Travel
From slow to go: a journey along Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast
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Coastal beauty, mineral hot springs, and…ghost towns? Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast has something for everyone.
By Matt Cheok
Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast is a feast for the eyes, with its crystal-clear waters, charming seaside towns and ancient ruins scattered along its sun-soaked shores. The region caters to all kinds of travellers, offering adventures at every pace — whether you’re keen on an action-packed journey or a relaxing escape.
In this travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your next journey along this remarkable coastline.
Visit the jewel of the Turquoise Coast
The picturesque town of Kaş embodies the Turquoise Coast’s laid-back atmosphere. Its streets are dotted with cute cafes, delicious food and the aroma of freshly brewed Turkish coffee at every turn.
We love Kaş for its alluring waters and plentiful beaches. You won’t want to miss a chance to visit İnceboğaz Plajı and Büyükçakıl Plajı, showcasing some of the best beaches the Mediterranean has to offer.
Might not make it Türkiye’s this year? Check out some beaches a little bit closer to home.
No visit to Kas is complete without visiting the panoramic viewpoint overlooking the town. We particularly enjoyed the lookout at Manzaram Kaş, which is easily located on Google Maps and is a fantastic place to watch the sunset.
From Kaş, it’s possible (and highly recommended) to embark on a day trip to discover the surrounding islands. Our favourite day cruises are to Kekova Island and Simena Castle. You'll get to explore secluded coves, walk through the hillside village of Kaleköy, and climb to the castle for views over the bay.
Discover Türkiye’s ghost town
Türkiye is home to many hidden gems, including the abandoned village of Kayaköy. This once-thriving Greek Orthodox community was deserted in the early 1920s during a population exchange relocating Greek residents to Greece and Muslim communities to Türkiye. Interestingly, many of these returning Turks chose not to settle in Kayaköy, leaving it empty and transforming it into a ghost town.
Today, Kayaköy is a fascinating destination for visitors who can experience the abandoned village on foot. We highly recommend arriving in the afternoon, as the sunset drenches the ruins in a warm glow. You’ll discover several gentle, well-marked paths and walking trails, including an accessible route to the peak (making this suitable for all mobilities).
Kayaköy is easily reachable by bus from nearby coastal towns like Fethiye or Ölüdeniz. The site is open daily from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm, with an entry fee of 100 TL (roughly $4.50 AUD).
If time permits, spending a few days in nearby Fethiye is well worth considering. This coastal town is a major hub for gulet (Turkish yacht) cruises, and its markets and marina are definitely worth exploring!
Explore the epic sand dunes at Patara Beach
Stretching 18 kilometres, Patara is Türkiye's longest beach and an untouched slice of paradise for some swimming and beach time. The sunsets here are especially memorable against the backdrop of the dunes. The shoreline is also a vital nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles, which you may be lucky to encounter.
While here, it’s worth visiting Patara’s Ancient City and traipsing through the remains of this once-thriving port. Highlights include a grand theatre, ancient baths, and temples, all offering insight into Patara's former importance as a city in the Lycian League (a federation of ancient cities).
Mineral magic at Pamukkale's hot springs
Pamukkale's hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties, and the mineral-rich waters offer a stunning visual experience. There are several pools that provide “full submersion” in the warm thermal waters (you can get in them), while you take in the remarkable white calcite travertine terraces. The Antique Pool is particularly popular with its ancient columns and ruins.
While Pamukkale can get pretty crowded, it remains a must-visit destination. To make the most of your time, consider going in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are lighter. For history buffs, there is a fantastic walking path that also allows you to explore the remains of the Hellenistic city of Hierapolis.
Wander along Türkiye’s most scenic trail
The Lycian Way stretches some 540 kilometres along Türkiye’s southern coast and connects the towns of Fethiye and Antalya. The route encounters ancient ruins, including Lycian tombs and remnants of historic cities like Olympos and Myra. We love this trail because it offers a deep immersion into local culture and hospitality, with small villages and towns along the way providing opportunities to devour traditional Turkish cuisine, stay in guesthouses, and interact with the friendly locals.
You can tackle the entire route, explore over several weeks, or opt for a day trip with numerous access points along the trail (so there’s no need to bring camping gear to enjoy the experience fully).
The Lycian Way is best experienced in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). And while some sections of the trail can be challenging, many others cater to all skill levels and abilities.
Fly on-in
Flying to Antalya Airport is the most direct way to reach Türkiye’s Turquoise coast. Well-connected bus and private transfer routes from Istanbul and Ankara are also available but involve significantly longer travel times.
Walking works: Guide to getting around
The local bus and rideshare services are the most convenient ways to get around town. The Turks have also developed excellent coastal footpaths, making it a pleasure to explore on foot. And, since these towns aren’t large, walking is the best way to take in the local atmosphere.
When travelling between cities, it’s worth considering a rental car, hiring a private driver, or taking the local bus (from the terminal). Many retirees and older travellers also opt for campervans, enjoying the numerous excellent and often free places to stay along the Anatolian coastline, where you'll encounter a fantastic community of fellow travellers.
Best times of year to visit
The Turquoise Coast is appealing for its year-round holiday opportunities. Spring (April – June) and autumn (September – October) offer smaller crowds, milder weather and less competition for beach space along the coastline. Summer (July to August) is bustling with activity and hot, sunny days, while winter (November to March) offers a much cooler and more relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you're after a relaxing beach escape or an adventure hopping between Türkiye's coastal havens, this region honestly has so much to offer. With its slower pace, friendly locals and delicious cuisine, it’s an ideal destination for your next unforgettable getaway.
Feature image: Matt Cheok
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