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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Finike sharing quite a few of those!
Finike, a hidden gem on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, is a picturesque town that boasts turquoise waters, lush greenery, and towering mountains.
Here, time moves at a different pace, and there’s plenty to do – from exploring ancient ruins to savoring local delicacies.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Finike and discover all the wonders this enchanting town has to offer.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Finike:
1. Phaselis Ancient City
Phaselis is an ancient city located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, near the town of Finike. It was once a prosperous port city and was founded in the 7th century BC by colonists from Rhodes.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the ancient ruins and explore the city’s three harbours, ancient aqueduct, Houses of the Archaic, Roman baths, and amphitheatre.
The city is surrounded by picturesque pine forests and offers stunning views of the sea.
Don’t miss: The beautifully preserved theatre in Phaselis is one of the city’s most impressive ruins and is a must-see attraction. The Hippodrome is also another major highlight that should not be missed.
Insider travel tips: To beat the crowds and the summer heat, it’s best to visit Phaselis early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water since the site requires a lot of walking. Additionally, the pebble beach located within the ancient ruins is perfect for a refreshing swim after a long walk.
2. Olympos Mountain
Olympos Mountain is a scenic mountain range located in Finike, Turkey, which provides breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscape.
What to see or do: Hiking is the most popular activity on Olympos Mountain, with various trails of varying difficulties to choose from. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coastline and explore the forests and valleys filled with wildlife.
The mountain is also a great spot for paragliding and camping.
Don’t miss: The ancient city of Olympos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located at the base of the mountain. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city, including the remains of an amphitheater and a necropolis.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable.
3. Suluin Cave
Suluin Cave is a mesmerizing underground cavern system located in the district of Finike, Antalya, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, which takes approximately one hour to complete. The tour will take you through various chambers, each containing stunning stalactites and stalagmites, underground pools, and stunning crystal formations.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the cave’s largest chamber, known as the “Concert Hall.” Here, visitors can witness an enchanting light and sound show that illuminates the cave’s natural wonders.
Insider travel tips: – It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes with good grip as parts of the cave may be slippery.
4. Arykanda Ancient City
Arykanda is an ancient Lycian city located on a hilltop near the town of Finike in Antalya province, Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the well-preserved ruins of the city, including the theatre, agora, monumental fountain, necropolis, and various temples. Admire the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Mediterranean Sea.
Don’t miss: The grand theatre of Arykanda is one of the most impressive structures in the ancient city, offering a stunning example of Roman architecture.
The monumental fountain, decorated with reliefs of mythical creatures, is another highlight of Arykanda.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and water, as the site requires climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain. Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of Arykanda.
Avoid visiting during midday when the sun is the hottest.
5. Finike Marina
Finike Marina is a picturesque harbor located on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, with state-of-the-art facilities and stunning views.
What to see or do: – Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade and take in the views of the clear blue sea and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: – The stunning sunset over the marina, which is worth sticking around for.
Insider travel tips: – The marina is a great base for exploring the nearby Ancient cities of Myra and Arykanda.
6. Myra Ancient City
Myra Ancient City is an archaeological site located in the Finike district of Antalya Province in Turkey.
It is an important Roman and Byzantine-era ancient city that was the capital of the Lycian Federation in the 3rd century BC.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved remains of Myra’s Roman theater, rock tombs, baths, and other civic buildings that still stand today.
The ancient city also has a beautiful harbor where visitors can take a boat trip.
Don’t miss: One of the major highlights of Myra is the rock-cut tombs that feature elaborate Lycian-style reliefs in the form of mythological creatures and scenes.
The theater is another must-see attraction as it could seat over 10,000 people and has well-preserved marble reliefs still visible on its facade.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should note that Myra can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Also, remember to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Lastly, it’s worth noting that the nearby church of St.
Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, is a popular destination and can be combined with a visit to Myra.
7. Adrasan Beach
A beautiful and secluded beach located in the town of Adrasan in Finike, Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters and the stunning views of the Taurus Mountains in the distance. Sunbathe on the soft golden sand or swim in the calm and safe waters.
There are also opportunities for snorkelling and diving in the area.
Don’t miss: Taking a walk along the picturesque beachfront promenade, lined with charming restaurants and cafes serving delicious local cuisine. Admire the beautiful sunset over the sea in the evening.
Insider travel tips: Adrasan Beach is less touristy than other popular beaches in Turkey, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful and relaxing day trip.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous activity in the area, try hiking along the Lycian Way, which offers stunning coastal views and a chance to explore ancient ruins.
Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong during the summer months.
8. Limyra Ancient City
Limyra is an ancient Lycian city located near Finike in Antalya province, Turkey. The city was founded in the 5th century BCE and flourished during the Roman and Byzantine periods.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of Limyra, including the impressive Roman theater, agora, and necropolis with its intricately carved tombs.
The site also features remnants of ancient city walls, temples, and public baths.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the impressive theater, which is carved into the hillside and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The necropolis is also a must-see, with its unique tombs and spectacular reliefs.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes, as the site is quite large and requires a bit of walking.
9. Karaoz Beach
A peaceful and secluded beach hidden away on the Turkish Mediterranean Coast.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal clear waters, relax on the beach, and take in the stunning surrounding scenery.
There are a few small cafes and restaurants in the area, perfect for a refreshing drink or a bite to eat.
Don’t miss: Take a walk along the rocky coastline to discover hidden caves and secret swimming holes. The nearby ruins of Arykanda are also worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Karaoz Beach is quite isolated, so it’s best to bring your own supplies, including water and snacks. The road leading to the beach is steep and winding, so be prepared for a bit of a challenging drive.
Additionally, it’s best to arrive early in the day to enjoy the beach before it gets too crowded.
10. Gokkaya Bay
A picturesque bay located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, near the town of Finike.
What to see or do: Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the bay, go snorkeling or diving to discover the diverse marine life, relax on the secluded pebble beach, visit the nearby ancient ruins of Arykanda or explore the surrounding mountains on a hiking trail.
Don’t miss: Watching the stunning sunset from the top of the hill overlooking the bay, or renting a boat to explore the hidden coves and beaches along the coastline.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, wear sturdy shoes for hikes, and try the local seafood at one of the small restaurants lining the bay.
Additionally, be mindful of the rough roads leading up to the bay and park your car on level ground to avoid getting it stuck or damaged.
11. Kekova Sunken City
Kekova Sunken City is an underwater archaeological site located near the town of Demre, in the Finike district of Antalya, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a boat tour to see the partially submerged ruins of the ancient Lycian city that was destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd century.
The tour also stops at the picturesque island village of Simena, offering a glimpse into traditional rural life in southern Turkey.
Don’t miss: Exploring the crystal clear waters around the sunken city can be a surreal experience, as you can spot the remains of ancient structures, including staircases, streets, and walls, submerged under the sea.
Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear to get the most out of your visit.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best light for photography.
It’s also recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, carry a hat and sunscreen as the sun can be quite strong in this region.
Finally, bring some cash to indulge in the local seafood or to buy souvenirs from the village market.
12. Alakir Canyon
Alakir Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the town of Finike in Antalya, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the canyon’s clear waters and hike through its majestic rock formations. The canyon is also a popular destination for canyoning and rafting excursions.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a dip in the refreshing waterfalls and serene pools along the hike.
Make sure to also keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that call the canyon home, including various species of birds and reptiles.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Alakir Canyon during the spring or autumn months when the temperatures are more mild.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and consider bringing a waterproof case for your phone or camera to capture the stunning views.
Additionally, there are local tour companies that offer canyoning and rafting experiences for those looking for a more adventurous outing.
13. Goynuk Canyon
Goynuk Canyon is a natural wonder located in Finike, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike, swim, and explore this beautiful canyon that stretches over 14 kilometers.
The canyon is surrounded by lush forests and towering cliffs, and there are numerous waterfalls, pools, and rock formations to admire along the way.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the canyon is the natural waterslide, where visitors can slide down a smooth rock surface and plunge into a crystal-clear pool.
Another must-see is the Blue Pool, a stunning deep pool of water that glows with an otherworldly blue hue.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the canyon in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and bring a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.
Visitors can either explore the canyon on their own or hire a guide for a more in-depth experience. Additionally, there are several rustic restaurants near the canyon that serve delicious local cuisine.
14. Dumanli Hill
What to see or do: Take a short 15-minute hike up to the top of Dumanli Hill and enjoy the stunning views of Finike town and the harbor, surrounded by lush green hills and turquoise blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Don’t miss: Sunset from the top of the hill that offers an unforgettable view of the sun disappearing in the horizon, casting a golden hue over the sea and the town.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera or phone with a good camera to capture the breathtaking views. It can get very hot in summer, so ensure to bring water and sunscreen.
Check the weather forecast before heading out, as the view may not be as clear on cloudy days.