Fethiye: The Pearl of Turkey's Turquoise Coast
Fethiye is one of the most loved destinations on Turkey's Turquoise Coast, blending ancient history, pine-covered mountains and a coastline dotted with hidden bays. Days here can be as relaxed or as adrenaline-fuelled as you like: mornings on a wooden gulet, afternoons in a mountain canyon, evenings strolling the harbour and market streets. Whatever your pace, the full range of tours in Fethiye makes it easy to build a varied holiday from a single base.
Boat trips and the sea
The sea is the main event. The classic Fethiye 12 Islands boat trip cruises the sheltered gulf with swim stops, while the 6 Islands trip with Butterfly Valley heads out towards one of the area's most photographed spots. Browse more options among the boat tours category, or go private: a private yacht tour of Fethiye bays suits families and groups who want their own schedule, and longer yacht rentals in Fethiye are available for blue cruise fans.
Adventure on land and in the air
Fethiye is world famous for paragliding above Ölüdeniz, launched from the slopes of Babadağ. Prefer to stay grounded? The canyon and waterfall jeep safari is a splashy, fun day for families, while riders can join a horse safari through forest and shoreline. History lovers should look at the canyon, gorge, waterfall and ancient city of Tlos tour.
Day trips beyond the city
Fethiye is a great launchpad. Head east for the Kaş, Kalkan, Kaputaş and Patara beach tour, or west for the Dalyan tour with crab fishing. Inland, the white terraces of Pamukkale can be topped off with a hot air balloon flight.
Practical tips
- Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and a hat on every boat or canyon day.
- Book early in high season, especially for private boats and paragliding.
- Prefer a quieter atmosphere? Choose small group tours over larger departures.
- Mix one sea day with one land day for a balanced week.
