Kalkan,Turkey

Kalkan is a picturesque coastal town on Turkey's Turquoise Coast in Antalya Province, historically part of the Lycian region. It developed as a harbor and later a fishing and agricultural settlement. The area surrounding Kalkan contains Lycian archaeological sites (notably Patara and Xanthos a short drive away) and is close to the submerged ruins around Kekova. Today Kalkan's whitewashed, terraced townscape, traditional stone houses (many restored Greek/Ottoman-era buildings), and dramatic coastal scenery make it culturally and naturally significant as a conservation-minded tourism destination.

Places to visit

Kalkan Old Town and Harbor
Kalkan Beaches and Beach Clubs
Boat trips to Kekova (Sunken City) and Simena (Kaleköy)
Kaputaş Beach (nearby)
Patara Beach and Ruins
Saklıkent Gorge (day trip)
Diving and Snorkeling Sites
Day trips to Kaş and Fethiye

Unique Aspects

Steep, terraced town with panoramic views over the Mediterranean
Well-preserved whitewashed and stone houses with bougainvillea
Clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Boutique, family-run hotels and rooftop restaurants with sea views
Access to Lycian ruins and underwater archaeology (Kekova)

Things to do

Taking daily gulet/boat trips to Kekova and nearby coves
Swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear bays
Scuba diving excursions to local reefs and wrecks
Exploring the narrow lanes, boutique shops and rooftop restaurants
Day trips to Patara, Xanthos, Saklıkent Gorge and Kaş
Hiking short coastal trails and relaxed seaside walks
Sampling local cuisine and meze in waterfront restaurants

Festivals & Events

Seasonal summer concerts and cultural nights (outdoor venues and hotel programs)
Local markets and weekly bazaars in nearby towns
Occasional art and gastronomy events at boutique hotels (seasonal)

Best Time to Visit

April–June and September–October for warm weather, fewer crowds, and comfortable sea temperatures. July–August is high season (hot and busy); winters are mild but many tourist services close.

Weather Conditions

Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers (July–August highs often 30–38°C / 86–100°F) and mild, wetter winters (December–February). Shoulder seasons are warm and pleasant with lower humidity.

Accessibility

Nearest major airports: Dalaman Airport (about 120–140 km / ~1.5–2.5 hours by road depending on traffic) and Antalya Airport (about 200–230 km / ~3–4 hours). Regular shuttle services, private transfers, and rental cars are common. Kalkan is accessible by intercity bus and dolmuş (minibus) connections via Kaş or Fethiye. Note: Kalkan's streets are steep with many steps—limited accessibility for wheelchairs in the old town and many boutique hotels; parking can be limited.

Recommended Duration

3–5 days to relax, enjoy boat trips and one or two day trips to nearby attractions; extend to a week if planning multiple excursions or slow-paced beach time.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Lightweight summer clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen; comfortable walking shoes for cobbled/steep lanes; swimwear, reef shoes for rocky beaches, and a light jacket for cooler evenings in shoulder seasons.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Must-try foods: fresh seafood, mezze platters, grilled fish, gözleme, pide and Turkish desserts (baklava, künefe). Local souvenirs: olive oil soap, hand-woven textiles, local honey and jams, ceramics, and small antiques or restored-house-inspired décor items.