just marvel at the size of some of the incredible boats moored there.
• Take a cruise to the islands or Butterfly Valley – From the harbor you can hire local boats to take you on the 12 island loop out in the gulf, or head to beautiful Butterfly Valley. This valley is only able to be reached by boat, and in summer is home to around 100 species of butterflies!

There are plenty of things to do in Fethiye, at both ends of the scale. You can relax on a beach and simply soak up the sun. Or you can put on your shoes and raise the heartrate hiking, exploring or even paragliding. The diversity of activities is enough to keep anyone happy!

Guide to Fethiye Tip – Head up to the Lycian Tombs, and then continue down the road when you are finished. Just past the archeological site with the large Turkish Flag on top of the rocky peak, there is a wonderful view point known only to locals. Beyond that, follow the road on as it winds down into the harbor, making a wonderful loop walk with spectacular views of the town and the bay.

Fethiye is not exactly known for Day trips, but there are several activities that require a full day to do. In that case, getting a tour or a guide makes it an even easier and more enjoyable experience. So, here are a few tours and day trips that the Guide to Fethiye recommend to get you out and about in Fethiye.

• Tandem Paragliding over Blue Lagoon – This has to be one of the most popular tours to do in Fethiye. The paragliding location off Babadag mountain has been rated as the best in the world for a reason. You can check out both options at THIS link, or THIS one. Both are highly rated, safe, and promise to be extraordinary!
• Jeep Safari to Saklikent Gorge with Lunch – This is one of the locations you WANT to go to, but will be so much easier on a tour. This Jeep trip will take you to the ancient city of Tlos, rafting, waterfall hunting, and exploring the beautiful Saklikent Gorge. What a day! Check it out HERE .
• Pamukkale and Hierapolis – Visit the incredible Cotton Castle and world famous pools, before heading to the Ancient City of Hierapolis. A full day trip that promises to be a highlight of your entire Holiday! Click HERE for more details.

Fethiye is a place with extraordinary natural wonders and surrounds. These are the pick of the organized tours that you can arrange to take you to see just a few of them. Don’t forget to check out the paragliding!

Guide to Fethiye Tip – Head down to the harbor and take a stroll past the boats. There are literally dozens that offer really great deals for daytrips out into the bay. The 12 island trips is a highlight, and showcases the very best sights and scenery that this part of the Turkish Coast can provide!

If it is your first time visiting Fethiye, then I suggest you stay around the city center and the Marina area. This puts you close to everything, easy to access transport, organize boat trips, and be in walking distance of Old Town, the Lycian Tombs and other attractions. With that in mind, I will list here my Guide to Fethiye choices of best places to stay.

When it comes to Luxury in Fethiye, the most luxurious resorts are a bit removed from town. Therefore, the luxury around the town and harbor is a lot more affordable. Here are my picks.

ALESTA RESIDENCE

If you like apartment style accommodation, then this place is a dream come true. Large and de luxe, this place has incredible views of the marina from the large balcony. The staff and service are excellent, and breakfast is served on the rooftop.

HARBOUR SUITES

Lovely Suite Hotel with excellent service and staff. Large, clean and luxurious rooms, with views out across the Harbor. This hotel is in easy walking distance to everything, including the Old Town which is only a few minutes from the front door.

CASA MARGOT HOTEL

At the high end of mid range, I just had to find a place for this hotel as it is amazing. The rooms are gorgeous and spacious, and the views are amazing. Breakfast is tasty, and it is still walking distance from the main town and harbor. Perfect!

Just one thing to note – it is Adults Only!

INFINITY CITY HOTEL

A cheaper and lot more affordable option closer to town. This place is nice and comfortable, and right in the center of it all. Located right across the road from the harbour, and some of the rooms even come with their own Jacuzzi!

EL CAMINO PUB AND HOSTEL

This is one of the most popular hostels in Fethiye, with the best views by far. Especially from the bar, which serves wonderful food and drinks. The hostel is great, the service wonderful and staff accommodating. It is also in easy walking distance to everything in Fethiye.

SAKURA HOSTEL AND PUB

This modern style hostel gets rave reviews from anyone that stays there. With all the facilities you would need, it’s the little things they do right, such as sockets near the bed, lights and large drawers that fit a backpack. It is also close to everything, with multiple restaurants and cafes on the doorstep!

Looking for the best Budget accommodation? Hostelworld have you covered with all of the very best budget friendly accommodation around town. Check them out at THIS LINK .

