Fethiye Guide

Fethiye is a district in Muğla, located about 125 kilometers from the center. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations in recent years, welcoming many local and international tourists each year.

A coastal town on the boundary of Lycia and Caria, Fethiye was known as Telmessos in ancient times, referred to as the "Land of Lights," and is located in a bay open to the north, surrounded by pine forests, in the Fethiye Gulf. The view, framed by the islands of the Knights' Island, Günlükbarı, and the mountains opposite, makes Fethiye an ideal starting point for blue voyages.

Fethiye (Telmessos) existed as an independent city separate from Lycia for a long time, and after being ruled by the Persians, Alexander the Great, and the Roman Empire, it eventually came under Ottoman rule. Its cultural richness is immediately evident through the surrounding rock tombs and the recently restored ancient theater.

If you arrive in Fethiye in the evening and have settled in your accommodation, start by strolling through the market. Like Kaş, the town has well-preserved narrow streets, charming little squares, and a controlled level of development, making you feel right at home. In the evenings, the atmosphere of the market changes. It is the perfect time for restaurants and bars, where grills sizzle and the air is filled with the scent of food. You can purchase locally woven rock carpets, grape-patterned headscarves, wool and hair-made sacks, bags, Karaçulha rugs, as well as Üç Telli, Sipsi, and Kabak Kemani, all produced in Fethiye.

Fethiye is an Akdeniz district full of natural beauties that words can't truly capture. It is home to numerous historical traces and natural wonders. The Fethiye Gulf, surrounded by islands of all sizes, and backed by pine forests, offers a breathtaking view. If you're a nature enthusiast eager to discover new horizons, Fethiye is a perfect choice for your vacation. In the natural paradise of Fethiye, you will find charming small and large coves, beaches, islands, a warm climate, fertile lands, and the green pine forests of the Taurus Mountains. In the city of lights, you will feel your vacation turning into a joyful experience, witnessing how history and culture merge and become vibrant with the surrounding natural beauty.

Fethiye is located in the southwest of Turkey, where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean. It is 50 km away from Dalaman International Airport, making it easily accessible by road from other cities. Its natural harbor and marina offer all the facilities for those choosing sea travel and yacht enthusiasts. The nearby Göcek Bay and marinas, 35 km away, have also become popular stops for Mediterranean yacht tourists.

Çalış, located 5 km from Fethiye's city center, is across from the Knights' Island. With many accommodation facilities, restaurants, bars, shopping, and transportation options, it is one of the most popular places for tourism. You can easily reach all parts of the city with frequent minibuses, and city center trips are also available by sea taxis (boats) under the Çalış Bridge. Çalış Beach, with its favorable sea for water sports, is one of the nesting areas for the "Caretta Caretta" sea turtles and is under protection. Its kilometers of sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and poetic sunsets will add a unique charm to your memories.

Caretta Caretta sea turtles breed on 17 beaches in Turkey, and Çalış Beach is one of them. You will see cages on the beach, where the eggs are protected. It is forbidden to make fires or create noise at night so that the turtles can come ashore to lay their eggs and the hatchlings can safely reach the sea.

Yanıklar, a Yörük Village located in the Fethiye district of Muğla, is 120 km from Muğla and 15 km from Fethiye. This holiday destination is covered with naturally grown "Günlük Trees" and offers a beautiful view of the deep blue sea. Yanıklar got its name from a wrestler who was exiled after throwing another wrestler into a fire in Antalya.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Fethiye Hotels page.