Highlights
- Explore the historic center and rock tombs of Fethiye
- Embark on a four-day cruise aboard a gület, a Turkish yacht
- Hop between islands and beaches as you sail along the Turquoise Coast
- Walk through the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Fethiye, Explore Paspatur | Fethiye |
| Day 2 | Cruise to Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz & St. Nicholas Island | St. Nicholas Island |
| Day 3 | Cruise to Kalkan Bay & Kaş, Optional Scuba Diving | Kaş |
| Day 4 | Cruise to Kekova, Admire Dolchiste & Explore Kaleköy | Kekova Island |
| Day 5 | Disembark & Transfer to Antalya | Antalya |
| Day 6 | Visit Perge & Aspendos, Depart Antalya |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Fethiye, Explore Paspatur
Welcome to Turkey! Your driver will be waiting for you outside Ankara Esenboga Airport to take you to your hotel in Fethiye, a port city on Turkey's southwestern Turquoise Coast known for its pristine beaches, archaeological wonders, and towering mountains. Once you're settled in, head out to explore Paspatur, the city's historic center. Walk down the narrow, winding streets, enter charming shops, or dine at one of the many cafés and restaurants. Keep an eye out for the Eski Cami (Old Mosque), which showcases the Ottoman-style architecture that's popular in this region.
Once you've explored Paspatur, take a short hike up to the Tomb of Amyntas, one of the numerous rock tombs carved into the steep southern hills of Fethiye by the Lycians in the fourth century BCE. When you're ready for dinner, head back down the hill to the Fethiye Fish Market. Sample seafood fresh from the Mediterranean at one of the many restaurants in the market. You can even choose from the day's fresh catch yourself. Once you've had your fill of seafood, head to ECE Marina to watch the fishing boats coming in or catch a cruise of Fethiye Bay to end the night.
Day 2: Cruise to Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz & St. Nicholas Island
Get your swimsuits on because today, you're embarking on a four-day yacht tour. A driver will take you to Fethiye Harbor to board a gület, a Turkish-style wooden yacht. Set sail to Butterfly Valley, home to over 136 different butterflies and moths. Here, you can swim, have lunch, and hike to a waterfall if you're up for the adventure. Your next stop is Ölüdeniz, the famous blue lagoon, home to one of the most popular beaches in Turkey, where you'll have plenty of time to relax. Ölüdeniz Beach is in a crescent-shaped bay with shallow waters, making it a great place to swim.
Sail to St. Nicholas Island (known locally as Gemiler Island) next and disembark for the night. Although it's a tiny island, there's plenty to do here. Explore the ruins scattered across the landscape or one of the five Greek churches dating back to the fourth and sixth centuries CE. End your day with a view of the sunset over the glittering Mediterranean Sea.
Day 3: Cruise to Kalkan Bay & Kaş, Optional Scuba Diving
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast onboard the gület as you sail to Kalkan Bay. Hop off the yacht for a swim in the crystal-clear waters before cruising onto Kaş, a small fishing village turned popular beach town. Leave the yacht to explore the town and visit one of the many local shops known for selling handmade silver jewelry, Turkish carpets, local clothing, and glass artwork. If you haven't tried Turkish coffee yet, step into one of the many cafés for a taste.
Those looking for an underwater adventure can choose to go scuba diving this afternoon off the south coast of Kaş. Discover what the Mediterranean Sea looks like from below, exploring either a cave or the wreck of a World War II military aircraft. If you're not afraid of tight spaces, you can even swim through the Dakota aircraft—the cockpit is intact still, so you can see where the pilot sat over 70 years ago. Return to Kaş for the night and eat at one of the many Turkish restaurants, such as Smiley's for seafood or Cinarlar Pizza Garden restaurant for pide, Turkish pizza.
Day 4: Cruise to Kekova, Admire Dolchiste & Explore Kaleköy
After a nourishing breakfast, board the gület and cruise to Kekova, a region of small islands and bays. On Kekova Island's northern shores, you'll find the sunken ruins of Dolchiste, an ancient Lycian settlement that was destroyed by an earthquake in the second century. The ruins are protected, so swimming is forbidden here, but you can enjoy views of the underwater city from the boat.
You can also enjoy the beauty of Kekova's land as your captain will anchor at the ancient city of Simena, now known as Kaleköy (Castle Village). This small village has a rich history, which you can picture from the impressive ruins of the island's castle and fortress, dating back to the fourth century BCE. Walk to the top of the ruins along a winding, cobbled path for a panoramic view of Kaleköy Village, Kekova Island, and Dolchiste.
Day 5: Disembark & Transfer to Antalya
Start your morning with a final swim, then enjoy breakfast on the boat while you cruise to the Üçağız harbor. Say goodbye to the crew as you disembark and transfer to Antalya, the largest Turkish city on the Mediterranean coast. You can relax at the hotel or explore the city on your own. Start at the historic old town of Kaleiçi, wandering the narrow cobblestone streets full of charming restaurants and shops. To learn more about the city's history, view the many archaeological artifacts at the Antalya Museum.
Those who just want a lazy day can relax on Konyaaltı Beach, west of the town center. Rent sun loungers and an umbrella to enjoy picturesque views of the coastline and nearby mountains. End your night with dinner at the old harbor, surrounded by towering cliffs, boats bobbing on the turquoise waters, and the historic city walls. If you're not ready to return to the hotel just yet, visit one of Antalya's many rooftop bars, like Asmani Bar & Terrace, to enjoy a drink with views of the lush coastline you left this morning.
Day 6: Visit Perge & Aspendos, Depart Antalya
Your last day in Turkey will be action-packed as you start with a tour of Perge, an ancient city that was once the capital of Pamphylia. The city was originally founded by the Hittites around 1500 BCE, but the ancient Greeks later controlled it, and then the Romans, who had the greatest architectural and cultural influence. Roman history is obvious as you walk along the cobblestone roads lined with colonnades, admire the stadium where gladiators used to fight, and explore the remnants of Roman baths.
Visit the nearby Greco-Roman city of Aspendos next to see one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Although it was built in the second century CE, the amphitheater has stood the test of time, so you can still enter and surround yourself with stone tiers that once accommodated thousands of spectators viewing gladiatorial contests and dramatic performances. After your exploration, end your trip at Manavgat Falls to enjoy the idyllic scenery of the region and dine on the riverbank. When the time comes, transfer to Antalya International Airport for your flight home. Safe travels!More Great Turkey Itineraries
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