Olympos Travel Guide: Best Things to See Around the Ancient City
On the southern coast of Antalya, surrounded by the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Olympos offers a unique landscape where history and nature are intertwined. Once an important port city of the Lycian civilisation, Olympos is now a destination that attracts both history buffs and nature lovers. With its ancient ruins, eternal fire, untouched beaches and mystical atmosphere, Olympos and its surroundings are home to many beauties waiting to be discovered. So, what to do in Olympos? What to see around Olympos in Antalya? What else is famous in Antalya? Let's explore together 👇
Olympos Ancient City: Silent Witness to History
Founded in the 2nd century BC and one of the most important cities of the Lycian Federation, Olympos retained its importance during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Among the ruins of the ancient city are structures such as a theatre, baths, a necropolis, an acropolis, and a harbour street. The Ionic temple gate, located at the mouth of the river and built in honour of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, is particularly noteworthy from an architectural perspective. Additionally, the ship-carved sarcophagus of Captain Eudomus sheds light on the maritime culture of the period.
Yanartaş (Chimaera): The Fire of Legends
Located north of Olympus, near Çıralı, Yanartaş is a natural phenomenon caused by methane gas rising from underground and igniting upon reaching the surface. This fire, which has been burning for thousands of years, was dedicated to the god Hephaistos in ancient times and associated with the mythological monster Chimaera. Yanartaş, which offers an impressive atmosphere, especially during night visits, is also an ideal route for nature walks and trekking.
Olympos Beach: Home of the Caretta Caretta Turtles
The beach, which can be reached on foot from the ancient city of Olympos, stands out for its historical and natural beauty. The beach, which attracts attention with its clear sea and pebble beach, is also a nesting area for the endangered Caretta Caretta sea turtles. Although there are no facilities such as showers and cabins on the beach, its natural structure has been preserved.
Source: Miniyol
Çıralı: The Address of Tranquillity and Natural Beauty
Located right next to Olympus, Çıralı is a village that stands out for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. Known for its organic farming, boutique hotels, and eco-friendly businesses, Çıralı is also the starting point for reaching Yanartaş. The beach is protected because it is a nesting area for Caretta Caretta sea turtles.
Tahtalı Mountain and Olympos Cable Car: Mediterranean View from the Summit
Tahtalı Mountain, located within the Beydağları Coastal National Park, is one of the highest points in the region at 2,365 meters. It is possible to reach the summit of the mountain with the Olympos Cable Car, which began operating in 2006. The 4,359-meter-long cable car line is one of the world's longest cable car lines with passenger transport capacity. In addition to the panoramic Mediterranean view from the summit, there are also restaurants and souvenir shops.
Phaselis Ancient City: Where History and Nature Meet
Located approximately 35 km from Olympos, near Kemer, Phaselis is a port city founded by the Rhodians in the 7th century BC. The city, which attracts attention with its three separate ports, ancient theatre, agora, and bath ruins, is also located in a location surrounded by the sea. Phaselis is an ideal stop for picnics and enjoying the sea, as well as for its historical ruins.
Gelidonya Lighthouse: The Light of History and Nature
Located on the Lycian Way, at the southern tip of the Teke Peninsula, Gelidonya Lighthouse is one of Turkey's oldest lighthouses. Built at the highest point above sea level, the lighthouse attracts attention with its surrounding scenery and the historical Phoenician shipwreck. Gelidonya Lighthouse offers a unique route for nature lovers and is also an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Source: ULTRATDK
Kekova and the Sunken City: History Underwater
Kekova, accessible by boat tours from Olympus, is famous for its ancient ruins submerged underwater. This region, which became submerged due to earthquakes, can be explored through diving and canoe tours. However, swimming and diving are prohibited in areas with historical ruins. Kekova offers a unique experience where history and nature intertwine.
Transportation and Accommodation Information
Olympos is located approximately 85 km from the city centre of Antalya, within the borders of Yazır village, which is part of the Kumluca district. You can reach the Olympus minibus stop by taking a bus from Antalya Bus Terminal to Kumluca, Finike, or Kaş, and then taking a minibus to Olympus. For those travelling by private vehicle, simply follow the signs for Olympos on the Antalya-Kumluca Highway after the Çıralı entrance.
In terms of accommodation, Olympus is famous for its tree houses surrounded by nature. There are also boutique hotels and guesthouses in Çıralı. The area also offers suitable areas for campers.
Travel Tips
Visiting Time: Spring and autumn months are ideal for both weather conditions and avoiding crowds.
Yanartaş Visit: Visiting in the evening, after dark, allows you to better experience the impressive sight of the flames.
