Muğla, Turkey - Travel

The capital of Muğla Province, which shares its name with the city, takes great pride in its ancient history and invaluable cultural heritage. With the attributive wooden houses of the 19th-century Ottoman and even early Republican periods, their unique chimneys, white exteriors, and narrow streets connecting them, Muğla invites you to experience a cosy, authentic Turkish lifestyle near the gems of the Aegean Region – Marmaris, Fethiye, and Bodrum.

Unlike its coastal counterparts, Mugla’s nature has vast plains of forests, greenery, and agricultural fields surrounding it. At an elevation of 660 metres (2,170 ft) above sea level, the city resembles a patchwork piece, a gingham patch among the green hues of hills and folded mountains. You can go on a hike on the Mendos and Eğriboz mountains, visit the remnants of the original settlement in this area – Mobolla – or take a mere 40-minute drive to the ancient city of Stratonicea.

The more you look, the more you’ll realise that the true beauty of the province starts from its heart. Lush vegetation of pine forests and olive groves gives the city a serene, natural setting, and the view from the mountains is unlike any other in the region.

Muğla Tours

Exploring the beauty of Muğla can be easily accomplished within a day. Escape from the buzz of the seaside resorts in the province and spend some time exploring the cobblestone streets and the wonderful nature of this city. The special charm of this place is that it is not overwhelmed with tourists year-round, so you can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere without the constant background noise of the crowded streets.

Located in southwestern Turkey, Muğla is only 55 kilometres or so away from Marmaris and just a few hours' drive from other popular Aegean destinations like Bodrum. Whether you want to learn more about the history, the nature, or the culture, this place offers a variety of experiences that will make you want to linger longer.

From traditional architecture to local markets – you can enjoy every bit of this city on foot, walking around for hours. Muğla is a place where you can truly unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Best Time to Visit Muğla

The climate in Muğla is similar to the rest of the region. The Mediterranean influence means dry, hot summers and mild temperatures during the coldest seasons, with almost no precipitation and rain. The best time to visit Muğla, largely depends on your weather preferences and planned activities.

Spring is one of the optimal times to visit. The weather is pleasant, nature is in full bloom, and it’s a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. The comfortable temperature also allows visitors to explore the city by walking through narrow streets and historical neighbourhoods.

Early autumn is another excellent time to visit Muğla. The weather remains warm but more bearable than in the summer, and as the crowd thins out, you can visit the city’s landmarks and restaurants peacefully.  

History of Muğla

The history of Muğla can be dated back to the ancient Carian civilization, which is the first known settler in this city. The Caria region included several important cities in the region, the biggest of them all being Halicarnassus (modern-day Bodrum). The city that we now recognise as Muğla was once upon a time a midway point between the Carian cities of Idrias (later known as Stratonicea) and Idyma (modern-day Akyaka).

Over the centuries, many ruled over this territory, among them the Roman, Byzantine, and, eventually, Ottoman empires. The region's historical significance is reflected in its landmarks, such as the ancient city of Stratonicea. Moreover, inscriptions have been unearthed that indicate that the area was populated in the 2nd century BC at the very least, under the name Mobolla. During the Ottoman rule, the name of this settlement first changed into Mogolla, and eventually, it became Muğla.

Muğla's history is intertwined with the evolution of the Turkish nation, and even now, it remains a symbol of rich cultural heritage and modernity. The city has many mosques, traditional Turkish houses, and Ottoman-era buildings, offering a glimpse into its past, which attracts visitors from all over the world. 

The settlement underwent the biggest cultural, architectural, and economic changes in the 135 years of the Menteşe rule. This Turkmen dynasty controlled the Muğla-Milas region in 1290-1425. While their fleet became the main contributor to economic development in this area, the effects of their rule extended to local architecture, culture, and even politics.

The city's proximity to the famous resorts of Marmaris, Fethiye, and Bodrum has helped it become a popular tourist hub. Due to a wide range of outdoor activities and historical landmarks, it is a year-round destination for adventure-seeking individuals.

What to Do in Muğla

From mosques to unique buildings and hiking spots, the city has a lot of adventure to offer.

