Nestled on the breathtaking Turquoise Coast just over an hour’s drive southeast of Fethiye, Kalkan is easily one of the most picturesque towns in Turkey. Known for its dazzlingly clear Mediterranean waters, dramatic hillside inclines, and an enchanting old town, Kalkan possesses a magnetic pull that keeps visitors returning year after year.

If you’re seeking a sophisticated getaway absent of mass tourism, this upmarket destination—teeming with boutique hotels and luxury private villas—might just be your perfect summer escape. Here is everything you need to know about exploring Kalkan.

The Charm of Kalkan Old Town

Kalkan’s old town is a beautifully preserved slice of Mediterranean history. As you wander through the narrow, steep cobbled streets, you’ll be greeted by historic Ottoman Greek buildings draped in vibrant pink bougainvillea. With its famous white-washed houses featuring traditional wooden balconies, there is no shortage of visual charm.

While the town is often compared to its close neighbor Kaş (Kalkan is officially part of the larger Kaş Municipality), Kalkan has its own distinct, remarkably relaxed vibe that has cultivated a deeply loyal following from all over the world.

A Foodie’s Paradise: Dining with a View

If you are a foodie, you are in for a treat. Kalkan boasts an incredibly high density of restaurants per square meter in its historic center. Whether you are craving traditional Turkish cuisine, fresh Mediterranean seafood, or international dishes, the choices are seemingly endless.

One of the defining features of Kalkan’s dining scene is its roof terrace restaurants. What might look like a simple street-level doorway often leads up to a magnificent dining space. From these terraces, you can enjoy fabulous panoramic views over the terracotta rooftops, the picturesque whitewashed mosque, and the bustling harbor below.

A Glimpse into Kalkan’s History

A look at Kalkan’s architecture easily reveals its past. During the Ottoman period, the town was known as Kalamaki and was home to a substantial Greek population. Following the population exchange of 1923, the Greeks of Kalamaki relocated to Greece, and Turks from Greece moved to the newly formed Turkish Republic.

Today, Kalkan’s iconic white-washed mosque stands as a testament to this history—it originally served as a Greek Orthodox church. Because the town is a protected area with listed buildings, this historic charm is guaranteed to remain beautifully untouched.

The Harbour & Beach Clubs

Kalkan translates to “shield” in Turkish, an apt name given that it sits in the only naturally sheltered bay between Kaş and Fethiye. Historically an important maritime cargo hub for olive oil, silk, and timber, the harbor today is the launching point for spectacular daily boat trips and traditional wooden gülets.

While Kalkan is famous for its exclusive, rocky beach clubs built on wooden platforms over the sea, it also boasts the Kalkan Halk Plajı (Public Beach). Nestled right at the bottom of the old town’s stone alleyways, this pebble beach has held Blue Flag status since 2010. It’s the perfect place to take a quick dip in the azure waters without committing to a full day at a beach club.

The Perfect Base for Exploration

Sitting at the heart of the Turkish Lycian Coast, Kalkan is the ultimate base camp for day trips and historical exploration. Here are the top nearby spots to add to your itinerary:

• Kaputaş Beach
  Only 10 minutes away sits one of Turkey’s most photographed beaches, famous for its striking turquoise water and dramatic cliffside stairs.
• Ancient Historical Sites
  Just a short drive away are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Xanthos and Letoon. Don’t miss the Lycian rock tombs.
• Patara Beach
  Hop on a local minibus to reach Patara Beach. Enjoy shallow, warm waters, vast sand dunes, and the ancient ruins of Patara.
• Kaş and Meis
  Drive 35 minutes along the stunning D400 coastal road to the vibrant town of Kaş, or take a quick ferry to the Greek island of Meis.