Turkish Riviera attractions

Just minutes from the bustling bazaars and yacht-lined marinas of Fethiye, the crumbling churches and long-deserted buildings of Kayakoy—known to locals as the “ghost town”—stand in eerie contrast. Abandoned in 1923 after the Greco-Turkish War and later ravaged by an earthquake; the town offers a fascinating insight into Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) complex past.

Warm springs bubble around and under Lake Koycegiz, making mud baths a signature of the waterfront town of Dalyan. Minerals give the mud a sulfur smell, but can, locals say, work miracles on aging skin. Just lounge in the shallow pools, coat yourself in glop, then rinse off in the river, lake, showers, or spring-fed pool.

Covering 87 square miles (227 square kilometers), the Dilek Peninsula-Buyuk Menderes Delta National Park occupies a peninsula south of Kusadasi on Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) Aegean coast. Natural wonders abound here, from pebble beaches and wildlife to footpaths, ancient ruins, and a canyon hiking trail.

Tlos in Fethiye, Turkey, was once an important city in the Lycian League, a confederation of city-states founded in the fifth century BC. The city's ruins, which date back to the second century BC, feature wide terraces equipped with cisterns, as well as a magnificent agora and an enchanting theater that once hosted concerts.

Sweeping across southern Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye) in a majestic arc, the Taurus Mountains (Toros Dağları span hundreds of miles and rear as high as 12,322 feet (3,756 meters. Home to ski resorts, historic villages, rugged canyons, ancient cities, and Turkey’s own Mt. Olympos, their jagged peaks frame Turkish Riviera resorts including Antalya and Alanya.

Located on the picturesque Mediterranean coast, the charming village of Kalekoy (Simena) boasts a well-preserved hilltop castle, an idyllic seafront, and panoramic views of Kekova Island and beyond. From exploring the ancient Lycian necropolis to embarking on a boat tour of the Sunken City, this small village is a true gem for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Born out of an attempt to prevent the country’s archaeological treasures from being plundered after World War I, the Antalya Museum (Antalya Müzesi) first opened in 1922. Exhibiting over 12,000 artifacts relating to the history of Anatolia’s Mediterranean and Pamphylia regions, it’s one of the largest and most important museums in Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye), and is sometimes called the Antalya Archaeological Museum.

Located 12 miles (20 kilometers) south of Marmaris, Turunç is a charming fishing village on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast that offers respite from the lively resorts the region is renowned for. Its Blue Flag beach and calm, sheltered waters are backed beautifully by tree-shrouded mountains, whose secluded trails beg to be explored on horseback or by ATV.

Founded in the Hellenistic era, the ancient city of Olympos rose to prominence in 78 BC as a Roman harbor town. Overlooked by the mighty peak of Mount Olympos, it sits in a deep valley southwest of Antalya, and is now a small but popular beach town, peppered with ruins and famous for its treehouse accommodations, picturesque beach, and hippie vibe.

Featuring walls hewn from natural rock and a stunning 130-foot-long hallway adorned with 5th-century mosaics, the Baths of Varius underwent several renovations over the centuries to become the one-of-a-kind structure we see today. Boasting separate rooms for cold, warm, and hot water, private chambers for wealthy citizens of Ephesus, and possibly even a gymnasium, the baths covered an expansive area and provided a luxurious and functional hub for ancient Turkish society. A visit to the Baths of Varius is not only a memorable experience but also a valuable opportunity to learn about Ephesus’ unique history.

Standing on the edges of Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi), the Antalya Clock Tower (Antalya Saat Kulesi) testifies to the region’s storied past. Built on the remnants of the city’s Roman walls and converted into a crenelated clock tower by the Ottomans in the early 20th Century, this stone fixture is an instantly recognizable Antalya landmark.

With colorful fishing boats and home to a dazzling fleet of luxury yachts, Marmaris Marina is the vibrant focal point of the city’s waterfront. Marmaris Castle reigns over the harbor, which serves as the gateway to natural wonders such as Dalyan Mud Bath, Iztuzu Bach, and the Gulf of Gokova.

Carved into the cliff sides above the town and looking out over the ocean, the Fethiye Lycian Rock Tombs offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient past, dating back to 350 BC. The cluster of tombs is crowned with the grand Tomb of Amyntas, thought to be a Lycian ruler or nobleman.

One of Antalya’s two main city beaches, Konyaalti Beach (Konyaaltı Plajı) is a popular spot for both locals and travelers. Stretching for 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) west of the city, Konyaalti has a mix of pebble and sand beaches, where sun worshipers can swim and enjoy water sports against the dramatic backdrop of the Beydağlari Mountains.

