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Kayaköy Ghost Village Turkey

4.6
·202 reviews·, Türkiye

A hauntingly beautiful ghost village in Turkey, Kayaköy offers a glimpse into a past frozen in time with its abandoned stone houses and churches.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Cooler and more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Panorama shot

Kayaköy Ghost Village Turkey

Best Time

Morning

Cooler and more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hauntingly beautiful ghost village in Turkey, Kayaköy offers a glimpse into a past frozen in time with its abandoned stone houses and churches.

4.6
(202 reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful to see, cheap entry and by the entry is a small drink seller, jewelry seller and a tiny cafe that sells some of the best traditional Turkish pancakes we have ever had!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Rocky, steep paths and stairs require good footwear. Avoid sandals!

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Limited facilities inside; a small cafe sells pancakes, but carry essentials.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Abandoned Stone Houses

The Abandoned Stone Houses

Throughout the village

Wander through hundreds of stone houses, remnants of a once-thriving Greek community, frozen in time.

TikTokInstagram
The Grand Churches and Chapels

The Grand Churches and Chapels

Scattered within the village

Discover the imposing ruins of two large churches and several chapels, echoing centuries of history.

TikTok
Panoramic Sunset Views

Panoramic Sunset Views

Top of the hill

Climb to the highest points for breathtaking panoramic views, especially magical during sunset.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Comfortable Footwear is Key

The terrain in Kayaköy is rocky, steep, and uneven, with many stairs. Prioritize sturdy, comfortable shoes to navigate the paths safely and avoid slips, especially if you plan to explore the higher reaches of the village. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To best experience the peaceful atmosphere and avoid the midday heat, aim for a morning visit. This allows ample time for exploration and offers a more serene experience before potential crowds arrive. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Cooler and more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ghost town in Turkey #tiktokmyanmar #myanmar #kopete #tiktokturkey #kayakoy #EduTok
@kopetebwb
63.5K likes • 542.7K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Rocky, steep paths and stairs require good footwear. Avoid sandals! Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Limited facilities inside; a small cafe sells pancakes, but carry essentials. Reddit

Kayaköy Muğla'nın Fethiye ilcesinde bulunan bir köydür. Köy 19. Yüzyılda Rum ahali tarafından kurulmuştur ve terkedilmeden önceki yıllarda nüfus 3 bin'e ulaşmıştır Mübadeleyle Rumlar köyden göç Ettirilerek yerine Balkanlardaki Türk Muhacirler Yerleştirilmistir. Ancak köyün Dik yamaçlı olmasindan dolayı köyü beğenmeyip onlarda göç etmişlerdir . Bölgedeki diğer köylerin söylemine göre rumlar gitme...
@vibesayfasi
6.3K likes • 370.6K views
📍 Kayaköy, Türkiye 🇹🇷 Once a vibrant village, now a hauntingly beautiful ghost town. 🏚️✨ Kayaköy, abandoned after the population exchange in 1923, invites you to walk among history, nature, and silence. 🌿⛰️ • Discover ancient ruins, forgotten homes, and stunning views just minutes away from the Aegean coast. A perfect escape for slow travelers and curious souls. • 🎥 Watch the full story in our new...
chillaxtravelturkiye
299 likes • 21.9K views

⏳ Allow Ample Time

It's larger than it looks! Plan for at least 2 hours for deep exploration. Reddit

☀️ Visit in the Morning

Beat the heat and crowds for a more serene experience. Reddit

Abandoned hillside village exploring Kayaköy by the Greeks fleeing war in 1920 and is one of the best preserved ghost villages in Turkey.
clarelittlebake
3 likes • 52 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Rocky, steep paths and stairs require good footwear. Avoid sandals! Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Limited facilities inside; a small cafe sells pancakes, but carry essentials. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

It's larger than it looks! Plan for at least 2 hours for deep exploration. Reddit

☀️ Visit in the Morning

Beat the heat and crowds for a more serene experience. Reddit

📸 Capture the Atmosphere

The ruins offer unique photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(202 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kayaköy for its historical significance and unique atmosphere, describing it as an impressive and beautiful place. The affordability of entry and the stunning sunset views are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some reviewers note the lack of clear signage and investment in the site, despite the entrance fee.

