best places to visit turkey beach

17 Best Beach Towns in Turkey

From the turquoise waters of Marmaris and Fethiye, to historic Alanya, magical Bozcaada and Kusadasi, these are the best beach towns in Turkey.

Ready to transport yourself to a sunshine-filled paradise? Turkey’s glittering Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines offer such a great variety of holiday options. You’ll find everything from world-class resorts to basic beach hideaways.

Coastal towns in Turkey tend to offer a fascinating mix of history, adventure and colourful local culture. You can unwind in luxury on a beach beside the sparkling ocean in the morning, explore ancient ruins in the afternoon, and then party until the early hours. Some of the most popular towns in the Turkish Riviera , such as Bodrum and Antalya, offer the perfect mix of daytime buzz and nighttime fun. 

Holidays on the Turkish coast work for all budgets. You really will find everything from upmarket resort towns ideal for honeymooners, to tiny villages with cheaper family accommodation.

So, pack your sunnies and your swimming cozzy and come along with me as I take you on a tour of some of the best beach towns in Turkey.

The Most Beautiful Beach Towns in Turkey

This bustling resort suburb near Fethiye is famous for the blue lagoon of Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parki and the wide sandy sweep of Belceniz Beach. Overlooking the beach, Babadağ mountain’s peak is where thrill-seekers can take off in a tandem paraglider. 

While the town can seem quite expensive, there are plenty of cheap dining and entertainment options on the back streets. Summer can be really busy here but if you go in the off-season (September is one of the best months) it’s much less hectic. 

If you feel like combining some history with your Turkish beach holiday, I can really recommend this town. Watched over by the battlements and spires of the medieval Alanya Castle, this pretty manages to walk the fine line between being a tourist hotspot and traditional Turkish town life. I had a great trip here a few years ago and have vivid memories of the gorgeous turquoise ocean.

How do you fancy spending an afternoon exploring backstreet bazaars where shops selling baklava, Turkish delight and dolma will tempt you to snack? You can burn off a few of those holiday pounds with a swim… followed by an afternoon cocktail!

Alanya’s Seljuk-era castle on the hill is now an open-air museum where you can see exhibits of ancient weapons, sultan’s clothing and everyday items of medieval Turkish life. I’d also recommend looking out from the battlements across the red-tiled roofs of the town to Cleopatra Beach, where the fabled Egyptian queen is said to have swum.  

This charming, laid-back town on the Mediterranean coast near Fethiye is one of my favourite Turkish beach towns. Dalyan was once a Roman health spa and the mud baths and ancient ruins near the town are really fun to explore. The long curving sweep of Iztuzu Beach is perfect for swimming. You can sometimes be able to spot loggerhead turtles (known as caretta caretta turtles) basking in the warm water here too!

If you’re a lover of history and adventure, I’d recommend taking a day trip up the nearby Dalyan Çaya River to see the ornate 400 BC Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs. After a fun day out, you can return to Dalyan and get stuck into generous plates of Turkish and western food in one of the town’s many restaurants.

With its tranquil, reflective waters and colourful seafront, Marmaris is definitely one of the most beautiful places on the Turkish coastline. The gorgeous backdrop of mountains clad with deep green pine forests gives Marmaris the feeling of a glamorous European resort such as Monaco (well, this is the Turkish Riveriera after all!)

The cobbled streets of the Old Town are a fascinating place to wander. Plus, you could easily spend hours exploring the restored castle of Süleyman the Magnificent , the greatest of all the Ottoman rulers.

The coves and bays of the nearby Datça Peninsula are great for day trips, especially when cruise ships are in the port and you want to escape the crowds. Plus, if you’re wondering how to reach the town, flight connections to nearby Dalaman Airport make getting to this part of the Turkish coast nice and simple.

Close your eyes and imagine a perfect Turkish coastal town, with an old castle, crystal blue waters, Roman ruins and whitewashed houses. You’ve just imagined Bodrum! With accommodation options ranging from cheap “pensions” (the Turkish version of a B&B) to boutique hotels and ritzy beach resorts, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect place to stay in Bodrum.

The ruins of the 4th century BC Greco-Roman Amphitheatre overlooking the town are a great place to get a feel for the many civilisations which have occupied Bodrum. For a fun day out, hop on a boat tour and visit Orak Island. With its warm waters, colourful fish and rocky coves, it’s a beautiful place to visit.

Alternatively, you can simply sprawl beside your hotel pool (or on the sand at Kumbahçe Sahili Beach) without a care in the world. Both options sound pretty appealing right now!

Ayvalik and Assos

For a change of pace, these two towns north of Izmir offer a more authentic Turkish experience.

Ayvalik is a working fishing town. Foodies will love the local agricultural produce here, especially its olive oil. This part of the Aegean Coast can be very popular with local holidaymakers. You’ll also encounter visitors from the nearby Greek island of Lesvos sunning themselves on the beaches at Cunda and Alibey.

The old town dates from Byzantine times and has some superb restaurants. One of the best is Iyimis Meyhane , which is tucked away in a narrow, flower-decked lane a few streets from the main beach.

You can take a day trip to Assos, just up the coast, where you’ll find brightly-painted fishing boats resting on the pebbly beach and lots of cool little eateries in the stone buildings along the waterfront.

This is the main beach resort of nearby Izmir and sits out on the end of a peninsula south of the city. While there are quite a few five-star luxury beach resorts here, you can also find quaint boutique hotels and family-run pensions in the town’s quieter, flower-filled back lanes. 

