Fethiye: Treasure Of Mediterranean

One thing you should know about Turkey is that it has the potential of surprising you with something new in every corner. So, do not get too excited when you discover Fethiye. Or get excited, because it is awesome.

There are a lot of discoveries both history and nature-wise. First of all, you can start by taking a relaxing cruise tour along the mesmerizing Oludeniz and exploring the rock-carved tombs of Lycian kings.

You can enjoy the amazing nature in Saklikent Gorge, one of the greatest canyons you can ever see. Or you can get lost in Butterfly Valley. Its name says it all already, thousands of different kinds of butterflies in an incomparable nature Heaven must be something like this.

If you are feeling a little extra, you can experience paragliding over the Oludeniz and fulfill the need for adrenaline.

Whatever you are looking for in a trip, Fethiye has it all.

Fethiye is well-connected with multiple transportation options. Here are some ways to get there:

By Air: The nearest airport to Fethiye is Dalaman Airport, which is about 50 km away. Dalaman Airport receives both domestic and international flights. After arriving at the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or hire a car to get to Fethiye.

By Bus: Turkey has an extensive bus network. You can easily get a bus to Fethiye from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya. The bus station in Fethiye is located in the city center.

By Car: If you’re already in Turkey and prefer to drive, you can reach Fethiye by car. The journey from Antalya takes around 3 hours, from Izmir about 4 hours, and from Istanbul around 9 hours. Please note that these times can vary depending on traffic and the exact start point of your journey.

By Ferry: If you are coming from a Greek island like Rhodes, there are seasonal ferry services to Fethiye.

What to pack for Fethiye would largely depend on the time of the year you plan to visit. Here’s a general guide:

1. Spring and Autumn (April – June, September – November):

Light clothing for the day, when it can be quite warm.

A light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings.

Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.

A swimsuit for the beach or pool.

A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

An umbrella or lightweight rain jacket as showers can occur.

2. Summer (June – August):

Light, breathable clothing. Cotton and linen are good choices.

Sandals and comfortable shoes for walking.

A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.

Swimsuits for the beach and pool.

A light shawl or cover-up for when visiting mosques or religious sites.

3. Winter (December – March):

Warm clothes, such as sweaters and jackets. Temperatures can get quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

Waterproof shoes or boots in case of rain.

An umbrella or raincoat.

A hat, gloves, and a scarf might be useful for particularly cold days.

Fethiye, a city on Turkey’s southwestern Turquoise Coast, is filled with wonderful places to stay that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

Hillside Beach Club: This is a luxury resort nestled in a private bay. It’s an all-inclusive resort with three private beaches, four restaurants, and a range of wellness and recreational facilities.

Alesta Yacht Hotel: Located at the seashore of Fethiye Gulf, Alesta offers modern rooms and a fine dining restaurant. It is also within walking distance of the town center.

Yacht Boheme Hotel: This boutique hotel, located in the town center, has been designed with a bohemian theme and provides high-quality service with an intimate atmosphere.

Ece Saray Marina Resort: Also located in the city center, this resort provides easy access to the local market and is located on the marina. It’s a great place to enjoy city life and the seaside at the same time.

Infinity City Hotel: For those on a budget, this hotel offers good value for money. It’s located in the city center and is a walking distance from the marina.

Orka Boutique Hotel: This is a great boutique option located on the Fethiye Bay, offering views of the marina.

Fethiye, like most of the southwestern coast of Turkey, has a Mediterranean climate. This means it enjoys long, hot, and dry summers, and mild, rainy winters.

In the summer months (June to September), temperatures usually range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with July and August being the hottest months. This is the perfect time for beachgoers and sun seekers, as there is plenty of sunshine and hardly any rainfall.

The winter months (December to February) are much cooler, with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Rainfall is more common during this time, especially in December and January.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) are pleasant, with mild temperatures and less rainfall than winter, making these times of the year ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and sightseeing.

Regardless of the season, the sea around Fethiye stays relatively warm year-round, meaning swimming and other water activities are always an option. However, do note that while the water might be warm enough for swimming even in winter, the weather might not always be ideal for a beach day.

The best time to visit Fethiye, Turkey largely depends on your preferences for weather and activities.

Summer (June – August): This is the peak tourist season, with long sunny days and warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities, swimming, and boating. However, it can get quite hot, especially in July and August, with temperatures often rising above 30°C (86°F).

Spring (April – May) and Autumn (September – October): These periods offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices for accommodation. The weather during these months is typically ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and paragliding. Additionally, in spring, you can see the landscape come alive with wildflowers.

