If you pay a visit to this lovely town, you could easily spend the whole time just enjoying the wondrous Mediterranean beaches… but trust us, there’s plenty to see inland!
With its ancient burial sites, active culinary scene, and even a royal residence or two, this is one of the best spots to get a feel for Turkish culture.
But if you want more time in the great outdoors, they offer that too, from the heights of mountains to the depths of the sea.
So bring a swimsuit and a history book, and check out the amazing things to do in Fethiye!
1 – Get into the great outdoors at Saklikent National Park
While it’s a short jaunt outside of town, this wonderful refuge is well worth the trek!
It is home to the Saklikent Canyon, where winding pathways cutting through chilly streams and groves of pines beckon travelers to explore.
Step into the sheltered confines of the rock walls, and you’ll feel as though you’ve entered another world; navigate the muddy soil and peek into numerous caves once used by ancient civilizations, and that sense of adventure will grow tenfold.
If you want to get a feel for the wilder side of Turkey, this is the place to go!
2 – People-watch (and boat-watch) at Fethiye Port
This bustling harbor is extremely popular with cruise ships, but there’s still lots to enjoy if you’re hanging out on the shore!
You can admire the many different yachts moored here, or amble along the boardwalk and take in the great views of the Mediterranean.
And if you do want to try a spot of sailing, there are plenty of water taxis available, running to and from Calis Beach!
3 – Ponder the legacies of the Amyntas Rock Tombs
When you’re passing the large stone formations just outside of town, take a second glance; you’ll see some pretty remarkable monuments etched into the cliff face!
Also known as the Fethiye Tombs, the soaring columns and temple-like facades of these intricate structures serve as the final resting place of several ancient royals, and their design is meant to emulate some of the holiest buildings of the day.
It’s a triumph of design that has long outlasted the legacy of its residents!
4 – Try out the sailing life in style on a boat tour
With all of those great beaches and ports, it’s no surprise that the boat tours in Fethiye are world-class!
You can putter through the scenic currents of the Göcek Gulf, hop between picturesque islands, or just drift gently on the waves and enjoy the full tranquility of a day at sea.
With unique adventures and great views galore, these ships will show you this aquatic paradise as it was truly meant to be explored!
5 – Dream of past productions at Fethiye Ancient Theatre
While the history of this region is undoubtedly rooted in the larger story of Turkey, it’s also deeply connected to many of the other great civilizations that ruled over the region.
And this fascinating venue, which was built in the style of the classic amphitheaters of Ancient Rome, is a perfect example.
In its heyday, the spot (also known as Telmessos Theatre) seated roughly 6,000 patrons of the arts; and while the stage is quiet today, it’s in such good condition that you can almost imagine the shows that took place here!
6 – Get lost in the beauty of Blue Lagoon Ölüdeniz
While pretty much all of the water around here is spectacular, there’s one spot that looks practically cinematic!
Blue Lagoon Ölüdeniz is known for its unbelievable hues, which capture all the richness of the surrounding sea, and make it an irresistible day trip destination.
But as cool as it is to witness the waters up close, it’s just as exciting to soar above them!
Book a paragliding session, and see the whole amazing setting laid out below you as you soar along the currents – it’s the very best blend of air and water!
7 – Let your inhibitions go and try paragliding
While we’re on the subject of flying…
The excellent paragliding options aren’t just limited to the blue lagoon; from beaches to rugged peaks and everywhere in between, this is the perfect region to enjoy some elevated views.
Just meet your instructor, learn the basics, then take a running leap into the wonderful clear skies and admire the world at your feet!
8 – Try a local form of retail therapy at Fethiye Market
Certainly, one of the most iconic things to do in Fethiye is to stop by this bustling bazaar, where every sort of stall imaginable awaits you!
True, the experience is mostly about produce; but with all of the authentic fruits and vegetables on display, you’ll get a pretty great sense of local cuisine… and maybe some quality ingredients for your next meal!
