KAŞ & KALKAN
Kaş and Kalkan, the sun-kissed jewels of Turkey’s Lycian Coast, offer a perfect blend of ancient history, turquoise waters, and sophisticated coastal life. This region is a sanctuary for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Framed by the rugged Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, the area is rich with sunken cities, Lycian rock tombs, and charming harbors. It provides a unique experience of both vibrant town life and serene natural beauty.
Most Popular Attractions
Ancient Sites & History
Patara Ancient City & Beach: The birthplace of St. Nicholas, featuring a restored parliament building, theatre, and the longest beach in Turkey.
Xanthos Ancient City: The former capital of the Lycian League, a UNESCO World Heritage site with impressive ruins and a dramatic history.
Letoon Ancient Sanctuary: A major religious center of Lycia, dedicated to the goddesses Leto, Artemis, and Apollo, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Myra Ancient City & St. Nicholas Church (Demre): Home to stunning Lycian rock-cut tombs and the church of the original Santa Claus.
Phellos Ancient Ruins: The original settlement for Kaş, offering incredible views from its high hilltop location.
Aperlai Ancient City: A partially submerged Lycian city, best visited by boat, perfect for snorkeling over the ruins.
Tlos Ancient City: One of the oldest and largest Lycian settlements, featuring a necropolis of rock-cut tombs and a Roman-era stadium.
Lycian Rock Tombs (Kaş): Dramatic 4th-century BC tombs carved high into the cliff face overlooking the town of Kaş.
Coastal & Water Activities
Kaputaş Beach: A stunning, small cove famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and dramatic location at the mouth of a canyon.
Kekova Sunken City: A popular boat trip destination where you can view the ruins of a partially submerged Lycian settlement from above.
Kalkan Marina & Old Town: A sophisticated harbor with traditional Ottoman-style architecture, boutique shops, and excellent rooftop restaurants.
Kaş Marina & Square: The heart of the town, bustling with life, cafes, shops, and a gateway for boat tours and diving trips.
Inceboğaz Beach (Kaş): A unique location on a narrow isthmus, offering swimming options on both the sheltered bay and the open sea side.
Limanağzı Beach (Kaş): A tranquil bay accessible only by boat, with several small, peaceful beaches and clear waters.
Meis/Kastellorizo Island Day Trip: A short ferry ride to the Greek island, offering a beautiful change of scenery and culture (check visa requirements).
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: The region is a premier spot for diving in Turkey, with crystal-clear water and diverse marine life.
Nature & Adventure
Saklıkent Canyon: A spectacular natural gorge that you can wade through, offering a thrilling and cool escape from the summer heat.
Kalkan Local Market: A lively Thursday market offering a vast array of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local crafts.
Lycian Way Hiking Trail: Sections of the famous long-distance trail pass through the area, offering breathtaking views and access to ancient sites.
Bezirgan Village: A peaceful, traditional village high in the mountains above Kalkan, known for its cooler climate and rustic atmosphere.
Gömbe Plateau: A mountain plateau famous for its apple orchards, cool air, and the beautiful Yeşilgöl (Green Lake).
Kıbrıs Canyon (Kaş): A challenging but rewarding hike through a beautiful, untouched gorge near the village of Kasaba.
Paragliding (Kaş): Taking off from the mountains above the town to land on the harbor, offering spectacular aerial views of Kaş and the coastline.
Fırnaz Bay (Kalkan): A beautiful, sheltered bay with therapeutic mud baths, popular as a stop on boat tours.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Sunken City of Kekova: Take a boat trip (often departing from Üçağız or Kaş) to kayak or cruise over the partially submerged ruins of an ancient Lycian town, offering a truly unique glimpse into history.
Hike the Lycian Way: Trek a section of the famous long-distance trail. Popular day hikes include the stretch between Kaş and Limanağzı or the coastal path near Kalkan and Patara.
Scuba Dive or Snorkel: The waters around Kaş are renowned as some of the best dive spots in Turkey, featuring ancient wreck sites, diverse marine life, and incredible underwater visibility.
Visit the Saklıkent Gorge: Drive inland to this spectacular natural canyon. You can wade through the icy waters of the gorge for an exhilarating and cooling adventure.