Landmarks and Places to Visit in Muğla

Start your journey by paying a visit to the old town (Eski Muğla). Here, the 19th-century Muğla Clock Tower marks the Ottoman Empire-era bazaar (Arasta).

Take a few steps up north to view the 16th-century Muğla Şeih Bedrettin Mosque, and only a mere 200 metres south from there, you can immerse yourself in the classical Ottoman architecture of one of the oldest madrasah-turned-Kurşunlu Mosque (built in 1495) that was commissioned by Esseyyid Şucaeddin Bey, a Menteşe lord.

Another noteworthy piece of 14th-century Seljuk architecture, the Grand Mosque stands out with its minaret and wooden pillars supporting beautiful cream arcs of the exterior.

Be sure to see Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s Monument, which serves as the marker for the entrance into the old part of the town.

The old quarter of Muğla takes up the far northeast of the city, distinguishable by the Saburhane Houses. Their light exteriors with wooden and natural stone details attract the eye, and the cosy narrow streets create picturesque photo backgrounds.

You have to visit the old, charming Sekibaşı Hamamı or the 13th-century Vakiflar Hamamı to experience authentic Turkish baths. The latter only operates for men and has been temporarily closed as of April 2025, so be sure to check availability in advance.

Explore Masa Dağı – a mountain overlooking the red-tiled roofs dispersed in the city and, most importantly, the traces of the ancient Castle of Mobolla.

Discover Muğla's hidden gems: a mediaeval caravanserai named Konakaltı Hanı, now converted to a culture centre, and Yağcılar Hanı, back to its initial use – both important commercial hubs of the city and the latter also serving as a relaxation area in the shade of the trees in its courtyard.

History lovers will appreciate the İsmet Tayyaresi Monument at the entrance of the city. It models a small aircraft, only one of the two present in the Sakarya War – one of the major battles during the Greco-Turkish War from 1919 to 1922.

Muğla Museums

The main museum in the city is the Muğla Museum, which stuns its visitors with an abundance of historical pieces from this region.

If you want a glimpse into authentic Turkish everyday life and culture, we recommend stopping by the Menteşe Municipality Culture House. On top of having a closer look at the customs of the region by touring the building, you can sit down in the courtyard of this place and enjoy delicious local cuisine.

Quite a unique experience awaits you at the Muğla Beekeepers Association Museum (Muğla Arı Yetiştiriciler Birliği Müzesi), where you can see everything about the bees of this region and beekeeping. From realistic-looking mannequins demonstrating everything to files and documentation showcasing some of the local bee varieties and beekeeping techniques, you will leave this place with an increased sense of respect for anyone who does this difficult job. You can even buy high-quality local honey as a bonus!

Muğla Theatres

Turkish theatre has developed into a dynamic art form that mirrors the country's cultural and political transformations. From Roman to Byzantine and then from Seljuk to Ottoman, Turkey has gone through some turbulent changes, and this was all reflected in the country’s performative arts.

Muğla Küçük Sahne Tiyatrosu, Menteşe Belediye Tiyatrosu, and Emek Tiyatrosu are smaller stages for performances, mostly offering children’s plays. You can start by supporting local young talents there. On the other side, the Gazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Kultur Merkezi is an events hall that offers a wide array of cultural and performing arts shows to its visitors.

For concerts, festivals, and other cultural activities, there’s Prof. Dr. Şadan Gökovalı Açık Hava Tiyatrosu. This establishment carries the name of a local journalist, reporter, and academic, Şadan Gökovali, who was one of the founding fathers of cultural tourism in the country.

For an open-air experience, immerse yourself in the beautiful arrangements of local artists at Karşıyaka Mahallesi Amfi Tiyatro, where concerts and plays are regularly held when the weather is appropriate.

Vicinity

Discover a whole new side of Muğla only 35 kilometres from the city margin. The ancient city of Stratonikeia (Stratonicea) paints a vivid picture of the region’s extensive history. Just a mere 40-minute drive from the centre of Muğla, the crossroads of western, central and southern Anatolia, offers you more than just ruins. Along with the remains of ancient structures like a gymnasium, bouleuterion, theatre and a temple, you will be met with what used to be a Roman bath, functioning due to an elaborate sewage system that rivals modern plumbing systems.

