Kalkan Holidays

Charming harbours, picturesque beaches and historic ruins sum up Kalkan holidays. It may be a small town on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, but it brings big charm.

Kalkan’s top places to visit are scattered across its scenic hillsides and serene bays. Summer is the peak season for sunbathing and sea adventures, but spring and autumn are also ideal for a quieter escape with equally nice weather. If you think you’ve seen the whole of Turkey with a trip to Istanbul or Antalya… think again – that’s where this guide comes in…

Why pick Kalkan

Charming harbour

Kalkan’s harbour is the heart of the town, with a postcard setting of bobbing boats and waterfront restaurants. Stroll along the promenade, enjoy a coffee at a cosy café, or take a boat trip to explore the nearby coves and islands. The harbour area is perfect for soaking up the laidback atmosphere and watching the world go by.

Historic ruins

The area surrounding Kalkan is rich in ancient history. The ruins of Patara are just a short drive away, with its ancient theatre, Roman baths and one of the longest beaches in Turkey. Another must-visit site is the ancient city of Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive Lycian tombs and Roman ruins.

Beautiful beaches

Kalkan’s beaches are some of the best on the Turquoise Coast. Kaputas Beach, nestled at the foot of a gorge, is famous for its stunning turquoise waters and golden sands. It’s a bit of a climb down the steps to the beach, but the view and the swim are well worth it. Patara Beach is another gem, stretching for 18 kilometres and offering a chill spot to relax and enjoy the sun. Plus, the beach club game here is strong – check out our guide to Kalkan's best beach club scenes.

World-class diving

Kalkan is a top destination for diving enthusiasts. The clear waters here create perfect conditions, and there are several dive sites around the area, including underwater caves and ancient shipwrecks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are plenty of options to see some of the local marine life and underwater landscapes.

National parks

For nature lovers, Saklikent Gorge is a must-visit. It’s about an hour from Kalkan and one of the longest and deepest gorges in Turkey. You can hike through the cool, narrow canyon, wade through the river and capture the unreal scenery. It’s a perfect escape from the summer heat!

Festivals and events

Kalkan hosts loads of cultural events and festivals throughout the year…

Kalkan Jazz Festival

What: A celebration of jazz music

Where: Different locations around Kalkan

When: September

Key highlights: Live performances from local and international jazz artists, open-air concerts and jam sessions.


Patara Sand Sculpture Festival

What: A unique sand sculpture festival

Where: Patara Beach

When: August

Key highlights: Intricate sand sculptures created by artists from around the world, workshops and family-friendly activities.


Kalkan Culture and Arts Festival

What: A celebration of local culture and arts

Where: Kalkan town centre

When: June

Key highlights: Art exhibitions, traditional music and dance performances, and local crafts.


Picks that don’t cost a penny

The Lycian Way is a long-distance hiking trail, passing stunning views of the coastline and mountains – it’s been named one of the most scenic in the world! The whole thing would take you about a month from Fethiye to Antalya if you’re looking for an active adventure. Or, you can break it up. One option is to hike out of Kalkan towards Patara Beach – the Likya Yolu sign marks the start of the trail – and wind your away around the cliff top until you want to turn back.

For a cultural touch, visit the Kalkan Market held every Thursday, where you can wander through stalls selling fresh produce, spices and handmade goods. It’s completely free until you feel the urge to buy something…


The non-touristy pick

Instead of visiting the more crowded beaches, check out Kalamar Beach Club. This quieter spot offers a peaceful retreat with clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The club provides sunbeds, umbrellas and a restaurant serving some delicious local food.

Best places to stay

Kalkan Town

Staying in Kalkan town puts you right in the heart of the action. The narrow, winding streets are lined with charming boutique hotels, shops and restaurants. It’s also perfect for those who want to be close to the harbour to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Kalamar Bay

For a more chill stay, consider Kalamar Bay. This area is slightly outside the main town, with stunning sea views and a more relaxed vibe. It’s ideal for families or couples looking for a peaceful escape with easy access to the beach.

Patara

If you prefer to be close to nature, staying near Patara is a great pick. This area offers a mix of boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses, with easy access to the ancient ruins and beautiful Patara Beach. If you fancy a mix of history and beach time, this one’s for you.

Getting around

Kalkan’s small size makes it easy to explore by foot, car or boat…

Walking

Walking is one of the best ways to get around Kalkan. The town is small and pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions, restaurants and shops within easy walking distance. The steep hills can be a bit of a workout, but the views are worth it.

Car hire

Hiring a car is an easy way to explore the surrounding areas. There are several rental companies in Kalkan and you can add on care hire and other holiday extras to your booking with us. You’ve then got the freedom to visit nearby attractions like Patara and Saklikent Gorge at your own pace.

Boat

Kalkan’s harbour offers a few different boat trips to explore the coastline here. You can take a daytrip to the nearby islands, go snorkelling or diving, or enjoy a sunset cruise. Boat tours are the best way to make sure you don’t miss any secluded coves and beaches.

Bus

The local buses here are called ‘dolmuş’ and are a cheap and easy way to get around. They connect Kalkan with nearby towns and attractions, so you can still head out of town without the need for a car. You can go to Kas, Patara Beach and Fethiye from the bus station on the right side of the hill that leads out of town – after the cemetery but before the petrol station. You can also find long-distance coach companies here.

Top tip – try to get on your bus at the bus station. A lot of routes will also stop at the top of the Old Town road near the taxi rank but there is always the risk they’ll already be full by this point, especially in peak season.