Family-Friendly Adventures in Fethiye, Turkey!

Tlos

Why Visit?

Embark on a fascinating family adventure to the ancient ruins of Tlos, one of the oldest and most striking Lycian sites in Turkey, nestled in the Taurus Mountains near the town of Seydikemer, about a 50 km drive from Fethiye.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of Tlos

Begin your day early by driving or taking a guided tour from Fethiye to Tlos. Upon arrival, explore the remarkable remnants that testify to Lycian, Roman, and Ottoman civilizations. Start at the majestic acropolis, offering panoramic views perfect for family photos. Delight the kids with tales of the mythical hero Bellerophon and his winged horse, Pegasus, who are said to have lived in Tlos.

Late Morning: Roman Theatre and Bath Complex

Next, visit the well-preserved Roman theatre that once entertained thousands. Let the kids marvel at its grandeur before heading to the Roman baths, where you can explain how ancient civilizations valued cleanliness and relaxation.

Lunch: Picnic Amongst the Ruins

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shaded areas around the site, where you can relax and absorb the serene atmosphere.

Afternoon: Explore the Tombs

Post-lunch, head towards the rock-cut tombs carved into the face of the hill. These impressive tombs, including the striking tomb of Bellerophon, are accessible by a brief hike, which is manageable for kids and offers another engaging peek into ancient funeral rites.

Late Afternoon: Yakapark and Tlos Yakapark Fish Restaurant

Conclude your visit by driving a short distance to Yakapark, a peaceful natural park. Here, children can play by the water features and you can all enjoy some refreshments at the Tlos Yakapark Fish Restaurant, known for its trout dishes and relaxing ambiance.

Return to Fethiye

End your day with a scenic drive back to Fethiye, filled with conversations about the day"s discoveries and planning your next family adventure!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fethiye Old Town (Paspatur)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary in Fethiye Old Town (Paspatur)

Morning: Explore Historical Streets

Start your day with a stroll through the charming lanes of Fethiye Old Town, also known as Paspatur. This area is easily accessible by local buses or taxis from anywhere in Fethiye. Begin at the main entrance near the ancient Telmessos Theatre, which dates back to the 2nd century BC. It’s a fascinating introduction to the area"s deep history, perfect to spark the imagination of all ages.

Midday: Lunch and Local Crafts

By midday, enjoy a family lunch at one of the traditional Turkish restaurants serving fresh, local cuisine such as gözleme (Turkish pancakes). Post lunch, explore the local shops that are full of crafts, spices, and textiles. The colorful displays are a treat for the eyes, and you can pick up some unique souvenirs. The shopkeepers are often happy to share stories about their goods, adding a personal touch to your purchases.

Afternoon: Visit the Fethiye Museum

A short walk from Paspatur is the Fethiye Museum on Kesikkapı Street. The museum is small but packed with artifacts from nearby archaeological sites, including Roman statues and intricate jewelry. It’s both educational and engaging for children.

Late Afternoon: Relax by the Duck Pond

Conclude your day at the serene duck pond located right in the heart of Paspatur. It"s a great spot for kids to enjoy some playtime and for adults to relax. The area is dotted with cafes, perfect for a refreshing drink or an ice-cream.

Evening: Sunset at the Harbour

Wrap up your day with a gentle walk to the nearby harbour. The sunset views over the Aegean sea are breathtaking and offer a perfect end to your day in Fethiye Old Town.

This itinerary offers a blend of history, culture, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable visit for families to the enchanting Paspatur!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fethiye Roman Theater (Telmessos Theatre)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Fethiye Roman Theater (Telmessos Theatre)

Morning: Visit Fethiye Roman Theater

Start your day early and head to the Fethiye Roman Theater, also known as Telmessos Theatre. Located in the heart of Fethiye, this ancient structure dates back to the 2nd century BC and was only recently unearthed in 1993. Easily accessible by local transport, you can take a minibus (dolmuş) from anywhere in Fethiye directly to the theater.

Upon arrival, engage the kids with tales of ancient gladiators and actors who once entertained crowds of up to 6,000 spectators here. Don"t miss exploring the remnants of the stage buildings and seating areas, imagining the bustling performances that took place centuries ago.

