Landing at Dalaman Airport is the start of an exciting holiday on the Turquoise Coast. However, stepping out of the terminal can be slightly overwhelming if you have not planned your onward journey. Fethiye is located approximately 45 kilometers from the airport, and the drive usually takes around 50 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
You have several reliable options to reach your hotel or rental villa. These range from budget-friendly shuttle buses to comfortable private transfers. In this guide, we evaluate each method to help you decide which one suits your travel style best.
Public Shuttle Buses: Havaş and Muttaş
The most popular option for solo travelers and couples is the public airport shuttle service. Two main companies operate this route: Havaş and Muttaş. You can easily spot their white buses parked right outside the domestic arrivals exit.

Schedule and Timing
One of the most convenient aspects of these buses is that their departure times are synchronized with domestic flight arrivals. You do not need to worry about checking a strict timetable online before you fly. The buses generally wait for passengers to collect their luggage and exit the terminal. Once the bus is full or a reasonable time has passed after the flight lands, it departs for Fethiye.
Payment and Route
Payment is typically collected inside the bus before departure. While credit card payments are becoming more common, carrying some cash in Turkish Lira is always a safe bet to avoid any connection issues with card machines. The route is direct and scenic, following the D400 highway.
The final stop is usually the Fethiye Intercity Bus Terminal (Otogar). From there, you might need a short taxi ride or a local minibus (dolmuş) to reach your specific hotel if you are staying in areas like Ölüdeniz, Calis Beach, or Hisarönü. If you are planning your itinerary while on the bus, checking a guide about things to do in Fethiye can be a great way to pass the time.
Private Transfers: Comfort and Convenience
For families, large groups, or those carrying significant luggage, a private transfer is often the most stress-free choice. Unlike shared shuttles, a private vehicle takes you directly from the airport arrivals gate to the doorstep of your accommodation.
How it Works
You usually book this service online before your trip. The driver waits for you at the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. This eliminates the hassle of finding a vehicle or waiting for a bus to fill up. The vehicles are typically modern vans with air conditioning and ample space for suitcases.
Why Choose Private Transfer?
Although the cost is higher than a public bus, the price per person can be quite reasonable if you are traveling as a group. It also saves you the trouble of changing vehicles at the bus station. If you need to stay connected to coordinate with your driver upon landing, ensure you have reviewed the options for the best SIM card for tourists in Turkey to avoid high roaming charges.

Taking a Taxi from the Airport
Yellow taxis are available 24/7 at the designated rank just outside the terminal building. This is a good option if you have not booked anything in advance and want to leave immediately.

Cost and Considerations
Taxis run on a taximeter, but for longer intercity distances like Dalaman to Fethiye, drivers often have a set price list based on the destination (e.g., Fethiye center, Ölüdeniz, Göcek). It is essential to confirm the estimated fare with the driver before getting in.

While taxis offer flexibility, they can be more expensive than pre-booked private transfers. However, if you value spontaneity and direct transport without prior commitment, the taxi rank is always there to serve you.
Car Rental: Freedom to Explore
If you plan to visit multiple beaches, ancient sites, and hidden bays during your holiday, renting a car directly at the airport might be the most logical decision. The road from Dalaman to Fethiye is a wide, well-maintained double highway that is easy to navigate even for foreign drivers.
Having your own car allows you to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way or visit the famous beaches in Fethiye at your own pace without relying on public transport schedules. Most major international rental companies have desks inside the arrivals terminal.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Your choice ultimately depends on your budget and travel priorities. If you want to save money and do not mind a transfer at the bus station, Havaş or Muttaş are excellent choices.
If you prefer a seamless, door-to-door experience, a private transfer is worth the extra cost. For total freedom, renting a car is the way to go. Whichever method you choose, the journey to Fethiye offers beautiful views of pine forests and mountains, welcoming you to the Mediterranean coast.
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