You can fritter away whole afternoons going from café to café in the up-market Alaçati area, hire a scooter to explore further inland, or if you’re like me, just relax on one of the town’s beaches. Try Ilica Plaji which is reputed to have the warmest waters on the Turkish coast due to the hot springs in the nearby hills. 

Imagine stepping off a ferry from the Greek Islands onto the ancient shore of Ephesus, where Mark Antony and Cleopatra once hung out! Kusadasi is the closest city to the ruins of Ephesus and you can combine your Turkish beach days with excursions to some of Turkey’s most famous ruins.

The town itself has some of the liveliest nightlife on the coast. However, you can easily escape from the hubbub of the seafront promenade to the narrow and evocative streets of the Old Town’s bazaar. If you feel like a day trip to a Greek island, Samos is just a short boat ride away.   

Are you needing a bit of a slower pace? Perhaps life at home has been hectic and it’s time to hit the pause button? Akyaka is the best town on the Turkish coast to visit. The small black sand beach, hemmed by towering cliffs, is fairly unknown to the tourist crowds, but it’s a favourite among locals as a retreat for the hot months of July and August.

The traditional wooden architecture is the setting for lots of cute, basic hotels. Plus, the richly-wooded hills have hiking trails to hidden beaches and secluded coves. My favourite part of travel is being able to disappear for a while, and Akyaka is one of those places where you can really escape the rat race and appreciate each moment.

It’s hard to imagine a more picture-perfect beach than the long curve of sand at Içmeler. With the backdrop of lush green mountains, this was one of the first beach resorts established on the Turquoise Coast.

Transfers from nearby Dalaman Airport make this a popular place for package holidays, so if you fancy a pint of ale and scampi and chips you’re in luck!

But you can also find plenty of authentically Turkish life in the local area, especially just along the coast in the smaller resort village of Turunc. You can grab a water taxi to take you from Içmeler to Marmaris and the Greek island of Rhodes, or do nothing more than just soak up the sun on Içmeler Beach. It’s your holiday after all!   

Gallipoli Peninsula

For a different Turkish beach experience, you could head to the historic town of Çanakkale on the Gallipoli Peninsula. 

More famous for its WW1 history than sparkling beach resorts, the Gallipoli Peninsula also has some superb stretches of coastline. From Çannakkale, you can take local buses to local villages, where you’ll find campsites, bed and breakfasts and empty beaches washed by azure Agean waters. 

Buses run regularly from Istanbul to Çanakkale too, and you can do day trips to see the famous battlefield of Troy. Over on the Aegean Coast, you can visit ANZAC Cove, Suvla Bay and the melancholy memorials and graveyards (maintained lovingly by the Turks to this day) of the fateful Gallipoli Campaign.  

How about a holiday on the pretty island of Bozcaada? This island in the Aegean Sea is a beautiful place to escape to. It’s home to several picturesque hiking trails which lead through vineyards and orchards, where you’ll see olives, pomegranates and figs growing in abundance.

Spend an evening sitting outside at a wooden table on Lale Street enjoying the local wine (it’s been produced here for 3,000 years) and snacking on fresh seafood and mezze. There are lots of cute boutique hotels in Bozcaada and it’s a popular weekend destination for Istanbul residents. 

Sunsets here are amazing too. Take time to join the locals on one of the island’s secluded beaches to watch the day end over a roaring bonfire and a glass or two of vino. Perfect!

With its palm tree-lined waterfront, super yachts and smart shops, Göcek could be described as the Monaco of the Turkish Riviera. But the posh yachts and bougie boutiques are where the comparison ends. In fact, this is a quiet, laid-back town with a small beach at one end and rugged hills at the other.

The many inlets and bays near Göcek are popular with scuba divers. Plus, day trips to local eco-sanctuaries will introduce you to the unique natural landscapes of this part of the Turkish coast.

A special place to visit is Cleopatra Baths Bay. Here, you’ll see the ruins of sunken hot water baths used by the Egyptian queen when she too was on holiday! If Göcek is good enough for Cleopatra, I’d say it’s definitely good enough for us!

Faralya Butterfly Valley 

Of all the beaches in Turkey this has to be my favourites. Even the name is magical! Butterfly Valley is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey and I have to agree!

Backed by dramatic cliffs that you can hike up, the beach takes its name from the 100 species of butterflies that live in the forests here. A stream cascades over a waterfall into the valley from the cliffs and then ambles through scented groves of lavender-coloured chaste trees.

Butterfly Valley can get pretty busy during the day. My top tip would be to book accommodation in the area. You’ll find the place lovely and tranquil after all the day trip boats depart. The waters of the cove are wonderfully warm and so calm that you can skip stones into the sunset. If you are visiting on a day trip, take a picnic to avoid paying for expensive restaurant food. 

This once-sleepy fishing village on the Turquoise Coast has become a haven for yachties and holidaymakers looking for a less “beachy” retreat. Rows of timber houses hung with bougainvillaea step down steeply to the waterfront from the Old Town area. There’s also a row of inviting restaurants lining the promenade, each with its own exciting buzz and ambience.

There’s a pebbly beach at the western end, and an interesting marina where chic yachts are moored close to colourful local fishing boats. Inland, the area has lots of Lycian ruins to explore. Head out on one of the hiking trails for a few hours, then loop back to the coast to refresh yourself with traditional Turkish food, cold drinks or a cup of local apple tea.

