Every Tuesday hundreds of vendors take over the center of Fethiye town and transform it into a massive market. Known as being one of the largest markets on Turkey’s famous Turquoise Coast, doing some shopping in Fethiye is not to be missed! Whether you looking to pick up souvenirs, sample traditional food, or just take in the madness of it all, there is something for everyone at the local market! Here’s the story of our own visit and some essential tips for your trip to Fethiye.
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Where is the Tuesday Market in Fethiye?
Set close to old town and just one street up from the harbor, this market is located within walking distance of all the city’s best attractions. You should know there are several other Fethiye Markets, some of which aren’t even publicized to tourists. However, the Tuesday market in Fethiye is the largest and most well-known.
When we first arrived at this sprawling market we couldn’t help but notice the local vibes immediately. As we got closer, people walked past us with large bags of cherries, whole watermelons, and types of vegetables we’d never seen before.
So while the Fethiye Market does cater to travelers, know that it’s also where much of the local Fethiye shopping is done as well!
→ 10 Best Things to do in Fethiye Turkey on Your First Visit
Visiting the Fethiye Market Early
We got to the Fethiye Market in the late morning and it was already busy and full of life. This is actually the first tip we wanted to share! Going to the Tuesday market in Fethiye as early as possible makes sense for two reasons.
First off, as the day goes on it gets very hot in the market… Especially during the summertime! There are large cloths that hang above the stalls that offer some protection from the hot sun. Still, there is only so much you can do in this hot Mediterranean climate.
Second, as you might expect the Fethiye Turkey Market gets very crowded. Fethiye is a large city and locals travel from all over to buy and sell items. It’s also one of the most popular things to do for tourists including people taking day trips. This means the earlier you visit the less crowded it will be!
Haggling at the Fethiye Turkey Market
Haggling is part of the culture in Turkey and something seen in great abundance at the Fethiye Market. Keep in mind, this is mostly just for souvenirs and clothing and not for the fresh produce and food. This means that most items aren’t marked with set prices and you instead have to ask the seller.
On one hand, this is great as it will often lead to getting a better deal for what you want. Yet, if you’re not ready to bargain you could also get severely ripped off! As our hotel owner pointed out, all of the clothes and designer goods are not authentic so keep that in mind when negotiating.
While it is part of the experience, that doesn’t mean you need to be rude or aggressive towards the seller. So many times we see tourists going into these situations with a bad attitude. Just know that’s not the way you’re going to get a good deal!
Remember that many of the prices at the Fethiye Market are negotiable but within reason. If you hesitate when buying something don’t be surprised if you’re quickly offered a lower rate as they’re initially starting higher. Additionally, buying two or more goods from the same stand is a good time to bargain for a better rate.
Fresh Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts, & Spices
If Fethiye is your first experience at a real Turkish market it’s understandable that it will feel veryyyy wild. I know that’s how it felt for us! From the crazy energy to the smells and spices to endless treats and snacks, the Fethiye markets will truly overwhelm your senses.
Not having much need for clothes or Gucci accessories, we hit the food section of the market hard! Our first stop was to get an orange juice mixed with pomegranate juice. This is a specialty in the region and it was so refreshing. Also, for 40 Lira ($2.30 USD) we got a kilo of sweet red cherries.
After seeing the vast section of nuts and candies, we couldn’t help ourselves from stocking up on snacks. We got peanuts coated in a crunchy layer and some sugar sesame nuts as well. When asking the local vendor if she had anything spicy, she instantly took a scoop of corn nuts and a large heaping of chili powder from her spices section and mixed them together!
Each small bag of nuts we got was only 10-20 Lira. This section of the Tuesday market in Fethiye seemed to go on forever and ever with different rows of stalls. You can find everything from cheese and olives to every fruit and vegetable grown in the country.