Lagina Ancient City is another must-see for history lovers. Take advantage of its proximity to Stratonikeia, and visit both of these settlements in one trip! What’s special is that while the latter was mainly a political centre for the locals, Lagina used to have a more sacred, religious meaning for them.

Boating enthusiasts will surely enjoy the annual Presidential International Yacht Races. The 2025 North Cyprus Cup, which is the sixth edition of the event, is planned to take place from July 20 to July 24, with a kickoff at Marmaris Bay, which is 55 kilometres from the city of Muğla.

Entertainment, Parks, and Shopping in Muğla

Entertainment

From concerts at the Gazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Kültür Merkezi to hiking trails that lead you to ancient cities through forgotten paths, Muğla has a special way to mark your heart.

Parks of Muğla

The entire city is enveloped in lush greenery. This ensures that whether you're looking for a dedicated recreational area or simply exploring, you'll discover a peaceful retreat at every turn. If you want to wind down in the middle of the day or after a tiring tour in the city, Kışla Parkı is an ideal place to go. You can sit down at the cafe or have a barbecue in nature. The municipal park in front of the City Hall is another good option for a midday wind-down.

Explore green forests and clear blue waters, mysteriously flowing among rocks near Kanyon Gezi Yolu, or give yourself a chance to witness a gorgeous sight of the city from above at Masa Dağı. It is a volcanic mountain and has more remains of the old settlement Mobolla, which can be explored up close by those interested.

Have you ever thought about what the view is like from above the clouds? Well, you might get the answer if you’re lucky with the weather! Muğla Manzara Seyir Noktası is at the perfect height and location to let you experience that thrill of looking over and seeing the mountain tops pierce the clouds like a shark’s fin emerging from the ocean.

For a serene stroll through the woods and enjoying the shade of the trees while having a heartwarming, fresh meal with your company, we recommend going to the Kızıldağ Mesire Alanı. The view from there is similar to the recreational zones mentioned above, but instead of hiking, you can just enjoy the sounds of nature leisurely.

Shopping in Muğla

Everyone can agree that one of the most entertaining activities at new places is shopping. Muğla has a nice blend of conventional shopping centres and small local bazaars. For example, Yağcılar Hanı is an old caravanserai that still functions as a commercial establishment and sells characteristic textiles like rugs. From there, you can visit the Pelin Mücevherat ve Kuyumculuk jewellery shop, Dilan Gürçam Seramik Stüdyo, Defne Ceramic Art Studio BİRDAL, and cologne maker Kolonyacı Ahmet, to appreciate local craftsmanship.

On Thursdays, Açık Pazar Alanı offers a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as spices, olive oil and other consumable items. Additionally, in the heart of the old city you can visit the historical Zahire Pazarı for various textile items, clothing and musical instruments. We recommend strolling down the art street while you’re there. Who knows? You might discover your own secret shopping place and keep coming back for more!

Aside from the small merchants’ shops, Rüya Park AVM, and Festive shopping mall MUGLA are worth a visit.

Food in Muğla

Turkish Cuisine

The aromas of fresh produce and spices mix together to create a perfect harmony, filling the air with a mouthwatering, irresistible smell that permeates every nook and cranny of Turkey.

Discover a whole new world of flavours by tasting grilled fish and calamari, fresh from the coastal waters of the province. Visit Doyum 98 Pide Salonu for a wide variety of pide – hearty and comforting Turkish flatbread. Grab a succulent and flavourful Çökertme kebab at Nazar Unlu Mamülleri or browse from an extensive menu of Halal, olive oil-based foods at Muğla Lokantası.

On breezy summer evenings, book a table at Süpüroğlu Restaurant. It is perfect for relaxing among the scenery that surrounds Muğla and enjoying meat dishes with a little bit of beer or raki – the national drink of Turkey.

Vegetarian Restaurants

While the city may not be famous for vegetarian or vegan restaurants, you'll be delighted to discover that options are readily available at nearly every establishment!

