VISIT Mediterranean turkey, PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO

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Turkey’s Turquoise Coast stretches from Marmaris to Antalya, where forested mountains tumble into sapphire seas and Lycian legends echo among hidden tombs and underwater ruins. Also known as the Lycian Coast, this is where turquoise waters meet golden beaches, where you can sail on a traditional gulet, hike ancient trails, swim over sunken cities, and eat the freshest seafood under starlit skies. 

It’s ideal for both relaxation and exploration—whether you're in search of remote coves or bustling harbors, ancient amphitheaters or open-air markets, fine dining or simple mezes by the water.

Scattered across the Turquoise Coast like ancient breadcrumbs, the cities of Lycia whisper tales of a unique civilization that once flourished in southwest Anatolia. Unlike the Greeks or Romans, the Lycians left behind mysterious rock-cut tombs, democratic federations, and cities often built into wild, mountainous terrain.

Today, their legacy is best explored by hiking sections of the Lycian Way, sailing to hidden coves, or simply wandering among forgotten ruins where goats roam and fig trees grow through marble walls.

Fethiye

Fethiye is a lively coastal town built upon the ancient city of Telmessos. You’ll spot its history carved into the cliffs—the Lycian rock tombs, especially the Tomb of Amyntas, offer sweeping views over the bay and town below.

Fethiye’s modern marina is the departure point for Blue Cruises, where traditional gulet boats sail past sea cliffs, pine forests, and hidden bays. Don’t miss Butterfly Valley, reachable only by boat or steep hike, where waterfalls cascade into a pristine beach flanked by cliffs.

A day trip to Kayaköy, a ghost village of abandoned Greek stone houses, tells a quiet, haunting story of population exchange. And the world-famous Ölüdeniz Lagoon, with its turquoise shallows and paragliders soaring above, is one of Turkey’s most photographed spots.

Seafood dominates the menus—don’t miss grilled sea bream, stuffed calamari, or kabak tatlısı (pumpkin dessert). End your evening at the Fethiye fish market, where you can choose your own fish and have it grilled at a nearby restaurant.

Kas

Kaş is small but mighty, a bohemian port town with cobblestone alleys, artisan jewelry shops, and a relaxed but stylish vibe. It’s a favorite among divers and snorkelers thanks to the sunken ruins of Kekova, where ancient walls and staircases still shimmer beneath the water.

Above sea level, visit Simena Castle (Kaleköy) and climb to a panoramic view of Lycian tombs scattered like ancient whispers across the landscape. Or explore Antiphellos, Kaş’s own ancient city, with a well-preserved theater facing the sea.

Kas is also a base for kayaking, paragliding, canyoning, and hiking parts of the Lycian Way, one of the world’s top long-distance walking trails.

Food is fresh and creative here. Enjoy stuffed zucchini flowers, local cheeses, and avocado meze, washed down with a crisp glass of white wine from nearby Elmalı.

Kalkan

Just down the coast from Kaş, Kalkan is a serene, upscale village built on a steep hillside. Its whitewashed houses, flower-draped balconies, and sea-view terraces make it one of the most romantic spots on the Turquoise Coast.

It’s perfect for couples, foodies, and anyone looking for a slower pace. The town’s pebble beach and nearby Kaputaş Beach—a stunning turquoise cove accessed by 180 steps—are unforgettable.

Dining is Kalkan’s specialty. The town is known for its rooftop restaurants, where you can enjoy mezze platters, fresh fish, and Turkish wines with sunset views over the bay.

Demre (Myra) & Kekova

Near the small town of Demre, you’ll find the dramatic rock-cut tombs of Myra and the crumbling remains of a grand Roman theater. This was once a key Lycian city, and its necropolis is hauntingly beautiful.

Demre is also the final resting place of Saint Nicholas—yes, the original Santa Claus. His church, though modest and weathered, draws pilgrims and curious travelers alike.

Just offshore, the sunken city of Kekova invites exploration by boat or kayak. It’s an eerie yet peaceful experience—gliding over submerged staircases, harbor walls, and half-visible homes lost to an earthquake centuries ago.

Antalya

At the heart of the Turquoise Coast lies Antalya, a thriving city where modern Turkish life meets a remarkably preserved old town—Kaleiçi—full of Ottoman houses, Roman gates, and charming boutique hotels.

The Antalya Museum is one of the best in the country, with exquisite statues and sarcophagi unearthed from local ruins. Just outside town are Termessos, perched in the mountains like a stone eagle’s nest, and Perge, with its elegant colonnaded streets and stadium.

Antalya’s beaches—Lara and Konyaaltı—are long and lively, while Düden Waterfalls offer a refreshing contrast of nature right in the city.

The food scene reflects its diversity—try Antalya piyaz (made with tahini), grilled lamb skewers, and ice-cold pomegranate juice from street vendors. The city comes alive at night with harbor-side cafés, music, and balmy air.

Xanthos

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Xanthos was the cultural and political center of Lycia. The ruins—high on a bluff above the Esme River—tell stories of resistance, glory, and tragedy. Twice in history, its people chose mass suicide over surrender to foreign invaders.

The site includes a well-preserved amphitheater, Harpy Tomb, and pillar tombs—tall funeral monuments that are uniquely Lycian in style. Some of Xanthos’ most beautiful sculptures were taken to the British Museum, but the magic of the place is very much still there, in the stones and silence.

Nearby Letoon, the sacred cult center of Leto (mother of Apollo and Artemis), offers elegant temple ruins and mosaics, framed by marshes and birdsong.

Patara

Just down the coast, Patara is both an ancient city and a beloved beach. In antiquity, it was a major harbor and home to a Lycian parliament building, one of the earliest examples of democratic governance in the ancient world.

It’s also the birthplace of Saint Nicholas. Wander the massive Roman theater, triumphal arch, and long colonnaded street, then end the day at the nearby Patara Beach—a protected stretch of golden sand where loggerhead turtles come to nest.

Tlos

Perched high above the Xanthos Valley, Tlos is one of the oldest Lycian cities. Its dramatic location—half nature, half stone—gives it the feel of a fantasy film set. Rock tombs are carved into cliffs, a Roman stadium stretches out below, and a medieval fortress crowns the acropolis.

Tlos is less visited than other sites, but it rewards every step with solitude and sweeping views. It’s a perfect stop on a driving route through the Lycian hinterlands.

Arykanda

Often called the “Lycian Delphi,” Arykanda is set high in the mountains east of Finike, surrounded by forests and mountain air. This was a city that loved luxury: you’ll find terraces with views, baths, gymnasiums, and a stunning theater all gracefully carved into the hillside.

Despite its wealth, Arykanda remains peaceful and uncrowded—a secret gem for those who make the climb.

Pinara & Sidyma

Less developed but deeply atmospheric, Pinara near Fethiye is set in a circular natural bowl, where hundreds of pigeonhole tombs are carved into a cliff face. The site has a forgotten beauty—orchids bloom among the stones, and the quiet is broken only by cicadas and rustling leaves.

Sidyma, not far from the Lycian Way trail, is more overgrown village than official site—but that’s part of its charm. You’ll find sarcophagi in olive groves, columns resting in backyards, and a sense that time has stood still.

The Lycian Way: Turkey’s Legendary Coastal Trail

For those seeking deeper connection, slow travel, and immersive adventure, the Lycian Way (Likya Yolu) is more than just a hiking route—it’s a moving encounter with nature, mythology, and lost civilizations. Stretching over 500 kilometers from Fethiye to Antalya, this long-distance footpath is Turkey’s first—and still most famous—waymarked hiking trail.

Winding along cliffs, pine forests, olive groves, and quiet shepherd villages, the Lycian Way threads through coastal ruins, hilltop tombs, and panoramic ridgelines that offer jaw-dropping views of the Turquoise Coast. Whether you're a serious thru-hiker or just want to tackle a few scenic day sections, the trail offers something for everyone.

Highlights Along the Lycian Way

Faralya to Kabak: A short but stunning stretch that hugs the cliffs above Butterfly Valley, ending at the bohemian beach of Kabak.

Kaş to Üçağız: Hike through fragrant maquis shrubland to see rock-cut tombs, turquoise coves, and the sunken ruins of Kekova—with options to kayak or boat alongside.

Geyikbayırı to Termessos: Inland sections bring rugged mountain energy, forests, and the haunting ruins of Termessos, one of the few cities Alexander the Great couldn’t conquer.

Olympos to Chimera: This leg includes beach time in the ruins of Olympos, followed by a mystical evening hike to the eternal flames of Chimera, which have burned for thousands of years right out of the rocky earth.

Gulet Cruises: Sailing the Turquoise Coast on Wooden Yacht 

If there’s a quintessential way to experience the magic of the Turquoise Coast, it’s aboard a traditional gulet—a hand-crafted wooden sailing yacht native to this region. A gulet cruise blends comfort, serenity, and discovery, taking you to places that can’t be reached by road: hidden bays, untouched coves, ancient ruins accessible only from the sea, and sleepy fishing villages where time seems to pause.

These cruises typically range from 3 to 7 nights, sailing between Fethiye, Göcek, Kaş, Kekova, and Antalya. Each day brings a new secluded anchorage, a new sunrise over the sea, and a rhythm that encourages slowing down, tuning in, and living with the breeze.

What to Expect on a Gulet Cruise:

Comfort with Character: Most gulets have between 4 to 10 en-suite cabins, sun decks for lounging, shaded dining areas, and a crew that prepares fresh Turkish meals daily. Some are more rustic and traditional, others are fully luxurious—with air conditioning, paddleboards, and even jacuzzis.

Swim-Sail-Eat-Repeat: Mornings begin with the call of gulls and a dive into crystal-clear waters. After a hearty Turkish breakfast, the boat sails to another bay or ancient ruin. Lunch is served onboard, afternoons are for sunbathing, kayaking, snorkeling, or reading. Evenings bring dinner under the stars.

Local Flavors at Sea: The onboard cuisine is a highlight—think grilled fish, stuffed peppers, eggplant meze, fresh salads, local cheeses, and sweet pastries like baklava or revani. Most cruises accommodate dietary preferences, and wine and rakı often flow freely at sunset.

Highlights Along the Gulet Route:

Göcek Bays: A dreamy archipelago of pine-covered islands, including Cleopatra’s Bath, where legend says the queen herself bathed in a Roman ruin still submerged in water.

Kekova & Simena: Sail over the sunken city of Kekova, then climb to Simena Castle for a panoramic view of Lycian tombs and sea-carved coastline. Try homemade goat milk ice cream from a local vendor in the tiny village.

Olympos & Adrasan: Drop anchor near Olympos ruins, swim ashore, explore the forested city, and hike to the eternal flames of Chimera. In Adrasan, enjoy seafood straight off the fishermen’s boats.

Blue Cave & Butterfly Valley: Stop at sea caves that glow blue in the morning light, or access Butterfly Valley by sea, jumping ashore to walk among waterfalls and wildflowers.