Lunch: Seaside Dining

After exploring, enjoy a relaxed lunch by the Fethiye harbor, just a short walk from the theater. Opt for one of the family-friendly restaurants overlooking the Aegean Sea, where you can sample fresh seafood and local Turkish delicacies.

Afternoon: Fethiye Museum

Post-lunch, visit the Fethiye Museum, which is less than a 10-minute drive from the harbor. This museum houses fascinating artifacts from the Lycian and Roman periods, including statues, sarcophagi, and jewelry that provide a deeper understanding of the region"s rich history. The museum is compact, making it perfect for little legs.

Evening: Stroll and Shop at Paspatur Old Town

Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the nearby Paspatur Old Town. This charming area is full of quaint shops selling souvenirs, Turkish delights, and handcrafted items. It’s a perfect spot for the family to soak up local culture and perhaps pick up a keepsake from your trip.

With a mix of historical exploration, delicious food, and cultural immersion, your family’s day at Fethiye Roman Theater and its surroundings will be a memorable adventure steeped in history and local charm!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Calis Beach (Calis Plaji)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Calis Beach (Çalış Plajı)

Start your family adventure by settling into one of the beachfront hotels at Calis Beach, easily accessible by taxi or minibus from Dalaman Airport (about 45 minutes drive). After checking in, head straight to the beach! Çalış Beach is renowned for its stunning 4 km long stretch of pebbles and sand, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. Enjoy the warm, shallow waters which are ideal for children to splash around safely.

Interesting Fact: Çalış Beach is famous for its beautiful sunsets. Make sure to stay till evening to witness the breathtaking view as the sun dips below the horizon.

Day 2: Water Sports and Relaxation

After breakfast, explore the variety of water sports available. From windsurfing to kite surfing, the beach offers it all—thanks to its reliable breezes. For a more relaxed pace, consider renting a pedal boat to gently explore the coast.

In the afternoon, visit the local market in Çalış, held every Sunday. It"s a great place to buy fresh local produce, Turkish spices, and souvenirs. The market is a short walk from the beach area and is a fantastic way for the family to immerse in local culture.

Interesting Fact: Çalış Beach served as one of the locations for the 1989 James Bond movie, "The World Is Not Enough."

Day 3: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

Take a local dolmuş (a Turkish shared taxi) to the nearby town of Fethiye, just 15 minutes away. Explore the ancient rock tombs, namely the Tomb of Amyntas, which dates back to the 4th century BC. Also, visit the Fethiye Museum to glimpse into the region"s history and archaeology.

Conclude your trip with a leisurely evening cruise from Çalış Beach, sailing across the beautiful turquoise waters of the Mediterranean as you reflect on your memorable family getaway.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fethiye Museum (Fethiye Muzesi)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful family day out at the Fethiye Museum (Fethiye Müzesi), a treasure trove of history nestled in the charming town of Fethiye, Turkey.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at the museum when it opens at 8:30 AM. The museum is located in the heart of Fethithttps://www.google.com/search?q=Fethiye+google+map&rlz=1C1CHBD_enUS906US906&oq=Fethiye+google+map&aqs=chrome..69i57j0l7.5039j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#e on Kesikkapı Mahallesi, easily accessible by local bus or taxi from any part of town. There’s convenient parking if you’re driving.

Engaging Exhibits

Dive into the fascinating world of ancient and Roman artifacts. The museum’s compact size makes it perfect for kids, with captivating exhibits like intricate jewelry, coins, and statues from nearby archaeological sites like Tlos and Letoon. Don’t miss the stunning mosaics—great for sparking conversations about ancient art!

Interactive Learning

Head upstairs for interactive displays aimed at younger visitors. These often include puzzles and touch-friendly exhibits that bring history to life for children.

Lunch Break

Around noon, enjoy a picnic at the small park opposite the museum or dine at one of the nearby local eateries offering delicious Turkish cuisine.

Afternoon Exploration

Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk to the Fethiye Harbor, just a 10-minute walk from the museum. Here, you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and watch the boats. Visit the nearby Fethiye Fish Market for a fun and bustling atmosphere.

Local Culture

Conclude your day by exploring the charming old town of Fethiye. Wander through its narrow streets lined with traditional shops – perfect for picking up souvenirs.

With its rich collection of artifacts and family-friendly activities, Fethiye Museum offers an educational yet exciting day out for all ages. Enjoy your visit to this historical gem!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.