Museum Card: The Museum Card is valid for entry to the ancient city of Olympos. As of 2025, the entrance fee is 364₺; Museum Card holders can enter for free.
Nature Hike: Located on the Lycian Way, Olympus offers many routes for nature hikes and trekking.
Water Activities: For activities such as boat tours, canoeing, and diving, you can contact tour companies in Çıralı and Olympus.
Food and Drink Guide: What to Eat in Olympus and Çıralı?
Olympus and Çıralı are destinations that attract attention not only for their nature-filled vacations but also for their local and healthy flavours. Restaurants in the region offer menus prepared with organic products and recipes enriched with local ingredients.
Especially famous for their village breakfasts, these meals feature tables adorned with fresh vegetables and fruits. Olive oil-based dishes, homemade jams, goat cheese, and warm gözleme are the most natural way to start the day.
In the evening, seafood takes centre stage. In Çıralı, tasting daily-caught sea bass, sea bream, or squid at seafood restaurants right by the sea offers an unforgettable experience. Vegetarian menus are also quite rich, with dishes like stuffed zucchini flowers, lentil meatballs, and eggplant salad standing out.
Recommended culinary stops:
Ceylan Restaurant (Çıralı): Popular for its stone-baked flatbreads and seafood pasta dishes.
Yörük Sofrası (Olympus): Offers examples of traditional Turkish cuisine, particularly famous for its meat stews.
Olympos Lodge Restaurant: Ideal for a luxurious, romantic dinner; gourmet presentations are served by the sea.
Source: olymposlodge
Cultural Events and Festivals
Olympus and its surroundings offer visitors unique experiences not only with its nature but also with the cultural events held throughout the year. Festivals, concerts, and workshops organised especially for young travellers and nature lovers during the summer months are noteworthy.
Olympos Jazz Days is one of the small-scale music events held in the ancient city at the end of July every year. In addition, yoga camps, meditation workshops, and mindfulness activities are quite common in the surrounding area, especially in Çıralı.
The Çıralı Caretta Festival is one of the ecological events organised to raise environmental awareness. Nature walks during the nesting season, awareness workshops on the protection of sea turtles, and night observations enrich the festival.
These events not only add meaning to your Olympus vacation but also allow you to form a deeper connection with the region.
Activities: Adventure and Nature Sports
Olympos and its surroundings are a playground for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. There are countless activities to do in the area, appealing to travellers of all ages.
Canoeing and sea biking: It is quite enjoyable to set out on the sea in the calm morning hours on the Çıralı coast and watch the reflection of the Taurus Mountains.
Rock climbing: The natural rocky areas in and around the Olympus Valley offer routes for both professional and amateur climbers. The Bahçecik area, in particular, has become a hub for this sport.
Diving and snorkelling: Small reefs and caves off the coast of Olympus are open for exploration. Diving schools offer both training and guided diving tours.
Bicycle tours: Routes starting from Çıralı and continuing to Ulupınar offer an experience immersed in nature and are full of beautiful viewpoints where you can take plenty of breaks.
For those dreaming of a vacation immersed in nature, these activities are one of the best ways to discover the spirit of Olympus.
Lycian Way Guide: Olympus Stage
An important part of the historic Lycian Way passes through Olympus and its surroundings. This ancient walking route offers hikers a unique experience with its paths dotted with historical ruins, pine forests, goat trails, and magnificent Mediterranean views.
The Olympus - Adrasan Stage is one of the most popular routes. This approximately 16 km long route is of medium difficulty and usually takes 6–7 hours. Along the way, Mount Musa, Gelidonya Lighthouse, and panoramic valley views enchant visitors.
Some tips for hikers:
Setting off early in the morning helps avoid the heat.
Water sources are limited along the trail, so it is important to carry sufficient water.
There are suitable areas for camping and observation points along the route.
This stage is one of the rare routes where the mystery of ancient cities blends with nature.
Photography Spots
For photography enthusiasts, Olympus and Çıralı are like a natural studio. Both historical structures and natural beauty offer countless opportunities for travellers seeking to capture stunning shots.
Here are the most popular photo spots:
The stone-arched entrance gate of the ancient city of Olympus: History and nature intertwine, and the light is magical in the morning hours.
Sunrise on Çıralı Beach: Especially during the nesting season of loggerhead sea turtles, the first light of dawn creates an awe-inspiring natural scene.
Nighttime shots of Yanartaş: The mystical glow of the flames, captured with long exposure, is truly unique.
Lycian Way scenic stops: Especially the points overlooking Çıralı from Mount Musa are ideal for both scenic and trekking-themed shots.
The photos taken in this region are not just memories but documents that carry the magic of Olympus forever.
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