Things To Do
in Muğla

Shredded beef or lamb served over thin fried potato slices with garlic-yogurt sauce and tomato sauce; popular in the region and often found in local restaurants.

Must-Try!

Locally caught grilled sea bass, sea bream or gilt-head bream served simply with lemon and olive oil; best at seaside restaurants in Bodrum, Marmaris and Fethiye.

Hand-rolled flatbread filled with cheese, spinach, potato or minced meat, cooked on a sac griddle; commonly found at markets and roadside cafes.

Cold olive-oil based vegetable dishes (stuffed vine leaves, green beans, artichokes) reflecting Aegean flavors, often served as mezze.

Coastal resorts are relaxed and beachwear is fine at beaches, but dress more modestly when visiting mosques and rural villages; women should carry a scarf for mosque visits.

A handshake is common; close friends may kiss cheeks. Use polite phrases like 'lütfen' (please) and 'teşekkür ederim' (thank you).

Turkish hospitality is strong—expect friendly offers of tea and assistance; it’s polite to accept a small cup of tea and to reciprocate friendliness.

Haggling is common at markets and some souvenir stalls but less so in fixed-price shops; be friendly and respectful when negotiating.

Tipping is appreciated though not always mandatory: round up taxi fares, leave 5–10% in casual restaurants and 10–15% in nicer restaurants if service isn’t included. Tip hotel porters a few TL per bag and leave small amounts for chambermaids.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas; carry cash (Turkish lira) for markets, small shops and rural spots. ATMs are common in towns; inform your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.

Hot and dry along the coast (July–August 30–35°C / 86–95°F), bustling tourist crowds, crowded beaches and lively nightlife; ideal for swimming, boat trips and sailing but book accommodation early.

Warm seas through October, milder temperatures and fewer crowds — excellent time for hiking, sailing and visiting archaeological sites with pleasant weather.

Mild but wetter (December–February) with occasional storms; many coastal businesses reduce hours or close, but inland Muğla city is calm and affordable for off-season visits.

Blooming landscapes, pleasant temperatures and lower visitor numbers; ideal for outdoor activities, wildflower photography and exploring villages.

A long-distance trail stretching along the southwestern coast with scenic coastal paths, ancient ruins and varied terrain—suitable for day hikes or multi-day treks between Fethiye and Kaş.

Mountain routes above Ölüdeniz leading to paragliding launch sites and panoramic viewpoints over the Blue Lagoon and coastline.

Shorter hikes around the gorge and surrounding hills—combines canyon scenery with nearby ancient Lykian ruins.

Rugged coastal paths with wildflowers, secluded bays and views toward the Greek island of Symi; quieter and less developed than other parts of the coast.

The Turquoise Coast is a center for gulet cruises, yacht charters and regattas—sailing culture is central to coastal towns like Bodrum and Göcek.

The most widely played and watched sport across Turkey, including local amateur leagues and youth clubs in Muğla.

Ölüdeniz is a world-famous paragliding site; many visitors partake in tandem flights and local pilots organize competitions.

Popular recreational sports, with beach volleyball common on resort beaches during summer.

Vegetarians will find many zeytinyağlı (olive oil) vegetable dishes, mezzes, gozleme with cheese or spinach and fresh salads. Ask for 'etsiz' (without meat) dishes; Turkish hospitality often accommodates requests.

Vegan options exist but are more limited — opt for vegetable stews, bean dishes, salads and mezes; specify 'vegan' and avoid dairy-based mezze like yogurt or cheese-based items.

Fresh grilled meat, fish and vegetable dishes are usually gluten-free, but breads, gozleme and some sauces may contain gluten — clarify ingredients and ask for plain grilled options.

Turkey is predominantly Muslim and most restaurants serve halal meat; if in doubt, ask or choose seafood and vegetable-based dishes.