There are plenty of wonderful places to eat around Fethiye. You don’t have to go far to find a great restaurant, especially around the waterfront areas, and the streets around the main square.

If you are looking for something different, then head to the local markets, or even to Old Town.

If you like seafood, Fethiye has a very popular and well known seafood market. It is basically surrounded by seafood restaurants, and you can pick your own fresh fish, and have them cook it up for you on the spot. You can find it at THIS location.

For something that is budget friendly, our favorite place to eat is called Lezzet Lokantasi. They have a set menu that features some local favorites, and is very popular with the local townsfolk. You can find it at THIS location.

Guide to Fethiye tip – If you are visiting Fethiye on a budget, then check out THIS article for a few really nice places to eat that will not cost the Earth!

Well, that’s it for my Travel Guide to Fethiye, Turkey. I am always updating my guides, and plan to head back to Fethiye again shortly, so I can continually work on the information in this guide. I hope that you have got a few good tips and hints, and that it helps your visit to Fethiye go a little smoother.

If you want to keep up to date with all of my travel guides and tips, then feel free to subscribe for my newsletter, which I really should send out more regularly than I actually do!

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Hi we are travelling to fethiya next October, I’ve read some articles which have worried me a bit about tourism, is it a safe place to stay, we are staying at the liberty fabay Hotel

Hi Carol, Wow. I don’t know where you have read about it being unsafe. I just spoke to my partner about it as well, and she agrees with me that Turkey was one of the most safe places we have traveled. We never felt unsafe anywhere, even in the big cities such as Istanbul, and often we were out well after dark. In Izmir, we were walking late in the evening through back streets after being caught in a rain storm, and still had no issues and it felt fine. With Fethiye, I would double down on that. It is a “small” city, more like a large town. The people are super friendly and helpful. I have no affiliation toward Turkey or Fethiye other than having traveled there, so be assured as well that this is just my personal opinion. As for your hotel. Wow! It looks amazing on Google! Unfortunately this is the only unknown factor for me, as it is a long way from the center and was totally off my radar when we visited Fethiye. Having said that, I think that would only make it safer in my opinion, because in any country, the scammers or petty crime would always be around the center where the tourists are. Once again, I never saw this in Fethiye anyway. If you have any more questions, be sure to drop me an email or comment. Cheers, Jason

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast: 11 Unmissable Things to Do in Fethiye

The underrated Turquoise Coast in Turkey has it all: from a spectacular aquamarine coastline to ancient ruins and cities. Read on for the best things to do in Fethiye and Oludeniz!

It’s taken me a while to write this guide to Fethiye in Turkey , and I’m convinced that it’s because I just want to keep the memories to myself – just for a little longer. When you think of Turkey, most people think of Istanbul  and Cappadocia , Pamukkale and maybe, just maybe, Izmir and Antalya.

However, sometimes our best travel experiences are from destinations we hadn’t heard much about in the past, and places where we don’t already have a rigid set of expectations and preconceived notions.

I have to be honest – I didn’t know what to expect from Fethiye and Oludeniz. Sure, I had seen photos of paragliders soaring above the Blue Lagoon, but what else did the region had to offer? When we were putting together our 2 week Turkey itinerary , we decided that we needed some time by the ocean after time in the landlocked region of Cappadocia and ancient city of Ephesus .

I had heard that Bodrum was a crowd-favorite and full of your typical resorts (and you know how I feel about crowds), so headed further south to explore Fethiye and Oludeniz away from the hordes of people. Wandering what to do in Fethiye and what places to visit in Fethiye? Read on for everything you need to know to discover Fethiye in 3 days!

First-time visitor to Turkey? Read this article on Turkey travel mistakes to avoid or head on over here for even more Turkey travel tips and guides!

Where is Fethiye in Turkey?

Fethiye was once known as the ancient city of “Telmessos”, one of the most important cities of the Lycian civilization. Telmessos was a culturally rich and flourishing city, and home to several monuments that still stand to this day. It is located in the Aegeon region in southwest Turkey, about 4 hours south from Izmir and 3 hours west from Antalya by car.

How to get to Fethiye

The closest airport to Fethiye is in Dalaman (airport code: DLM), and the drive from Dalaman to Fethiye will take you approximately 45 minutes. You can also fly into Izmir or Antalya and drive to Fethiye.

We drove over from Ephesus and it took us just under 5 hours with plenty of stops. We rented a Hyundai i20 car from Alamo and they were extremely helpful – it cost us only US$110/100 Euros for 8 days and tolls are virtually non-existent in Turkey.

