Turkey Holidays

Part of the Turkish Riviera and located in Turkey's southwest corner, Antalya holidays boast over 200 sun-drenched beaches with the beautiful backdrop of the Taurus Mountains. One of the most popular beach resorts in Turkey, here you will find glitzy marinas, designer boutiques, golf courses and luxury hotels. But venture beyond the beach, and you'll discover bustling bazaars, Ottoman architecture and traditional restaurants.

With the region of Antalya being such a vast area, where do you stay?

Nature lovers, Belek is for you. Surrounded by pine forests and nature reserves, here you can soak up the sunshine, explore your surroundings and marvel at ancient ruins, including the impressive Aspendos Theatre.

Looking for a Turkey all-inclusive family getaway? Lara Beach stretches over eight kilometres and is home to many family-friendly hotels, waterparks, shops and restaurants. The beach is Blue Flag rated and has sandy shores and shallow waters, perfect for little ones.

Kemer, by contrast, has pebbly beaches and crescent-shaped bays. It has a small-town feel and is away from the crowds. People-watch in the marina, visit the weekly markets and enjoy the sight of the Tahtali Mountains behind you.

Family-friendly with heaps of evening entertainment and beautiful beaches, Bodrum ticks all the boxes. By day, cool off in one of the many waterparks, take a boat cruise along the picturesque coastline or visit some of the many historical sights, including the Castle of St Peter, Bodrum's most iconic landmark.

When it comes to beaches, there are lots to choose from in Bodrum. Bitez Beach is ideal for families, with calm waters and many watersports on offer. If you want to head straight from the beach to the bars, Gumbet is for you. And those hoping to escape the crowds, check out Yalikavak Beach.

By night, Bodrum comes alive. Explore vibrant bazaars, taste delicious street food or simply sit back with a drink in hand, watching the hustle and bustle of the marina. For those seeking the party scene, head for Bar Street for cocktails, rooftop bars and pumping nightclubs.

One for the water babies, everything in Gocek revolves around the shore and the sea. Surrounded by pine-covered mountains, there is no main beach (or high-rise buildings - for that matter), but a host of small, pebbly bays making Gocek one of the most beautiful spots on Turkey's south coast. Think waterfront decks, swanky marinas and yachts as far as the eye can see. And the best way to explore the region is, of course, by boat.

Don't miss a 12 Islands boat trip to explore the isles off-shore. These include Gocek Island, Red Island and Rabbit Island, where local rabbits roam free. You can also swim and snorkel and discover hidden bays and coves.

Gocek is located halfway between Dalyan and Fethiye, so it is a reasonably quiet part of the coast tucked away from the main resorts.

If you fancy yourself a culture buff or architecture aficionado, you’ll want to make tracks for Turkey’s biggest city, Istanbul. Dotted with densely-packed bazaars and grand-sized buildings, there’s plenty to see here. Start your trip with a visit to the Hagia Sophia, admiring the marble floors and gold mosaics, before soaking up some history at the Topkapi Palace Museum.

A city full of surprises, Istanbul holidays are also known for their incredible rooftop hangouts. Find a quirky café and sip on fresh espresso as you watch the city come alive, or head out for a romantic, star-lit dinner in the evening.

Perched along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, Marmaris is the perfect holiday destination if you’re big on scenery and sunshine. Marmaris holidays will be spent gazing upon pine-adorned mountains, striking beaches, and looking out at sailboats that graze above the water.

If you want to be in the centre of the action, plan a trip to the aptly-named Long Beach, where you can try jet-skiing, parasailing and banana boating. For a more tranquil atmosphere, catch a water taxi over to Turunc Beach. Or, if you’re looking for adventure, why not embark on a day trip to Rhodes?

For a picture-perfect holiday that’s all about peace, tranquillity and luxury, look no further than Dalaman. Also situated along the Turquoise Coast but in a slightly more secluded spot than Marmaris, it’s home to some pristine scenery and is blessed with sunshine year-round.

There are lots of ways for you to explore, too. Take it easy and go for a swim or snorkel in the dazzling Blue Lagoon, or see more of the coastline on a kayak or paddleboard tour. Then, in the evening, you can kick back in a cosy restaurant making sure to sample some traditional Turkish food.