VISIT MUGLA, PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO

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Muğla Province, located in southwestern Turkey, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and vibrant coastal towns. Stretching along the Turkish Riviera (also known as the Turquoise Coast), Muğla offers stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages nestled between pine-covered mountains and the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Famous for its world-class tourism hotspots like Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Datça, Muğla is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking sun, sea, culture, and adventure.

Top Places to Visit in Mugla Province

Bodrum

Known as the "St. Tropez of Turkey," Bodrum is a vibrant town with a lively nightlife, marinas filled with luxury yachts, and historical sites. Don’t miss the Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights Hospitaller, which now hosts the Underwater Archaeology Museum. The old town’s whitewashed houses, boutique shops, and seaside restaurants make it a perfect blend of relaxation and culture.

Marmaris

A bustling resort town famous for its nightlife and beautiful harbor, Marmaris is also a gateway to the stunning Dalyan Delta and ancient Kaunos ruins. The surrounding pine forests and clear blue waters invite sailing, swimming, and hiking adventures.

Fethiye

Fethiye is renowned for its natural harbor, traditional bazaars, and nearby attractions such as Ölüdeniz Beach, one of Turkey’s most photographed turquoise lagoons. The ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs above the town are a must-see, along with the ruins of Telmessos and Kayaköy, an eerie ghost village nearby.

Datca Peninsula

Less touristy and wildly beautiful, the Datça Peninsula offers unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages like Knidos, an ancient city perched on a peninsula with ruins overlooking the sea. Datça is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, hiking, and authentic local experiences.

Kayaköy & the Lycian Way to Ölüdeniz

One of the most scenic walks in the region is the Lycian Way trail from the abandoned village of Kayaköy to Ölüdeniz. The 6 km trek takes you through pine forests, rocky paths, and panoramic viewpoints of the sea below. It’s an unforgettable experience combining history, nature, and adventure.

Saklıkent Gorge

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, the Saklıkent Gorge is a spectacular natural wonder near Fethiye. This deep canyon offers a refreshing escape with its cool waters and opportunities for trekking, rafting, and canyoning.

Gocek

Famous for its marinas and sailing culture, Göcek is a smaller, upscale town known as a hub for yacht charters. Its calm bays and turquoise waters make it a favored stop for sailing tours along the coast.

Things to Do in Mugla Province

Explore Ancient Ruins

Walk among the remains of Lycian, Greek, and Roman civilizations in Bodrum, Fethiye, and Knidos. These sites offer insight into Turkey’s rich history and stunning coastal vistas.

Relax on World-Class Beaches

From the blue lagoon of Ölüdeniz to the sandy shores of İztuzu Beach (famous for loggerhead sea turtles), Muğla’s beaches are diverse and stunning. Whether you want water sports, sunbathing, or peaceful coves, there’s a beach for every traveler.

Go Sailing or Take a Blue Cruise

The coastline of Muğla is famous for blue cruises—multi-day yacht tours that explore hidden bays, secluded beaches, and ancient ruins accessible only by boat.

Dine on Seafood and Mezes

Muğla’s coastal cuisine is a feast of the sea. Enjoy grilled octopus, calamari, stuffed mussels, and fresh-caught sea bream or red mullet, often served with a wide selection of Aegean-style mezes—like roasted eggplant, fava bean purée, marinated sea bass, and herbed yogurt. Pair it with local wine or rakı and dine seaside for the ultimate experience.

Hike and Explore Nature

Discover the natural beauty of the region by hiking along parts of the Lycian Way or exploring national parks and gorges, like Saklıkent and Babadağ.