Looking for the best prices for rental cars around the world? Click here to book your rental car ahead of your trip. Bookings can be cancelled or amended if your plans change!

Istanbul to Fethiye: If you prefer to fly into Istanbul you can take a domestic flight to Dalaman easily – there are several direct flights each day from both airports in Istanbul. The flight time is just over an hour.

How to get around Fethiye

The best way to get around Fethiye is by rental car. There is parking (paid and free) at most places and it gives you the flexibility to travel further along the coast and explore places that are off the beaten track – essentially, you will be better equipped to make the most of your Fethiye itinerary. We rented a car from Alamo via Rentalcars.com at Izmir Airport and had a great experience.

Alternatively, you can take a local bus (dolmus) to travel between Fethiye and Oludeniz. It is also easy to around on foot if you’re staying within Fethiye or within Oludeniz.

Essential Fethiye travel tips

💱 The currency is the Turkish Lira or TL and the exchange rate is approximately US$1: 26 TL or 1 Euro: 28 TL. When we visited in 2018 it was closer to $1:5-6 TL. 

🌐 Language in Turkey: As Fethiye is a popular vacation destination for British holiday goers, most people in Fethiye and Oludeniz speak fairly fluent English. We didn’t find the language barrier to be a major issue in Fethiye.

📱 There are several places in town to buy a local Turkish SIM card . We went to the Vodafone store in downtown Fethiye and bought a local SIM card which included 6 GB of data and plenty of calling minutes. You can also opt to download maps via hotel wifi for offline use. Read more on how to do that here.

🎟️ Invest in the Museum Pass : The Museum Pass Aegean is a great card to purchase if you are staying in the region for a few days. The pass can be purchased at any of the sites that accept it. If you are traveling to other places in Turkey including Istanbul or Cappadocia , you might want to purchase the Museum Pass Turkey . The Museum Pass allows you to skip-the-queue and simply scan the bar code to enter through the turnstiles.

🌤️ The best time to visit Fethiye: We visited in September, and the weather was perfect – warm and sunny, but not humid and oppressive. Many English tourists had also left for the season so Fethiye and Oludeniz were uncrowded. If you are headed to Fethiye I recommend visiting outside of the peak season from June to August, but know that certain boat and ferry services may not run outside of the high season.

Where to stay in Fethiye

We stayed for 3 days in Fethiye, and would have gladly stayed another few nights to take in the beautiful sights and stunning weather. If you are visiting Fethiye, please do yourself a favor and book yourself into Yacht Boheme Hotel , an adults-only beach chic hotel steps away from the marina.

The décor is beautiful and very bohemian-inspired, the rooms are extremely spacious and the breakfast spread is amazing and fresh. For spa services, head to its sister hotel up the road – Yacht Classic Hotel , or grab dinner under the stars on the terrace at their other sister hotel just across the street – Hotel Unique .

Though we didn’t end up spending any time at the pool (too busy swimming in the blue bays of Fethiye!), it has lots of sun beds and cute little pool cabanas for guests to use. It’s definitely slightly pricier than some of the other accommodation options in Fethiye , but it was 100% worth it.

The hotel is just a 5 minute stroll away from the “downtown” area of Fethiye with restaurants and shops, and there is also free parking – the staff even provides valet services at no extra cost. If you love jazz they occasionally put on live jazz performances with a local band. Click here to check current rates at Yacht Boheme Hotel (Adults Only) in Fethiye or head on over here to see some other highly rated hotel options in Fethiye and Oludeniz .

If you like the aesthetic and look of Yacht Boheme , you might also want to consider its sister hotel Yacht Classic Hotel (which also accepts families traveling with children), or check out the country-chic rooms at Hotel Unique (adults only). This group of boutique hotels in Fethiye has consistently positive reviews for the attentive service, cleanliness and location.

Important information about hotel booking in Turkey: You can not book hotels in Turkey using Booking.com when you are already in Turkey, as it has been blocked by the Turkish government (so has Wikipedia, for that matter, and they’re looking to extend the ban to other websites including AirBnB and Expedia). Instead, make sure you book hotels for your stay in Turkey before your trip, or use Hotels.com for any last-minute hotel bookings that you need to make when you are already in the country.

11 top things to do in Fethiye

Fethiye is surrounded by outrageously cool heritage sites, archaeological wonders, pristine beaches and lagoons and towering mountains. Fethiye old town is also a charming neighborhood to wander through if you want to enjoy a slower pace on your holiday.