Relax on Kaputaş Beach: Spend a day at this iconic, stunning beach famous for its bright turquoise waters and white sand, located at the mouth of a dramatic gorge between Kaş and Kalkan.
Explore the Ancient City of Xanthos: Visit the ruins of the Lycian capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to wander among its unique tombs and monuments.
Take a Paragliding Flight over Kaş: Experience a thrilling tandem jump from the mountainside for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the town, the harbor, and the Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizo).
Take a Turkish Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic Aegean and Mediterranean dishes, focusing on local ingredients like fresh seafood, olive oil, and vibrant herbs.
Go Sea Kayaking around the Islands: Rent a kayak to paddle the clear waters, exploring hidden coves, small beaches, and even getting close to the sunken city ruins.
Enjoy a Sunset Dinner in Kalkan: Dine at one of Kalkan’s famous rooftop restaurants, enjoying fresh seafood and regional wines with panoramic views over the picturesque harbor at sunset.
Visit Patara Beach and Ruins: Spend time on the longest stretch of sand in Turkey, Patara Beach, and explore the impressive Lycian and Roman ruins, including a restored parliament building and a theater.
Stroll the Charming Streets of Kaş: Spend an afternoon exploring the quaint, stone-paved streets, browsing unique boutiques, artisanal jewelry shops, and art galleries.
Local Tips & Transport
Dolmuş (Minibus) is Key: The dolmuş system is the primary and most economical way to travel locally and between Kaş and Kalkan, as well as to nearby attractions like Kaputaş and Patara.
Operating Hours: They run frequently throughout the day, often on fixed routes. Simply wave one down from the side of the road or use the main bus stations (otogar).
Car Rental is Highly Recommended: While local travel is possible by dolmuş, a rental car offers the best flexibility to explore the wider Lycian Coast. This is essential for visiting Saklıkent Gorge, the ancient ruins of Xanthos and Letoon, and less-accessible beaches.
Intercity Travel: Long-distance bus services connect Kaş and Kalkan to major cities like Antalya, Fethiye, and Istanbul. Tickets should be booked a day or two in advance, especially during high season. The bus journey itself offers incredible scenery.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in both town centers, especially at the main squares and bus stations. They are more expensive than the dolmuş but a good option for late-night travel or if you’re carrying a lot of gear.
Parking: Parking can be challenging in the narrow, central streets of both Kaş and Kalkan during peak season. Look for designated paid parking lots on the outskirts of the main town areas.
Best Time to Visit: The summer months (July and August) are the hottest and most crowded. For comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and better prices, consider the shoulder seasons of May, June, September, and October. The water is still warm enough for swimming!
The Beaches: The Kaş and Kalkan area is known for pebble beaches (like Kaputaş and the town beaches) and beach clubs with decked sunbathing areas, rather than vast stretches of sand. The one major exception is Patara Beach. Always carry water shoes for comfort.
Dining Culture: Dinner is typically eaten later, usually starting around 8 PM or 9 PM. Look for local meyhanes (traditional taverns) or lokantas (small, local restaurants) for authentic regional food. Don’t miss trying the local fresh seafood and the meze (small appetizer dishes).
Bargaining: While prices in supermarkets and modern stores are fixed, it is often customary to bargain politely at markets and with small, independent street vendors for souvenirs.
The “Meis View”: Kaş is located directly opposite the Greek island of Kastellorizo (Meis in Turkish). The boat trip is short, and you can take a day trip to the island (requires an EU visa or Schengen access).
Hidden Gems:
Hellenistic Theatre (Kaş): Just a short walk from the center of Kaş, this stunning, small ancient theatre offers an incredible, unobstructed view of the sunset over the sea and Meis island. It’s free to enter and often quiet.
The Old Town of Kalkan: Take time to explore the back streets and steep lanes of Kalkan’s old town, where you can find charming boutique shops and traditional houses draped in bougainvillea.
Gömbe: A short, scenic drive into the mountains leads you to this plateau, a local summer escape known for its cooler air, fresh water from the mountains, and local specialty, Gömbe Pidesi (a type of flatbread).
