The Lycians carved their dead into cliffs, and the Fethiye area has some of the finest examples. Tlos, in the Xanthos valley near Saklıkent, is one of the oldest and most important Lycian cities. Its acropolis hill carries a ruined Ottoman fortress, a Roman theatre with views across the valley, an agora and baths, and a cliff face honeycombed with rock tombs, among them the Tomb of Bellerophon, whose relief shows the hero on the winged horse Pegasus. In Fethiye itself, the Amyntas tomb is a temple-style facade carved into the rock face above the old town, in the Ionic style and dating from the fourth century BC, reached by a climb of steps with views over the harbour. Together they give a clear picture of Lycian beliefs and craftsmanship. The tour we link is a day trip that combines Saklıkent Gorge with the ancient city of Tlos.
Why go
Tlos is quieter and more atmospheric than the famous coastal ruins, and the setting is the draw. Walk up through pine and scrub to the theatre and the fortress, and from the top you look along the Xanthos valley to the Akdağlar mountains. The rock tombs on the cliff face are best seen from below and from the paths that run along the foot of the rock, so allow time for the light.
Interpretation is limited, so a guided visit adds context, and the day trip we link includes a guide for the city.
The Amyntas tomb is a short, steep walk from the town centre. Its columns and pediment are cut straight out of the cliff, and at dusk the setting is dramatic. Entry is ticketed at a small fee, and opening hours can change with the season, so check at the gate. Wear shoes with grip; the steps are worn and can be slippery after rain. Allow about an hour, and keep the late afternoon for the light on the stone and the harbour below.
Season and planning
Both sites are open all year, and the cooler months are the most comfortable for climbing in the sun. Tlos is about an hour from Fethiye by road and pairs naturally with Saklıkent Gorge, which is why the day trips combine them. The Amyntas tomb needs only an hour and is an easy add-on to a harbour stroll. For a deeper look at Lycian civilisation, consider a longer private tour that continues to other Lycian cities, and carry water, since shade at Tlos is limited.
What to expect
The experience
A climb through the ruins of Tlos to the theatre and fortress, plus the carved Amyntas tomb above Fethiye, on a guided day trip or independently.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, and cooler months for comfortable climbing.
How long
Two to three hours at Tlos and about an hour for the Amyntas tomb.
Tips
Wear grippy shoes, bring water, and check gate hours since they can change with the season.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers who want Lycian ruins without the crowds.
- Families
- Older children enjoy climbing to the fortress; the paths are steep and uneven.
- Couples
- The Amyntas tomb at the end of the afternoon, with harbour views.
- Pair with
- Saklıkent Gorge and Kayaköy.
- Time needed
- A half to full day.
Good questions
Are Tlos and the Amyntas tomb open in November?+
Yes, both are open year-round, though hours can change with the season. Check at the gate.
What is the Amyntas tomb?+
A temple-style Lycian tomb carved into the cliff above Fethiye, in the Ionic style and dating from around the fourth century BC.
What can I see at Tlos?+
A Roman theatre, an Ottoman fortress on the acropolis, an agora and baths, and cliff-face rock tombs including the Tomb of Bellerophon.
How far is Tlos from Fethiye?+
About an hour by road, near Saklıkent Gorge, so day trips usually combine the two.
Is there an entry fee?+
Yes, a small fee at each site. Tours often cover it, so check what your booking includes.
