How to Get to Fethiye from Istanbul: Travel Options

Fethiye, located on Turkey’s beautiful Turquoise Coast, is a popular destination for beach lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers. If you’re traveling from Istanbul to Fethiye, there are several transportation options to consider, depending on your budget, time, and preferences. This guide will explore the best ways to get to Fethiye from Istanbul and help you plan your journey.

1. By Plane: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Flying from Istanbul to Fethiye is by far the quickest and most convenient way to travel between the two cities. While Fethiye itself doesn’t have an airport, the nearest airport is Dalaman Airport (DLM), which is about 45-60 minutes from Fethiye by car.

Flights from Istanbul to Dalaman

• Airlines: Several airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet, offer multiple daily flights from both Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to Dalaman Airport.
• Flight Time: The flight takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Cost: Flight prices range from €……. (depending on the season and how far in advance you book).

Getting from Dalaman to Fethiye

Once you arrive at Dalaman Airport, you’ll need to travel by road to reach Fethiye. There are several options:

• Shuttle Bus: Havaş and Muttas shuttle buses run frequently between Dalaman Airport and Fethiye, costing around €……. The journey takes about 45-60 minutes.
• Taxi: A taxi from Dalaman Airport to Fethiye costs around €……. and takes about 45 minutes.
• Private Transfer: Many companies offer private transfers for €……., which provide a more comfortable and direct service.

Pro Tip: Book your flight in advance to secure the best prices, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (June to August).

2. By Bus: A Budget-Friendly Option

Traveling by bus from Istanbul to Fethiye is a more affordable option, although it takes significantly longer than flying. Several bus companies operate direct routes between Istanbul and Fethiye, offering comfortable and reliable services.

Bus Companies:

• Metro Turizm, Pamukkale Turizm, and Kamil Koç are the most popular bus companies that provide long-distance services between Istanbul and Fethiye.

Travel Time:

• The bus journey takes around 12-14 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the way.

Cost:

• Bus tickets typically cost between €……, depending on the season and availability.

Where to Catch the Bus:

• Buses depart from both Istanbul’s main bus station (Esenler Otogar) and Anatolian side (Alibeyköy Bus Station).

Pro Tip: Consider taking an overnight bus to maximize your time in Fethiye and save on accommodation costs. Most buses are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seats.

3. By Car: A Scenic Road Trip

Driving from Istanbul to Fethiye is a great option if you enjoy road trips and want to explore more of Turkey’s stunning landscapes along the way. The drive offers scenic views of mountains, coastlines, and charming towns.

Distance and Driving Time:

• The distance between Istanbul and Fethiye is around 720 kilometers (450 miles), and the drive takes approximately 9-10 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

Best Route:

• The most straightforward route is to take the O-5 highway south from Istanbul towards Bursa, then continue on the D550 to Denizli, and finally the D400 to Fethiye.

Car Rental:

• You can rent a car from Istanbul Airport or from several locations in the city. Car rentals start at around €…… per day, depending on the vehicle type and season.

Pro Tip: If you have time, consider stopping at Pamukkale, Ephesus, or Kuşadası for a more extended road trip experience. These destinations are close to the route from Istanbul to Fethiye and are worth visiting.

4. By Train and Bus: An Adventurous Journey

While there are no direct trains from Istanbul to Fethiye, you can combine a train journey with a bus for a more scenic and adventurous travel experience.

Train from Istanbul to Denizli:

• You can take a train from Istanbul’s Söğütlüçeşme Station or Pendik Station to Denizli, which is about 4 hours from Fethiye by bus.
• The train journey takes about 10-11 hours, and tickets cost around €…….

Bus from Denizli to Fethiye:

• From Denizli, you can catch a bus to Fethiye, which takes around 4 hours. Bus tickets cost around €…….

Pro Tip: This option is ideal for travelers who prefer a slower, more scenic route through Turkey. However, it’s less convenient and takes significantly longer than other options.

FAQs for Irish and UK Travelers

1. What is the best way to get to Fethiye from Istanbul?
   The best way is to fly from Istanbul to Dalaman Airport, then take a shuttle or taxi to Fethiye. This is the fastest and most convenient option.
2. How long is the flight from Istanbul to Fethiye?
   The flight from Istanbul to Dalaman Airport takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, followed by a 45-60 minute drive to Fethiye.
3. Can I take a bus from Istanbul to Fethiye?
   Yes, several bus companies offer direct routes from Istanbul to Fethiye. The journey takes around 12-14 hours and is a more budget-friendly option.
4. Is it possible to drive from Istanbul to Fethiye?
   Yes, driving from Istanbul to Fethiye takes about 9-10 hours, depending on traffic and stops. It’s a scenic road trip option, especially if you want to explore more of Turkey along the way.
5. Are there direct flights from Istanbul to Fethiye?
   There are no direct flights to Fethiye, but you can fly from Istanbul to Dalaman Airport, which is the nearest airport to Fethiye. From there, it’s a short drive to the town.

Conclusion: Choose the Best Way to Travel from Istanbul to Fethiye

Traveling from Istanbul to Fethiye is easy and flexible, with several options to suit different travel preferences and budgets. Whether you choose to fly for convenience, take a bus for a budget-friendly option, or drive for a scenic road trip, getting to Fethiye from Istanbul is an exciting part of your journey to Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast.