Fethiye Travel Guide

The small port town and holiday retreat of Fethiye occupies the site of the ancient city of Telmessos, and boasts impressive historical sites, including an ancient theatre and numerous Lycian rock tombs. Situated at the head of a picturesque bay filled with islands, Fethiye is a popular holiday destination on Turkey's Mediterranean stretch, known as the Turquoise Coast.

The town skillfully blends modern tourism with its old-fashioned rural character. Herds of goats and sheep often block the roads on market days, while the air is filled with the scent of herbs and spices. Beyond the town, visitors can discover unspoilt rocky coves, crystalline seas, offshore islands, towering cliffs and pine-covered mountains that offer opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

The Tuesday bazaar is the largest in the area and is a must-visit for bargain hunters. In the town centre, many craft shops offer locally-made items, from carpets and kilims to lace and leather goods. For those looking to buy gold, there are many shops offering good deals. Visitors should be prepared to haggle, but be cautious of touts selling antiques, as these are often illegal to export.

Restaurants

There's a wide selection of restaurants along the harbour front and in the charming narrow streets of the old town, with a focus on local cuisine. However, visitors will also find plenty of international eateries, including some that cater to British tastes.

Nightlife

Much of Fethiye's nightlife is hosted by resorts and hotels. The old town, particularly the Paspatir area, features a variety of bars and clubs, from those offering traditional Turkish music to live cabaret and discos. The Belcegiz Beach promenade is home to a few louder clubs.

Holiday activities

Fethiye is home to several remarkable ancient sites. The most notable are the Lycian rock tombs, which date back to the 4th century BC and are carved into the hillside above the town. The Fethiye Museum is also highly regarded for its impressive collections of ancient artefacts, offering further insight into the region's rich history.

Beside the Fethiye Harbour, visitors can explore the Roman amphitheatre and the crumbling remains of a medieval castle built by the Knights of St. John. From the harbour, gulets (traditional wooden yachts) are available for hire, offering scenic day trips around the beautiful coastal waters.

Just 25 minutes away by dolmus (local minibuses) is the renowned beach resort of Oludeniz, which offers numerous activities, including parasailing, pedal boats, banana boating, diving, snorkeling, water-skiing, and its most famous activity, paragliding. Nearby, the Butterfly Valley and Kabak Canyon provide excellent hiking trails and waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers.

Any negatives?

One minor drawback is the lack of clear signage in the city, which can make finding certain points of interest a bit tricky for visitors. However, many tourists rely on local taxis or dolmus to navigate the town and reach popular attractions.