You have to see the otherworldly landscape with your own eyes to believe that places like this still exist in the world. Wandering what to do in Fethiye? Here are 11 must-visit places and things to do if you’re visiting Fethiye, Turkey!

1. See the Kaunos Rock Tombs

The Kaunos Rock Tombs are located in Dalyan, about 1 hour away from Fethiye. The Ancient City of Kaunos is on UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List, and dates back over 3,000 years with rock tombs, a theater and temple.

The port city once held a position of strategic importance especially for merchant ships traveling between the Mediterranean and Aegean Sea. It’s one of the best places to visit near Fethiye if you are interested in the region’s history.

The rock-cut tombs with temple-like facades on cliff edges are only seen in Kaunos, and are framed by the beautiful flowing Dalyan river. Today, you can drive to the Dalyan waterfront across from the rock tombs to take a quick look at them from the ground, or go on a boat ride for a half-day trip that includes a mud bath and visiting Iztuzu Beach.

There are plenty of boat operators along the waterfront so you don’t necessarily need to book in advance. To explore the rest of the ancient city of Kaunos you’ll need to set aside half a day – if you’re fine with a glimpse, a quick stop by the waterfront is fine.

2. Visit Iztuzu Beach

Iztuzu Beach is also located in Dalyan, and is known as a nesting site for sea turtles. Although the 5 kilometre-long beach is open during the day, it is closed from 8 PM to 8 AM during nesting season.

Many people leave this off their Fethiye itinerary because there are other beaches in Fethiye that are closer to town (Calis, Oludeniz and Patara beaches), but Iztuzu is a fantastic beach to check out if you want a change of scenery.

It is also home to The Sea Turtle Rescue Center (DEKAMER) on the backside of the beach, where you can learn about sea turtles and learn about the center’s conservation efforts.

There are several injured turtles that are rehabilitated onsite, as well as a handful of newly hatched turtles that will be released – there is no entrance fee, no touching and no feeding of the turtles. You can leave a donation to help support their conservation and research projects.

Wondering where to stay in Fethiye? We loved our stay at the gorgeous Yacht Boheme Hotel (Adults Only) with valet parking and just a short walk away from the marina. The breakfast was stunning and the room was extremely spacious and clean. If you like the look of Yacht Boheme , you might also want to consider its sister hotel Yacht Classic Hotel (which also accepts families traveling with children), or check out the rustic-chic rooms at Hotel Unique (which like Yacht Boheme, is adults only). Reviewers love this group of boutique hotels in Fethiye for the attentive service, cleanliness and convenient locations. You can also head on over here to see the best hotels in Fethiye and Oludeniz .

3. Swim in the Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon

Ölüdeniz is also known as Turkey’s “Blue Lagoon” because of the pristine turquoise waters. It is located near the foothills of Mount Babadağ, around 20 minutes by car from downtown Fethiye. Visiting the blue lagoon is one of the best things to do in Oludeniz.

In order to enter the Blue Lagoon area, which is separate from the main beach, you need to pay 25 TL for parking or 7 TL to enter on foot.

Inside, you’ll find several small restaurants, shops, changing rooms and bathrooms, and you can rent a sun lounger for a small fee.

4. Check out Butterfly Valley

Fethiye’s Kelebekler Vadisi, or Butterfly Valley in English, is a remote beach only accessible by boat. Some say that it can also be reached on foot, but I wouldn’t recommend hiking unless you are an extremely experienced hiker as the trail is unmarked.

Butterfly Valley is south of Oludeniz and is one of the region’s best-kept secrets. You can get there by taking the shuttle boat from Oludeniz Main Beach – the boats usually depart from Oludeniz at 11 AM, 12:30, 2 and 3 PM, and return from Butterfly Valley at 1, 2:30 and 5 PM.

Unfortunately, we missed the last boat going to Butterfly Valley from Oludeniz, so opted to take a private speedboat to take us over. The trip cost us 250 TL for 1 hour (including driving and waiting time), or you can stay a little longer – 350 TL for 2 hours.Prices may have gone up over the past few years.

The speedboat makes a short stop at a small “Blue Grotto” called the Mavi Magara – somewhat similar to the ones you can find around Capri Island in Italy .

To see Butterfly Valley from above, there is a rocky roadside lookout point where you can catch a bird’s eye view of Kelebekler Vadisi. You can only get there by rental car – it is not an official viewing platform area, so park carefully and watch your step!