Cirali and Olympos

Now we’re getting really wild! These two isolated beach towns are separated by a set of rugged hills that run right down to the water’s edge. In fact, if you want to go from one village to another other you either have to walk along the narrow beach under the cliffs — quite an adventure! — or drive up to the main road and back down. 

What I love most about these Turkish beach towns is their location within the Olympus Coastal National Park. The scenery here is untouched by development. Most of the accommodation is in simple wooden buildings with low-key outdoor restaurants. 

This is a great place to come and free your inner 70s hippie and enjoy the sound of gentle waves. Lots of locals come here for their holidays so it has a cool Turkish vibe too!

With one of the longest beaches of all the coastal towns in Turkey, Antalya is famous for its crystal clear water and lush vegetation. The town began life as a Roman port in 133 BC. Back in the day the citizens of Rome used to flock here for their summer holidays, just as people do today.

With its backdrop of rugged (sometimes snow-capped!) ranges and oodles of lush green spaces, Antalya manages to combine the buzz of a resort destination without feeling too overcrowded. Nearby Antalya airport brings in tourists from the Middle East and Eastern Europe so you can guarantee an eclectic mix of visitors and food.

Check out the grey-sand Konyaalti Beach (west of town) for great cafes during the day and epic sunsets. Plus, the nearby Taurus Mountains provide a spectacular scene as you laze in the tepid water! 

Whether you’re looking to simply lie in the sun and relax, take boat trips to hidden coves and super cool islands, or get to grips with history there’s a Turkish beach town for you! They vary so much, I’m sure you’ll find one you love.

I hope this guide to the best beach towns in Turkey helps you plan your trip. If you’re looking for more inspiration to plan your holiday in Turkey, don’t miss my other guides:

• Historical Wanderlust In Alanya, Turkey
• 15 Best Museums in Istanbul, Turkey
• The Perfect 24 Hours In Istanbul, Turkey
• The Colourful Revolution of Istanbul’s Rainbow Steps
• A Food Tour of Istanbul, Turkey
• Top Things To Do In Cappadocia, Turkey
• 21 Things To Know Before A Hot Air Balloon Flight In Cappadocia: Travel Tips For A Hassle Free Adventure
• 17 Best Cave Hotels In Cappadocia
• How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The 10 Best Beaches in Turkey

If you’re thinking about jetting off to the Aegean Sea, you’re probably curious about where to find the best beaches in Turkey . The country has many allures, but it is no secret that the hundreds of beaches that cover its 7000-kilometre coastline are some of the most popular things to do. Many of the most beautiful Turkish landscapes can be spotted along its shores, and there is a variety of local culture to experience right on the sand.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a Turkish beach that doesn’t hit the spot, but we’ve still done the groundwork for you and selected our personal favourites. From family hotspots to off-the-beaten-track gems , these sandy highlights will have you booking tickets in no time.

1. Kabak Beach, Fethiye

On the pebbles and white sands of Kabak Beach, you’ll mostly be in the company of locals and backpackers travelling along the Lycian Way. You won’t find many amenities, any water sports or beach chairs for hire. The vibe is distinctively laid back, and people come here mainly to appreciate the natural beauty and undisturbed stillness during their villa holiday in Turkey. There are some shaded areas to escape from the sun with a juice or a beer from one of the beach bars. Other than that, it’s just you, the Mediterranean, and a few friendly loggerhead turtles to keep you company.

2. Mermerli Beach, Antalya

No more than a stone’s throw from the city centre, Mermerli Beach is a small city beach tucked away next to the old port. Since Antalya is a pedestrian-only zone, Mermerli can only be reached on foot, but there is nothing better than a spot of relaxing, sunbathing and swimming after a morning spent walking in town.

To access the beach, you pay a small fee at the entrance of Mermerli Restaurant and descend a wooden staircase from there. Included in the price are a sun lounger and parasol, and you’ll be able to have drinks, ice creams and food brought right to your seat from the restaurant. A stone plateau and wooden terraces have extended the small natural beach of brown sand and pebbles, but keep in mind that there is very limited space. There is plenty of room in the water, though, and the sea is clear with beautiful views of the opposite coast.

3. Blue Lagoon, Ölüdeniz 

The Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon is probably the most famous beach in all of Turkey and for a good reason. Few places in the world match up to its natural beauty, and as such, tourists are drawn to the vibrant blue waters for a few hours of unwinding by the sea.

This wide bay is located just where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet, inside a protected natural park , with the Babadag mountains in the background. The sands are relatively gritty, but most visitors love lounging in the shallows of the waters, which is warm and perfect for children to play safely.

Until the early 80s, the Blue Lagoon was a fairly hidden gem, only known to hippies and backpackers. These days, it is well-developed with bars, restaurants, and plenty of activities. One of the most popular pastimes is enjoying the scenery from above while paragliding from the nearby mountains. Or, if you prefer to stay at sea level, you could hire a paddleboard for your explorations. Either way, you’ll soon see why the Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed beaches in Europe and a perfect place to visit during your luxury villa holiday in Turkey.

4. Icmeler Beach, Marmaris  

The golden sands of Icmeler Beach can be found in the resort town with the same name, just 8 kilometres from Marmaris. What was once a small fishing village is now one of Turkey’s most popular seaside getaways for families and groups of adults alike.