And of course, there are plenty of clothes and accessories to peruse as well!
9 – Kick back at Şehit Fethi Bey Parkı
Why should grownups get to have all the fun?
The youngsters in your group will certainly love this space, which is packed with playgrounds and cool art installations to enjoy.
But adults can enjoy the area too, whether admiring the public works on display or just relaxing and looking out over the water.
Family-friendly and utterly beautiful? It’s a perfect pairing!
10 – Peruse the delights of Fethiye Old Town
Here’s where the long story of the city comes into stark relief, with traditional markets and well-preserved buildings forming a picture of the past that’s still relevant in the modern day.
There are some excellent shops here where you can snag little treasures (and practice your haggling skills along the way), plus lots of restaurants where you can kick back and enjoy a bit of food and drink.
Take your time wandering along the neighborhood’s endless parade of streets; half the fun lies in experiencing their lively ambiance, soaked in history!
11 – Stop in at Kızılada Deniz Feneri
It’s kept watch over the harbor and its users for over a century… and counting!
Arguably one of the most important features of the harbor, the lighthouse has added a couple of new positions to its resume’; it currently offers up a great restaurant, where you can watch the rides and enjoy a fine meal.
And better yet, you can book a room in the on-site hotel, and get a feel for the life of a lighthouse keeper… with a lot of added luxuries, of course!
12 – Take a buggy tour
When it’s time to get off the beaten path, you can’t do much better than a buggy tour!
These bouncy vehicles are perfect for exploring the countryside at length; their all-terrain tires are ideal for conquering steep slopes, dirt trails, and everything in between.
And to add an extra level of fun, you can even do the driving!
All it takes is a quick bit of instruction, and before you know it, you’ll have the steering wheel in hand, and be off to your next adventure!
13 – Explore the Castle of Fethiye
It may only be a small collection of weathered buildings today, but this former fortifying structure is still deeply impressive – not the least because of the hike to get there!
Take an hour or two to summit the hill where the ruins stand tall and proud, then spend a little time absorbing the remarkable architecture.
While the exact origins of the space are unknown, it was first built sometime in the 1000s, given an overhaul by knights during the Crusades of the 1400s, and later served as a military post and sentry point for centuries, as the town evolved below.
The scenery is great from up here… and the remnants of the castle tell a powerful story of the city’s early years.
14 – Get in touch with your wild side at Gizlikent Şelalesi
Taking outdoor adventure to the next level, Gizlikent Şelalesi offers so much more beyond its famous waterfall… although that’s pretty phenomenal too, of course!
This forested refuge is a paradise for active types, whether you’re into swimming, ziplining, or just hiking around and enjoying the lovely, secluded setting of the bubbling falls themselves.
Bring some good water shoes and a thirst for adventure – and maybe a bit of money for a nice ice cream after your trek!
15 – Take a thrilling Jeep tour
When you want to see some stunning sights with a somewhat rowdier touch, get into some jeep tours!
Secret swim spots, beautiful views, and trails that lead into the beautiful unknown… it’s all part of the itinerary on these lively rides!
And if you prefer to be the one doing the driving, there are also lots of quad tours in Fethiye that will let you take the wheel on your next off-road expedition!
16 – Surrender to awe when you see Pamukkale
The dazzling interplay of minerals and water that makes up Pamukkale may seem manufactured by a particularly talented artist – but the whole surreal scene is 100% naturally formed!
This popular day trip spot offers dazzling views from every angle, with pure white geological formations and brilliant blue pools providing a memorable miniature world to wander around.
Along the way, you can also stop by Hierapolis, which once served as a spa town in the days of old, and counted Cleopatra and Mark Antony among its visitors!
17 – Test out all of the best beaches
Grab a towel and a good pair of sunglasses… it’s time to relax on the best beaches of Fethiye!