5. Soar above Mount Babadağ

Paragliding in Fethiye is one of the most popular activities in the region. Head to the top of Mount Babadağ and try your hand at paragliding – it is one of the best places in the world to take to the skies!

However, if you’re like me and could think of nothing worse than to jump off a mountain, grab yourself a couple of drinks at Zirve bar & restaurant right next to the take-off area and watch the paragliders do their thing.

Because it is such a popular destination for paragliders, one person takes off every minute or so – it’s insane. We also ended up staying for dinner and the food was fantastic and very reasonably priced.

Mount Babadağ also happens to be the absolute best place to watch the sunset in Fethiye. Bring a warm coat – at this altitude, the air becomes freezing as soon as the sun goes down. With views like this, it’s not hard to see why paragliding is one of the top things to do in Fethiye.

Ready to book your Fethiye trip? We highly recommend booking your stay at the stunning Yacht Boheme Hotel (Adults Only) , a wonderful Fethiye boutique hotel a short walk away from the marina. The hotel has a small pool area and our room had a lovely little terrace as well. You may also consider its sister hotel Yacht Classic Hotel (which also accepts families traveling with children), or Hotel Unique (which like Yacht Boheme, is adults only). You can also head on over here to see the best hotels in Fethiye and Oludeniz .

6. Swim in Fethiye Bay

Trust me when I say that this was hands down one of the best days of my life. Though there are lots of options when it comes to Fethiye boat trips, we booked to go on a day trip around Fethiye’s “Ultra Blue Bays” with Sugar after tons of research. Sugar is a lovely Turkish man who has operated boat trips for more than 2 decades.

We sailed to 4 different aquamarine bays, went snorkeling, ate incredible homemade food and lounged on the roof of the boat. The bays were uncrowded and the water was warm and crystal clear – I’ve never seen water that translucent, not even in Croatia or Greece.

The full day boat trip was everything we needed to recharge the batteries and soak up the Turkish sunshine. Please, please please set aside 1 day in Fethiye to go on a boat trip with Sugar – you won’t regret it!

Prices have been adjusted since our visited but remain extremely reasonable – approximately 40 British pounds or just under US$50 for a full day tour from 10 AM to 6 PM.

He’s very responsive over e-mail and Whatsapp if you have any questions. Other readers have gone on his boat trip and agree that it’s one of the best things to do in Fethiye!

7. Visit the Amyntas Rock Tomb

One of the most popular downtown Fethiye attractions, the Tomb of Amyntas overlooks Fethiye and was built into the side of a towering mountain in 350 B.C. The rock tomb, much like the ones Dalyan, are carved into the cliff face.

Also known as the “King’s Tomb”, it is named the Tomb of Amyntas (or Amynthas) as it bears the inscription “Amynthas, son of Hermapias” carved into one of the walls.

This is one of the best places to visit in Fethiye itself – you can walk up a set of steps to view the tomb from up close for 60 TL or use your Museum Pass here. There are also a smaller set of rock tombs to the left which can be viewed from the roadside.

8. Wander through the ghost town of Kayaköy

Kayaköy is a short drive away from Fethiye, and is an abandoned village that was once home to nearly 20,000 Greek Orthodox residents. These residents were forcibly “removed” in a population exchange with Greece in 1923 which was meant to ensure that each country had only one main religion.

Today, the town of Kayaköy is entirely deserted and dilapidated – buildings are in ruins and hundreds of houses, schools, shops and churches are in crumbles.

Walking through the ghost city is an eerie experience, yet you can imagine how lively it once must have been before its residents were ejected.

There is limited parking near the ticket office, and entry currently costs 15 TL per person (ticket price subject to change) or simply show your Museum Card. If you’re looking for things to do near Fethiye then add visiting Kayaköy to your list!

The best place to stay in Fethiye: Ready to book your hotel in Fethiye? Check out Yacht Boheme Hotel for a peaceful stay steps away from the marina. We loved the room design, the staff were helpful and the valet service came in extremely handy. You can also consider its sister hotel Yacht Classic Hotel (which also accepts families traveling with children), or Hotel Unique (which like Yacht Boheme, is adults only). Head on over here to check out other hotels in Fethiye and Oludeniz .

9. Walk through Saklikent Gorge

Saklikent National Park is located about 50 kilometres from Fethiye. The canyon is one of the deepest in the world at nearly 300 metres deep and 18 kilometres long.

