📖 About Fethiye

Fethiye is a stunning resort town on Turkey's southwestern Mediterranean coast, renowned for its natural beauty, ancient Lycian heritage, and as a hub for the famous Turquoise Coast. With approximately 100,000 permanent residents, the town swells significantly during summer as tourists arrive to enjoy the azure waters, pine-clad mountains, and exceptional sailing conditions.

The town occupies the site of ancient Telmessos, one of the most important cities of the Lycian civilization. Dramatic rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs above the harbor serve as daily reminders of this 2,500-year heritage. The natural harbor, protected by islands, creates perfect conditions for yachting, and Fethiye is a major starting point for gulet cruises exploring the coast.

Beyond beaches and boats, Fethiye offers world-class paragliding from Babadağ mountain, the stunning Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz, and access to remarkable archaeological sites. The walkable town center features a lively fish market, bazaar, and waterfront promenade. For those seeking the Mediterranean dream of sun, sea, and ancient culture, Fethiye delivers magnificently.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Tourism dominates Fethiye's economy, with hotels, restaurants, and tour operators serving visitors from across Europe and beyond. Yachting and gulet boat building maintain centuries-old maritime traditions. Agriculture—especially tomatoes and citrus—contributes to the regional economy. Real estate development has attracted many foreign residents, particularly British, who have made Fethiye a second home.

Culture in Fethiye blends Turkish traditions with cosmopolitan tourist influence. The weekly market offers local produce, textiles, and handicrafts. Fresh seafood is celebrated at the fish market where you select your catch and have it grilled at adjacent restaurants. Despite tourism, traditional Turkish hospitality remains genuine. The annual Fethiye International Music Festival and sailing events add cultural programming to beach holidays.

📜 History

Ancient Telmessos was renowned for its oracle and temple of Apollo. The Lycians left rock tombs that remain Fethiye's most distinctive feature. The city passed through Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman hands before becoming part of modern Turkey. The original Greek population was exchanged with Turks from Greece in 1923, fundamentally changing the town's character.

Fethiye takes its modern name from Ottoman pilot Fethi Bey, killed during early aviation. A devastating earthquake in 1957 destroyed much of the old town, and reconstruction created the modern city. Tourism development from the 1980s transformed Fethiye from a sleepy fishing town into an international resort destination, while the opening of nearby Dalaman airport made the region easily accessible to European visitors.