Framed by forested hills, lively seaside resorts, and miles of glittering blue waters—the Gulf of Fethiye (Fethiye Körfezi is among the most scenic stretches of Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) Turquoise Coast. A popular destination for boat cruises; it’s home to a dozen islands, dotted with Byzantine ruins and beautiful beaches.

Scaling the 12,500-foot-high (2,365-meter-high) peak of Tahtali Mountain—ancient Mount Olympus—the Olympos Cable Car (Olympos Teleferik) is the most popular attraction in Beydaglari Coastal National Park. At the summit, a panoramic observation deck affords spectacular views over the forested Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean coast.

The charming island of Gemiler, off the Turkish coast, offers a serene setting to escape bustling city life. The island's rich history is evident from the ancient ruins of Byzantine churches, courts, and cisterns. In addition to the historical sites, visitors can also enjoy beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Reaching a height of 12,500 feet (2,365 meters), Mount Olympos (Tahtali Dagi) is the highest mountain of Beydaglari Coastal National Park. Named after the ancient Lycian city of Olympos—the ruins of which lie along the coast just to the south—the mighty peak is surrounded by a dramatic panorama of mountains, forest, and ocean.

Part of the Ephesus Archaeological Complex, the Ephesian public latrine offers a glimpse into the daily life of the city's inhabitants. This well-preserved ruin served as a communal toilet during the Roman period, providing a unique perspective on the city's history. While landmarks such as the Library of Celsus showcase Ephesus' grandeur, this intact facility humanizes the ancient city.

Once a glorious temple of gleaming marble and finely carved columns, the elaborate tomb of King Mausolus—the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus—was so remarkable that it became the mausoleum after which all others were named. Built between 355 and 351 BC, it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, featuring the work of some of the era’s most renowned sculptors and towering up to 164 feet (50 meters) tall.

Close to the coastal resort town of Bodrum, the small village of Yalıçiftlik provides a tranquil retreat from the tourist crowds. Bordered by pine forests, olive groves, and rocky coves, Yalıçiftlik is the place to escape to the countryside, experience traditional Turkish life, and swim at secluded sandy beaches.

Looming over the seafront along Bodrum harbor, Bodrum Castle is not just a historic landmark—the medieval ruins also house the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Showcasing the archeological finds unearthed from shipwrecks along Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) Aegean Coast, the museum is a trove of ancient artifacts, Bronze age finds, and maritime treasures.

The Fire of Anatolia show is a dramatic tribute to Anatolia’s rich history. Watch as 120 dancers take to the stage, performing a mix of traditional and modern Turkish dance to live music complete with dazzling lights and costumes. See the show at the purpose-built, open-air Gloria Aspendos Arena.

Akyaka is a charming village nestled in Turkey’s Mugla province along Gokova Bay. The town—often overlooked by foreign visitors—is famous for its clear waters, rich culture, and outdoor sports opportunities. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful or adventurous getaway without noise or aggressive salespeople.

The ancient city of Kaunos, near Dalyan in Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye), was founded in the 9th century BC, and was located between Lycia and Caria—hence it embodies characteristics of both empires. Though now abandoned, Kaunos was once a flourishing city that served as a bustling trading post on the coast, and its ruins provide a vivid glimpse into the past.

The grand Myndos Gate (Myndos Kapısı) once guarded the western entrance to the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus and marked the route to nearby Myndos (now Gümüslük). Now in ruins, the gate is the last trace of the city’s once-mighty fortifications and remains a prominent landmark of modern-day Bodrum.

A waterfront park with its own private beach, Atlantis Waterpark Marmaris is one of Marmaris’ most popular water parks. Nine high-adrenaline slides include freefall, whirlpool, and rafting options; little ones love the Kids’ Land pool, slides, and soft play area; sun loungers, restaurants, and a bar keep adults entertained.

Selimiye is a quaint coastal town in the Mugla province of Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye). Situated between Marmaris and Datca, it boasts a picturesque harbor with locally crafted fishing boats, a quiet seaside, and a handful of ancient ruins. Selimiye offers travelers an opportunity to experience authentic Turkish life away from the bustle of more touristy cities nearby.

Dramatically situated high in the Taurus Mountains and part of Gulluk Dagi Termessos National Park, the ancient city of Termessos is as notable for its impressive location as for its remarkably preserved ruins. The star attraction is the 4,200-seat theater, built right on the cliffside and affording stunning views over the mountains below.

Crowning the promontory dividing Bodrum and Gumbet, the Bodrum Windmills are one of the region’s prettiest landmarks. Built in the 18th century to grind flour, the seven stone structures are now derelict but are still picture perfect and offer stupendous views over the bays of both resorts.