Letoon: Often overlooked for the larger Xanthos, this ancient sanctuary dedicated to the Lycian mother goddess Leto is a significant and peaceful UNESCO World Heritage site worth a visit.
Currency & Tipping: The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TL). While many tourist establishments accept credit cards, it’s always good to carry cash for dolmuş, small purchases, and tipping. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants (5-10% is standard) and for good service (taxis, tour guides).
Top Restaurants
Zaika Ocakbaşı [$15-$25] – A local favorite in Kaş known for its fantastic grilled meats and traditional ocakbaşı (grill) experience, a must-try for carnivores.
Hünkâr Ocakbaşı [$10-$20] – Located in Kaş, this unassuming spot is popular with locals for some of the best döner kebabs and traditional grilled dishes in the area, offering excellent value.
Yeşil Restaurant [$10-$20] – A family-run, traditional Turkish restaurant just outside Kaş’s Old Town, praised by locals for its authentic, home-cooked food and very reasonable prices.
Kushane Tencere Yemekleri [$10-$20] – Located in Kalkan, this simple, authentic ‘home-cooking’ restaurant (lokanta) specializes in traditional Turkish stews and casseroles (tencere yemekleri), perfect for an unpretentious local meal.
Patara Gözleme Evi [$5-$15] – A humble, family-run pancake house near the Patara archaeological site where you can watch gözleme (Turkish flatbread/pancake) being freshly cooked over a hotplate.
Belgin’s Kitchen Restaurant [$15-$25] – Housed in a former 150-year-old olive oil pressing workshop in Kalkan, this spot offers traditional Turkish meals in a charming setting, with an option for traditional Ottoman cushioned seating.
Hunkar Ocakbasi (Kalkan) [$15-$25] – A traditional Turkish grill in Kalkan serving a range of kebabs, lahmacun, pide (Turkish pizza), and delicious casseroles—authentic Turkish food that goes beyond the usual tourist fare.
Bi’lokma [$15-$25] – A charming, family-run, all-day restaurant in the center of Kaş offering small, expertly prepared traditional dishes like shrimp with butter and yaprak ciğeri (liver cut like a leaf).
Taş Bahçe [$10-$20] – Located in Kaş, this spot is highly regarded for its traditional Turkish breakfast, often served in an attractive courtyard.
Dudu Mutfak [$10-$20] – A popular café in Kaş with a view over the harbor, famous for its elaborate set Turkish breakfast of local cheeses, börek, olives, and fresh bread.
Oz Adana Restaurant [$10-$20] – An excellent, budget-friendly eatery in Kalkan for those seeking an authentic and reasonably priced meal, specializing in the namesake Adana kebab and other Turkish classics.
Baransel Pide & Kebap [$10-$20] – A popular, no-frills local spot in Kaş, famous for its high-quality pide and delicious kebabs.
Korsan Meze [$20-$35] – Established in 1979 on Kalkan’s harbor, this long-standing favorite is known for its wide selection of traditional Turkish meze and tasty lamb dishes, as well as fresh seafood.
Mina Art Café & Restaurant [$15-$25] – Tucked away in a quiet Kalkan Old Town lane, this spot offers comforting, home-style Persian-Turkish cooking with a unique, artistic atmosphere.
The Olive Garden [$20-$35] – A relaxed, genuine cuisine spot in Kalkan known for its traditional Turkish dishes, warm hospitality, and a charming terrace setting.
Small House Küçük Ev Restaurant [$20-$35] – A charming, tiny, family-run eatery in Kalkan with only eight tables, famous for its delicious homemade meze, shrimp stew with butter sauce, and intimate, homey feel.
Değirmen Restaurant [$20-$35] – A spacious, welcoming restaurant nestled in the hills above Kalkan (Islamlar village), known for its incredibly fresh trout, sourced from a tank, and simple menu using local village produce.
Pinarbasi Terrace Restaurant [$20-$35] – A mountain retreat in Islamlar village, a short drive from Kalkan, famous for fresh trout, organic produce, and tranquil, scenic views.
Gizli Vardi [$20-$35] – A unique riverside sanctuary near Saklıkent Gorge (a short drive from Kaş/Kalkan) where guests dine on wooden platforms above clear waters, serving fresh mezes and succulent grilled meats.
