Tlos is an ancient city of ruins with a history dating back nearly 5000 years. The region has been occupied since the Bronze Age, though it made a significant mark on civilization during the Lycian period from 500 to 300 B.C.

Today the settlement is a fascinating place to visit due to its imposing acropolis, 14th-century Ottoman castle and breathtaking rock structures. Take a day trip to Tlos from Fethiye to be immersed in the rich history of Turkey and see some of the country’s most important remains.

Here's all you need to know about Tlos, one of the most exciting day trips from Fethiye.

How to get to Tlos from Fethiye?

Tlos is located about 40 minutes inland and southeast of the coastal town of Fethiye. The ruins are marked by a stunning mountain range and lush green valleys that surround the ancient metropolis.

From Tlos to Fethiye by car

Getting to Tlos from Fethiye requires about a 36-minute car ride from the port city. From the town center, travel east for about 20 minutes until you hit the D400 expressway. Continue until you reach Tlos Saklıkent Yolu, where you’ll make a sharp right and head south for the remaining 15 minutes of the journey. You’ll cross through mountain landscapes before arriving in Tlos.

Guided tour to Tlos from Fethiye

A guided tour to Tlos from Fethiye is the best way to see the ancient city with ease. Excursions last anywhere from 6 to 12 hours and include both pickup and drop-off in the ticket price.

How much does the entrance ticket to Tlos cost?

The entrance ticket to Tlos costs about TRY10 (less than US$1) per person and those visitors that have a national Muze card are able to enter for free. The entrance fee allows access to the extensive network of open-air museums that have been preserved for thousands of years.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical tour from Fethiye to Tlos begins with an early morning hotel pickup by an air-conditioned vehicle and an expert guide. From there, you’ll begin the drive inland to the ancient ruins. Excursions typically allow plenty of time to explore the various parts of the historic place, including the Roman baths, the stadium run, the necropolis tombs and more.

Most Tlos tours feature a traditional Turkish lunch at midday before the route continues. Most excursions include a stop at Saklikent National Park to explore the astonishing river canyon and its colossal rock walls. You can swim or hike trails in your free time before heading to an optional mud bath session. Many Tlos tours conclude with a visit to a local beach on the way back to Fethiye.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Tlos?

Guided day trip to Tlos from Fethiye

This 12-hour excursion visits some of Turkey’s most treasured destinations, all with the help of a professional guide. The day tour begins with a morning pickup at your Fethiye hotel, from where you’ll travel with a group to your first destination, Saklikent National Park. Once you arrive, you’ll explore the deep gorge with its cool mountain river and jaw-dropping rock formations.

After some free time spent wading in the water or hiking along the mountain trails, you’ll join your guide for a traditional Turkish buffet lunch. From there, you’ll continue on to the main attraction, Tlos ruins. When you arrive at the ancient Lycian city, you’ll learn all about the civilization that once thrived there. Visit hot spots like the Acropolis, necropolis, the stadium and public baths before returning to Fethiye for hotel drop-off.

Jeep Safari tour to Tlos from Fethiye

Book an exciting Jeep Safari tour to Tlos for a fun-filled getaway from the port city of Fethiye. This day trip begins with an early morning Jeep pickup by your driver, from where you’ll head to meet a convoy of other safari vehicles for the journey. You’ll then head straight to Tlos where you’ll peruse the ruins that have persevered through centuries.

Take in panoramic views of the city from a mountain overlook before getting up close and personal with the monuments on an informative tour down below. After a fascinating look at the historic place, you’ll join the rest of your group for lunch at a local trout farm.

You’ll then continue on to Salikent National Park, where you’ll explore the magnificent gorge and rock canyon. Swim in the river or hike along trails before heading to the natural mud baths nearby where you can exfoliate your skin in the mineral-rich earth. Finish with a trip to a local beach near Fethiye before heading back to your hotel for drop-off.

Private tour to Tlos from Fethiye

For a more exclusive and personalized day trip to Tlos from Fethiye, opt for a private tour. This 6-hour excursion combines the rich history of Turkey with the breathtaking natural landscapes that fill the middle eastern country. Begin your day by meeting your guide at the Fethiye port to board your private air-conditioned transportation.

You’ll catch stunning views of the Turkish countryside while you make your way to the first stop of the tour. As you arrive at the hilltop city ruins of Tlos, your expert guide will fill you in on the rich history of the village. You’ll learn how the Romans, Byzantines and the Ottomans occupied the metropolis until the 19th century while checking out important sites like the market and theater.

Afterward, you’ll head to Saklikent Gorge, where you can take a dip in the waterfalls or enjoy a leisurely hike. Indulge in a riverside lunch before joining your guide for the journey back to Fethiye. Private excursions provide roundtrip transportation and a customizable itinerary for your tour.

How much does a day trip to Tlos from Fethiye cost?

A group guided tour to Tlos from Fethiye with pickup and drop-off included costs about US$50 per adult ages 13 and older, US$25 per child between the ages of 4 and 12, and is free for infants ages 0 to 3.

For an off-road Jeep Safari tour, you can expect to pay around US$25 per adult and US$20 per child, while a private tour costs around US$215 per adult and US$35 per child.

What will you see and do?

Ottoman Castle

This incredible fortress was constructed in the 14th century and is one of the newer additions to the ancient city. The stone castle was erected by the feudal lord Bloody Chief Ali and was built on top of older buildings that have a mysterious past.

Necropolis

Perhaps the most fascinating part of Tlos is the Necropolis network of Lycian tombs. The rock-laden burial sites were carved into the base of the Acropolis. Nearby sits a large temple tomb created in honor of Bellerophon, the mythological hero who was believed to have tamed Pegasus.

Tlos Stadium

When Tlos was first examined by archaeologists, the stadium was just a farmable field. After years of excavating, a huge sporting arena was unearthed with rows of seating, a shallow pool and a fountain. With lavish decorations carved into stone, it was believed the stadium was also used for religious events.

What are the opening times?

The Tlos ruins are open every day of the week. From Tuesday until Sunday, visitors are admitted from 8:30 AM until 6:30 PM. On Mondays, the exhibit is open from 1:30 PM until 8:30 PM.

When is the best time to visit Tlos?

The best time to visit Tlos is spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the ancient ruins. Spring brings a fresh bloom of wildflowers, adding a vibrant touch to the site. Fall offers a mild climate, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to experience local festivals. Avoid summer and winter due to extreme heat and cold respectively.

Travel tips

Dress in layers for changing weather and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay protected from the sun.
The site is hilly and the terrain uneven, so wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking.
There are limited options for food and drinks in Tlos, so bring your own.
To avoid crowds and the afternoon heat, it's best to start your trip early in the morning.

Tlos: Day Trips and Tours from Fethiye