Iclemer has a surprisingly Caribbean feel for a beach surrounded by pine forests and backed by the Taurus Mountains . It probably has something to do with the 6km long stretch of sand that never feels too crowded and is cleaned every night so that it’s spotless when you arrive in the morning.

Whether you’re after excitement or total relaxation, you’ll be able to find it all here, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants. The beach is calm with small waves , perfect for lounging in the sun and going on long swims. However, if water sports are your thing, everything from parasailing to jet skiing and scuba diving is on offer. There are also great hiking trails in the hills nearby, which offer up some pretty views of the beach from above.

Where to stay : Villa Gulseren

5. Patara Beach, Gelemiş 

At 18 kilometres, Patara is the longest beach in all of Turkey , and with minimal development, you’ll easily find a lovely spot to enjoy it in private. Perfect for long walks in the sand, sunbathing and swimming, the waters here are warm and shallow, ideal for kids and great for snorkelling during your villa holiday in Turkey.

This unspoilt paradise made up of limestone peaks and rolling white dunes is also part of a national park. The local birdlife is vibrant, and the beach itself is a protected breeding ground for loggerhead turtles . Due to this, the beach has little to no development, save a small community-run café where you can also rent parasols and the like. After sunset, Patara is off limits for humans, giving the turtles free range of the sand.

6. Cirali Beach, Cirali

This unspoilt shingle beach is a dream spot for everyone from history buffs to nature lovers. On one end of the beach, you’ll find the epic ruins of Olympos , and on the other, the eternal flames of Chimaera . On the sandy stretch between these two iconic sites, the endangered loggerhead turtles return to nest in a WWF-protected conservation area.

Visitors can delight in the crystal-clear waters , and in having lots of space to themselves. Cirali isn’t the most accessible place to reach unless you know where it is, but that means there are rarely any crowds. And as it is a protected area, development is kept to a minimum. You won’t be bothered by loud beach bars of water sports (save some sea kayaks) – just a handful of restaurants, sun loungers and a picnic area.

7. Kaputaş Beach, Kas

The stunning beach is set beneath two forested cliffs , at the mouth of Kaputas Canyon. To reach it, you have to make your way down a staircase of 187 steps, but don’t forget to stop and marvel at the view from above and join many others in memorialising it on camera.

Once you’ve made your descent; you can sprawl out on a sunbed atop the pale pebbled sands and enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the clear turquoise waters. If you’re visiting with children, you can calmly let them play in the shallows, and take full advantage of the modern amenities that are a recent addition to Kaputas Beach. While popular with both locals and tourists, you don’t need to worry about too many crowds here during your luxury villa holiday in Turkey. There tend to be just enough visitors to keep the beach cafés running (including our favourite Turkish pancake shack).

Where to stay : Villa Tobias

8. Cleopatra Beach, Alanya

This 2.5-kilometre stretch of fine sand got its name from Queen Cleopatra herself, who is said to have fallen in love with the beautiful bay on a journey of the Mediterranean. After seeing the deep blue waters for yourself, you’re sure to understand why.

This spotlessly clean beach is lined by a picturesque walkway and all the shops, cafés and restaurants you need to spend all day on the beach. With over two million visitors every year (not to mention all the boat trips that stop off here daily), there are certain amenities to match, and families may relax knowing that there is even childcare on offer. The waters at Cleopatra Beach are warm and perfect for swimming. With some pretty large waves, water sports are always a good option, including surfing and paragliding.

9. Butterfly Valley, Ölüdeniz

But don’t shy away from Butterfly Valley even if you’re not interested in spending the night in a tent or eating communal meals at the campground. Anyone who wants to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of this beach should do so.

Accessible by boat from Ölüdeniz, or a very steep hike best left to veteran climbers, Butterfly Valley is located a bit off the beaten track. It is a picture-postcard cove of turquoise water , and white sand backed by the Babadag Mountains. There are plenty of great hiking trails around to enjoy during your villa holiday in Turkey, some of which lead to hidden waterfalls in the hills. The valley was named after its native 100-some species of butterflies, but the little critters are shy of noise and not so easily spotted these days.

Where to stay : Villa Gunes 

10. İztuzu Beach, Dalyan

There is very minimal construction on this beach, much to conserve its natural beauty and the important turtle habitats here. Iztuzu Beach is one of the most prominent nesting spots for loggerhead turtles in Turkey, which is why it’s also sometimes referred to as Turtle Beach. For this reason, it’s only open from 8 am to 8 pm during summer, leaving nights to four-legged visitors.

Visitors love Iztutu for its soft golden sands and pine-covered, hilly surroundings . The water is excellent for swimming and surfing, and there is plenty of room for privacy on the sand. Not many tourist crowds have made their way to this beach, but there are a handful of cafés serving tea and pancakes. If you’re curious to explore more of the area, you can also take a short boat trip across the river mouth, to a small shady beach on the other side.

Where to stay : Yuksel Evi

With all this talk of the best beaches in Turkey, you’re probably wondering where to find the best home base for all your explorations of the Turkish coast.  Well, taking a look through our expansive list  of villas to rent in Turkey is a great place to start. If you have any questions or need some help with your search, our friendly concierge team is always on hand as well.

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16 Top-Rated Beaches in Turkey

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 11, 2023

Author Jess Lee has been visiting and writing about Turkey's Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines for over a decade and has traveled extensively through the region. She lives in Turkey.

With a long western coastline that laps both the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, Turkey has long been a top beach destination.

European tourists arrive in their droves during summer to soak up a few weeks of sun, sand, and sea.

