Olympos Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, Olympos is a perfect alternative to more crowded destinations like Antalya or Bodrum. This off-the-beaten-path haven offers visitors a serene escape into both history and nature. From wandering through ancient ruins to lounging on a pristine beach, Olympos delivers an unforgettable travel experience.

1. Explore the Olympos Ancient City

One of the top reasons people visit Olympos is to immerse themselves in the Olympos ancient city. This historic site was once part of the Lycian League and later under Roman influence. As you wander through the overgrown pathways, you’ll encounter crumbling stone archways, sarcophagi, mosaics, Roman baths, and an ancient theater.

What makes this ruin unique is its location—hidden in a lush valley surrounded by dense forest and a flowing river, creating a mystical atmosphere. The juxtaposition of man-made structures and nature’s reclamation offers an almost cinematic setting that photographers and history buffs will love.

Insider Tip:

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the ruins in magical golden hour lighting.

Olympos Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do — Olympos Travel Guide

2. Relax on Olympos Beach

After exploring ancient relics, head straight to Olympos Beach, located just steps away from the ruins. This pebbled beach offers clear turquoise waters where you can swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. The natural setting is peaceful, backed by pine-covered hills and free of high-rise developments.

Olympos Beach is less commercialized than nearby beaches in Antalya, making it ideal for travelers looking for a quieter coastal escape. If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll appreciate how wildlife like sea turtles often nest in the area.

Olympos Travel Guide Quick Fact:

Olympos Beach is part of a protected area due to the nesting grounds of the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).

3. Hike to Mount Chimaera (Yanartaş) and Witness the Eternal Flames

One of Olympos’ most iconic natural attractions is Mount Chimaera, locally known as Yanartaş. This is where you’ll find the “eternal flames”—natural gas vents that have been burning for thousands of years.

The moderate uphill hike to the site is best done around sunset, allowing you to witness the flames as they light up the rocky terrain under the stars. Historically, sailors used these flames as navigation markers, and legend has it that the mythical Chimera creature once roamed here.

Olympos Travel Guide Pro Tip:

Bring marshmallows or sausages to cook over the open flames like a local!

4. Stay in Unique Olympos Accommodation Options

Olympos is renowned for its quirky and eco-friendly lodging, particularly its treehouse accommodations. These rustic lodges allow travelers to sleep amidst treetops, surrounded by the calming sounds of nature.

Other accommodation options include boutique hotels, family-run pensions, and hostels set in garden settings. Many accommodations offer communal areas, yoga platforms, and hammocks, catering to backpackers, solo travelers, and couples alike.

Recommended Places:

Kadir’s Tree Houses (for adventurous travelers)
Olympos Lodge (luxury boutique stay)
Bayram’s Tree Houses (budget-friendly)

5. Walk a Section of the Lycian Way

The famous Lycian Way long-distance hiking trail passes right through Olympos, offering trekkers panoramic coastal views and the opportunity to explore ancient Lycian ruins. This segment of the trail is well-suited for both seasoned hikers and beginners, thanks to its moderate difficulty level and well-marked paths.

You can opt for a short day hike or venture on a multi-day trek linking Olympos to nearby towns like Adrasan or Çıralı.

Olympos Travel Guide Bonus:

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for trekking due to cooler temperatures and blooming landscapes.

6. Discover the Best Olympos Outdoor Activities

Olympos is an adventure lover’s paradise. In addition to hiking and beach lounging, the region offers various Olympos outdoor activities to satisfy your thrill-seeking spirit, Olympos Travel Guide:

Sea kayaking along the coastline
Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters
Paragliding from nearby Tahtalı Mountain (Mount Olympus)
Rock climbing on the surrounding limestone cliffs

Outdoor tour operators in the village can help organize guided excursions tailored to your fitness and experience level.

7. Indulge in Turkish Cuisine and Local Specialties

Foodies will appreciate the culinary offerings in Olympos. Most accommodations and beachside eateries serve traditional Turkish fare, including mezes, fresh fish, grilled meats, and vegetarian dishes.

For breakfast, savor a classic Turkish “kahvaltı” featuring olives, cheeses, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, and fresh bread. At night, enjoy a glass of rakı under the stars while sampling dishes like “gözleme” (Turkish pancakes) or “kebap”.

Must-Try:

“Tandır kebabı” (slow-cooked lamb)
Fresh pomegranate juice (grown locally)

8. Take a Day Trip to Çıralı Village

A short walk or bike ride away, Çıralı village is another charming seaside town worth visiting. Known for its eco-conscious vibe and laid-back beach, Çıralı is quieter and more family-oriented than Olympos but offers similar access to natural beauty and historical sites.

Don’t miss Çıralı’s markets where you can purchase handmade crafts, organic produce, and local honey.

9. Join a Yoga or Wellness Retreat

Olympos has become a hotspot for yoga retreats, thanks to its tranquil environment and proximity to nature. Many treehouse accommodations and boutique lodges host daily yoga classes and weekend workshops focusing on wellness, mindfulness, and eco-living.

This is the perfect way to rejuvenate your mind and body while staying connected with the serene surroundings.

10. Experience Olympos Nightlife

While Olympos is generally relaxed, the village offers a few lively beach bars and treehouse cafés where you can enjoy live music, bonfires, and drinks beneath the stars. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals in a laid-back setting.