Fethiye

An Enchanting Town Overlooking an Island-Studded Bay

About 25 minutes by car or dolmus (the local minibus service) from Uzumlu, Fethiye is a charming town set in a wide but sheltered bay. The bay is dotted with many small islands, and surrounded by a beautiful backdrop of mountains.

Built on the ancient site of Telmessos, you will see the remains of Lycian rock tombs scattered around the city. The Roman theatre is also the venue for outdoor concerts in the summer.

With one of the best harbours on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, Fethiye is an ideal location for all types of activites on the water. Stroll along the picturesque quayside and choose your Gulet trip to the nearby islands scattered across the bay. This is also a good way to get to the beach of Olu Deniz (the famous Blue Lagoon), just around the headland to the east.
Wander around the streets of the Old Town and be tempted by the various wares on sale, but remember the size of your suitcase. Have a meal at one of the many restaurants and then why not end the day with a traditional Turkish bath and massage at the Hamman.

And for the more adventurous, there is a also a fast hydrofoil service to the nearby Greek island of Rhodes. Sailing and diving can be easily arranged from several operators based around the modern marina.

Or if you’re feeling lazy, just sit for a while in the many bars and cafes where you can have a cooling drink or a Turkish coffee by the harbour side and and watch the world go by.

Don’t miss the large weekly market on Tuesday, or the fish market, where you buy your fish from a central stall and take it to one of the restaurants nearby to be cooked and served for a small charge. There is also a fruit and vegetable market where you can buy fresh local produce.