With a huge number of beach resorts to choose from, there's something for every kind of traveler here. If you like your beach vacation served up with a dash of city life and plenty of tourist attractions and family-friendly things to do, head to Antalya. Prefer nature and a quieter experience that's focused on the beach? Beeline straight to Patara or Çıralı.

July and August are peak season. At this time, accommodation prices skyrocket, and the sand at the most popular beaches gets packed.

The weather along this coast, though, is mostly warm and sunny from May all the way through to October, so spring and fall are great times to lap up Turkey's beach life without the crowds.

Find the best place to visit for your next seaside vacation with our list of the best beaches in Turkey.

2. Bodrum Peninsula

3. kaputaş beach, 4. çıralı beach, 5. çesme peninsula, 6. butterfly valley, 9. iztuzu beach, 10. bozburun & datça peninsulas, 12. ölüdeniz, 13. cleopatra beach, alanya, 14. pamucak beach, 15 gökçeada beaches, 16. bozcaada beaches, map of beaches in turkey, best time to visit turkey's beaches.

Highlight: Cooling off in the sea after exploring the sprawling Lycian ruins behind the beach

The longest beach in Turkey, Patara's sand runs for 18 kilometers along the coast backed by rolling, wild dunes in places.

Thanks to the sheer space on offer, all types of beachgoers are catered for.

If you want facilities, spend your day close to the main entrance where the sand is lined with shaded sun-loungers and a café is on hand for meals and refreshments.

Don't fancy hanging out with the crowds? Fine. Just stroll along the sand and you'll easily find a patch of beach with no one else in sight.

Even better, for those that get bored of a full day of swimming and sun-baking, just behind the sand are the ample ruins of Patara.

One of Ancient Lycia's cities, the monuments you can explore include a 5,000-seat theater, a column-lined colonnaded street, and a finely restored bouleuterion (parliament building). The beach entrance fee includes the ruins.

Many people arrive at Patara on day trips from nearby resort towns such as Kalkan, Kas, or Fethiye.

If you want to spend more time here though, the charming village of Gelemiş lies just a couple of kilometers inland from Patara's ruins and sand.

Highlights: Easygoing summer living in Bodrum Town and high-class resorts for beach-focused breaks

The Bodrum Peninsula is the prime beach resort area of Turkey's South Aegean coastline.

The peninsula's forested, hilly slopes give way to curving bays of shingle and sand beach that bring both European and Turkish visitors flocking here through the summer months.

Some of the prettiest strips of beach sit on the western tip of the peninsula near the villages of Yalikavak, Bitez, Gündogan, and Gümüslük, which are home to luxury holiday villa developments and boutique hotels.

Many visitors, though, base themselves in Bodrum Town, with its castle, old town area of white-washed cottages, and easy access to the sand out of town.

Both Bitez Beach, with its long strip of golden sand, and Ortakent Beach, with its yawning bay, are great family-friendly options. The aqua-colored sea here is shallow at the water's edge, the sand is backed by restaurants and cafés, and there are plenty of water sports opportunities.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bodrum

Highlight: Spending some time on one of the Mediterranean's most photographed patches of sand

Kaputaş Beach is a tiny bay on the main coastal road between the harbor towns of Kalkan and Kaş on Turkey's Mediterranean Coast.

Its dramatic location, squeezed between soaring and jagged cliff faces, has made this little patch of shingle beach world-famous.

To get here, beachgoers either have to walk down the long, 200-step staircase from the coastal highway above, or arrive by boat from either Kalkan or Kaş. Kaputaş is most striking when seen from the sea, making boat trips here the preferable way to arrive.

In summer, get here early, as it can get crammed with sunseekers.

Kalkan is only a seven-kilometer hop to the west, so it's a good base to visit from. There are plenty of boutique hotels scattered throughout the cobblestone alleys of Kalkan's old town.

Highlights: Chilling out on this laid-back stretch of beach, then hiking up to the flames of Chimaera after dark

This wide four-kilometer sweep of sand is backed by the laid-back village of Çıralı, framed by gardens of citrus trees and backed by forested hills.

Unlike many of Turkey's beach resorts, Çıralı has eschewed major development and favors guesthouses and low-lying small hotels rather than mega-resorts. This ensures a low-key atmosphere that remains focused on relaxing on the beach.

If you do fancy exploring farther than the sand, though, the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Olympos sit on the far southern end of the beach, while in the evening, you can hike up Mt. Olympos to view the famed eternal flame of the Chimaera.

Highlights: Windsurf or kitesurf off Alaçatı beach, sloth out on Ilica, then sample Alaçatı's vibrant dining and cafe scene after dark

This peninsula on the Aegean coast has become the favored vacation haunt for well-to-do Turks, but even today remains well off the radar of many foreign visitors.

The summer action centers on the village of Alaçatı, where gourmet dining and café culture keep a fashionable crowd busy when sunbathing is done for the day.

The Çesme Peninsula's beach scene was originally known for its windsurfing, and the area is still Turkey's number one windsurfing spot. These days, though, most people are here for the more relaxing pursuit of beach-slothing.

Beaches range from Alaçatı's Windsurfing Beach, where it's all about water sports, and local operators offer windsurfing and kitesurfing lessons and equipment rental, to exclusive beach club beaches, which host live music and other events during peak season, though often don't have much actual sand, to the long swath of soft white sand at Ilica Beach on the seafront of Çesme Town.

