The Cultural DNA of the Region
The Fethiye–Göcek coastline is an open-air archive carrying the traces of the ancient Lycian civilization. Rock tombs, ancient roads, sunken baths, and the modern coastal lifestyle coexist here. This geography is a silent story passed down from one civilization to another.
Telmessos Ancient City & Amintas Rock Tombs
Location: Fethiye Center
Significance: Monumental rock tombs of the Lycian civilization, dating back to the 4th century BC.
Visitor Rules:
- Do not touch historical surfaces.
- Beware of slippery stones.
- Drone use is subject to permission.
Kaunos Ancient City & Rock Tombs
Distance from Göcek: 35–40 minutes
Significance: Theater, agora, and monumental tombs.
Visitor Rules:
- Entry into tombs is prohibited.
- No littering in the protected natural area.
- Guided tours are recommended.
Tlos Ancient City
Location: Seydikemer
Significance: The center of sports, warfare, and administration in ancient Lycia.
Visitor Rules:
- Sun protection is advised.
- Do not approach excavation zones.
Kayaköy – The Ghost Village
Location: Fethiye–Ölüdeniz road
Significance: A Greek village abandoned after the 1923 population exchange.
Visitor Rules:
- Climbing on structures is prohibited.
- Drone flights are restricted in most areas.
- No open flames inside churches.
Cleopatra’s Bath – Sunken Bath
Location: Göcek Bays
Significance: Submerged Roman-era bath ruins.
Visitor Rules:
- Climbing on the walls is prohibited.
- Boat mooring areas are limited by buoys.
Paspatur – Old Town
Location: Fethiye Center
Significance: Ottoman-era commercial texture and architecture.
Visitor Rules:
- Permission may be required for photography in certain shops.
- Noise is restricted at night.
Lycian Way
Göcek Route: Günlüklü – İnlice – Göcek
Significance: Listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.
Visitor Rules:
- Stay on the marked trail.
- Campfires are prohibited.
- Damaging ancient road stones carries severe penalties.
Bedri Rahmi Bay – The Fish Motif
Location: Göcek Bays
Significance: The iconic fish painting by Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu.
Visitor Rules:
- Climbing the rock is prohibited.
- Ideal photo time: 09:00–11:00 AM.
Hamam Bay Archaeological Remains
Location: Göcek Bay Area
Significance: Submerged wall and harbor ruins.
Visitor Rules:
- Do not touch underwater remains.
- Watch out for rocks while snorkeling.
Visitor Etiquette
1. Do not touch historical structures.
2. Keep noise to a minimum.
3. Do not leave litter.
4. Guided visits are recommended.
5. Removing underwater artifacts is strictly prohibited.
Final Note
Göcek–Fethiye is a land where the memory of stone, the breath of the sea, and the cultural traces of thousands of years coexist. This heritage is a story that visitors are invited to listen to — without touching, but with respect.
