Fethiye is a hugely popular destination for holidaymakers and foreign national property buyers alike. Its expanses of pristine golden beaches, pretty hillside homes, and bustling marina attract thousands of people looking for the warm climate and relaxation the Turkish Riviera is known for.
Those planning a relocation to Fethiye undoubtedly want to integrate into the local culture, meet new friends, and discover the best things to see and do, while investors purchasing rental properties use proximity to amenities and attractions as a selling point when advertising their properties.
The team at Property Turkey, specialists in Turkish real estate, have shared some insights into their favourite pastimes and spots in and around Fethiye, including the ‘hidden gems’ that visitors new to the city in southwest Turkey may not otherwise know about!
Recommendations for Cultural Experiences in Fethiye
Since we’re compiling tips on the best things to do in Fethiye for those newly resident in Turkey, or having bought a second home, we’ll steer clear of the obvious tourist attractions, since you’ll already know about how great a day at Calis Beach is, and be familiar with the range of water sports on offer.
Instead, we'll share everyday places to explore and learn about the history and culture of this part of the world, many of which won't cost a cent.
Our first pointer would be to head a little outside of Fethiye to the Amyntas Rock Tombs, which sit up on the mountainside and have amazing views of the city. The tombs were originally in the centre of the ancient city of Telmessos and are among the very few preserved artefacts from Lycia.
You can see the tombs from almost anywhere outside the gates. Still, for a real up-close look, you'll need to pay a small entry fee, which we'd say is well worth it if you're interested in ancient history, especially because many other sites, like the tombs in Dalyan, are very difficult to get this close to.
If you can, try visiting close to sunset, when the light glows off the rocks and looks truly magical!
Shopping and Socialising in Old Town Fethiye
Another great way for new residents of Fethiye to get a feel for the pace of life is to spend a few hours in the Old Town, where you'll find all sorts of eclectic small shops, market stalls and tiny streets, many with tables set out for people to enjoy traditional games like Tavla, similar to Backgammon, and Okey.
There is a walking route around Fethiye Plaza where you can stop off for an authentic Turkish coffee and snack, and tucked behind it, you'll find the small but stunning Yeni Hamidiye Mosque.
Sampling Local Fetihye Cuisines and Fresh Seafood
On to the food, and there are some great places in Fethiye to pick up the freshest catches and local produce, try new flavours, and enjoy the busy, vibrant atmosphere, including the wonderful Fethiye Fish Market.
Most of the stallholders will grill your fish while you wait, and you can sample plates of Çipura (Sea Bream), Swordfish, Levrek (Sea Bass) and Mullet.
The downtown market in Fethiye centre, which is held every Tuesday, is also a terrific place to buy seasonal vegetables, spices, herbs and fruits, with street food vendors selling baklava, kebabs and of course Turkish Delight.
You can purchase handmade crafts like purses and jewellery, but be sure to bring a few bags with you if you're likely to make several purchases, as stallholders won't always have them available.
Exploring the Natural Landscapes in and Around Fethiye
Whether you're an avid hiker or cyclist or would like to spend a quiet afternoon wandering around the countryside, there are some incredible places to take it at your own pace, including the waterfront, which is lined with flat promenades.
The area around Calis Beach can get busy during the day in the summer, but we'd recommend a morning stroll before the heat sets in. All the small cafes open very early and serve coffee to go.
Although a little further afield, about 50 minutes from Fethiye, Saklikent National Park is a brilliant day out, with its deep, lush, and shady canyon, one of the largest in Europe. It's a good idea to bring waterproof shoes or sea shoes, as all the routes around the park include paths close to or through the river. Although the water isn't deep, the rocks can be slippery.
Once you've finished exploring, head to the restaurant, which offers fantastic views of the water and serves breakfast and lunch.
Days Out in Fethiye With Children
If you have kids, Şehit Fethy Bey Park is a perfect way to keep them occupied and entertained for as long as you like, with play areas for children, plenty of benches if you need to stop for a rest or picnic, and countless birds that you can watch flying over the water to and from Calis Natural Park and Bird Paradise, a tiny, uninhabited island.
There are free public exercise stations, climbing frames, and a handy coffee cart where you can pick up some snacks or drinks.
Another favourite with children is to help locals feed the hundreds of street cats, or to watch them sunbathing on the benches, popping into nearby restaurants where they’re almost always rewarded with a treat, and ensuring they get lots of attention, especially from kids!
The cats in Fethiye are well looked after and part of life here, and you'll often see cyclists heading around the streets in the cooler evenings putting out food for them.
If your family owns or plans to buy bikes, we recommend taking a trip to Karatas Beach, about 30 minutes by bike from Calis. It's a small, quiet beach with soft sand and rock pools, great for small adventurers to explore and see what treasures they might find.
Discover More Things to Do in Fethiye as a New Resident
We hope we’ve inspired you to see and experience some of the best of Fethiye and given you an understanding of the many things to do during your downtime.
If you'd like more ideas for how to spend your time and become accustomed to the lifestyle, we’d suggest joining one of the many groups and community forums designed specifically for expats, including Fethiye Friends and Fethiye Expat Forum.
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About Property Turkey
With 20+ years experience in the Turkish real estate market, team Property Turkey are your experienced, friendly and independent overseas real estate consultants. Our head office is located in London, UK with regional operational offices in: Bodrum, Fethiye & Kalkan, Antalya and Istanbul.
Original Source of the original story >> The Best Things to Do in Fethiye for New Property Buyers