Highlight: Arrive by boat to see this hidden valley with its white-sand trim dramatically displayed

This lush gorge, hemmed in by rugged cliffs, opens up onto a wide slash of white sand and shingle at its seafront.

Arriving in Butterfly Valley by boat, watching the valley and beach reveal themselves as you sail past the high bluffs of the Yedi Buran Cape, is part of this beach's theatrical appeal.

Most visitors stop here as part of a boat day trip from Fethiye . During summer, there are also regular shuttle boats running to and from Ölüdeniz.

The only other way to access Butterfly Valley is by a tough and sweaty hike from the tiny settlement of Faralya on the clifftop above.

For nature lovers, Butterfly Valley has more up its sleeve than sun, sea, and sand. The valley garnered its name from the Jersey Tiger butterflies that are endemic here. If you feel like a stroll and some butterfly spotting, there are lovely walks through the valley beyond the beach.

Highlights: Beach life with city facilities and some of Turkey's most famous Greco-Roman ruins at your fingertips

Antalya is one of the most popular beach destinations on Turkey's long Mediterranean coast.

The city of Antalya itself is a big, bustling, and sprawling city with a historic old town of cobblestone alleys, Ottoman-era mansions, and Roman period remnants at its core.

The city's two main swaths of sandy coast are only a short jaunt from the central city, making this a great choice for travelers who don't like to stray too far from the facilities a city provides while they dose up on sun and sea.

The seven-kilometer-long stretch of Konyaaltı Beach sits just to the west of the city center and is easily accessed from the old town by tram.

The beach area is home to big resort hotels, restaurants, cafés, and all the facilities families could need for a day at the beach, including a water park for when the little ones need to blow off some steam.

To the east of town is Lara Beach, which has finer sand and less shingle. Visitors here are usually staying at the all-inclusive resort hotels that back the sand, as it is 10 kilometers from the center.

Highlights: Some of the prettiest Mediterranean views in Turkey, laid-back small-town life, and plenty of activities on offer

Although the charming seaside town of Kaş , with its whitewashed cottages, boutique hotels, and harbor of bobbing boats, opens out onto a rocky shore lapping the Mediterranean, good beaches are only a walk or boat ride away.

Closest to town is Little Pebble Beach, right on the edge of town. This patch of rocky seafront is great for swimming.

Big Pebble Beach, is just a further one-kilometer stroll out of town. The bay is mostly shingle but boasts decent facilities, with sun-loungers and shades for rent and a selection of cafés, while its sheltered location means calm waters for swimming.

The most popular summer sunbathing spot, though, is Limanağzı Beach, three kilometers away. Regular shuttle boats trundle between Kaş harbor and here throughout the day during the summer months allowing for easy access.

Limanağzı Beach has two sandy coves to choose from, both offering waterfront restaurants.

Highlights: Arriving by boat from Dalyan and enjoying the pristine, undeveloped vibe of this protected stretch of sand

As famous for its annual loggerhead turtle visitors as its sand, Iztuzu is a long arc of soft sand beach running for just under five kilometers.

All that room is a good thing, as this is a favorite stop for day trippers on boat tours from Marmaris, as well as being the main beach for the tourists staying in the little town of Dalyan, 10 kilometers to the north.

Iztuzu's protected status as a nature site has saved it from development.

There's a beach café dishing up good food, plenty of sun-shades and sun-loungers for rent and kayaks for hire, but no hotels or other resort facilities near the sand. This gives the beach a tranquil, old-fashioned vibe.

Beachgoers must also be aware of the beach's restricted areas, so they don't stray into turtle nesting areas, and nobody is allowed onto the sand after dark.

Highlight: All-inclusive resort living for family-friendly vacations

Stretching into the South Aegean Sea from the city of Marmaris, these two thin fingers of land are one of Turkey's major package holiday centers.

Every summer, vast numbers of northern Europeans beeline here for easygoing beach breaks in all-inclusive hotels that sit on the shoreline west from Marmaris.

The crowds, particularly on beaches close to Marmaris such as Turunc Beach and Içmeler Beach, can get crammed in summer, so it's well worth making the effort to travel farther west for a less sardine-like experience.

If you're not on a package holiday, head to Akyaka (on the Bozburun Peninsula), which is home to small guesthouses rather than big resorts.

Both Akyaka Beach in the center and Çinar Beach just a short hop to the west are good for sunbathing and swimming, while Akpinar Beach nearby is devoted to kitesurfing.

Highlights: Secluded, nature-focused, simple beach life with plenty of hiking opportunities

Sitting above a small patch of sand, secreted within the forest-clad slopes of the Yedi Buran Cape, Kabak is Turkey's bohemian beach resort.

A stay here is all about sleeping amid the pine trees in the rustic-chic cabins or tee-pees of the intimate camps, with their stunning views down onto the bay; morning yoga classes; and healthy organic dining.

From budget beginnings a few decades ago, most of the camps have now matured into more midrange options, with some offering pools and even spa facilities for a very high-class "camping" experience.

A few, though, still cater to passing hikers and others looking for cheaper digs and offer budget rates for those pitching their own tent.

Highlights: Paragliding above the beach for lush Mediterranean vistas, then soaking up the views from the sand

Meaning "Dead Sea" in Turkish, Ölüdeniz found fame early on in Turkey's tourism boom due to the astonishing beauty of its setting.

The long curve of Ölüdeniz Beach's soft golden sand is backed by thick pine tree forests that rise up the slopes of the mountains behind.

