Mugla is a bustling city set between rugged mountains and the sparkling Aegean Sea. The city is a gateway to the Turquoise Coast, where you’ll find legendary resorts like Marmaris, Bodrum and Fethiye. Stay a little longer to explore the atmospheric Old Town, visit the local history museum and enjoy tasty local cuisine from Mugla Province.
Things to do in Muğla
Walk around the Old Town and get lost in a maze of narrow streets and alleys. Venture into the bazaar to browse shops filled with colourful glass lanterns and sugar-dusted sweets. Beautiful mosques and centuries-old Ottoman houses add to the atmospheric setting.
See a fascinating collection of Roman artefacts and Greek antiquities at Mugla Museum. The museum is set around a sunny courtyard and features themed rooms covering different topics. Don’t miss the weapons and armour on show in the Gladiator room. There’s also a room dedicated to the unique arts and crafts of the Aegean coast.
Mugla is a launchpad to the sun-drenched resorts on the Turquoise Coast. Head to Marmaris to bask on the gold-sand beach, stroll around the picturesque harbour and enjoy the raucous nightlife. The dazzling Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz is one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. Swim in the jewel-toned water and watch paragliders launch themselves off the mountain.
Of all the signature dishes in Mugla, “cokertme kebab” is one of the most famous. This local favourite features fried potatoes topped with strips of beef and drizzled with yoghurt and butter. You’ll also see specialties like stuffed zucchini flowers and sea bass roasted in lemon juice on restaurant menus.
Getting around Muğla
Parts of Mugla are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while taxis are a fast and affordable way to cover longer distances. The city is a one-hour drive from Marmaris and two hours from Fethiye and Bodrum. Buses connect Mugla with towns, cities and resorts across Southwest Turkey. Antalya Airport is a four-hour drive away.