Kalkan is a refined harbour town known for its excellent dining, low-rise charm, boutique hotels and beautifully positioned private villas.

Once a small fishing village known as Kalamaki, Kalkan is now one of the most sophisticated and picturesque seaside resorts in Turkey. Cosmopolitan restaurants, shops and bars line the harbour-front and climb the steep cobbled back streets of the Old Town, where whitewashed houses, wooden balconies and rooftop terraces overlook the bay.

Rooftop dining remains one of Kalkan’s defining pleasures, with long evenings spent watching the light fade across the water. In recent years, the back streets have also come into their own, with areas such as Old Street gaining a loyal following for their relaxed yet lively evening atmosphere and ever-evolving restaurant scene.

Despite its popularity with both holidaymakers and investors, Kalkan has retained its distinctive character and sense of scale. Strict low-rise development and a strong boutique ethos ensure it remains a polished yet unpretentious choice for a Turkish escape — relaxed, elegant and quietly confident.

Why Stay in Kalkan with Discerning Collection

Kalkan is a destination we know intimately. Our team visits regularly, our Director spends part of each summer here, and we maintain an on-the-ground presence throughout the season. That first-hand experience allows us to offer honest, current advice — from which restaurants are thriving to which villas and hotels genuinely stand out.

Kalkan continues to evolve, and when new hotels or villas appear, we’re often among the first to visit and assess whether they truly suit our guests — always with care taken to protect the town’s character and charm.

Where to Stay in Kalkan

Kalkan is particularly well suited to villa living, with much of the town designed around low-rise homes, generous outdoor space and sea-facing terraces. From intimate hideaways for couples to larger villas for families and groups, staying in a private villa offers flexibility, privacy and a strong sense of place.

For a deeper look at villa styles, locations and who they suit best, explore our guide to villa holidays in Kalkan.

Alongside villas, Kalkan also offers a carefully curated selection of boutique hotels and contemporary apartments, many with sea views, thoughtful design and a relaxed, personal atmosphere.

Things to Do in Kalkan

Days in Kalkan can be spent simply lazing by the pool of your villa or hotel, or enjoying a swim at one of the town’s many beach clubs, where bathing platforms are cut directly into the rock at the water’s edge.

Boat trips depart daily from the harbour, offering relaxed days at sea along the Lycian Coast, while watersports provide a more active alternative. Beyond Kalkan, ancient sites such as Patara and Xanthos invite exploration, while the nearby town of Kaş — reached via the spectacular Kaputaş Beach — offers a lively cultural contrast and a change of pace.

Local Support While You’re Here

Our local hosts, Laura and Deniz, provide discreet, friendly support throughout your stay — visiting hotels daily and welcoming villa guests personally. Always on hand, they’re there to ensure everything runs smoothly while allowing you to enjoy Kalkan at your own pace.

Ready to Explore Kalkan in More Depth?

For a deeper, practical guide shaped by first-hand experience, explore our Discerning Collection guide to Kalkan — covering everything from when to visit and how to get here, to where to stay, what to do and how to plan your time in the region.