→ Beginners Guide to Food in Turkey: 25 Delicious Dishes & Drinks to Try
Gozleme at the Fethiye Turkey Market
When visiting any market we are always excited to try the local specialties. However, the food at the Tuesday market in Fethiye wasn’t anything like we expected. Instead of all kinds of different Turkish food stands, they cater to one particular meal… Turkish Pancakes!
Now, this is certainly not the type of pancakes you might be thinking about. Also known as Gozlome, the thin flaky flatbreads can be filled with everything from minced meat and spinach to cheese to honey.
We ordered two different types of Gozleme to share and they are massive! Another unique aspect of this traditional meal is the giant containers of garnish on the tables. They’re filled with different toppings like pickled red cabbage, chili peppers, and other goodies.
Adding these to your pancakes is definitely a must as they really add to the flavor. Experiencing this section of the Fethiye Market was the perfect end to our morning and something we highly recommend for when you get hungry.
More Tips for the Fethiye Market
Payment: Although you can use credit cards almost everywhere in Turkey, that is not the case at the Fethiye markets! Make sure to bring enough cash and have small bills if possible.
Taste Everything: In the food section of the Fethiye Turkey market, you’ll be offered a taste of almost anything you’re looking at. Use this opportunity to try different nuts and berries to find the one you like!
Plenty of Options: If you’re not getting a good vibe or price from one vendor, don’t be afraid to move on. Chances are someone else will be selling a similar product close by or somewhere else in the market.
Fethiye Shopping: Not feeling the clothes or food in the Fethiye market? Don’t worry! There are plenty of amazing restaurants and shops nearby. In fact, if you head towards the harbor and walk to the right you will find endless places to eat on the water.
Stay Safe: This goes for ANY local market around the world, but keep an eye on your belongings. Whenever you’re in large crowds there is always a chance of pickpockets looking to take advantage.
→ Turquoise Coast in Turkey: 12 Best Tips For Visiting the Turkish Riviera
Have any questions about this article or want to share more of your favorite Fethiye markets? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
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More Turkey Tips
- Oludeniz Beach Turkey: 9 Fun Things to Know Before You Go!
- Kas Turkey: Why It’s the Best Town on the Turkish Riviera
- Kos to Bodrum Ferry: Our Boat From Greece to Turkey & Day Trip Advice
- Bodrum Turkey: Complete Travel Guide & 6 Things You Can’t Miss
- Kaputas Beach Guide: How to Visit the Best Beach in Turkey
- Using the Turkish Bus System: How Reliable are the Buses in Turkey?
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Where to Stay in Fethiye Turkey
Ultra Luxury – Harbour Suites – Upscale hotel overlooking the boats and ocean of Fethiye. Enjoy the spacious rooms, some of which even come with private pools.
Harbor View – Casa Margot Hotel – With its close proximity to the marina and sea view balconies, Case Margot hotel is a great place to base yourself from in Fethiye.
Boutique Hotel – Hotel Unique – The fun decor and swimming pool are sure to be a hit at Hotel Unique. Book a room with a jacuzzi and take advantage of being next door to the ancient Lycian ruins.
Hostel With a View – El Camino Hostel & Pub – El Camino is a great place to stay for both couples and solo travelers. Its location atop a hill on Fethiye gives you a stupendous view of the ocean and mountains in the distance. You can also grab a drink for sunset at the rooftop pub!
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Turkey Travel Planning
Flights: We always find deals using Skyscanner and Kayak. That’s how we got flights from Thailand to Siem Reap Cambodia for under $50 USD!
Rental Car: Discover Cars is our company of choice when abroad. It is especially popular to rent a car and explore the famous Turquoise Coast.
To pre-book long distance buses check Omio for the best routes all over the country.
Accommodation: Compare competitive sites for hotels such as Booking.com and Agoda. Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for fun activities all over Turkey. You can book everything from a Hot Air Balloon ride in Cappadocia to a Turkish Dance show in Istanbul and even take a Full-Day Jeep Safari in Kusadasi to the National Park!
Travel Insurance: Never travel internationally without being covered. We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Here’s all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists! Including electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials.
