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In Turkey’s picturesque Turquoise Coast, Fethiye is heaven for tourists searching for adventure, history, and nature. From paragliding over Ölüdeniz Beach to uncovering ancient Lycian sites, this seacoast town has a fine selection of things to do in fethiye. If you want to laze on the beaches, try water sports, or history, Fethiye has much to offer. With its heritage, turquoise waters, and natural attractions, it is little wonder that Fethiye is among Turkey’s top destinations. Following is a selection of the top and must-do activities in Fethiye to create a lifetime holiday. There are more things to see and do in Fethiye.
Top 10 Most Prominent Things To Do In Fethiye
Here are the most prominent things to do in Fethiye:
1. Explore The Ancient Ruins of Tlos
Photo: Toksave / Wikimedia Commons
The highlight of things to do in Fethiye is the visit to Tlos, an ancient Lycian city that dates back more than 4,000 years. Perched on a hill, the site boasts stunning tombs carved out of rock, a Roman theatre, and the remains of an Ottoman fortress. The site’s highlight is the Tomb of Bellerophon, a legendary hero who flew on Pegasus. Panoramic views from the summit make the trip worthwhile. Tlos was a prominent Lycian settlement and is thought to have been continuously occupied until the 19th century. Walking around the ruins provides a step back with stunning views of the surrounding Xanthos Valley.
Location: 42 km southeast of Fethiye
Timing: 8 AM – 7 PM
2. Paraglide Over Oludeniz Beach
Photo: rheins / Wikimedia Commons
For adventure-seekers, paragliding off Ölüdeniz Beach is one of Fethiye’s highlights. The Babadag Mountain, at 1,965 meters, is an ideal take-off point for tandem paragliding flights, with breathtaking views of the renowned Blue Lagoon and blue waters below. The gentle landing takes 25-45 minutes, depending on the wind. There is no need to worry for beginners, as every flight has a trained pilot. Ölüdeniz paragliding is rated one of the world’s best places because of its pleasant climate and stunning scenery.
Location: Oludeniz Beach, 12 km south of Fethiye
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
3. Visit The Ghost Village Of Kayakoy
Photo: Nikodem Nijaki / Wikimedia Commons
Kayaköy is a breathtakingly beautiful Greek ghost village that reminds one of the 1923 Greece-Turkey population exchange. Walking through the deserted stone houses, churches, and narrow alleys, one can feel the echoes of the past. The village had been thriving but was abandoned when its Greek residents were forced to leave. The hillside village has incredible views of the valley and is ideal for photography and hiking. Some houses are partially restored, and some cafes are within walking distance for a coffee.
Location: 8 km south of Fethiye
Timing: 8 AM – 6 PM
4. Sail To Butterfly Valley
Photo: Ezzeldin.Elbaksawy / Wikimedia Commons
A trip to Butterfly Valley is among the most popular things to do in Fethiye. This secluded haven, surrounded by cliffs, can be accessed by boat or a strenuous hike. Over 100 species of butterflies live in the valley, although they are more plentiful during spring and early summer. White sand beach, blue sea, and green foliage make it perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. Short walks to waterfalls in the valley exist, and they are great to see.
Location: Accessible by boat from Ölüdeniz Beach
Timing: 10 AM – 6 PM
5. Trek Through Saklikent Gorge
Photo: Saklikent gorge / Wikimedia Commons
For adventurers, hiking in Saklikent Gorge is among the popular Things To Do in Fethiye. This narrow, deep canyon is 18 kilometers long and one of Turkey’s largest canyons. Tourists walk through icy mountain water while trekking between 300-meter-tall towering limestone cliffs. The trek is invigorating and exhilarating, particularly in the summer heat. There are tiny cafes and tea houses constructed over the river at the entrance, where tourists sit and unwind. The gorge is open from April to October as water levels increase in winter. Guided tours are on offer for those who prefer a more personal experience.