Winter (November – March): Winters are mild but with more rainfall. If you’re interested in cultural activities like exploring the local history and museums, winter can still be a good time to visit. However, some tourist services might be limited during this time, and it’s not the best time for beach activities.

Fethiye is a town on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey, rich in ancient history. The area has been inhabited since ancient times and was known as Telmessos in antiquity. It was the most significant city of the ancient Lycian civilization, which existed on the southwest coast of Anatolia.

Ancient History: The history of Fethiye (then Telmessos) starts in the 5th century BC, although it was known to have been a significant center of prophecy, dedicated to the god Apollo. Telmessos was an independent city for a long time before it fell under the control of the Persians.

Hellenistic and Roman Periods: Alexander the Great seized the city in 334 BC, and after his death, it came under the rule of the Ptolemies of Egypt, the Seleucids of Syria, and then the kings of Pergamon. Eventually, it became part of the Roman Empire.

Byzantine Era: In the Byzantine era, the city was incorporated into the province of the Islands. It suffered from Arab raids during the 7th and 9th centuries.

Ottoman Rule: The area came under Ottoman control in the late 15th century and remained part of the Ottoman Empire until it was dissolved after World War I.

Modern History: The city was heavily damaged during the 1957 Fethiye earthquake and underwent significant rebuilding. In 1934, it was renamed ‘Fethiye’ in honor of Fethi Bey, an Ottoman Air Force pilot, and one of the first aviators in the Turkish Air Force.

Fethiye, formerly known as Telmessos, has a long and storied history with numerous significant events and accomplishments. However, as it’s a small town, it doesn’t have many ‘firsts’ or ‘greatest’ moments that are internationally renowned. Still, it’s well-known regionally for its cultural and historical wealth. Here are a few points of interest:

Telmessos: This was the most important city in Lycia, with a recorded history starting from the 5th century BC. The city was famous for its school of diviners, who were renowned in the ancient world.

Lycian Rock Tombs: One of the first things you will notice when arriving in Fethiye by road is the magnificent view of these tombs, which were the first type of tomb for Lycians. The most notable of these is the Tomb of Amyntas, a grand 4th-century BC rock tomb built in the Ionian style.

Fethiye Museum: This local museum contains numerous historical artifacts from the Lycian and Roman periods, including statues, ceramics, and coins.

Kayakoy Ghost Village: One of the largest and best-preserved ghost towns in Asia Minor, it was once home to a thriving Greek community before the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in the 1920s.

Oludeniz Beach: This area is famous for its turquoise waters and is often referred to as the ‘Blue Lagoon.’ It’s one of the most photographed beaches in the Mediterranean and is considered one of the best places in the world for paragliding due to its unique panoramic views.

Saklikent Gorge: This is the second-largest gorge in Europe and the deepest and longest in Turkey. A great place for adventurous travelers, it offers river rafting and trekking opportunities.

Fethiye, previously known as Telmessos, has a long history that dates back to ancient times. Its historical sites are a fascinating blend of different cultures and eras, from Lycian tombs to Byzantine monasteries. Here are some of the most significant historical places in Fethiye:

Lycian Rock Tombs: These are the remnants of the Lycian civilization, which existed in the area around the 5th century BC. The most famous of these is the Tomb of Amyntas, carved into the side of the mountain and providing a stunning view of Fethiye.

Fethiye Museum: This museum houses a rich collection of artifacts from the area’s Lycian, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. The exhibits include statues, coins, and jewelry, providing an insightful look into the region’s past.

Telmessos Ancient Theatre: The remnants of this ancient theatre, located in the city center, are a reminder of Fethiye’s historical significance. It was once large enough to hold 6,000 spectators.

Fethiye Castle: Also known as the Knight’s Castle, this Byzantine structure is located on the hill overlooking the town. While much of it is in ruins, the remaining parts offer stunning views of Fethiye and the surrounding sea.

Kayakoy Ghost Village: Once a thriving Greek village, Kayakoy was abandoned in the 1920s during the population exchange between Turkey and Greece. Today, it’s a haunting reminder of the past, with hundreds of abandoned stone houses and churches.

Tlos Ancient City: While it’s a bit of a drive from Fethiye, Tlos is worth the trip. It’s one of the oldest and largest settlements of Lycia and has ruins dating back to the Ottoman period, including a fortress, rock tombs, a Roman theatre, and bath complexes.

