Mugla is among the Turkey’s top tourist destinations with its stunning beachfront, lovely resort towns, distinctive Aegean villages, and verdant forests, Mugla is Turkey’s most popular holiday spot.
Another good reason behind this popularity is that Mugla turkey destinations lies in the intersection point of three different climatic zones, which creates pleasant weather for most of the year. Besides its location, Mugla’s beautiful historic sites and picturesque nature will surely blow you away.
Some beautiful resort towns by Mugla’s coastline are Bodrum marmaris (the turquoise town), Marmaris (the pearl of the Mediterranean), Fethiye, Dalyan, and Ölüdeniz. Bodrum is probably the most famous town in Mugla, and it is renowned for its magnificent castle, lively nightlife, stunning yachts and water sports.
Nearest Airport to Mugla, Turkey
The nearest international airport is Bodrum International Airport (BJV), which is about an hour drive or about 60 km from Mugla Town. The closest domestic airport would be Dalaman Airport (DLM) about 68 KM.
Best Things to do in Mugla Turkey
- Gulet tour in Gemiler Island
- Paragliding in Blue Lagoon
- Discover the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
- Hiking and Paragliding in Babadağ
Shopping & Bazaar in Mugla
- Muğla Pazarı
- Yalıkavak Pazarı
- Milas Pazarı
- Marmaris Pazarı
- The Yalıkavak Market
Best places to stay in Mugla
- ÖLÜDENiZ BLU Luxury Boutique Hotel
- TUI BLUE Tropical
- Med Apart
- The Halcyon Rooms & Suites Hotel
- The Farrys Boutique Hotel
Mugla Cuisine
Mugla Province is located in the southwestern region of Turkey and is known for its delicious Turkish and Greek cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes from this region include:
- Kebap
- Döner
- İskender
- Köfte
- Gözleme
- Pastichio (Greek Lasania)
I would recommend making sure you have the chance to try at least one of these dishes during your stay in Mugla.
The Grand Turkish Breakfast
One of the best things about Turkish breakfast is its very diverse meal. You can find pretty much anything you want on the table, from olives and cheese to eggs and tomatoes. The Turks love their breakfast, and they take their time to enjoy it, so don’t be surprised if your host invites you to stay for a few hours and have a cup of tea or coffee.
Some of my favourite Turkish breakfast dishes are Menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes, green peppers, and onions), börek (a savoury pastry filled with cheese, vegetables or meat) and çiğ köfte (raw beef mixed with bulgur, onions, parsley, and spices).
Turkish Gulet Tour in Gemiler Island
If you’re looking for a unique experience while in Mugla, consider taking a gulet tour to Gemiler Island. A gulet is a classic wooden boat that has been used in Turkey for centuries, and a trip on one is an excellent way to see the region’s lovely beaches and charming villages.
Gemiler Island is located near Oludeniz Basin. It is about 10 km away from the Kaya village of Fethiye. On the Island, you can experience the beautiful ruins of the First Church located on the peak part of the Island and see and walk through the unique 500-meter long tunnel built to connect other few churches on the same Island, which is amazing.
The tunnel was built to protect the pilgrims from direct attacks, rain, and hot sun. It is also known as St. Nicholas Island, and there are a few ancient residential ruins worth visiting.
Many operators offer the Gulet boat tours; you can choose what suits your desire. Most of them offer free lunch and multiple stops at the different islands where you can swim see caretta turtles, do mud baths and enjoy stunning scenery along the turquoise water.
Paragliding in Blue Lagoon
Paragliding in the Blue Lagoon is a great option for those looking for a more adrenaline-pumping activity. This picturesque lagoon is located close to Ölüdeniz and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Paragliding in Blue Lagoon Ölüdeniz is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, and it’s easy to see why. The views from up there are stunning, you can see for miles across the Mediterranean coast and inland, but once you’re back on terra firma, your adrenaline will be pumping with a newfound appreciation for life. A tandem paraglider flight lasts about 15 minutes and costs 45 Euros per person (max two people). You can take a minibus or a taxi from Oludeniz city center to get up there.
Discover the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus sits on top of a hill overlooking all of Halicarnassus, and it served as a burial place for King Mausolos, who ruled around 353 – 350 BC. It was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Located in what is now Turkey, it was built by King Mausolos to serve as his tomb and a monument to himself.
The building had an Ionic colonnade that surrounded its perimeter. Today, there are only ruins left for tourists to explore. Many people find the history behind this site fascinating, especially because it speaks about great power and beauty. It’s always interesting to learn how different cultures handled death centuries ago.