Visiting Saklikent Gorge is one of the most popular day trips from Fethiye. Unfortunately we didn’t have enough time to visit Saklikent, but would have checked it out if we had more than 3 days in Fethiye.

10. See Fethiye from above

Abdi İpekçi Cd. is a winding road above Fethiye that offers unparalleled views of the city and bay from above. It merges with Kaya Cd. which eventually takes you to the Amyntas Rock Tomb, and there are plenty of places for a quick stop to check out the panoramic view. From this road you can also see the crumbling ruins of the Fethiye Ancient Theatre.

11. Explore Tlos

The ancient city of Tlos is located 1 hour from Fethiye. Tlos is believed to be one of the most important religious Lycian sites dating back more than 4,000 years. The ruins include a theatre, stadium, agora, rock tombs and fortress.

It’s believed that the hero Bellerophon, the son of Poseidon, once resided in Tlos. Bellerophon was credited with slaying the dreaded Chimera, a monster with a lion’s head, goat’s body and a serpent’s tail.

His companion was the winged horse Pegasus, and it is thought that the tomb in Tlos is dedicated to Bellerophon though it appears that it can no longer be accessed. Nevertheless, you can catch a glimpse of it from the road.

Entry currently costs 60 TL per person, or you can use your Museum Card. You’ll need to bring a bottle of water and a hat for Tlos as there is no shade at all and can get sweltering hot. Opening hours may change so visit the official Turkey Museums website for more details ahead of your trip.

More ideas for your Fethiye itinerary

If you have more than 3 days in Fethiye, you might also want to explore more of the province of Muğla and visit the ancient cities of Patara and Xanthos-Letoon , catch a ferry to the Greek island of Rhodes , go on more boat trips from Fethiye (often marketed by tour companies as a “12 Island Boat Trip” or “Butterfly Valley Boat Trip”), or hike portions of the Lycian Way .

I hope this Fethiye travel guide gets you inspired for your sojourn along the Turkish coast. Ready to unwind and relax in Fethiye, Turkey? Click here to check current rates at Yacht Boheme Hotel (Adults Only) in Fethiye or head on over here to see the best hotels in Fethiye and Oludeniz .

If you like the look of Yacht Boheme , you might also want to consider its sister hotel Yacht Classic Hotel (which also accepts families traveling with children), or check out the rustic-yet-chic rooms at Hotel Unique (adults only). This group of boutique hotels in Fethiye has consistently positive reviews for the attentive service, cleanliness and location.

Need some help planning your Turkey itinerary? You might also find these articles helpful:

• First time visitor to Turkey? Read on for what not to do in Turkey and essential travel tips
• Spending some time in Istanbul? Here is my guide to spending 3 days in Istanbul
• Head on over here for an easy 2 week Turkey itinerary for first time visitors
• Or check out all of my Turkey travel tips and guides here

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14 Comments

Do you happen to have a sample itinerary? I’d like to spend 4 days there and I’d love to do most of what you said here, but I’m having a hard time figuring out which of these things could go together in one day. There’s just so much even just in this list. Any tips would be most welcome.

Hi Valeria, this is how I’d group them:

– Kaunos, Iztuzu, Amyntas, Fethiye viewpoint – Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley, Mount Babadag for sunset – Boat trip with Sugar OR Saklkikent – Tlos + Kayakoy in 1 day

Hope this helps!

Hi, Wow… that sounds amazing already. I am in Istanbul and wondering wherelse to go, this helped a lot. But, can we do this in 3 days with out car and only using public transport! Please let me know!

Hi Amar, I think you will find it difficult to travel extensively in 3 days around the turquoise coast without a car. There are shared shuttles (dolmus) but unfortunately I’m unsure how frequently they run. The drive time from Istanbul down to Fethiye is very long, so if you are looking for a 3-day getaway from Istanbul I would reconsider and look closer unless you are willing to take a short domestic flight. Best of luck!

most of the sites are outside fethiye, is there any things else to see around the town area beside the rock tomb ?

There is also an amphitheatre that you can visit. The Ultra Blue Bays boat trip that I mention in the article also begins and ends in Fethiye.

Thanks for your post. It’s really interesting and has got me wanting to visit lots of the places you have written about.

I’m currently on holiday in Fethyie and wondered if Sugars boat trip is suitable for kids (3 & 5 year olds)?

It sounds amazing but I wondered if it would be too long a trip for them. Be great to hear what you think.