Location: 50 km southeast of Fethiye
Timing: 9 AM – 6 PM
6. Relax At Calıs Beach
Photo: Vano111ru / Wikimedia Commons
For a more relaxed experience, Çalış Beach is one of the popular Things To Do in Fethiye. This 4-kilometre-long sandy and pebble beach is perfect for swimming, relaxation, and sunbathing. One of the biggest positives of Çalış Beach is its stunning sunsets, where the horizon glows red, orange, and pink as the sun goes below the horizon. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes along its edge, which makes it a perfect place to dine out with a view. Water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing are also available for adventure seekers. Çalış Beach is also well-known for its relaxed atmosphere, where locals and tourists flock to the site. Sea turtles are sometimes seen nesting here, which makes the site all the more natural and beautiful.
Location: 5 km north of Fethiye town centre
Timing: 24*7
7. Discover The Lycian Rock Tombs
Photo: Nikodem Nijaki / Wikimedia Commons
The Lycian Rock Tombs, carved into the cliffs overlooking Fethiye, are one of the best things for history enthusiasts to do in Fethiye. The most famous is the Tomb of Amyntas, a 4th-century BC monument. The Lycian people constructed these tombs, thinking that the higher the burial site, the closer the dead were to the gods. A short hike takes you to these tombs, with a breathtaking panoramic view of Fethiye. The inscriptions and carvings on the tombs provide a glimpse of the ancient Lycian culture. Visiting at sunset makes it a mystical experience as the golden light falls on the rock faces. It’s an easy but satisfying experience, ideal for archaeology and photography enthusiasts.
Location: Southern edge of Fethiye town
Timing: 8 AM – 7 PM
8. Wander Through Fethiye Old Town, Paspatur
Photo: Carl Campbell / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A trip to Paspatur, the Fethiye Old Town, is a must for those who want to experience the town’s rich heritage. The quaint quarter has narrow cobblestone streets, colourful shops, and old Turkish bazaars. Tourists can shop through handwoven carpets, leather, spices, and jewellery; thus, it is a great destination for shopping souvenirs. Paspatur also has some of Fethiye’s finest restaurants and pubs, where tourists can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine. The area is lively, particularly in the evening when street lights and music come alive in the town. According to a legendary myth, if you take a sip from the Paspatur Fountain, you will return to Fethiye again!
Location: Central Fethiye
Timing: 10 AM – 10 PM
9. Take A Boat Trip To The 12 Islands
Photo: Pierre André Leclercq / Wikimedia Commons
A 12 Islands boat tour is a popular thing to do in Fethiye, allowing visitors to enjoy secluded beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters. The day trip travels to several islands, such as Tersane Island, Cleopatra’s Bath, and Flat Island. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe in the stunning natural beauty. Some tours offer barbecue lunches onboard, offering a tranquil and scenic experience. The peaceful, turquoise waters make the experience ideal for families and couples. It’s a great way to enjoy Fethiye’s coastline with a day of relaxation on the water. Booking a traditional Turkish gulet (wooden boat) is all part of the experience, offering a touch of authenticity.
Location: Boat trips depart from Fethiye Marina
Timing: 10 AM – 6 PM
10. Visit Gemiler Island, St. Nicholas Island
Photo: Nilfanion / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Gemiler Island, or St. Nicholas Island, is an interesting location with the ruins of ancient 4th-6th-century AD Byzantine churches. It is said that the island was initially inhabited by Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus) before he was moved to Demre. The island boasts stone churches, mosaics, and tombs, giving an insight into Byzantine history. For a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean at sunset, climb to the island’s top. It is boat-only accessible, and most day trips make a stop here. Gemiler Island is a must-see for history lovers, nature lovers, and tourists looking for natural beauty.
Location: Accessible by boat from Fethiye or Ölüdeniz
Timing: 9 AM – 6 PM
Fethiye is a destination that balances adventure, history, and relaxation to perfection and is not to be missed on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. Whether paragliding from Ölüdeniz, exploring ancient Lycian ruins, or island-hopping between the 12 Islands, the town caters to all travellers. From adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and sun worshippers, these top things to do in Fethiye guarantee an experience you will never forget. Do not miss this lovely destination! Plan your trip to Fethiye today and experience the best of Turkey’s coastal paradise!
Cover Photo: DaveBriggs / Wikimedia Commons