The beach's western end runs along a thin promontory that reaches into the sea, sheltering the bay beyond which is why the water here is so calm and has a slightly higher salt content than elsewhere (hence the beach's name).

This smaller western section is known as the "Lagoon" and is officially within a national park, so there's an entrance fee. The main strip of sand is a public beach.

Directly behind the main beach, the small settlement of Ölüdeniz is a package-holiday destination, particularly for British tourists. The vibe can be rather rollicking in high season.

If that's not your scene, Ölüdeniz is easily visited from Fethiye with regular public transport throughout the day.

Ölüdeniz's other claim to fame is that it's Turkey's main paragliding center. Come here to tandem paraglide with spectacular views over the rugged green-clad mountains and Mediterranean beyond, and then swoop down to land on the beach.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Ölüdeniz

Highlights: Family-friendly resort hub with boat trips and historic sites within easy reach

In the Mediterranean resort town of Alanya, the main sandy stretch is Cleopatra Beach, which is overlooked by the rugged, orange-hued high cliffs of Alanya's promontory.

During summer, this long prime sweep of soft golden sand, which rims the western side of town, is a popular choice for both locals and northern European visitors seeking a good-value beach vacation with plenty of resort options just a hop and skip from the sand.

The beach is well-organized, with plenty of sun loungers and shades to rent, as well as cabanas for families or groups who want a more shaded place to lounge.

There's also a large variety of restaurants lining the beachfront promenade that provide waiter service direct to sunbathers on the beach.

The Alanya Teleferik (cable car) up to the summit of the promontory where Alanya's castle and old town sit, begins just behind Cleopatra Beach, so it's very handy if you need a break from lounging and want to head out to explore the town's major tourist attractions.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Alanya

Highlights: A long, empty stretch of sand for a quiet day on the beach after exploring Ephesus

Backed by young palm trees, scrubland, and olive groves that give way to rolling hills, Pamucak Beach is a wide strip of golden sand that remains mostly undeveloped.

During summer, a restaurant opens here for food, refreshments, and sun lounger rental, but for most of the beach's fans, Pamucak's appeal lies in its old-fashioned beach style, with beachgoers bringing along their own picnic, and throwing down a towel on the sand to sunbathe.

With few facilities, it won't suit everyone, but if you're looking for a less crowded beach experience and happy to do-it-yourself with supplies, Pamucak provides all the simple pleasures of sun, sand, and surf. The sea here is also shallow enough at the water's edge to be safe for little ones to splash about.

Pamucak is nine kilometers west from Selçuk (eight from the ruins of Ephesus) and 14 kilometers north from Kuşadası , and is a stop off along the minibus routes between the two towns, so it's easily visited in combination with a visit to Ephesus .

Highlights: Easy beach weekend break from Istanbul, windsurfing and kitesurfing hub

Very popular with visitors from Istanbul, who arrive during the summer weekends, Gökçeada (Gökçe Island) sits in the Aegean Sea, just west of the Gallipoli Peninsula and is accessed by regular ferries from both the peninsula and Çanakkale.

Beaches are scattered across the island's coastline, with Aydıncık beach (also known as Kefalos beach), in Gökçeada's southeast corner, the most popular sandy stretch.

Thanks to the prevailing winds, Aydıncık Beach is a major windsurfing and kitesurfing destination, and water sports offices on the beach both rent equipment and provide lessons.

For those looking for a less active beach experience, there are facilities for a full day dedicated to the sun and sea, including sun lounger rental and restaurants.

Many of the beaches on Gökçeada have campsites either next to the beach or only a few steps away, so this is a very popular destination for budget beachgoers.

Highlights: Boutique hotel style, island life, and experiencing one of Turkey's most fashionable summer scenes

An upmarket getaway haunt, the Aegean Sea island of Bozcaada (Bozca Island) is jam-packed during the summer months with city-siders seeking a stylish vacation combined with sunbathing and sea breezes.

Beaches are scattered across the island. Swimmers and sunbathers should beeline to the long curving bay of Ayazma beach with its white sand, plentiful sun-loungers and shades to rent, and good choice of small cafés and restaurants on the road just behind the bay.

If Ayazma is too crowded for you, head to the long, golden-sand stretch of Sulubahçe beach, just to the west, which gets fewer visitors (except in high summer when both beaches are crammed). There are no restaurants or cafés here but plenty of sun loungers to rent, and there's a large shaded picnicking area in the grass just off the beach.

Bozcaada is accessed by ferries from the ferry dock near Geyikli and from Çanakkale.

The best time to visit Turkey's beaches is summer through early fall (the months of June, July, August, and September).

The weather is dependably hot and sunny for all four months, water temperatures in the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas are at their warmest, and the beachfront resort towns, which revolve around tourism, have kicked into high gear.

In peak season (July and August), when both European and Turkish families arrive for beach vacations during the summer school holiday period, expect daytime temperatures between 23 and 34 degrees Celsius with high humidity.

The quieter months of June and September are only slightly milder weather-wise, with average temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees. For swimmers and water sport enthusiasts, the average water temperature in June is 22 degrees, and during July, August, and September, it hovers around 24 degrees.

Many tourist-focused businesses and hotels along Turkey's Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines close completely during the off-season months of November, December, January, February, March, and April.

