This seaside town features the ruins of an ancient city dotted throughout its picturesque Old Town, a beautiful harbor and lush hiking trails.
Fethiye lies on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos, on a protected bay on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. The city features relics from its rich history alongside a cosmopolitan seaside hub. See ancient Lycian sarcophagi dating back to 400 B.C., cave tombs and the ruins of a monastery. Swim at Fethiye’s beaches and discover secluded islands, coves and lagoons on a boat trip around the bay.
Explore downtown Fethiye to visit the Tuesday Farmer’s Market and purchase fresh regional produce, fabrics and carpets. Wander down Fethiye’s main road to the harbor to see an ancient Roman amphitheater. To the left, find Paspatur, the Old Town lined with cafés and restaurants. Pick a café and try Turkish pastries and hot coffee.
The ruins of Lycia’s most important city are dotted throughout Fethiye. Carved stone sarcophagi are all that remains of the ancient city, which finally tumbled during the earthquake of 1958. See these stone tombs in the governor’s garden on the main road and on the steps up to the cliffs on Fethiye’s south side.
Find the Lycian Tomb of Amyntas carved into the stone in the southern cliffs. Continue along a cobbled path through the forest to find Kayaköy, a ghost town 4.9 miles (8 kilometers) south. For more historic sights, drive to the 2,500-year-old Kadyanda Ancient City, 14.9 miles (24 kilometers) away.
Head to Calis Beach on the town’s northwest coast to enjoy a family-friendly beach and fantastic sunsets. Visit the breathtaking Saklikent Gorge on the Teke Peninsula, under a 1-hour drive away.
Embark on a charter cruise or gület (wooden sailboat) trip around the harbor. Sail by 12 islands and Ölüdeniz, Turkey’s Blue Lagoon.
Reach Fethiye on a cruise from Marmaris or Antalya or catch a catamaran from Rhodes, Greece. Coastal and mountain roads connect Fethiye to other major towns in the region. The nearest airport is in Dalaman, approximately a 1-hour drive away. Rent a car to get around with ease. Fethiye summers can be extremely hot, so it’s best to visit in spring or autumn to enjoy the region’s outdoor adventures.