Many thanks Katie

Hi Katie, I would say so but I don’t have any personal experience traveling with kids 🙂 The boat itself has plenty of seating – if your kids are not confident swimmers you might want to consider bringing some floaties for them. If I recall correctly, Sugar also offers shorter tours – half day and 2-hour ones if you’re concerned about the trip being too long. You can always shoot Sugar an e-mail or Whatsapp and ask if he often gets families with young children on board!

I’m not sure how I stumbled on to your blog/website, but I’m very happy that I did. I recently had 5 days in Fethiye, Turkey and I booked a trip with Sugar and I loved it sooo much that I booked another while I was there! The trip is fantastic. I just couldn’t get enough of the clear blue/blue-green/turquoise waters! Nice sized group, great food and of course, Sugar himself! Thank you for the wonderful suggestion!

Hi Laura, I am SO SO SO thrilled to hear that you had a great time with Sugar and his crew! They are just so friendly and welcoming, and really know how to show people the best time. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment here to let me know that this article helped you plan your travels – it means the world.

All the best,

So glad I came across this post! We’ve been trying to decide which coastal spot to visit on our upcoming trip to Turkey and this ticks all the boxes. Thanks for all the helpful tips!

Hi Laura, I’m SO happy to hear that you found this helpful! Enjoy your trip, this part of Turkey is so incredibly picturesque, I hope you have a blast 🙂

Wow, this looks absolutely stunning! I hope to have the opportunity to visit Turkey one day. It looks spectacular.

Turkey blew my mind – I didn’t really know what to expect, but wow. The people are so hospitable, the history is incredible and the landscape is breathtaking!

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Letters to the Editor: Discouraged by Biden and Trump? Toughen up and vote

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To the editor: Our voting choices may be “bleak” for some who feel the candidates do not fully represent or excite them. But what is more bleak is voter apathy, especially now in our current state of political upheaval? (“ Biden and Trump’s main challenge? The apathetic voters who could decide the election ,” April 4)

The ship of state is on fire, and we have people refusing to be part of the bucket brigade. Lives are at stake. But they don’t like the captain, they complain that there are no fire hoses, and why should they have to use buckets? Or they think others will get the job done.

They deliberately forfeit their right to vote. Forfeit a freedom. They neglect, as privileged citizens of the United States, to participate in its governance.

What part of “we the people” do they not understand? This country is our responsibility to keep, to make better. We’ve always had to fight for it.

Darrell Petry, Huntington Beach

To the editor: I am not at all apathetic about the coming election. I do not expect my presidential choice to be perfect — that is unreasonable and impossible.

When I mark my ballot, I will be voting for perhaps the next Supreme Court justice and other federal judges the president will appoint.

I will be expressing my particular view on voting rights, reproductive rights, climate change, healthcare, taxes and Ukraine. I have strong views on all those subjects, which will affect Americans for years to come.

No, I am not apathetic — rather, just the opposite.

I will also be voting for a senator and a representative who best reflect my views. The presidency is not the only important office on the ballot.

Ruth Silveira, Los Angeles

To the editor: As an 85-year-old registered independent who has never missed casting a vote for president since I was 21, I found your article on the lack of voter enthusiasm in 2024 to be spot-on.

Over the years, at times a candidate’s intellect, character, charisma or stand on specific issues has influenced my vote. At other times a party’s platform or its social or economic philosophy is the decisive factor in determining my selection at the ballot box.

More often than not, however, I wonder why neither party can do better in picking a nominee, and I wind up voting not for the lesser of two evils, but the least of two “lessers.”

This time, however, I am genuinely concerned that a vote for Trump would be a vote not for the lesser of two evils, but a vote for the evil of two lessers.

Marshall Barth, Encino

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April 22, 2024

• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Omsk, founded in 1716, is a large industrial, educational and cultural center with a population of over one million. In the 50-s years of the 20th century, Omsk became an important oil-processing city. Omsk is a typical modern city with wide thoroughfares, numerous bridges, and high sky-scrapers. In the old part of the city, one can see examples of architecture of previous centuries including the Tobolskie Gate leading to the city fortress, the oldest constructions in Omsk.

In the 19th century, the convicts had to pass through this gate daily when they went to the timber cutting works. Among the convicts was famous Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky.

The palace of a general-governor is another interesting sight of Omsk. This old building witnessed many historical events.