Letoon and Xanthos: These two adjacent sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are filled with a rich array of ruins from the Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Fethiye, formerly known as Telmessos, has a long and fascinating history. It was the center of prophecy, dedicated to the god Apollo in ancient times, and many famous figures are associated with the region. However, it’s challenging to attribute a specific famous person directly to Fethiye’s history due to its age.

Many notable people have hailed from the larger region of Lycia (which Fethiye was part of), including:

Saint Nicholas: Also known as Santa Claus, Saint Nicholas was born in Patara, a city in the ancient region of Lycia, not far from Fethiye.

Artemisia I of Caria: An ally of Xerxes I, the king of Persia, and a queen in her own right, Artemisia ruled over Halicarnassus and other nearby cities in Caria, which, like Lycia, is located in modern-day Turkey. Her fame stems from her participation in the Battle of Salamis.

Here are 15 of the best things to do in Fethiye:

1. 1. Explore the Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz): This stunning beach and lagoon area is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. You can swim, sunbathe, or take a boat tour to fully appreciate its beauty.
   2. Visit the ancient city of Telmessos: Discover the ruins of Telmessos, an ancient Lycian city. Explore the rock-cut tombs and enjoy panoramic views of Fethiye from the hilltop.
   3. Take a boat tour to the 12 Islands: Embark on a boat trip to explore the picturesque islands scattered along the coast. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in the beautiful bays.
   4. Paraglide over Babadag Mountain: Experience the thrill of paragliding from Babadag Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of Oludeniz and the surrounding area.
   5. Visit Saklikent Gorge: Take a trip to the Saklikent Gorge, located about an hour’s drive from Fethiye. Trek through the narrow canyon and cool off in the refreshing waters.
   6. Explore Kayakoy: Discover the ghost town of Kayakoy, an abandoned Greek village that dates back to the 1920s. Wander through the stone houses and learn about their history.
   7. Enjoy a mud bath in Dalyan: Visit Dalyan, where you can take a mud bath in the natural hot springs and then relax in the thermal waters.
   8. Visit Butterfly Valley: Take a boat trip to Butterfly Valley, a stunning nature reserve known for its diverse butterfly species. Hike, swim, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
   9. Visit Fethiye Marina: Stroll along the marina promenade and admire the luxurious yachts. Enjoy waterfront dining and soak up the lively atmosphere.
   10. Discover the Lycian Rock Tombs: Explore the impressive rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs overlooking Fethiye. These ancient tombs are a testament to the region’s rich history.
   11. Go scuba diving: Fethiye offers excellent diving opportunities with its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Explore underwater caves, reefs, and ancient shipwrecks.
   12. Visit the Fethiye Museum: Learn about the region’s history and archaeology at the Fethiye Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from ancient Lycia.
   13. Visit Gemiler Island: Take a boat trip to Gemiler Island and explore its ancient ruins, including a well-preserved Byzantine church and a range of archaeological sites.
   14. Enjoy the Fethiye Fish Market: Experience the lively atmosphere of the Fethiye Fish Market, where you can choose your fresh seafood and have it cooked at one of the surrounding restaurants.
   15. Visit the Fethiye Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the local culture and browse the colorful stalls at the Fethiye Bazaar. Shop for souvenirs, spices, textiles, and fresh produce.

Here are some of the best places to explore in Fethiye:

Oludeniz (Blue Lagoon): This stunning beach and lagoon area is a must-visit in Fethiye. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and breathtaking natural surroundings, Ölüdeniz is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and taking in picturesque views.

Butterfly Valley: Situated along the coast, Butterfly Valley is a beautiful nature reserve known for its diverse butterfly species. Accessible by boat, it offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Saklikent Gorge: Located a short drive from Fethiye, Saklikent Gorge is a dramatic canyon that stretches for 18 kilometers. Visitors can trek through the narrow gorge, wade through the cool waters, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Kayakoy (Ghost Town): Explore the hauntingly beautiful village of Kayakoy, an abandoned Greek town from the 1920s. Walk through its deserted stone houses, churches, and streets while learning about its history.

Fethiye Old Town: Take a stroll through the charming streets of Fethiye’s Old Town (Paspatur). Discover local shops, boutiques, restaurants, and traditional Turkish tea houses. The area also hosts a vibrant bazaar.

Lycian Rock Tombs: Admire the ancient Lycian Rock Tombs carved into the cliffs above Fethiye. These impressive burial chambers date back thousands of years and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Fethiye Marina: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Fethiye Marina, where luxury yachts and fishing boats are moored. Relax at waterfront cafes, dine in seafood restaurants, or simply enjoy the beautiful views.

