Fethiye Travel Guide

In the times of Alexander the Great, the coastal city of Fethiye, then known as Telmessos, was famous for its school for seers. Today, the city is famed more for the dream-like beaches, which are to be found in the immediate vicinity. Indeed, the beach lagoon of Ölü Deniz is rightly acclaimed as the best beach in Turkey. In addition to this honour, Patara, the longest beach in Turkey is also located nearby. After so much sunbathing, a little culture will also help create a balance: Points of historical interest include the Lycian cliff graves, especially the sarcophagus situated to the east of the city, as well as the ruins of a Crusader castle, which was erected by knights of St. John of Jerusalem. It is hardly worth ascending the hill to the castle of the Crusaders in Fethiyen, which is situated on a hill between the sea and the mountains, as only a few remains have been preserved. The castle was built by the knights of St. John of Jerusalem in the 14th century upon remains, which date back to 4th century BC. Wealthy Lycians were once laid to rest in richly decorated stone sarcophagi. These sepulchres are dispersed throughout Fethiye in private gardens as well as in public places. The most beautiful of them all is located directly next to the town hall, close to the post office. Fethiye's museum is divided into a larger archaeological collection and a smaller ethnographic one. The latter collection contains a loom, liveries and embroidery. The archaeological section houses statues and busts of gods and monarchs, amphorae, ceramics and glass objects, as well as a pretty collection of oil lamps. All of the exhibits are chronologically ordered and take visitors from 3,000 BC to the Byzantine era. The late Hellenistic theatre was expanded by the Romans and is situated in the southwest of Fethiye. The auditorium boasts 28 rows and was once able to seat 6,000 spectators. Even today, productions still take place from time to time. The elaborately decorated building is located in the midst of a residential area.

Holidays in Fethiye revolve around the harbour, which is the ideal place for a seafront promenade, its outstanding beauty, idyllic setting, stunning natural scenery, and gulets, fishing boats and international yachts an numerous source of charm. Fethiye exudes fascination, with some excellent hotels, restaurants and a market where locals gather to sell their wares – the perfect place to hunt for bargains, hone your bartering skills and stock up on holiday souvenirs. Boat trips will be the most memorable, and you may also try diving, hot air ballooning, paragliding, trekking, mountain biking and horse riding. As dusk falls, the many lively bars, cafés and shops located in the maze of narrow vibrant streets and alleys come to life, overlooked by the floodlit tomb of Amyntas. Also try a traditional hot Turkish bath and Turkish massage.