• Ulan-Ude read
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Traveler’s guide to the city of Omsk, Western Siberia’s secret gem

Omsk was founded in 1716 when a wooden fort was constructed to house a Cossack unit in the area to protect the expanding Russian frontier from Central Asian nomadic incursions. It served various administrative functions throughout the 1800s and became infamous as a place of exile and incarceration. The city was rundown when selected as a hub for the Trans-Siberian railway in the 1890s. Many international trade companies and foreign consulates relocated here and the remnants of their offices can still be found in the city today.

The mystery of Kolchak’s gold

Kolchak was entrusted with a large portion of the Tsarist’s gold reserves, yet amazingly lost much of it. Supposedly 250 million rubles were lost (about $8 million at the time). Legend has it that they were buried near the village of Taiga, yet numerous excavations have turned up nothing. The area still attracts the occasional fortune seeker.

Kolchak’s headquarters are located at what is today the Omsk Regional Archives at Broz Tito St., 3. Nothing shows how much times have changed as the imposing Kolchak statue that was unveiled in 2012 around the corner. The statue guards Kolchak restaurant , a four-story culinary complex featuring a steak house, an Irish pub, a Central Asian café and an Italian eatery.  For more details on where and how to dig Kolchak's gold, see Top Ten Mysterious Lost Treasures of Russia  

Dostoevsky and the Tsar

Most foreigners have heard of Omsk via writer Fyodor Dostoevsky who spent four years here as a prisoner (1849-1853). He spent most of his time in Omsk in squalor and chains and with no books besides the Bible, however, it left an indelible mark on his memory and influenced his future literary output. There is a statue of the writer in chains grasping a Bible at the corner of Partizanskaya and Spartakovskaya streets, where Dostoevsky undoubtedly stepped many times. A museum dedicated to the author's time in Omsk is located nearby at Dostoevskogo St. 1. The local university is also named for him.

Tarskaya Street is one of the city’s oldest thoroughfares. It features a monument to victims of Stalinist repressions and the Tara gates, originally built in 1792 as one of the four entrances to the Omsk fort. Nearby stands the Assumption Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Siberia. Future Tsar Nicholas II laid the first stone here in 1891 when making his way back to St. Petersburg after his Eastern journey.

In Omsk you are never more than a few steps from the village, made clear when one exits the center to the north, where most houses are wooden and roads unpaved. Stroll along Bulatova and Rabinovicha streets, a well-preserved ensemble of wooden architecture.  

Omsk’s cultural heritage

One of Omsk’s most famous sons is Symbolist painter Mikhail Vrubel (1856-1910). Vrubel ignored contemporary trends and focused on themes from fairy tales, demons and religious subjects and also designed a majolica frieze for the Metropol Hotel in Moscow. Omsk’s Fine Arts Museum is named for him and features a number of his works .

Over the years a number of tourists have tripped over the monument to Stepanych. This bust of a plumber rising from a sewer was the idea of Omsk’s former mayor after a trip to Slovakia in the 1990s. Stepanych has become one of the symbols of the city.

Omsk is a hockey town, with one of the major teams, Avangard , in the KHL, Russia’s premiere professional league. Russian champions on several occasions, check out a match at Omsk Arena. But if you can’t catch a game there’s a large kiosk featuring the team’s merchandise at the airport.  

Siberian punk, jazz and the classics

Perhaps Russia’s most famous punk band, Grazhdanskaya oborona (Civil Defence), was formed here in 1982. The band was active until 2008 when lead singer Yegor Letov died of heart failure at age 43. Letov is buried at the Staro-Vostochnoe cemetery. A sprawling graveyard with thousands of graves, fans should stop at the administration for help in locating his grave.

One of Omsk’s longest running live music venues is Jazz Cafe Party Piano . With live jazz and rock every night of the month, it’s legendary throughout Siberia. Take a taxi as it’s hard to find. Other options for live music include the Viking Folk Bar and Harat's Pub .  

How to get there

The southern and northern branches of the Trans-Siberian Railway converge here with about 10 trains going to or from Moscow on any given day (37-47 hours each way) and many trains travel to and from the Far East (4-5 days) daily. Aeroflot, Transaero, and S7 fly to Moscow daily (3 hours). Less frequent flights connect to Saint Petersburg (3 hours), Krasnoyarsk (2 hours), as well as Frankfurt, Hannover and Köln in Germany (5 hours). For more information check out aeroomsk.ru

Where to stay

Central hotel choices include Tourist with rooms starting from 1800 rubles (about $47) and Ibis Sibir with rooms starting at 4000 rubles (about $104).

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