Gemiler Island: Take a boat trip to Gemiler Island, located off the coast of Fethiye. Explore its archaeological sites, including a well-preserved Byzantine church, ruins, and stunning vistas.

Fethiye Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the region at the Fethiye Museum. It houses a collection of artifacts from ancient Lycia, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.

Kabak Bay: Visit Kabak Bay, a secluded and unspoiled beach located a short distance from Fethiye. Surrounded by lush green hills, it offers a peaceful and natural setting for swimming and relaxation.

Fethiye offers a wide range of tours and excursions that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best tours you can take in Fethiye:

Boat Tours: Fethiye is famous for its boat tours, allowing you to explore the stunning coastline, islands, and bays. You can take full-day or half-day tours that include stops at places like the Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley, and St. Nicholas Island.

Jeep Safari Tours: Embark on a thrilling jeep safari tour that takes you off the beaten path to explore Fethiye’s rugged terrain, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes. You can visit places like Saklikent Gorge, Kayakoy, and local villages.

Paragliding: Fethiye is renowned as a paragliding destination, and you can take a tandem paragliding tour to soar above the breathtaking landscape. Babadag Mountain is a popular launch point, offering stunning aerial views of Oludeniz and the surrounding area.

Scuba Diving Tours: Explore the underwater world of Fethiye by joining a scuba diving tour. There are various dive sites to choose from, including reefs, caves, and even ancient shipwrecks. The tours are suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

Dalyan Mud Baths and Turtle Beach: Take a tour of Dalyan, where you can experience the therapeutic mud baths and thermal springs. You’ll also get a chance to visit Iztuzu Beach, a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour: If you’re interested in combining natural and historical wonders, consider a day trip to Pamukkale and Hierapolis. Pamukkale is famous for its white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters, while Hierapolis is an ancient Roman city with well-preserved ruins.

Horse Riding Tours: Enjoy horse riding through the scenic countryside of Fethiye. These tours cater to riders of all levels and allow you to explore the natural beauty and rural villages.

Turkish Village Tours: Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions by joining a Turkish village tour. You’ll visit traditional villages, meet locals, learn about their way of life, and even participate in activities like cooking traditional dishes.

Sunset Cruises: Indulge in the magical atmosphere of Fethiye’s coastline by taking a sunset cruise. Relax on the deck of a boat, watch the sun go down over the sea, and enjoy a romantic dinner.

Tlos and Yakapark Tour: Explore the ancient city of Tlos, located in the nearby mountains, and visit Yakapark, a serene park with waterfalls, trout farms, and picnic areas. This tour offers a combination of history and natural beauty.

Fethiye, like many other regions in Turkey, has a rich culinary heritage with a variety of traditional dishes. Here are some traditional foods of Fethiye that you can try:

Pide: Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread that resembles pizza. It is often topped with various ingredients such as cheese, ground meat, vegetables, and herbs. Pide is a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal in Fethiye.

Gozleme: Gozleme is a traditional Turkish pastry made by rolling out thin dough and filling it with ingredients like spinach, cheese, minced meat, or potatoes. It is then cooked on a griddle and served hot. Gozleme is commonly enjoyed as a snack or a light meal.

Fresh Seafood: Fethiye’s coastal location means that fresh seafood is abundant and delicious. You can enjoy a variety of fish and seafood dishes such as grilled sea bass, octopus salad, shrimp casserole, or fried calamari.

Guvec: Guvec is a slow-cooked casserole dish prepared with meat (typically lamb or chicken), vegetables, and various spices. The ingredients are cooked together in a clay pot, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish.

Meze: Meze refers to a variety of small dishes that are typically served as appetizers or shared plates. In Fethiye, you can find a range of meze options, including stuffed grape leaves (dolma), hummus, eggplant dishes, yogurt-based dips, and more. Meze is often enjoyed with rakı, a traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage.

Etli Ekmek: Etli Ekmek translates to “meat bread” and is a popular local specialty in Fethiye. It consists of thin, crispy bread topped with minced lamb or beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices. Etli Ekmek is baked in a wood-fired oven and can be enjoyed as a hearty meal.

Baklava: Baklava is a beloved Turkish dessert made with layers of thin pastry filled with chopped nuts (often pistachios or walnuts) and sweetened with syrup or honey. Fethiye offers delicious baklava that you can enjoy as a sweet treat after your meal.