Let the kids frolic in the shallows at Kumbrunu Beach, or get a little more active with some sailing or kitesurfing at Çalış Beach.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and ancient sites of Sovalye Island, or sunbathe on the soft ivory sands of Boncuklu Koyu.
And of course, you can’t miss out on Oludeniz Beach; leading directly to the Blue Lagoon (see #6), it’s one of the city’s most iconic spots, with visuals to match!
18 – Poke around the Ruins of Kayaköy
This cluster of nearly 500 homes (plus a pair of churches from the Greek Orthodox tradition) would be impressive for sheer size alone, but there’s also a remarkable amount of preservation here!
The settlement is another great example of the Greek influence in Turkey, and it’s a lot more modern than many of the other ruins around here; it was only abandoned a century ago!
After centuries of conflict between the two nationalities, it was agreed that the town would be evacuated, resulting in this poignant reminder of intercultural conflict and its lingering aftermath.
19 – Spend some time on Kizil Island
Just off the coast from the mainland, this little spot is probably best known for hosting the Kızılada Lighthouse (see #11), but it’s also an interesting place to explore in its own right!
All around you, you’ll see thousands of carobs, Turkish pine, and Turkish sweetgum, a testament to the incredible conservation work that has taken place in the region.
Swing by and soak up the charms of this little patch of land!
20 – Revitalize your sense of place while scuba diving
Whether you’ve got saltwater in your veins or just want to test out a new adventure, scuba diving in Fethiye is some of the best in the world!
In fact, this is actually a wonderful spot to learn, with incredible visibility and warm waters making it easy to linger… and well worth it for the scenery!
Surrounded by rainbows of fish, magnificent coral formations, and the surreal, varied terrain of the underwater world, you can take in a truly unforgettable set of sights, and it just might make a diver out of you!
21 – Keep an eye out for the winged residents of Butterfly Valley
If you’re looking for a day trip with oodles of charm, Butterfly Valley has got you covered!
This lovely stretch of land gets its name from the abundant species of butterflies that call the area home, making every hike a fresh and thrilling endeavor.
You never know what sort of vivid colors will greet you while you’re in the canyon!
Along the way, you can also check out Gemiler Island, known for its striking medieval relics and great swimming spots.
22 – Stop by the Ancient City of Telmessos
If you were visiting this region during the 800s, you would java encountered a thriving town where ships came and went perpetually, and where royals and warriors roamed the streets, hoping to gain some insights into their futures.
But today, all that’s left of Telmessos are some remnants of important buildings, and the lingering legacy of a settlement once known for its active community of fortune tellers, who were said to have advised Alexander the Great!
As you walk in the footsteps of renowned and unusual figures, you can still feel the power of the city that welcomed them all!
23 – Have a couple of adventures in Dalyan
Another great day trip with something for everyone, Dalyan offers up an aquaphile’s dream, with lakes, rivers, and beaches all blending together.
When you’re not keeping an eye out for sea turtles, you can enjoy the amazing scenery as the river slowly moves from one body of water to the next, with a whole lush forest standing watch on the shore.
It’s a wonderful blend of ecosystems…and you might even get to take a traditional mud bath while you’re there!
24 – Stretch your legs and broaden your horizons with some hiking
All of these adventures can give you a great taste of the region’s wild side, but you can go even deeper with a bit of hiking!
Hardcore trekkers will want to try Lycian Way, one of the country’s best long-distance trails; winding through spectacular mountain ranges and abandoned towns, the entire route can take a week to explore!
But it’s also well worth exploring the marvelous views of Fethiye Kordon, and the invigorating slope that leads up to Af Tower.
Lace up your boots and discover the wonderful landscapes the old-fashioned way: on foot!
25 – Enjoy the charms of Uğur Mumcu Parkı
Wild sights abound at this popular park, from fountains and sculptures to soaring palm trees that really give off that vacation feel.
Located right along the harbor, it’s a lovely spot for families to unwind, with a view for every mood, and lots of grass for little ones to play on!
