Named after the Ottoman Air Force pilot Fethi Bey, Fethiye is built atop the ancient city of Telmessos on Turkey’s idyllic Turquoise Coast. It’s renowned for its rock-cut tombs and scenic harbour, serving as a launching point for gulet cruises to explore its offshore islands and hidden coves.
Things to do in Fethiye
Wander through the atmospheric historic centre of Fethiye and along the waterfront boulevard where you can watch traditional gulet yachts coming and going. Visit the Museum of Fethiye to admire its impressive collection of ancient artefacts that reflect the town’s Persian, Roman and Byzantine influences.
Spend an afternoon exploring the ancient ruins of Telmessos, which include the remains of a Hellenistic theatre at the far end of the harbour. Follow the walking trail that leads from modern-day Fethiye up to the 4th-century Tombs of Amyntas, which are carved into the cliff overlooking the town.
Fethiye is a popular launching point for gulet cruises along the Turquoise Coast, home to a sheltered lagoon in Ölüdeniz Beach and aptly-named Butterfly Valley. It’s also within easy access to the Hellenistic temples and bathhouses of Olympos and its eternal Chimaera flames.
Join an island-hopping trip to explore the beautiful Fethiye Bay, stopping at Gemiler Island to see its Byzantine ruins and links to St. Nicholas. Wander amidst the ancient fortifications of Tersane Island, go swimming in the natural pools of Yassica Island and indulge in the healing mud baths of Turtle Island.
Getting around Fethiye
Fethiye is just under one hour’s drive from Dalaman Airport and around three hours from Antalya. Buses connect Fethiye with towns and cities along the Turquoise Coast, while daily cruises to islands depart from the harbour. The town is compact enough to explore on foot.