Turkish Tea and Turkish Coffee: While not specific to Fethiye, Turkish tea (cay) and Turkish coffee (Turk kahvesi) are an integral part of Turkish culture and can be enjoyed in many local cafes and establishments. Turkish tea is typically served hot and is a popular beverage to accompany meals or social gatherings. Turkish coffee is a strong, thick coffee often served with a glass of water.

Fethiye is home to numerous excellent restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Turkish dishes to international flavors. Here are some of the best restaurants in Fethiye:

Mozaik Bahce: Located in Fethiye Old Town, Mozaik Bahce is known for its charming atmosphere and delicious Turkish cuisine. The restaurant is set in a beautiful garden, and the menu features a variety of meze, grilled meats, and seafood dishes.

Ece Marina Restaurant: Situated in Fethiye Marina, Ece Marina Restaurant offers stunning views of the harbor and serves a mix of Turkish and international dishes. It’s a great place to enjoy seafood, fresh fish, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Kebabis: Specializing in Turkish kebabs and grilled meats, Kebabis is a popular spot for meat lovers. The restaurant is known for its flavorful kebabs, kofte (meatballs), and traditional Turkish dishes.

Yengec Restaurant: Located on Calis Beach, Yengec Restaurant is renowned for its seafood and beachfront dining experience. You can savor a variety of fish and seafood dishes while enjoying the beautiful sunset views.

Aroma Beach Restaurant: Aroma Beach Restaurant offers a relaxing beachfront setting and serves a combination of Turkish and international cuisine. From seafood to vegetarian dishes, the menu has something for everyone.

Cin Bal: Situated in the village of Kayakoy, Cin Bal is a rustic restaurant known for its traditional Turkish food. It specializes in lamb dishes, slow-cooked stews, and locally sourced ingredients.

Eddy’s Restaurant & Bar: Located near Calis Beach, Eddy’s Restaurant & Bar is a popular spot for its friendly atmosphere and diverse menu. You can enjoy international dishes, burgers, pizzas, and cocktails in a laid-back setting.

Mercan Restaurant: Mercan Restaurant is nestled in the picturesque village of Kayakoy and offers a menu featuring traditional Turkish dishes. It is known for its warm hospitality and flavorful homemade food.

Villa Rhapsody: Situated in the peaceful village of Yaniklar, Villa Rhapsody is a boutique hotel and restaurant offering a mix of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant features organic ingredients and a tranquil garden setting.

Yakamoz Restaurant: Located on Calis Beach, Yakamoz Restaurant is known for its seafood specialties and beautiful sea views. The menu includes a variety of fish and seafood dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.

When visiting Fethiye, you’ll find a variety of popular gifts and souvenirs that reflect the local culture and traditions. Here are some of the most popular gifts you can consider:

Turkish Delight (Lokum): Turkish Delight is a traditional sweet treat that comes in various flavors and textures. Fethiye offers a wide selection of lokum, including classic flavors like rose, pistachio, and mixed fruit. You can find them in beautifully packaged boxes, making them a popular gift choice.

Olive Oil: Fethiye is known for its olive groves and high-quality olive oil. Bottles of locally produced olive oil make for a fantastic gift, as they are not only delicious but also reflect the region’s agricultural heritage.

Traditional Turkish Carpets and Rugs: Fethiye is renowned for its Turkish carpets and rugs, which are handwoven with intricate designs and vibrant colors. These exquisite pieces of craftsmanship make for unique and memorable gifts.

Turkish Tea Sets: Turkish tea culture is an integral part of daily life, and a Turkish tea set can be a wonderful gift. These sets typically include traditional tulip-shaped glasses, a teapot (caydanlik), and a decorative tray.

Turkish Ceramics and Pottery: Fethiye is home to skilled artisans who create beautiful ceramics and pottery. You can find hand-painted plates, bowls, tiles, and other decorative items that showcase the region’s artistic traditions.

Evil Eye Talismans: The evil eye talisman, known as Nazar Boncuk in Turkish, is a symbol believed to protect against the evil eye and bring good luck. It is widely used and comes in various forms such as pendants, keychains, and decorative items.

Handmade Jewelry: Fethiye offers a range of handmade jewelry, including pieces made with semi-precious stones, silver, and other materials. You can find unique designs that reflect Turkish motifs and craftsmanship.

Natural Beauty Products: Fethiye is surrounded by natural beauty, and you can find a variety of locally made natural beauty products. These can include olive oil-based soaps, creams, and essential oils made from locally sourced ingredients.