Patara Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Patara, Turkey, along with hiking routes, local culture, where to stay, what to eat, and transportation options. Read for more information!


Introduction to Patara

Patara is a beautiful coastal town located in the province of Antalya, Turkey. It is situated in the Lycian region in the Mediterranean coast of the country. Patara has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, and it is widely known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal clear Mediterranean waters. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and much more in Patara.

List of Places to Visit in Patara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The ancient ruins of Patara
  • Xanthos, the ancient capital of Lycia
  • The Lycian Way, a 500-kilometer path that passes through Patara
  • Letoon, an important religious center in ancient Lycia
  • Pinara, an ancient Lycian city, and UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Myra, an ancient Roman and Lycian city with a beautiful theater and rock tombs

Natural Attractions of Patara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Patara Beach, a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for 18 kilometers
  • Kaputaş Beach, a hidden cove with turquoise waters and white sand
  • Saklıkent Gorge, a stunning natural wonder with a river running through it
  • Patara National Park, a protected area home to various wildlife species and archaeological sites
  • Kalkan, a picturesque seaside town with a stunning harbor and beautiful views

Hiking/Biking Routes of Patara

Patara has a wide range of hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coast and the Taurus Mountains. The most popular routes include the Lycian Way, Saklıkent, and Kaputaş Canyon. Make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen for these adventures!

Best Things to Do in Patara: Activities and Tours

  • Discover the ancient ruins of Patara
  • Take a boat tour to explore the hidden coves and stunning coastline
  • Enjoy a horseback riding tour on Patara’s beautiful beach
  • Explore the local villages to immerse yourself in the local culture and customs
  • Taste the delicious local cuisine
  • Relax and soak up the sun on Patara’s stunning beach

Week-Long Itinerary for Patara

Day 1: Explore the ancient ruins of Patara and take a horseback riding tour on Patara Beach Day 2: Take a boat tour to explore the hidden coves and stunning coastline Day 3: Discover the ancient capital of Lycia, Xanthos Day 4: Enjoy a day in the picturesque seaside town of Kalkan Day 5: Explore the stunning Saklıkent Gorge Day 6: Taste the local cuisine in the nearby villages Day 7: Relax and soak up the sun on Patara’s stunning beach

Food and Drink Scene of Patara

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lahmacun, a thin and crispy Turkish pizza with minced meat and vegetables
  • Köfte, grilled meatballs consisting of a mixture of ground beef, lamb, or both
  • Börek, flaky pastry filled with spinach, cheese, or potatoes
  • Meze, a selection of small dishes such as hummus, eggplant dip, and stuffed vine leaves
  • Güllaç, a traditional Turkish dessert made with milk-soaked pastry layers and pomegranate seeds

Local Beverages

  • Ayran, a refreshing salty yogurt drink
  • Rakı, an anise-flavored alcoholic drink
  • Turkish coffee, a strong and flavorful coffee served in a traditional copper pot

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

Patara offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular choices include Patara Prince Hotel, The Butik Hotel, and Rose Pension.

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

  • Turkish Delight, a traditional sweet treat made with sugar and flavors such as rosewater or pistachio
  • Evil Eye, a protective talisman to ward off bad luck and evil energy
  • Kilim Rugs, traditional Turkish carpets made of wool or silk
  • Hand-painted ceramics and pottery
  • Handmade leather products, such as wallets and purses

Local Culture and Customs of Patara

The local culture in Patara is deeply rooted in the region’s history and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites. The traditional Turkish greeting is a handshake and a small bow. It is polite to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, and tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Patara

The best time to visit Patara is during the spring and fall months, from April to June and September to November. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds compared to the summer months. The summer months, from July to August, can be very hot, and the beaches can be crowded. Winters, from December to March, can be rainy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Patara

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region

Don’t:

  • Ignore the dress codes at religious sites
  • Take photographs of local people without permission
  • Haggle excessively when shopping

Safety and Health

Safety in Patara

Patara is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Patara

Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and check with their doctor regarding any necessary vaccinations or medications. The tap water is safe to drink in major cities, but visitors should drink bottled water in rural areas.

Getting to Patara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Patara

The nearest airport to Patara is Dalaman Airport, which is approximately 120 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Patara

The closest bus station to Patara is the Fethiye Bus Station, which is approximately 70 kilometers away.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to Patara from nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Patara

The best way to get around Patara is by renting a car or hiring a taxi. Alternatively, visitors can also use the local buses to get around.

Where to Go Next from Patara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fethiye, a bustling coastal town with a marina and traditional bazaars, only about an hour’s drive from Patara
  • Antalya, known as the Turkish Riviera with miles of pristine beaches and ancient ruins, about a three-hour drive from Patara
  • Göcek, a tranquil seaside town with beautiful beaches, marinas, upscale restaurants, and boutique shops, approximately an hour’s drive from Patara

Conclusion

Patara is a stunning coastal town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient ruins to pristine beaches, visitors can spend their days exploring the region while learning about its rich history and traditions. With plenty of activities, accommodations, and dining options to choose from, Patara is truly a must-visit destination for any traveler.