Yediburunlar Lighthouse [$25-$40] – High in the Taurus Mountains, this secluded gem offers dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients (seafood, organic vegetables) with spectacular panoramic Mediterranean views.
Antioch [$30-$50] – Poised above Kalkan’s Old Town, this elegant restaurant offers modern Anatolian cuisine with a creative spirit, featuring sleek decor and a sophisticated ambiance.
Mussakka Restaurant [$30-$50] – Overlooking the main road into Kalkan’s Old Town, this restaurant is renowned for its excellent food, atmosphere, and service, offering a creative fusion of Turkish and international flavors, including imaginative variations on the namesake moussaka.
Eski Ev (The Old House) [$35-$55] – Housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman building in Kalkan, this spot offers Turkish hospitality and authentic cuisine with a contemporary, refined twist, set on a romantic rooftop terrace.
Baharat Restaurant & Bar [$30-$50] – A family-run spot in Kalkan, known for its live-fire grilling and classic Turkish favorites, with a lively street-level bar and a charming rooftop.
Luna Restaurant & Bar [$35-$60] – An elegant, multi-level haven in Kalkan with a sophisticated air, offering Turkish fine dining and a mesmerising view of the bay from its elevated perch.
La Fontaine [$30-$50] – A well-regarded spot in Kaş with a slightly refined setting, known for a modern approach to classic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes.
Trio Restaurant Kalkan [$30-$50] – Located in the picturesque Kalkan harbor, this restaurant offers a delightful fusion of local Turkish, Mediterranean, and international flavors, with unique dishes like special prawns.
Meseköy [$25-$45] – Situated a short drive from Kaş, offering a different, rustic setting with a menu that often includes modern twists on Turkish village cuisine and grilled specialties.
Mezetaryen [$25-$40] – Located near Republic Square in Kaş, this spot is perfect for people-watching while sharing an inventive selection of mezes and unique mains like lionfish with apple and basil.
Sardelaki Greek Tavern [$25-$40] – A lively spot in Kaş with a Greek island feel, serving delicious Greek and Mediterranean appetizers, Spanish shrimp, octopus, and fresh fish with a view of Meis Island.
The Fish Terrace (Korsan) [$30-$50] – Located on the roof above Korsan Meze in Kalkan, this spot offers a stunning view of Kalkan bay and is celebrated for serving fresh seafood with modern preparation.
Vati Ocakbaşı [$25-$40] – Located at the new Kaş Marina, this restaurant focuses on well-prepared local meats, with many ingredients sourced from family farms, offering a quality take on the traditional grill experience with a sunset view.
Taşra Restaurant [$30-$50] – Part of the Suna Sun Hotel on the Çukurbağ Peninsula (Kaş), this unique spot offers two grassy terraces above a quiet bay, serving seasonal dishes with produce from the hotel’s farm.
Nereid Meyhanesi [$25-$45] – An upmarket spot by the sea in Kaş, famous for its extraordinary seafood and sophisticated meze, often accompanied by rakı, with a beautiful upstairs sunset view.
Blue Marlin [$30-$50] – A well-known Kalkan seafood eatery that functions as a traditional Turkish meyhane, encouraging guests to graze over a wide range of hot and cold meze dishes before a main fish course.
Coast Kalkan – Tapas & Grill Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in Kalkan’s Old Town, housed in a converted mill, offering a lovely atmosphere with a focus on grill and modern flavors, including a great rooftop view.
Salt and Pepper Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located in Kalkan’s Old Town, this “fine casual dining” restaurant offers traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines with modern touches, often including a sushi bar.
Lal Restaurant [$30-$50] – A popular, multi-tiered dining spot in Kalkan with elegant Turkish-Mediterranean cuisine, offering softly lit rooftop terrace with wide sea vistas for an elevated experience.
Sade Terrace Restaurant [$45-$75] – A compact, rustic-chic restaurant in the heart of Kalkan’s Old Town, highly praised for its dedication to impeccably prepared food, particularly fresh fish and excellent steaks, offering an exceptional fine dining experience.
