FETHİYE
WHERE TO STAY?
Areas and hotels.
Fethiye is a lively tourist town located by a beautiful bay. After the pandemic, many young entrepreneurs from Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir moved here, helping the town flourish. With their arrival, Fethiye saw the opening of atmospheric cafes, boutique hotels, stylish restaurants, and a shift in the local and tourist crowd. Today, the town is a vibrant blend of tourism and authentic daily life. The central and coastal areas are focused on tourism, but just a short walk inland reveals women in colorful harem pants, chickens and goats roaming, and the simple, familiar way of life of the descendants of nomadic tribes.

Let’s explore the different neighborhoods and I’ll suggest hotels for every taste.
TASTES OF FETHIYE
Enjoy breakfast with a stunning sea view, sip coffee in a historic church building, savor fresh fish accompanied by traditional mezes, indulge in Turkish sweets, and experience so much more.
Attractions of Fethiye town
WHAT TO VISIT
AMYNTAS ROCK TOMB
The region's most renowned historical site.
Start your journey with a visit to Fethiye’s iconic King Amyntas Tomb, a striking site dating back to the 4th century BC. The tomb provides sweeping views of the city, with entry costing 110₺, though there is also a free viewpoint further along the path. You can see the tombs from the road without paying, and will also spot several other cliffside tombs nearby.

This part of town is the most real and original by the way, have a walk around these narrow streets.
A VIEW POINT ABOVE THE ANCIENT THEATRE
Overlooking the harbour and the town.
After visiting the tomb, make your way to the nearby viewpoint above the ancient theater, which dates back to the Hellenistic period and is currently under restoration (almost finished). The views of the city are breathtaking, and you can enjoy them directly from the road, where small pavilions and a viewing platform are situated. While the area can sometimes be a bit untidy, it’s still worth stopping by, especially if you haven’t walked up to the Tomb of Amyntas.

The way here from the previous spot might be a bit too much for those with no vehicle. But if you’ve rented a car, on your way look out for the ruins of a fortress and a tiny old church.
PASPATUR OLD TOWN AND SHOPPING STREETS
Local brands and Turkish delights.
In the heart of Fethiye, you'll find the "old" town, Paspatur, with charming tourist shops (mostly closed, but still offering a glimpse of the old buildings) and vibrant shopping streets. Here, you can find clothing from local brands like Unique and Şaman, as well as cozy cafés like Cream, Mior, No:48 Coffee, Merengue (a particularly charming spot on a lovely street), and Coffee Teo. For lunch/dinner consider visiting: Lokanta, Paşa Kebap, Xlounge (more recommendations above).

Don’t miss the most delicious Turkish delights at Servet Şekerleme, though if you're seeking a more budget-friendly option, Tuğba is a great alternative.

Enjoyable walk right by the sea
If you have some energy left (or as a plan for another day), consider a stroll along the waterfront, where sea turtles can often be spotted near the pier. Along the way, you’ll pass Salut, a shawarma and falafel spot with a cozy back garden area. Other notable restaurants here include Trattoria Di Kukina, Seed, Trio Café, and waterside dining options like Çarıklı.

VISIT YACHT MARINA
Nautical romance nestled within the heart of the town.
If you enjoy watching boats, Ece Marina is a perfect spot for a short walk. This scenic marina is easily accessible from the main road, with a turnoff here leading directly to the waterfront. At the end of the marina, you’ll find the elegant Ece Saray Hotel, which brings a touch of European charm to the Fethiye coast and offers a beautiful setting to relax by the sea.
SUNSET ON ÇALIŞ BEACH
Sunsets in the winter are particularly beautiful.
One evening, you might head to Çalış Beach to watch a truly picturesque sunset. Afterwards, enjoy dinner at the lovely il Giardino restaurant, or, for a view with your meal, try Big Chefs, where you’ll have a stunning view of Şövalye Island — once home to the Knights of Rhodes in the 15th century.

VISIT FARMERS’ MARKETS
To see local produce and get lots of oranges for your daily fresh juice.
In Fethiye, several weekly markets offer the freshest seasonal fruits and vegetables, with the biggest ones being especially abundant:

  • Tuesday Market: Known for its variety, with both local farmers and suppliers. Best for fresh produce, though be cautious about spices and sweets from open displays.
  • Friday Farmers’ Market: A local favourite, exclusively for produce from local farmers, without any clothing section.
  • Saturday Market: A smaller version of Tuesday’s market.
  • Sunday Market in Çalış: Similar to the Tuesday market but in the Çalış area.
  • Fish Market: Includes fruits and vegetables. Fish is also available at Migros supermarkets.
For the best experience, go in the morning (around 9–10 a.m.) for fresh, quality products before the crowds.

DRIVE AROUND THE PENINSULA
Very picturesque location 5-10 minutes away from the town centre.
If you’ve rented a car or bike, consider taking a scenic loop around the Fethiye Peninsula. Start at the shipyard, then follow the coastal loop road, which offers stunning viewpoints (and access to beaches like So and Sea Me Beach; the second one allows access to the bay but the business itself closes from November to May). This route is especially beautiful at sunset in the off-season. Pack a snack and a thermos of coffee for a memorable outing.

For hikers, there’s a viewpoint at the TV tower; simply follow the main road to stay on track.

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