Hiking and Paragliding in Babadağ
Babadag mountains are located near Oludeniz Fethiye region of Muğla Province, Turkey. Imagine an idyllic mountain town, surrounded by fresh air and stunning views. Now imagine being able to hike or paraglide in that paradise whenever you want. That’s exactly what Babadağ offers tourists and residents alike.
The hike consists of a long, rubble track that takes you climbing towards the 1,969-metre. The path to the summit of Babadağ is a gradual ascent for most of the way, whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Babadağ has something for everyone.
So come on over and explore everything this beautiful mountain town has to offer.
Shopping & Bazaar in Mugla
- Muğla Pazarı
- Yalıkavak Pazarı
- Milas Pazarı
- Marmaris Pazarı
Muğla Pazarı
Muğla Pazarı is a large open-air market located in the city of Muğla, Turkey. It’s a great place to find souvenirs and traditional Turkish handicrafts, as well as fresh produce and meat. The market is open every day except Sunday, and it’s a great place to spend a morning or afternoon browsing the stalls.
Some of the best-known vendors at Muğla Pazarı are those who sell hand-woven kilims and carpets, copperware, brassware, and woodcarvings. Be sure to bargain when you’re shopping here – you can usually get good deals on souvenirs if you haggle patiently.
Yalıkavak Pazarı
Yalikavak is a district of Mugla, Turkey. It is located on the coast and has a good view of the Greek Island of Kos. Yalıkavak Market is a traditional Turkish shopping place for fresh fish and seafood specialties that can be found all around Turkey and the Mediterranean region.
The market is open every day except Sundays, and it is a great place to buy souvenirs for your loved ones back home. If you’re looking for something truly unique, you can also find some handmade carpets and kilims as well as traditional clothing.
Milas Pazarı
Milas is a district of Mugla Province. It is located on the Gulf of Gökova, and its administrative center is the town of Milas. Milas Bazaar is a market that sells fresh produce, fish, and meats at a lower cost compared to the superstores. The market also offers traditional Turkish handicrafts and souvenirs.
The bazaar is open every day except Sundays, and it’s a great place to find souvenirs for your loved ones back home. You can find carpets, kilims, traditional clothing, and various other handicrafts here. The Milas Bazaar is worth a visit.
Marmaris Pazarı
Marmaris is a district and a port city in Muğla Province, in the southwestern Aegean Region of Turkey. Marmaris Grand Bazaar is located on the waterfront in Marmaris city center. It’s a traditional Turkish shopping place where you can find local items perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
You will find handmade carpets and kilims, traditional clothing, jewelry, and a variety of other items for sale at the Marmaris Bazaar. It’s open every day except Sundays, so be sure to stop by during your stay in this beautiful port city.
So there you have it! A few of the best things to do in Mugla Province.
Hotels near Mugla Turkey
ÖLÜDENiZ BLU Luxury Boutique Hotel
If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing place to stay in Mugla, consider the ÖLÜDENiZ BLU Luxury Boutique Hotel. This beautiful hotel offers stunning views of the Blue Lagoon and is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
TUI BLUE Tropical
Another great option is the TUI BLUE Tropical. This family-friendly Mugla resorts hotel features a range of amenities and is conveniently located close to the Blue Lagoon and near some of Mugla’s best restaurants and cafes.
Med Apart
The Med Apart provides excellent value for money and is perfect for those who want a comfortable place to stay in the heart of Mugla. This apartment complex offers a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool and on-site restaurant, and is close to some of the best attractions in the area.
The Halcyon Rooms & Suites Hotel
The Halcyon Rooms & Suites Hotel offers wonderful accommodation in the heart of Bodrum. This hotel is perfect for those who want to be close to all the action, as it is located just a few minute’s walks from the town’s main shopping and dining district.
The Farrys Boutique Hotel
Another great choice is the Farris Boutique Hotel. This family-friendly hotel provides excellent service, a pool, and an on-site spa, making it perfect for those looking to relax while also being centrally located in Bodrum.
Marmaris Pazarı
Those looking for a more affordable option should check out Marmaris Pazarı, a centrally located budget hotel in the heart of Marmaris. This hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at a fraction of the price of some of the other hotels in the area.
Conclusion
Mugla Province is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the countryside, or enjoy a night out on the town, Mugla has something to offer. Be sure to check out some of the attractions mentioned above during your stay in this wonderful province.