Kalamaki [$40-$70] – Considered one of Kalkan’s most established and refined dining destinations, offering authentic Turkish fine dining and beautifully presented Mediterranean cuisine from a sophisticated rooftop terrace with fantastic views.
Likya Pavilion Restaurant [$50-$80] – The fine dining restaurant of a luxury hotel complex in Kalkan, offering one of the most impressive and romantic settings directly on the edge of the sea with stunning views across the bay.
Hotel Villa Mahal Waterfront Restaurant [$50-$90] – Set right at the waterside in Kalkan bay, this spot provides an extremely romantic evening with imaginative lighting, the sound of the sea, and a focus on high-quality, refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Sunset Restaurant in Kalkan [$40-$70] – A contemporary eatery in Kalkan specializing in seafood, boasting a prime beachfront/elevated location that is ideal for a romantic, high-quality sunset dinner.
Seaport Kaş [$40-$60] – Located near the harbor in Kaş, this is a refined dining experience focusing on fresh seafood and a polished take on Turkish-Mediterranean cuisine.
Rocca Restaurant Kalkan [$45-$75] – Known for its very high quality and well-executed Mediterranean dishes, often providing a sophisticated dining atmosphere with excellent service, perfect for a special occasion.
Lodos [$40-$65] – A highly-rated Kaş restaurant that often focuses on high-quality fresh seafood and a more elegant, contemporary dining experience.
Noel Baba Café [$10-$20] – A popular café on the main square in Kaş, offering a variety of food and a great spot for coffee, light bites, and people-watching.
Cakir Meyhane [$15-$25] – A local favorite in Kaş; a more modest, non-fancy meyhane (traditional tavern) known for its delicious mezes and octopus, where locals gather for good food and conversation.
Oburus Momus Restaurant [$20-$35] – One of Kaş’s best, specializing in delicious and imaginative vegetarian/vegan food, with a focus on local Turkish wine, fantastic harbor views, and seasonal menus.
Nur Patisserie [$5-$15] – Found in the center of Kaş (and Kalkan), this is the place to try the local specialty “Burnt Ice-Cream” (yanık dondurma), which gets a smoky taste from intentionally burnt milk.
The French Touch [$35-$60] – The only French cuisine found in Kaş, featuring an actual French chef. The prices are reasonable for the quality, offering fresh tomato tart, excellent meats, and great desserts in an exquisite venue.
Tuna Restaurant [$30-$50] – A popular spot in Tarifa (near Kaş) known for its excellent fresh tuna and other seafood, perfect for a casual yet high-quality lunch.
Ada Fish Restaurant [$35-$60] – Perched along the coastal road between Kalkan and Kaş, offering a dramatic cliffside dining experience with freshly caught fish, zesty salads, and authentic Turkish mezes against a backdrop of sweeping Mediterranean views.
Pirha Köy Sofrası [$15-$25] – A hidden gem in the peaceful village of Bezirgan (a short drive from Kalkan) that offers a true taste of rural Turkish village life, with traditional Turkish breakfast and home-cooked dishes.
Salonika 1881 [$30-$50] – A popular Kalkan venue with charming white and blue decor, known for its delicious seafood menu and perfect meze selection, creating a unique and great atmosphere.
The Fish Shack, Firnaz Bay [$25-$45] – Accessible only by boat from Kalkan, this rustic hideaway offers a barefoot vibe with freshly grilled fish, vibrant salads, and meze perched over turquoise waters—a true escape.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Black and Gold Terrace Cocktail Bar (Kalkan): Located on a terrace in Kalkan, this glamorous and theatrical bar offers a unique experience, blending vintage cinema themes with modern, signature cocktails served with flair and animation.
Botanik Garden Bar (Kalkan): Tucked away on a backstreet of Kalkan, this institution offers a bohemian atmosphere in a fairy-lit garden setting, famous for its fresh, botanical cocktails and relaxed, soul/reggae soundtrack.
Mavi Bar (Kaş): Situated just off Republic Square in Kaş’s Old Town, this vibrant and atmospheric bar is a signature spot known for its brightly colored décor, street-side seating, and prime location for people-watching.
Dejavu (Kaş): Offering laid-back vibes and fantastic indie music, this bar is one of Kaş’s longest-standing establishments, with a gorgeous view overlooking the sea, perfect for sunset drinks.
