Mugla

Introduction

Nestled in southwestern Turkey, Muğla serves as the administrative capital of a province stretching along the Aegean coast. You will find the city center situated inland at an altitude of 660 meters, positioned away from the nearby Gulf of Gökova. The region is characterized by its proximity to several well-known coastal destinations and popular resorts.

The local area borders various neighboring districts, including Milas, Yatağan, Kavaklıdere, Ula, and Köyceğiz. From this central hub, you can explore a province that encompasses famous coastal spots such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Datça, Dalyan, Fethiye, Ölüdeniz, and Sarigerme.

Before you go

Prepare for a change in climate as you travel inland from the coast toward the point where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean. Situated on a mountainside, Muğla offers a pleasantly cool escape during the summer months when coastal regions become hot and humid. While many travelers bypass the town on the D550, you will find a market town that has preserved its character through the centuries.

You should note the following while planning your visit:

• The city serves as the provincial capital, making it the administrative hub for local government and bureaucracy.
• The surrounding area is primarily agricultural despite the immediate vicinity being somewhat barren.
• The town center features a collection of charming 18th and 19th-century buildings that provide a contrast to the modern urban landscape.

Getting there

You can reach the city by air via the nearby airports of Bodrum or Dalaman, both of which accommodate domestic and international flights. Once you land, it is a short drive to Muğla. If you prefer traveling by road, the city sits along a major bus route connecting Istanbul to popular coastal resorts like Marmaris and Dalaman. These buses travel through several regional hubs before reaching your destination.

Upon arriving at the inter-city bus station, you can take a dolmuş or a taxi to reach the town center. If you are traveling by car from nearby cities, you can navigate via the local motorway systems connecting Izmir, Bodrum, and Denizli to reach the region.

Getting around

You can explore the old centre on foot, as most sights are located within a short walking distance of each other. Navigating these twisty alleys is much easier without a vehicle.

For longer journeys, you can use the Muttas regional bus service. Available lines include routes to Milas-Bodrum airport, Dalaman, Marmaris, and Bodrum town.

Where to stay

You can find various accommodations depending on your preference for location and atmosphere. If you prefer a smart central location, options are available in the heart of the city. For those seeking a newer experience, some establishments offer clean rooms and attentive service.

Alternatively, you can stay in Kötekli, which features a cluster of accommodation located south near the university and the D330 junction. Other options include business-oriented hotels situated near local landmarks like the football stadium.

Food & drink

You can find a cluster of dining options along Saatli Kule Cd, the street located just west of the clocktower. This area features several establishments including Kadir Usta'nın Yeri, Dedo muglakebap ve köftecisi, Muğla Lokantası, and Du Buyon. For those seeking meatballs, Köfteci Kemal is situated on Kurşunlu Cd near the Kurşunlu mosque.

If you venture further out to Orhaniye, 1 Süpüroğlu offers a charming garden setting where you can enjoy traditional meaty fare. For your evening drinks, Lâl Wine Club is located on Turgut Reis Cd by the Kurşunlu Cami.

What to see and do

Explore the historic architecture of the city, starting with the Great Mosque of Muğla (Ulu Camii), which features a design dating back to the 14th century. Nearby, you can visit the clocktower and the adjacent Şeyh Camii, both located above an Ottoman bazaar. The Kurşunlu Cami offers a traditional interior behind a later atrium extension, while the nearby Yağcılar Han serves as a restored caravanserai where you can browse crafts and carpets. For a look at local history, the Muğla Museum houses archaeological collections and fossils from the nearby Kaklıcatepe, situated across from the Konakaltı Han, an 1800s caravanserai used for events.

Wander through Saburhane, a delightful quarter featuring a mix of Ottoman and Greek styles in buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. If you prefer local culture over history, you can head to the stadium to watch Muğlaspor play soccer. While several historic Turkish baths like Vakıflar Hamam, Sekibaşı Hamamı, Han Hamam, and Rum Hamamı exist in the area, their availability varies.

Three days in Mugla

Day one, you can explore the coastal charm of Bodrum and the nearby shores of Marmaris. You might also spend your time wandering through the scenic landscapes of Datça.

Day two, you can travel toward Fethiye or enjoy the coastline near Sarigerme. You may choose to visit the areas surrounding Dalaman or explore the sights in the Gulf.

Day three, you can navigate the region of Muğla and see the surroundings of Milas, Yatağan, Kavaklıdere, Ula, and Köyceğiz.