Non-Touristy Experiences in Muğla, Turkey
Most people like to fly directly to Muğla’s major cities such as Bodrum, Marmaris, or Fethiye and check into an all-inclusive resort. However, the province has so much to discover that’s much more exciting than sharing a beach with thousands of other visitors. Check out the following amazing experiences, which up until now were reserved for locals. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.
Walking the Carian Trail
Much like the Lycian Trail, the Carian Trail is a marked 820-kilometer (590.5-mile) pathway that allows hikers to explore Turkey’s southwestern corner, including Muğla and Aydın. Due to the fact that the trail runs through many lesser-known regions as well as ancient ruins belonging to the Carian civilization, this is an excellent experience devoid entirely of trite tourism.
Staying at a boutique hotel in Bozburun
Spending a weekend in Selimiye
Another one of Marmaris’ hidden towns, Selimiye exudes a very Greek influence in its blue and white taverns by the sea, perfectly complemented by the many bougainvillea bushes everywhere. Take some much needed time off at one of the small beaches and enjoy the serenity of being in a non-tourist location.
Discovering the Mazı village near Bodrum
Bodrum may be a tourist haven, but far away from the city center is where you can discover the eight coves of the Mazı village, which are not only gorgeous but also hidden away. One of the favorites is Kisebükü, with its turquoise waters, pebble beach, and adjoining pine forest.
Sailing in Göcek
Even though beautiful mountains, stunning scenery, and an archipelago of remote islands surround Göcek, it has not yet been overrun by tourists. A favorite among seamen, going sailing in Göcek is an unforgettable experience.
Eating lunch at Halil’in Yeri in Akyaka
Akyaka is one of Muğla’s hidden towns that has remained a secret among locals and domestic tourists. Located right by the iridescent stream under the shade of trees is Hilmi’nin Yeri, which serves excellent meze and fresh fish, including to a few tables that are right in the water.
Taking a boat tour from Gümüşlük
A boat tour from Bodrum’s city center means that you’ll have to ride along with a bunch of other tourists. However, if you choose to travel to the Gümüşlük neighborhood, populated mostly by locals and domestic visitors, you’ll be sure to catch a boat tour that’s much more authentic.
Eating dinner at Culinarium in Datça
Tourists have not yet overrun Datça thanks to its locals who have spoken out against any construction that disturbs the beautiful natural landscape. Spend a few days here and make sure to check out one of the city’s best restaurants, Culinarium, run by a German and Turkish couple.
Culinarium, İskele Mahallesi, 64. Sk. No:20, 48900 Datça, Muğla, Turkey, +90 252 712 97 70
Taking a stroll by Lake Köyceğiz
You probably won’t run into any tourists in this small town, which overlooks a beautiful lake of the same name. Take a stroll by the water, have some tea at one of the cafés, and be grateful to be alone with your thoughts, at least for a while.
Cheese shopping at Çıngıloğlu in Yalıkavak
The Yalıkavak market, which sets up every Thursday, has long been attracting tourists; however, one of Bodrum’s best cheese sellers has still managed to retain its local feel. Check out Çıngıloğlu for amazing Turkish cheeses from kaşar to beyaz as well as sucuk (cured sausage), olives, honey, jams, and much more.
Yalıkavak Mahallesi, Koray Yılmaz İş Merkezi B Blok D:3, 48990 Bodrum, Muğla, Turkey, +90 252 385 23 26
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
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