Olympos, Turkey: Ancient Ruins, Beaches & Things to Do
On Turkey’s Lycian Coast, south of Antalya, Olympos is a unique destination where ancient ruins, pine forests and the Mediterranean come together. Unlike the large resort towns along the Turkish Riviera, Olympos offers a more natural and relaxed atmosphere.
There are no high-rise hotels along Olympos Beach. Instead, the area is surrounded by forests and mountains, making it an excellent choice for travellers looking for nature, history, beaches and outdoor adventures in Turkey.
What Makes Olympos Special?
The ancient city of Olympos is one of the area's main attractions. Rather than being presented as a traditional archaeological park, the ruins are scattered through the surrounding forest.
As you walk through the site, you can see remains from different periods of the city's history, including Lycian, Roman and Byzantine structures.
The archaeological site also leads towards Olympos Beach, making it possible to combine exploring ancient ruins with swimming in the Mediterranean on the same day.
The combination of ancient history, forest and coastline is what makes Olympos different from many other destinations around Antalya.
Olympos Beach
Olympos Beach is a long, natural beach surrounded by mountains and pine forest. The setting is one of the main reasons travellers visit the area.
The beach is mainly made up of pebbles, while the clear Mediterranean water is ideal for swimming during the warmer months.
Unlike many resort beaches around Antalya, the area around Olympos remains relatively undeveloped. This gives the beach a more natural atmosphere and makes it particularly appealing to travellers who prefer nature over large resort complexes.
Yanartaş – The Eternal Flames
One of the most unusual places to visit near Olympos is Yanartaş, also known as the Chimaera.
Natural gas escapes through cracks in the rocky hillside, creating small flames that burn naturally. The site has been associated with the ancient Greek legend of the Chimaera, a mythical fire-breathing creature.
The walk to Yanartaş is uphill, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Visiting in the late afternoon or after sunset can make the flames easier to see.
Things to Do in and Around Olympos
Explore the Ancient City of Olympos
Walk through the forest among ancient ruins before continuing towards the beach.
The site is particularly atmospheric because vegetation has grown around many of the remains, creating a completely different experience from more open archaeological sites.
Spend Time at Olympos Beach
Swim, relax by the sea or enjoy the surrounding mountains and pine forest.
The beach is especially beautiful early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the area becomes quieter.
Visit Yanartaş
Take the uphill path to the natural flames and experience one of the most unusual natural attractions on the Lycian Coast.
The combination of the ancient legend and the naturally burning flames makes Yanartaş one of the most memorable things to do near Olympos.
Take a Boat Trip
Boat trips along the Lycian Coast offer opportunities to discover quiet bays, clear water and sections of coastline that are difficult to reach by road.
Some trips also include swimming stops and time to explore secluded beaches.
Visit Mount Tahtalı
The Olympos Teleferik takes visitors towards the summit of Mount Tahtalı at around 2,365 metres above sea level.
From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views across the surrounding Taurus Mountains and Mediterranean coastline.
Visit Adrasan
Around a short drive from Olympos, Adrasan offers another beautiful bay surrounded by mountains and nature.
It has a quieter atmosphere than many of Antalya's larger resort destinations and is a good option for travellers looking for swimming, boat trips and relaxation.
Explore Çıralı
Neighbouring Çıralı is known for its long beach, small guesthouses, restaurants and relaxed atmosphere.
It is also a convenient base for visiting Yanartaş and exploring the surrounding Lycian Coast.
Where to Eat in Olympos & Çıralı
Olympos and Çıralı are not destinations for large resort restaurants or fine dining. Instead, you'll find small family-run restaurants, cafés and relaxed local eateries serving Turkish breakfasts, grilled dishes, mezze and fresh fish.
Çıralı generally offers a wider selection of restaurants, particularly around the roads leading towards the beach.
Olympos is smaller and has a more informal atmosphere, with many restaurants connected to guesthouses, camps and local accommodation.
If you're staying for several days, it can be worth trying restaurants in both Olympos and Çıralı rather than choosing just one area.
Where to Stay in Olympos
There are several different types of accommodation around Olympos and Çıralı.
Olympos
Olympos is a good choice if you want a more rustic and social atmosphere, with bungalows, guesthouses and nature-focused accommodation.
Çıralı
Çıralı offers a wider selection of family-run pensions, boutique hotels and bungalows. It is particularly suitable if you want easy access to the beach and restaurants.
Adrasan
Adrasan is another option if your priority is a quieter beach holiday surrounded by nature.
Tip: Check the exact location of your accommodation before booking. Properties are spread across the surrounding area, and the distance between Olympos, Çıralı and the beach can vary considerably.
How to Get to Olympos
Olympos is located on the Lycian Coast south of Antalya.
From Antalya Airport (AYT), the journey generally takes around 1.5–2 hours by car, depending on traffic and your exact destination.
You can reach the area by rental car or public transport, although public transport usually involves changing between services.
For travellers who prefer to arrange transportation before their holiday, TTTurs offers private airport transfers from Antalya Airport to Olympos and nearby destinations such as Adrasan.
A private transfer can be particularly convenient if you're travelling with luggage, as you can travel directly from the airport to your accommodation without changing buses.
Book your Antalya Airport to Olympos transfer with TTTurs and arrange your journey before you arrive.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Olympos?
Olympos can be visited from spring through autumn, with different seasons offering different experiences.
April–May
Pleasant temperatures and green landscapes make spring a good time for hiking, exploring the ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.
June–August
Hot and sunny weather is ideal for swimming and beach days. This is also the busiest period, particularly during the school summer holidays.
September–October
Warm sea temperatures and slightly quieter surroundings make early autumn a popular time to visit.
For travellers who want to combine beaches, hiking and sightseeing, May, June, September and October can offer an excellent balance between weather and crowds.
Is Olympos Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, especially if you want to experience a different side of the Turkish Riviera.
Olympos is ideal for travellers who want to combine ancient ruins, Mediterranean beaches, hiking, nature and outdoor activities rather than staying in a traditional all-inclusive resort.
It also works well as part of a wider Antalya itinerary, with destinations such as Çıralı, Adrasan, Mount Tahtalı and Yanartaş all within reach.
If you're travelling from Antalya Airport, arranging your transfer in advance can make the journey to this more remote part of the coast much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Olympos in Turkey famous for?
Olympos is famous for its ancient Lycian and Roman ruins, natural surroundings, Olympos Beach, Yanartaş eternal flames and relaxed atmosphere on Turkey's Lycian Coast.
How far is Olympos from Antalya Airport?
Olympos is approximately 1.5–2 hours by car from Antalya Airport, depending on traffic and your accommodation.
Is Olympos worth visiting?
Yes. Olympos is particularly worth visiting if you enjoy nature, beaches, ancient ruins, hiking and quieter destinations away from large Turkish resorts.
Can you swim at Olympos Beach?
Yes. Olympos Beach has clear Mediterranean water and is suitable for swimming during the warmer months.
What is Yanartaş?
Yanartaş, also called the Chimaera, is a natural site near Olympos where gases escaping from the rocks create flames that burn naturally.
Is Olympos suitable for families?
Yes, although the area has a more natural and rustic character than destinations such as Belek or Side. Families who enjoy beaches, nature and outdoor activities can have an excellent holiday here.
What is the best time to visit Olympos?
May, June, September and October are particularly good months for combining swimming, sightseeing and outdoor activities. July and August are hotter and generally busier.
How do I get from Antalya Airport to Olympos?
You can rent a car, use public transport with connections, or pre-book a private airport transfer. A private transfer is particularly convenient for travellers with luggage who want to go directly from Antalya Airport to their accommodation.