26 – Use horse riding to absorb the wilder landscapes
There are few more exciting things to do in Fethiye – or nearby – than to enjoy the primal thrill of horse riding!
When you’re up in the saddle, the cares of the bustling modern world fall away, and you can ease into the tranquility of nature, as your equine guide leads you through hushed forests, along beautiful beaches, or even through the ruins of ghost towns!
There are new surprises with every clop of the hoof!
27 – Check out the stories of Tlos
If you’re craving another day trip where you can really get a feel for the past, Tlos has got you covered!
This city once served as a hotbed of Lycian culture, and its religious structures and intricate necropolis still offer lots of insights into the lives and practices of the once mighty culture.
You can also get a bit of nature with a trip to the nearby Saklikent Gorge, the bold, intriguing landscape that dominates Saklikent National Park (see #1).
28 – Comb through the cultural influences of the Ancient City of Xanthos
Off we go to another world reshaped by the steady erosion of time!
While this town also boasts a proud Lycian legacy, it was also frequented by Romans, Greeks, and Persians during their respective reigns.
And these multicultural influences can still be seen in the remaining structures, especially the numerous tombs!
While you’re in the area, don’t miss the neighboring Letoon Sanctuary Place, a renowned sacred site whose theater, temples, and distinctive designs pay tribute to the rituals of these many societies as they grew and shifted – often in direct relation (or conflict) to each other!
29 – Grab your binoculars and head to Calis Beach Bird Sanctuary
You’ll probably see plenty of flocks circling the skies during your visit… but why not see some of them up close?
If you happen to be visiting during the winter, these gorgeous wetlands are a must-see; they host scores of local and migratory flocks, who gather in this lush, largely temperate spot for shelter from the cold.
Stop by to learn about the many species sitting before you, and enjoy the added spectacle when they take flight!
30 – Kick your aquatic activities into high gear at the local water parks
If you want to cool off and have oodles of fun along the way, then you’re in luck; there are two great options to make a splash!
At Sultans Aqua City, you can zip down some racing slides, or leap into the many swimming pools for some free-range splashing.
And at Orka World Thema Park, you’ll have a slightly more upscale experience; your rides and swims can be paired with the world-class amenities of the hotel that owns the space!
Water parks are one of the best things to do in Fethiye with kids.
31 – Get a taste of Rhodes
From its wild days as a major medieval settlement to a modern hub of educational and leisure activities, Rhodes provides a perfect slice of Greek culture – all just a hop away from town!
It’s a renowned day trip option because of this epic history, and its marvelous scenery only adds to the appeal!
Take some time to explore the old neighborhoods, the harbor, and the remains of villages that would later become part of the island’s rich, enduring culture.
See also: Fun things to do in Rhodes, Greece
32 – Enjoy some spectacular camping opportunities
With such wonderful ecosystems around the area, why not spend some time sleeping in the great outdoors?
And better yet, why not do it without spending a cent?
From the coastal splendor of Darboğaz Fethiye Kamp Alanı and the tranquil forests of Karagöz Ormanları Kamp Alanı to the secluded, family-friendly Gemile Koyu Kamp Alanı, there are tons of sites that provide the full dose of natural charms… and they’re all free!
33 – Delve into Pinara Antique City
Just like its neighbors, this ancient town shows off all manner of art and culture in its weathered structures; and judging by its size, it was a pretty major player in local affairs!
Tucked between Mount Babadağ and the River Xanthos, the settlement is believed to have worked closely with other towns, from the eras of Lycian and Greek rule all the way until it fell to Alexander the Great.
As you wander around, keep an eye out for public baths, an old acropolis, and plenty of burial sites… plus some stone etchings that offer some of the few insights into how this mysterious society might have functioned!
34 – Ease into a Turkish bath
Looking for relaxing things to do in Fethiye? Nothing says relaxation quite like a Turkish bath… especially the stylish ones offered here!
