Dreaming of guaranteed sunshine, turquoise waters and affordable luxury? It’s no surprise that thousands of British tourists return to Fethiye year after year. Here’s why this enchanting corner of Turkey has captured UK hearts.
Sunshine You Can Count On
Fethiye basks in over 2,900 hours of sunshine annually. With its reliable Mediterranean climate, it’s the perfect escape from Britain’s cloudy skies—especially for those looking to enjoy consistent warmth from spring through late autumn.
Award-Winning Blue Flag Beaches
Fethiye’s coastline is home to pristine beaches with Blue Flag status, including the iconic Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon. These beaches are protected from overdevelopment, offering natural beauty, clean waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether it’s sunbathing, swimming or watching paragliders soar above, beach life in Fethiye is hard to beat.
Excellent Value for Money
Compared to European beach destinations, Fethiye offers great value. Double hotel rooms average around £93 (US$117) per night, with off-season rates dipping to £42 (US$53). A delicious three-course dinner for two costs around 1,500 TRY, while a light lunch comes in at about 350 TRY. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or a family, your pound goes further here.
Quick and Easy Travel
With direct flights from London to Dalaman taking just four hours, Fethiye is an easy getaway. Airlines such as easyJet, British Airways, and SunExpress operate regular services, with transfers to town taking under an hour.
Adventure Meets Culture
Fethiye is more than just a beach town. It’s a place where you can combine outdoor excitement with cultural discovery. From ancient Lycian ruins and mountain hikes to boat trips and paragliding, there’s something for every type of traveller.
Must-Visit Beaches
Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon
This natural reserve is world-famous for its calm, crystal-clear waters and mountain views. A favourite for swimming, relaxing and tandem paragliding.
Kabak Bay
A peaceful, hidden gem surrounded by pine forests and waterfalls. It’s home to sea turtles and monk seals, perfect for those who love unspoiled nature.
Çalış Beach
A 5 km long pebbled beach with stunning sunsets, watersports, and a relaxed promenade filled with cafes and bars.
Must-Do Activities & Day Trips
Fethiye is packed with unforgettable experiences. Here are the top activities UK travellers shouldn’t miss:
Paragliding from Babadağ
Soar over Ölüdeniz from a 1,975 m summit with a certified tandem pilot. An exhilarating, bucket-list experience with panoramic views.
Classic Boat Tour
Cruise the Twelve Islands, stopping for swims, lunch and sunbathing. A laid-back way to enjoy the coastline with fellow travellers.
Private Boat Charter
For something more special, hire your own boat for the day. Set your own route, enjoy privacy and discover hidden bays at your own pace.
Jeep Safari Adventure
Drive through rural mountain villages, ancient sites and river crossings. Expect laughter, water fights, and Turkish hospitality.
Speed Boat Excursion
Rent a speed boat and explore the coast at full speed. Ideal for couples and groups looking for independence and fun on the water.
Butterfly Valley
Accessible by boat or a scenic hike, this canyon is a protected nature reserve with over 100 butterfly species. Camping and glamping options available.
Saklıkent Gorge
Explore one of Europe’s deepest canyons. Walk wooden paths, wade through cool rivers and enjoy natural waterfalls—perfect on a hot day.
Lycian Way Hikes
Walk part of this historic coastal trail to discover ruins, sea views and traditional Turkish villages. Ideal for history lovers and nature seekers.
Practical Tips for UK Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: May–June and September–October offer warm weather and fewer crowds.
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY). Most places accept cards, but carry some cash for small vendors.
- Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Turkish phrases is appreciated.
- Safety: Fethiye is generally very safe. Standard travel precautions apply.
Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, the adventures, or the culture, Fethiye delivers. No wonder it feels like a home away from home for so many Brits.