Savour every bite with the breakfast menus at Müco Kahvaltı ve Dahası, or embrace the homely aura of Zeytin Dalı Ev Yemekleri for a comparatively larger selection of plant-based meals.

Coffee Houses, Bakeries, and Patisseries

Enjoy a nice breakfast or lunch at one of the city’s coffee houses, bakeries or patisseries. Awaken your taste buds with baklavas, Turkish delights, and their kind, and feel how the hot beverage warms you up from the inside.

Some of the travellers’ favourite spots include the modern and vibrant HelloWork Coffee + Workspace, perfect for working remotely, and Punchartisanbakery for a wide selection of sweet and savory croissants and other breakfast spreads. After a fulfilling meal you can even buy freshly baked bread and their signature coffee beans to take home.

If you’re looking for a calm and intellectual environment to do some holiday reading, you will surely enjoy the cosy Mobolla Kitap Kafe.

City Transport in Muğla

Before attempting a voyage via the city’s public transportation system, visitors should know a few useful words and phrases that will help them with easier navigation.

• Otogar – Bus Station
• Otobüs – Bus
• Dolmuş – Minibuses that run from city to city, as well as inside the city, with a predetermined destination
• Taksi – Taxi
• Bilet gişesi – Ticket Office

Buses and shuttles

Minibuses and buses run from early morning to late evening, and they remain the cheapest and the most efficient mode of transportation here.

Taxis

Taxi stations in Muğla can be found all over the town – especially near the main landmarks like the Clock Tower. You can book one on the spot, on their website, or call their number. There are a few companies you can choose from, and some even work 24/7 to take you anywhere your heart desires.

Car rental

For some, renting a car is the most convenient way to commute while on a holiday. In that case, there are about a dozen places you can rent from. ADELS RENT A CAR and MST RENT A CAR offer their services day and night, so that you can visit their office 24/7. Additionally, though further from the downtown area, Green Motion Car Rental Muğla is another favourite in terms of prices and good service.

Other Modes of Transport

Taking a stroll around the city is always good to feel the full essence of it and appreciate the little details you otherwise might’ve missed. Feel a gentle breeze of the pleasant evening on your skin and see where your feet take you!

How to Get to Muğla?

Flying to the nearby Milas-Bodrum International Airport (BJV) or the Dalaman Airport (DLM) and then taking a bus, car, or taxi to Muğla is the best option. Both airports serve international flights and airlines. If your country is not on this list, you can take a domestic flight from Istanbul Airport (IST), which is easy. It only takes 1 hour and 40 minutes from the Dalaman Airport to reach the capital of the province via the D400 highway. As for the Milas-Bodrum International Airport, you will need to travel just a mere hour to reach Muğla, taking the D330 and D550 roads.

Ferries run from the nearby Greek Islands to the coastal resorts of the province, so taking a minibus, renting a car, or booking a taxi from there is also an option.

Languages Spoken in Muğla

The official language all over Turkey is Turkish. Therefore, the majority of its population speaks it. Additionally, the development of tourism and the waves of population migration brought many foreigners to the region. So, the need to speak other languages for communication purposes has emerged.

Expect Muğla residents to have a basic understanding of English and Russian. Waves of tourist interest over the past decade resulted in more conversational knowledge of languages being shared. Therefore, a lot of people now know basic Greek, German, French and even Italian words.

Currency in Muğla

The official currency and the money that is used in Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY). Additionally, euro and USD might be accepted by some establishments for payment, but it cannot be applied to all. We recommend exchanging the money in advance and keeping cash on you. While most places use up-to-date payment methods, some small businesses might prefer you to pay in cash. It will come in handy when you want to tip for good service as well.

Did you know?

Lira is divided into subunits called “kuruş”. 100 kuruş equals one Turkish lira.

Security in Muğla

Regardless of your travel destination, safety is always a number one priority. Muğla, as well as the rest of the country, is considered safe for tourists. In saying that, visitors are always encouraged to adhere to general safety rules like securing their personal belongings in crowded or secluded areas to prevent theft, being more alert at night, dressing modestly inside the religious temples and using common sense.