"Definitely worth a visit! Make sure you wear comfortable shoes that can cope with rocky, steep (sometimes slippery) and uneven paths/stairs. Absolutely beautiful to see, cheap entry and by the entry is a small drink seller, jewelry seller and a tiny cafe that sells some of the best traditional Turkish pancakes we have ever had! There is only 1 toilet near the very small car park and you do need to pay. If you love history this is a must see!"

E

"Very impressive place you can really sense there was a whole civilization active here, totally recommend it. We went all the way to the top. Wear more proof gear as the bushes are quite prickly :))"

S T

"Despite the sad history, the ghost town has a settled and peaceful air. I recommend going in the morning, while it is cool. If you drive there, it is worth going a little further to a secluded beach."

Greg Torr

What People Like

Historical atmosphere
Beautiful ruins
Affordable entry

What People Dislike

Lack of signage
Prickly bushes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kayaköy is easily accessible from Fethiye, located about 5 km inland. You can take a local dolmuş (minibus) from Fethiye's bus station, which runs frequently. Taxis are also readily available. If you're driving, there's a small car park near the entrance, though it can fill up. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the most common way to reach Kayaköy via public transport is by taking a dolmuş from Fethiye. These minibuses are a cost-effective and convenient option for travelers. TikTok

Driving to Kayaköy is possible, and there is a small car park available near the entrance. However, be aware that it can get busy, especially during peak season. Reddit

Kayaköy is located a short distance from Ölüdeniz, approximately 8-10 km. It's a popular day trip destination for those staying in Ölüdeniz and can be reached by dolmuş or taxi. Instagram

Many local tour operators in Fethiye and Ölüdeniz offer guided tours that include Kayaköy. These tours often combine the ghost village with other nearby attractions, providing historical context. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a small entrance fee to explore Kayaköy. While the exact price can vary, it's generally considered very affordable and worth the cost for the historical experience. Reddit

Information on specific discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket booth. The entry fee is already quite low, making it accessible for most travelers. Reddit

Kayaköy is generally accessible during daylight hours. While there aren't strict closing times posted, it's best to visit during daylight to safely explore the ruins. Reddit

Yes, there is a ticket office located near the main entrance and small car park where you can purchase your entry ticket. Reddit

Some visitors have noted a lack of visible investment in the site despite the entry fee, suggesting funds might not be directly reinvested in maintenance or signage. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore hundreds of abandoned stone houses, churches, and chapels, hike up to the top for panoramic views, and soak in the unique atmosphere of a village frozen in time. TikTokInstagramReddit

To truly explore and appreciate the scale of Kayaköy, it's recommended to allocate at least 2 hours. Some visitors spend much longer if they enjoy deep exploration. Reddit

There is a small cafe near the entrance that sells traditional Turkish pancakes, which are highly recommended. A single toilet facility is also available near the car park, for which there is a small charge. Reddit

While children can visit, the uneven terrain and prickly bushes require close supervision. It's more of a historical exploration site than a playground. Reddit

Absolutely! Kayaköy is incredibly photogenic, with its atmospheric ruins and stunning views. The golden hour and sunset offer particularly beautiful lighting. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hour before sunset and sunset itself provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the ruins. Early mornings are also great for softer light and fewer people. InstagramReddit

Expect to capture atmospheric shots of abandoned stone houses, crumbling churches, winding paths, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Drone photography can offer unique perspectives. Instagram

Climbing to the top of the hill within the village offers the most spectacular panoramic views, perfect for wide-angle shots and capturing the scale of the ghost town. Reddit+1

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the vastness of the village. A drone can provide incredible aerial shots, but always check local regulations. Comfortable shoes are essential for navigating the terrain. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed throughout Kayaköy. However, always be respectful of the historical site and any private property if parts are still in use or being restored. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kayaköy offers a unique historical adventure for families, but requires careful planning. The uneven and steep terrain means supervision is crucial, especially for younger children. Ensure everyone wears sturdy, closed-toe shoes to prevent slips and injuries. While the ruins are fascinating, the lack of clear signage might make it challenging for kids to grasp the history without adult guidance. Consider bringing snacks and plenty of water, as facilities are limited. Reddit+1

