Things to do in Fethiye

Dalyan Riverboat Tour with Lunch and Iztuzu Beach

Surrounding yourself with natural beauty on a river cruise from Dalyan is a great way to unwind. One of Turkey's most pristine beaches is the destination, with stops at mud baths and a riverside restaurant en route. Ceren, one of our local guides, says, ‘Iztuzu Beach is also known as Turtle Beach because endangered loggerhead turtles nest here. It's a magical spot with very little human interference. The beach was all set to be developed with new resorts in the 1980s, but luckily conservation was prioritised.'Sail down the Dalyan River on an eco-friendly boat – which doesn't harm marine life – and have fun smoothing on the anti-ageing clay at the mud baths. It's great for glowing skin, and it's believed that Cleopatra visited for a pampering soak in the mineral-rich liquid mud. Finish with a dip in the warm sulphur pool before gliding across the river for a freshly prepared lunch of local dishes. You'll then add a little history and culture to the mix, as you continue on the riverboat past Lycian Rock Tombs – dating back to 400BC – carved into the cliffs.As the river widens into a lagoon, you'll have the chance to spot birdlife before docking at Iztuzu Beach. This 4km-long sweep of golden sand divides the river from the sea, a natural oasis that's a true haven for wildlife. Sheltered by mountains, the beach shelves gently into a calm bay, where an afternoon of pure relaxation beckons. Round off your day with the return relaxing river cruise to Dalyan.

Dalyan River Cruise Check Out Tour

If you're booked on a late-night flight back home, then this is a great way to enjoy your last day in Turkey. Highlights include a scenic Dalyan riverboat cruise, an anti-ageing mud bath and a riverside lunch. There's also free time to relax on Iztuzu Beach. You'll have a chance to freshen up and refuel before your flight in a nearby no-frills hotel, too. Ceren, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Iztuzu Beach - aka Turtle Beach - is a magical spot where nature rules. The beach was all set to be developed with new resorts in the 1980s, but instead some areas are protected as a sanctuary for nesting Loggerhead turtles, an endangered species.'Glide down the River Dalyan on a specially designed boat which doesn't harm marine life, heading for the mud baths. Smooth on the anti-ageing clay and have a dip in the warm sulphur pool. After lunch of local specialities at a riverside restaurant, jump back on your river boat to sail past the Lycian Rock Tombs dating to 400BC. It's off to Iztuzu Beach next, where you'll be surrounded by natural beauty. There's free time for swimming or sunbathing on this long, sandy strand. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a turtle or two - they are often spotted in the area. Finally, we'll head back to a local no-frills hotel for a chance to freshen up. You won't go hungry either, with a buffet dinner to tuck into. And what's more, you'll have the use of a hotel room right up until the transfer to the airport.

Kayakoy Ghost Town Tour and Mount Babadag Cable Car

From an abandoned hillside village to the summit of Mount Babadağ, there's a variety of views on this tour. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time exploring Kayaköy, one of the best-preserved ghost villages in Turkey. Elif, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘There are close to one thousand deserted stone houses as well as churches and chapels, even a bakery. At one point there was a plan to convert the whole village into a tourist resort, but thankfully this historic place has been preserved.'We'll start off the tour in Kayaköy, which was abandoned by Greeks fleeing war in the 1920s. Now, their ghosts flit between the empty homes as you wander through silent streets that once rang with voices. Peek into roofless stone dwellings as your guide explains their tiered designs, and discover tiny chapels and a little school. Elif says, ‘The layout of the houses and the way they were lined up was to ensure none blocked another's view.' You'll also see the empty basilica, with its faded frescoes and mosaics. Eerie yet fascinating.Next up, we'll head to the foot of Mount Babadağ to hop on a cable car almost to the top. Enjoy eye-popping panoramic views over Fethiye and the coast below as you glide up to the top station below the summit. If you want to reach the very top, there is a chairlift available. The peak is popular with paragliders, so there's a good chance you'll see them drifting in the skyline. It's a feast for the eyes.

Legends of Lycia Tour with Tlos, Patara and Local Lunch

This full day tour shows off two of the region's most important archaeological sites in all their glory. There's also free time at a fantastic beach and a tasty local lunch near Gizlikent waterfall to look forward to. Leyla, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Ancient Tlos is home to some fine examples of the rock-hewn tombs we see around this area, always carved high up to bury people closer to the Gods. I also love spending time at Patara - one of the most beautiful beaches in this part of Turkey'.You'll head to Ancient Tlos first. Boasting relics that stretch from the Lycian to Ottoman periods, it's a great place to explore. Leyla says, ‘It is not known exactly how long ago Tlos was founded, but the discovery of a bronze hatchet dating from over 3,000 years ago gives you an idea.' Located on a sloping hillside, it's a compact site but contains a remarkable number of ruins including rock-cut Lycian tombs, a theatre, Roman baths and much more to admire. After, you'll visit Gizlikent Şelalesi waterfall for some free time and lunch at a nearby restaurant.It's on to ancient Patara next, to explore the ruined city which dates back to the 8th century BCE. It was once an important harbour for the Lycian League, playing a significant role in politics and trade. Notable for being the birthplace of St. Nicholas – better known as Father Christmas – Patara features well-preserved ruins like the Triumphal Arch and Bouleuterion, offering insights into the past. After your visit, head to the golden sands of Patara beach for some time to relax.

Fethiye Shopping & Sightseeing Tour

Two of Turkey's top things to do combine on this tour – shopping and sightseeing. Shop ‘til you drop in Fethiye's famous markets and bazaars, see the ancient Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs and taste traditional Turkish delight. And as it's a morning tour, you'll be back at your hotel in time for an afternoon by the pool.Before you're let loose to do some serious shopping, there's a stop at a Turkish delight factory to fill your bags with these traditional sugar-dusted treats. After a stop by Fethiye's Roman-era amphitheatre, it's on to Telmessos Gold Centre where you can snap up jewellery at bargain prices. And remember, haggling isn't just a tactic here; it's tradition, so don't shy away from negotiating your way to the best deal. You'll also swing by Lycian Women's Cooperative – a non-profit organisation in association with the TUI Care Foundation, which empowers women to learn traditional weaving techniques. It's a great place to grab a unique souvenir.You'll have more time to practice your bartering skills in the town's bustling Paspatur bazaar, and work your way through the countless stands stacked with spices, leather bags, rugs and ceramics in the weekly market. And between the bartering, you'll even get to see the cliff-carved Lycian tombs, built by the ancient civilisation that once ruled the region.

Dalaman Airport VIP Lounge from Fethiye Area

Travel in style with the full VIP service at Dalaman airport. Avoid all the usual hassle as you're fast tracked through check in and security to enjoy unlimited drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi and more in the exclusive departure lounge. An altogether more relaxed way to round off your stay.

Private boat tour of Fethiye bays with lunch

Admire the bay of Fethiye and taste a traditional Turkish lunch on board on this private boat tour.