There’s an abundance of things to do in Fethiye thanks to its glorious coastline, stunning islands and sumptuous local food. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, scenic hikes or you’re keen to try the epic Fethiye paragliding, here are our top things to do in this beautiful Turkish destination.
Hike the Lycian Way
Put on some sturdy shoes and hike the Lycian Way, or ‘Likya Yolu’ as it’s known in Turkey. It’s one of the most serene ways to enjoy the fabulous Fethiye scenery. This 300-mile trail stretches all the way from Fethiye to Antalya and is so-called because it’s thought to combine various routes which the ancient Lycian people used to follow. Pass by swathes of pine forest, olive groves and beguiling ancient ruins. Many guided tours stop at beautiful beaches such as Kabak Beach and Ölüdeniz Beach along the way.
Sail around the 12 islands of Göcek
Drive to Göcek, around 30 minutes from Fethiye town, and enjoy a relaxing boat trip from Göcek harbour around the famed 12 Islands. Stop to bathe in the calm waters, see the beautiful Bedri Rahmi bay spot the indigenous ‘Caretta Caretta’ sea turtles. Volkan’s Adventures offer tours in a traditional wooden gulet and if you book a private 24-hour cruise, you can see these beautiful islands at sunrise.
Visit Fethiye museum
If you’d like to explore some of the most important artefacts of Telmessos (the former ancient town where Fethiye now lies) head to Fethiye Museum. Among the various ancient treasures of Telmessos you’ll also see a stone inscribed pillar from the ancient site of Letoon known as The Trilingual Stele. It has helped scholars understand the ancient Lycian language and is considered one of the region’s most important archaeological finds.
See the Fethiye tombs
Tomb of Amyntas
Feel like you’ve stepped into another era when you visit Fethiye’s otherworldly Lycian Tombs. These ancient monuments, intricately carved into the rockface overlooking Fethiye town, date back to 350 BC and the Tomb of Amyntas, the burial site of Amyntas ‘Son of Hermapias’, is located at the highest point. It involves a steep climb up 200 steps to reach these tombs, but you’ll enjoy sensational panoramic views from the top. Visit at sunset for the best experience.
Take the kids to Fethiye waterpark
If you’re on holiday in Turkey with children, check out the Fethiye Waterpark, one of the best things to do in Fethiye for families. Sultan’s Aqua City is the main waterpark here, located close to Çalış Beach. It’s small but it’s great value for money and will keep younger children entertained with a handful of slides, a large pool and essential ice-creams and snacks.
Go paragliding over Babadag mountain
Fethiye paragliding is renowned in this region, thanks to the incredible coastline and mountain range that attract thrill-seekers far and wide. If you’re not scared of heights, head to the launch pad of Babadag with Sky Sports Turkey which (at 1,969-metres high) is the highest mountain in the region. You’ll get birds-eye views of the stunning Ölüdeniz Beach (Blue Lagoon Beach), the islands of the Gulf of Fethiye, and – if it’s a clear day – perhaps even Rhodes.
Sample the local cuisine
Moussaka
Delve into more-ish mezzes, moussaka and kofta; treat yourself to some traditional Turkish Gozleme pancakes or sip on traditional Turkish tea known as çay (the apple or rosehip flavours are lovely). One of the best places to try local specialties is the weekly Fethiye market, a colourful bazaar where you can find myriad Turkish favourites, from tooth-achingly sweet Baklava and super-strong Turkish coffee to fresh olives and locally-produced cheese.
Try the local tipple
If like your tipple to put hairs on your chest, you might like to sample a glass of Raki, the Turkish liquor that many Fethiye locals enjoy drinking with their meal. Made from aniseed, this popular aperitif turns white when water is added, which has earned it the nickname ‘Lion’s Milk’. If it’s a little on the potent side, stick to a refreshingly chilled bottle of Efes, the local beer.
Take the ferry to Rhodes
Hit the open water and squeeze both Turkey and Greece into the one holiday by booking the Fethiye Rhodes ferry, one of the top Fethiye attractions. The Dodecanese Flying Dolphins service is a hydrofoil boat that runs around seven times a week and takes you to this popular Greek island within just 90 minutes. While in Rhodes, you can visit the beach, dine on delicious Greek food and take a guided tour of Rhodes Old Town exploring its medieval history.
Now you’ve seen the best things to do in Fethiye, check out our villas in Fethiye or contact our concierge team for a helping hand.
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