Olympos Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Olympos, Turkey.


If you’re planning a vacation to Turkey, Olympos should be on your list of must-visit destinations. Located in the Lycia region of the Mediterranean coast, this ancient city is rich in history and natural beauty. In this comprehensive travel guide to Olympos, you’ll learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

Introduction to Olympos

Olympos is a coastal village that was once an important sea port in ancient Lycia. Today, it’s known for its picturesque beach, pre-Roman ruins, and natural beauty. Olympos is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Olympos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Olympos Ruins: This ancient city was once home to the Lycians, Romans, and Byzantines. The ruins include a theater, temple, and necropolis.
  • Chimaera: Also known as the Flame of Olympos, this natural phenomenon is a series of eternal flames that burn from the mountainside.
  • Olympos Beach: The pristine beach is surrounded by scenic cliffs and a lush forest. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Natural Attractions of Olympos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Olympos: This highest peak in Turkey’s Mediterranean coast is a popular spot for hiking and trekking.
  • Yanartaş (Chimaera) National Park: Home to the Chimaera flames, the park is also a great spot for hiking and wildlife watching.
  • Butterfly Valley: This picturesque valley is home to over 100 different species of butterflies and is surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Olympos

  • Olympos to Adrasan Trek: This 2-day trek takes you through the Lycian Way trail, one of Turkey’s most famous hiking trails.
  • Çıralı to Olympus Trek: This scenic 3-mile trek takes you through lush forests, near a waterfall, and into the ancient city of Olympos.

Best Things to Do in Olympos: Activities and Tours

  • Jeep Safari: A thrilling ride through the Taurus Mountains and Yanartaş National Park.
  • Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Boat Tour: Take a leisurely ride along the coastline, and stop off to swim and snorkel in secluded bays.

Week-Long Itinerary for Olympos

Day Activity
1 Explore the ancient ruins of Olympos and Chimaera.
2 Enjoy a day at the beach and take a dip in the sea.
3 Trek up to Mount Olympos for spectacular views.
4 Take a boat tour along the coastline of Olympos.
5 Visit the Butterfly Valley and enjoy the natural beauty.
6 Go scuba diving and explore the underwater world.
7 Spend the day hiking the Lycian Way trail and exploring the nearby towns.

Food and Drink Scene of Olympos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Adana Kebab: A spicy meat dish cooked on a skewer.
  • Pide: A Turkish pizza with various toppings including cheese, spinach, and meat.
  • Baklava: A sweet pastry made with filo pastry, nuts, and syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Raki: An anise-flavored alcoholic drink that’s often served with mezze (small dishes).
  • Ayran: A refreshing drink made with yogurt and water.
  • Turkish Coffee: A rich and flavorful coffee served in small cups with sugar on the side.

Where to Stay in Olympos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Olympos Lodge: A family-friendly hotel with a large outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant.
  • Bayrams Tree Houses: This unique hotel offers treehouses and cottages, nestled in a lush garden.
  • Kadir’s Tree Houses: A hostel that offers a range of accommodations, from dormitory-style rooms to private cabins.

What to Buy in Olympos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Turkish Delight: This sweet treat comes in a variety of flavors, including rose, pistachio, and lemon.
  • Carpets and Textiles: Turkey is known for its high-quality textiles, and Olympos is a great place to shop for traditional Turkish carpets and fabrics.
  • Ceramic Tiles: Hand-painted ceramic tiles and pottery are popular souvenirs in Turkey.

Local Culture and Customs of Olympos

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.
  • Tipping is expected in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Olympos

The best time to visit Olympos is between May and October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is warm enough for swimming.

Do’s and Don’ts of Olympos

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Turkish, such as “hello” and “thank you”.
  • Bargain in markets and shops.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water.
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Olympos

Olympos is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your valuables out of sight.

Health in Olympos

There are no major health concerns in Olympos. However, it’s always a good idea to make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling.

Getting to Olympos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Olympos

The nearest airport to Olympos is Antalya Airport, which is around 50 miles away. From the airport, you can take a shuttle or a taxi to Olympos.

Bus Stations Near Olympos

The nearest bus station is in the nearby town of Kumluca, around 20 miles away. From Kumluca, you can take a taxi or a dolmus (shared minibus) to Olympos.

Other Options

You can also rent a car and drive yourself to Olympos. This is a great option if you want to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Olympos

The village of Olympos is small enough to explore on foot. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or a scooter to get around. Taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Olympos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Antalya: A vibrant city on the Mediterranean coast, known for its beaches, historic sites, and shopping.
  • Kaş: A picturesque seaside town with great restaurants, shops, and beaches.
  • Demre: Home to the ancient city of Myra and the famous St. Nicholas Church.

Conclusion

Olympos is a must-visit destination in Turkey, whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast. With its ancient ruins, natural beauty, and great food and drink scene, it’s no wonder that visitors fall in love with Olympos. Plan your itinerary using this comprehensive travel guide, and get ready for an unforgettable vacation!

Pine-clad mountains and ancient ruins: the general scenery in Olympos Pine-clad mountains and ancient ruins: the general scenery in Olympos Sarcophagi at the ruins of Olympos Sarcophagi at the ruins of Olympos "Tree house"-style accommodation