Of course, you’ll get plenty of time to indulge in the main steam room itself; but you’ll also get a full-body wellness treatment that includes bubbles, body scrubs, and some of the best massages in Fethiye.
Cultural insights have seldom been so soothing!
35 – Enjoy a magical meal at YakaPark…
Looking for a quirky dining experience?
How about playing with trout while you wait for your meal?
At this charming restaurant, you can spend some time admiring the fish swimming around in the nearby pond, then head over to your table for some classic Turkish food.
As you eat, you can soak up the fantastic atmosphere, from the natural springs and expertly arranged water features to the old mill that’s still cheerily churning away.
36 – … and even more at the best restaurants
Of course, there are plenty of other places around here to get a good bite!
Whether you want traditional, cutting-edge, classy, or casual, the best restaurants in Fethiye will always come through with their incredible selection of meals.
Head to Arty’s Fish & Chips for some deep-fried goodness (and classic seafood), or Ailem Cafe Restaurant for a warm atmosphere and excellent dishes like pasta and calamari.
Swing by The Local Pub & Grub to indulge in some tantalizing steaks, or Denizati Restaurant & Bar for moussaka, schnitzel, and more.
Or tuck into the meals at Nazilli Pide, which elevates classic Turkish street food into something more ambitious, but still delicious!
37 – Catch some sun and wind down at the best beach clubs
The only thing that makes a day at the beach better is having a nice spot to enjoy the scenery; and around here, you’ll certainly be spoiled for choice!
Help Beach and Yacht Club Fethiye is perfect if you want a low-key hangout; tucked into a smaller cove, it will help you get away from it all, while still enjoying great food and excellent service!
But you can also enjoy cocktails, music, and swimming at Suncity Beach Club, or enjoy the mellow sunbeds, vibrant bars, and private shorelines of Hillside Beach Club Fethiye.
There’s no better way to celebrate the summer!
How to get to Fethiye?
If you’re flying into the region, Dalaman Airport – roughly 45 minutes away – is your best option.
And if you want to simplify your commute, airport transfers will get you to and from town hassle-free!
With fast service, helpful drivers, and tons of options to choose from, you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the Turkish countryside unfolding around you!
Where to stay in Fethiye?
Sundia Exclusive By Liberty Fethiye will give you plenty of options to swim, work out, eat, and drink, with classic beaches and iconic neighborhoods right outside if you get restless.
And Alesta Yacht Hotel brings luxury to the next level, whether you’re frolicking on the private beach or relaxing in the traditional hammam.
Juglans Suites has a great garden for sunbathing, a wonderful array of meal options, and easy access to Aquapark and Calis Beach.
And Yeniceri City Hotel is perfectly positioned to enjoy both the shorelines and the city center, plus a tour desk to help you choose your next excursion.
You can even feel like you’ve snagged the perfect outdoorsy getaway at Akkent Garden Hotel, where ample green spaces and on-site massages will certainly get you in a tranquil frame of mind.
Where to go next?
Fethiye is just the beginning of what Turkey has to offer. Hot air balloon rides, charming little towns, epic nightlife, quiet getaways, and an unforgettable blend of music, food, drink, and art; it’s all part of what makes Turkey such a spectacular destination.
Nearby are Marmaris with its beautiful coastline, Bodrum with its picturesque beaches and Side with its ancient and modern charm or the sunny city of Alanya. Further afield is fairy-tale Cappadocia and vibrant Istanbul, each unique in its own way.
And let’s not forget the coastal gems of Antalya and Cyprus, full of history, beaches and delicious cuisine.
Each destination offers a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and natural beauty, allowing you to extend your adventure beyond Fethiye, across the many incredible places to visit in Turkey.
Final thoughts
It’s not hard to find awesome things to do in Fethiye… the difficult part is deciding what to do first!
So pack your bags and dive into this world of vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and amazing traditions; the town will happily welcome you!