Muğla City Guide: The Hidden Paradise of the Aegean

Guide in Türkiye

01.07.2024

Muğla is a fairytale destination where the harmony of the sun, green and blue tones blend perfectly. As FOA Invest, we have compiled all the important details you need to know about Muğla, Turkey's 24th most populous city, in this article. Muğla, whose original name is Caria, is one of the oldest settlements of the Carian Ancient Region. Muğla has been occupied by various nations throughout its history, first the Medes and then the Persians.

Today, Muğla boasts the longest coastline in Turkey, stretching along both the Mediterranean and the Aegean Seas.

What to Eat in Muğla?

Muğla, located in Turkey's Aegean region, is renowned for its rich culinary diversity. Here are some must-try delicacies in Muğla:

  • Seafood: Given its location along the Aegean Sea, fresh seafood such as various fish, squid, and mussels are highly popular in Muğla.
  • Olive Oil Dishes: Typical of the Aegean region, dishes prepared with olive oil are prevalent in Muğla cuisine. You can enjoy delights like stuffed grape leaves with olive oil and artichokes with olive oil.
  • Meatballs: Regional meatballs like Yörük köfte and Muğla köfte are famous local specialties.
  • Mantı: Muğla's version of mantı, typically served with yogurt and garlic, is a local favorite.
  • Goat Cheese: One of Muğla's renowned local cheeses is goat cheese, which is highly praised for its flavor.
  • Yörük Breakfast: Influenced by Yörük culture, Muğla breakfasts are enriched with various olives, local cheeses, jams, and fresh bread.

There are numerous restaurants and eateries in Muğla where you can savor these local flavors. Be sure to explore local recommendations when you visit.

Historical Sites in Muğla

Muğla, one of the popular cities in the Aegean region, is rich in historical structures. Dating back to the Ancient Era, Muğla houses many historical landmarks. The first settlements in Muğla began around 3400 BC. The city has been invaded at different times by civilizations such as the Egyptians, Assyrians, Scythians, and Hellenistic colonies, giving it a rich past.

Lycian Way

The Lycian Way is a famous hiking trail located along Turkey’s western coast between Antalya and Fethiye. It features ancient cities, monasteries, canyons, and stunning coastal views, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Bodrum Castle

Bodrum Castle, located in the city of Bodrum, is a historic structure housing numerous artifacts from ancient times. Visitors can enjoy a tour filled with history and culture, as well as an unparalleled sea view from the castle.

Kayaköy

Kayaköy is a historic village located in Fethiye. Known for its untouched character, Kayaköy is famous for its abandoned Greek houses. Visitors feel as though time has stopped while exploring this village.

Knidos Ancient City

Located on the Datça Peninsula, Knidos Ancient City was a significant trade and cultural center in antiquity. Today, its ancient theater, temples, and harbor impress visitors.

Kaunos Ancient City

Situated in the Dalyan region, Kaunos Ancient City lies at the crossroads of Lycian and Carian cultures. It is known for its ancient theater, temples, and rock tombs.

Bodrum Ancient Theater

Bodrum Ancient Theater, located in the city of Bodrum, is a historic theater complex built during the Hellenistic period. It is renowned for its excellent acoustics and architecture, and it is still used today for concerts and events.

Marmaris Castle

Marmaris Castle, guarding the harbor of Marmaris, was built during the Ottoman period. Today, it serves as a museum and exhibition area, offering visitors insight into the history and maritime heritage of Marmaris.

Kurşunlu Mosque

Kurşunlu Mosque, located in Muğla, is a historic mosque exemplifying Ottoman architecture. It stands out for its simple yet elegant design and holds significant historical and religious importance.

Labranda Ancient City

Located in the Milas district, Labranda Ancient City was an important religious center in ancient Caria. Visitors are enchanted by the mystical atmosphere of Labranda as they trace the relics of ancient times.