To make the visit more engaging for children, you could turn it into a scavenger hunt for specific architectural features or imagine stories about the people who once lived there. The panoramic views from the top can also be a rewarding sight after the climb. Visiting in the cooler morning hours will make the exploration more comfortable for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers

Kayaköy is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking history, atmosphere, and a sense of discovery. The relatively low entry fee and the vastness of the site mean you can spend hours exploring at your own pace. The peaceful ambiance, especially during off-peak hours, allows for deep contemplation and immersion in the past. InstagramReddit

While the village is generally safe, it's always wise for solo travelers to be aware of their surroundings. Inform someone of your plans and estimated return time. The climb to the top offers rewarding views and a sense of accomplishment. Don't forget your camera, as the photogenic ruins provide endless opportunities for capturing unique shots. Instagram

📸 Photographers & History Buffs

For photographers and history enthusiasts, Kayaköy is a dream destination. The abandoned stone houses, crumbling churches, and winding alleys offer endless compositional possibilities. The play of light and shadow on the ancient structures creates a dramatic and evocative atmosphere, especially during the golden hour and sunset. InstagramReddit

History buffs will appreciate the tangible connection to the past, imagining the lives of the former inhabitants. The UNESCO recognition adds to its significance. While there's a small fee, the opportunity to explore such a well-preserved ghost village is invaluable. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens and perhaps a drone (if permitted) for truly unique perspectives. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Kayaköy: A Tale of Two Peoples

Kayaköy, historically known as Karmilissos or Levissi, is a poignant testament to the complex history of population exchange in the early 20th century. Founded by Greek Orthodox Christians, the village thrived for centuries, boasting around 3,500 inhabitants at its peak. Its stone houses, churches, and chapels reflect a rich cultural heritage. TikTokInstagram+2

Following the Greco-Turkish War and the subsequent 1923 population exchange agreement between Greece and Turkey, the Greek inhabitants of Kayaköy were compelled to leave their ancestral homes and relocate to Greece. In turn, Turkish Muslims from the Balkans were settled in the village. However, the steep terrain and the unfamiliar stone houses proved unsuitable for the new residents, leading them to eventually abandon the village as well. This dual abandonment left Kayaköy as a hauntingly preserved ghost town. TikTokInstagram+2

Today, Kayaköy stands as a UNESCO-recognized World Friendship and Peace Village, inviting visitors to walk through its silent streets and contemplate its past. The preserved ruins offer a unique glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants and the historical events that shaped the region. Instagram

Exploring the Ghost Village: What to Expect

Visiting Kayaköy is like stepping back in time. The village sprawls across a hillside, with hundreds of stone houses, many in various states of ruin, lining narrow, winding paths. As you wander, you'll encounter the remnants of churches, schools, and other public buildings, each telling a silent story. TikTokInstagram

The terrain can be challenging, so wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes is paramount. You'll be navigating rocky paths, uneven ground, and numerous stone steps. Some areas might have prickly bushes, so long trousers can be beneficial. Despite the decay, there's a profound sense of peace and history that permeates the air, making it a deeply atmospheric experience. Reddit+1

Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the highest points of the village. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular, offering a sweeping vista of the surrounding valleys and the distant sea. Many visitors find the sunset from these vantage points to be particularly breathtaking and a highlight of their visit. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Ruins: Nearby Attractions

While Kayaköy itself is a major draw, its location near Fethiye and Ölüdeniz means there are plenty of other attractions to explore. The famous Ölüdeniz beach, known for its Blue Lagoon, is a short drive away and offers opportunities for swimming and relaxation. Instagram

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, paragliding from Babadağ mountain overlooking Ölüdeniz is a world-renowned activity. The Fethiye region also boasts other historical sites, beautiful beaches, and charming local villages that are worth discovering. Instagram

If you're driving to Kayaköy, consider extending your journey a little further to find secluded beaches mentioned by some visitors. These hidden gems can offer a tranquil escape after exploring the historical ruins. Reddit

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