Olympos, with ruins scattered through a wooded valley and along a stream, is one of the most atmospheric ancient cities on the Mediterranean. Next door, Çıralı is one of the region’s best-loved villages, with a long, quiet beach and a relaxed, nature-first feel. They share the same shoreline and make an ideal day trip from Kemer. This guide covers what to see at Olympos, how to spend time in Çıralı and practical tips for your visit.
Olympos and Çıralı at a glance
- Location: Kumluca district, Antalya, inside Beydağları Coastal National Park
- From Kemer centre: About 45 minutes to 1 hour by car
- Ancient Olympos: A leading city of the Lycian League, with ruins running down the valley to the sea
- Çıralı: A long pebble-and-sand beach and a quiet village
- Nearby: Yanartaş (Chimaera), the Lycian Way and Mount Tahtalı
The ancient city of Olympos
Olympos was one of the voting cities of the Lycian League. Today its remains are scattered along the banks of a stream shaded by plane and bay trees, so a visit feels like a woodland walk that ends at the beach. Highlights include:
- Monumental gate and temple remains
- Necropolis: Rock-cut tombs and sarcophagi on the slopes
- Roman baths and city walls
- Byzantine buildings and the old harbour area at the stream’s mouth
The path through the ruins leads straight to Olympos beach, so you can end your visit with a swim. The site charges an entry fee and the Müzekart museum pass is valid; check current prices and hours before you go.
Çıralı
Çıralı is a quiet village of guesthouses and orchards with no large hotels. Its beach stretches to Olympos and is a protected nesting site for loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta). On summer nights, visitors are asked to keep lights off the beach and stay away from nests.
Things to do in Çıralı
- Swim and relax: A long, calm, natural beach.
- Yanartaş: The natural gas flames burning on the hillside above the village. See our Yanartaş guide.
- Sunset: Evening light over Olympos from the beach.
- Hiking: Sections of the Lycian Way pass through the area.
- Yoga and rest: Some guesthouses run yoga and meditation sessions in season.
A day trip plan
- Morning: Explore the ruins of Olympos while it’s cool and swim at the beach.
- Midday: Lunch in Çıralı and a rest on the beach.
- Late afternoon: Walk up to Yanartaş towards sunset; the flames look best in the dark.
- Return: About an hour’s drive back to Kemer.
Visiting tips
- Footwear: The site has stony paths and stream crossings.
- Water and sun: Summer middays are hot; carry water and sun protection.
- Respect nature: Keep away from turtle nests, use no lights on the beach at night and take your rubbish home.
- Season: Spring and autumn are the most pleasant; in summer, go early.
From Kemer to Olympos
Kemer Royal Beach Hotel is in Kemer town centre, about 250 metres from the sea. After a day at Olympos and Çıralı you can relax by the pool. Our reception can arrange tours to the area. See our rooms or check availability.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Olympos from Kemer?
About 45 minutes to 1 hour by car from Kemer centre.
Is there an entry fee for Olympos?
Yes, and the Müzekart is valid. Check current prices and hours before you go.
What is the difference between Olympos and Çıralı?
Olympos is the ancient city in the valley and its beach; Çıralı is the village at the northern end of the same beach. You can walk between them along the shore.
Can I see Olympos and Yanartaş on the same day?
Yes. Olympos in the morning and Yanartaş from Çıralı in the evening is the most popular day plan.