Gümüşkesen Monument

Gümüşkesen Monument, located in Muğla, is a historic monument from the Ottoman period. It features various architectural elements that bring traces of the past to the present.

Cleopatra’s Bath

Cleopatra’s Bath in Marmaris is a historical Turkish bath showcasing Ottoman architecture. It offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Turkish bath culture amidst a historic ambiance, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Hafsa Sultan Caravanserai

Located in Muğla, Hafsa Sultan Caravanserai is a historic caravanserai used as a lodging and trade center during the Ottoman period. Now restored and open to visitors, it serves as an interesting stop for history enthusiasts.

Sheikh Mosque

Sheikh Mosque, located in Muğla, is a historic mosque exemplifying Ottoman architectural features. It is a significant part of the region's religious and cultural heritage, providing visitors with an aesthetic and historical exploration.

Köyceğiz King Tombs

Located in Muğla, Köyceğiz King Tombs are ancient graves carved into rocks from the Lycian period. They offer a mystical experience for those interested in ancient times.

Konakaltı Han

Konakaltı Han, a historic inn in Muğla, served as a lodging and trade center on caravan routes during the Ottoman period. Now restored and open to visitors, it is an intriguing stop for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Kalynda Ancient City

Located in Muğla, Kalynda Ancient City is an ancient settlement from the Lycian period. Its temples, theater, and other structures captivate history lovers, making it a great choice for those wanting to journey into the past.

Places to Visit in Muğla

Muğla is one of Turkey's unique coastal cities, offering a wealth of historical, natural, and cultural riches. Muğla's stunning beaches and turquoise waters, particularly in coastal areas like Bodrum, Marmaris, Datça, and Fethiye, are perfect for those seeking a sun and sea holiday. Nature lovers will find Muğla's green mountains and natural habitats waiting to be explored. Highlights include the Caretta Caretta turtles in Dalyan and the natural beauty of Köyceğiz Lake, offering visitors an unforgettable nature experience.

Dalaman River

Dalaman River flows from the Dalaman district in Muğla to the Mediterranean. Known for its natural beauty and ideal conditions for water sports, Dalaman River offers unique landscapes and thrilling experiences through rafting tours and nature walks.

Turgut Waterfall

Located in Turgut village in Marmaris, Turgut Waterfall is a natural wonder nestled in a lush forest. Its cool waters and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal escape for those looking to relax, swim, and spend time in nature.

Azmak River

Azmak River, located in Akyaka village in Muğla, is a natural stream known for its clear waters and surrounding greenery. Boat tours and canoe trips along the river are excellent choices for exploring its natural beauty.

Yuvarlakçay

Yuvarlakçay, located in Köyceğiz, Muğla, is a natural stream known for its pristine beauty and clear waters. Popular for nature walks and picnics, it offers a relaxing atmosphere along the river’s recreational areas and natural beaches.

Gökçeler Canyon and İncirliin Canyon

Gökçeler Canyon and İncirliin Canyon, located in Fethiye, Muğla, are natural canyons filled with high cliffs, natural pools, and waterfalls. These canyons attract nature enthusiasts with their hiking trails and exploration routes, making them perfect for unforgettable nature adventures.

Investment Value of Muğla

Mugla is one of Turkey's main tourism centers offering great investment potential. Its unique natural beauty, historical heritage and extensive beaches make Mugla a major tourist destination. Popular holiday resorts such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye and Datça attract local and international tourists throughout the year, making Mugla an attractive destination for tourism investments. Mugla is also preferred for residential and holiday home investments. Property prices are generally high due to the region's natural beauty and sea views, but there are still investment opportunities outside of the tourist areas given their potential upside. Mugla's unique natural beauty and touristic attraction offer ideal opportunities for investors in residential property for sale in Bodrum.

Muğla's infrastructure and transportation facilities are well-developed. Modern roads, airports, and ports provide easy access and logistical advantages for investors.

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