Queen Bar (Kaş): Located in the center of Kaş, this bar is known for its exquisite cocktails and a rooftop terrace that offers sensational views over the town and harbour.
The Fountain Terrace Bar (Kalkan): Found in the heart of Kalkan’s Old Town, this stylish and relaxed bar features a raised seating area (the “Bunny Pad”) ideal for people-watching and enjoying well-crafted cocktails.
Mini Bar Kalkan (Kalkan): Located near Kalkan’s harbor, this cozy spot is staffed by true professionals who are experts at making delicious and customized classic and modern cocktails.
Cafe Barcelona (Kaş): Situated on a cozy side street in Kaş’s town center near Cumhuriyet Myd, this friendly spot has a pub-like atmosphere, attracting a mix of locals and tourists with its refreshing cocktails and versatile music.
Fırt Bar (Kaş): Known for its vibrant energy and lively atmosphere, this bar is a popular spot in the heart of Kaş’s nightlife scene, great for an unforgettable evening.
Salonika (Kalkan): Tucked away in the old town’s backstreets, this quietly fashionable bar and meyhane (traditional Turkish tavern) offers one of the best cocktail menus in town, with a talented mixologist crafting inventive drinks.
Hideaway Bar & Cafe (Kalkan): Offering a vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks, this spot is a favorite for those looking to enjoy local culture alongside stunning coastal views in Kalkan.
Sade Terrace Restaurant & Bar (Kalkan): While primarily a fine dining restaurant, its rooftop terrace in Kalkan offers breathtaking views over the bay and is known for serving strong, yummy cocktails in a beautiful setting.
Yelken Bar (Kaş): A welcoming and central spot in Kaş, perfect for enjoying a classic cocktail or local beverage in a laid-back environment.
Gagarin Pub (Kaş): Located in Kaş, this lively pub is a great place to discover local charm mixed with international pub favorites and a buzzing atmosphere.
Trinity Wine House (Kaş): A must-visit for wine lovers in Kaş’s center, offering an exceptional selection of local and international wines in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
Indigo Beach Club & Restaurant (Kalkan): Located just past the harbour wall, this spot serves as a sophisticated beach club by day and transforms into a dynamic, elegant open-air club/lounge by night, perfect for twilight cocktails and dancing.
Mojito Lounge & Club (Kalkan): A vibrant and fairly small club/lounge in Kalkan, well-loved for its energetic vibe, friendly atmosphere, and music that keeps patrons dancing late into the night.
Noema (Kalkan): An after-hours playground in Kalkan that answers the call when the night is still young, featuring a chic lounge bar, excellent resident DJs, and a glamorous late-night crowd.
Pell’s (Kaş): Located in Kaş, this modern establishment begins as a restaurant and bar before transitioning into a late-night venue and club with a live DJ, popular with a trendy, modern crowd.
Echo (Kaş): A long-standing and popular bar in Kaş’s center known for its live music and dancing, attracting a diverse crowd with an edgier, bohemian vibe and a nice indoor space for late-night movement.
Club Chocolate Kalkan (Kalkan): A lively spot in Kalkan known for its amazing cocktails and a music selection that encourages dancing, making it a favorite for a fun-filled night.
Zircus (Kalkan): Located opposite Kalkan’s taxi rank, this club offers live music, generous cocktails, and a relaxed, sociable vibe, ideal for dropping in pre- or post-dinner.
Moonlight Bar (Kalkan): Situated in Kalkan, this bar is one of the most popular places to have fun and spend time, known for its dynamic evening atmosphere and preferred for late-night socializing.
Loop Kaş (Kaş): A premier bar in Kaş offering vibrant nightlife, known for its signature cocktails and, often, a lively atmosphere that extends into the late hours.
Oxygen Pub (Kaş): Found near the Kaş Marina, this spot is lively, offering great drinks, live music, and a chance to dance while enjoying views of the harbor and sea.
Kalkan Beach Park (Kalkan): While primarily a beach club, it is known to host occasional themed parties or have a lively atmosphere, especially in the evening during high season, offering a seaside party experience in the Kisla area.