More on Turkey

The 20 best beaches in Turkey

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• roughguides.com
• best-beaches-turkey

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 17.01.2023

Beach holidays in Turkey are often synonymous with (mostly) British tourists occupying row after row of sun loungers, rowdy club nights and all-inclusive resorts. However, using public transport, or your own car, you can get to some of the best beaches in Turkey in no time.

1. Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan

2. patara beach, xanthos valley, 3. kabak beach, the lycian way, 4. cirali beach, the turquoise coast, 5. phaselis beach, the turquoise coast, 6. bozcaada beach, 7. belediye plaji beach, kıyıköy, 8. aydıncık beach, gökçeada, 9. gizli liman beach, gökçeada, 10. foça beach, 11. akliman beach, sinop, 12. karasu beach, dilek national park, 13. alaçatı beach, the çeşme peninsula – one of the best beaches in turkey for surfing, 14. pamucak beach, kuşadasi, 15. palamut bükü beach, datça, 16. kaputaş beach, kalkan, 17. butterfly valley beach, ölüdeniz, 18. antalya beaches, 19. kleopatra beach, alanya, 20. kargı beach, bodrum.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget , your essential guide for visiting Europe.

Meet the loggerhead turtles who bury their eggs in the protected sands of Ciralı. Or, escape the tourist haven of Bodrum, one of the best beach destinations in Turkey. Find secluded coves just down the coast.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Turkey, created by local experts

4 days  / from 1050 USD

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3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? Four days filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia make an unforgettable trip.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia

Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

9 days  / from 2500 USD

Magical Turkey

Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.

Tailor-made trips for   Turkey

Turtles and tourism coexist on the protected 4.5km of hard-packed sands of Iztuzu beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in Turkey. Tracks emerging from the sea are visible on the sand in June and July. These are formed when turtles have dragged themselves ashore to lay their eggs, and the marshes behind the beach are often alive with other wildlife too.

While lack of shade is often a problem on this beach, the gently shelving seabed calms the choppy waters, making Iztuzu excellent for children.

This tailor-made trip to Delightful Turkey is for those who want to discover as much as of Turkey as possible in under one week. Highlights include the Old Town of Istanbul, the valleys of Cappadocia, the birth of Sufism and the historical city of Ephesus.

Where to stay near Iztuzu Beach:

• Best for river views: Midas Pension
• Best for comfort: Dalyan Hotel Nish Caria

Find more accommodation options to stay near Iztuzu Beach

Iztuzu Beach and Dalyan © Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock

Patara’s fine white-sand beach ranks as one of the longest continuous beach in the Mediterranean. It measures 9km from the access road to the mouth of the Eşen Çayı, and then another 6km to the end.

In peak season the immediate vicinity of the beach entrance gets crowded, but walking northwest past the dunes brings you to plenty of solitary spots. Spring and autumn swimming is delightful, but in summer the exposed shoreline can be battered by body-surfable waves.

Where to stay near Patara Beach:

• Best for relaxation: Dardanos Hotel
• Best for friendly vibes: Flower Hotel Patara

Find more accommodation options to stay near Patara Beach

Aerial view of an untouched Patara Beach in Antalya, Turkey © proslgn/Shutterstock

The small village of Kabak is the perfect place to escape package holiday groups. Most visitors come here to chill out in one of the many wooden huts and bungalows, set in the pine-forested valley behind the sand-and-pebble beach. Wear mosquito repellent in the summer though, as these pesky insects are everywhere.

Find more inspiration for visiting Turkey with our guide to the best things to do in Turkey .

Beautiful beach view of Kabak Valley near Fethiye, Turkey. © Shutterstock

The laidback resort, shrouded in citrus groves, is situated on a narrow plain between the mountains and a long, curving 3km-long shingle beach, considered one of the best beaches in Turkey. It is possible to walk along the beach to the ruins of ancient Olympos, as well as longer hikes on the Lycian Way, which blazes its way through the settlement.

Çiralı is safeguarded by various Turkish bodies for its unique ecology. This has enabled threatened loggerhead and green sea turtles to continue laying their eggs here. Be careful not to so dig up, litter or nocturnally illuminate the beach during the summer nesting season.

Where to stay near Cirali Beach:

• Best for boutique stays: Kimera Lounge Boutique Hotel & Spa
• Best for couples: Secret Garden Hotel & Bungalows

Find more accommodation options to stay near Cirali Beach

Cirali Olympos beach at Mediterranean sea, Antalya Province, Turkey © Shutterstock

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Heading north from Olympos, there’s scant pretext to stop before Antalya. Yet ancient Phaselis, with its superb swimming opportunities, will certainly tempt you off the main road.

The ruins of Phaselis flank three small bays, providing ample opportunity to contemplate antique monuments while lying on the beach. The natural beauty of the clear sea makes for a rewarding half-day outing. Bring a picnic if you don’t fancy the car-park snack caravans.

The scenic view of the beach of Phaselis ancient city, Antalya © Shutterstock

Sitting beneath the gently undulating countryside of Bozcaada there are a few good beaches, the most developed being Ayazma, which offers watersports and sunbeds. The next bay west, Sulubahçe, has good broad sand but no parking. For the best beaches head to the secluded, sandy Beylik cove or Aqvaryum bay, tucked scenically to one side of the Mermer Burnu cape.

Ayazma Beach, Bozcaada, Turkey © Kemal Mardin/Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Turkey and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Belediye Plaji is a long stretch of sandy beach that’s backed by low cliffs packed with fossils. Sadly, in summer, campers’ rubbish and semi-permanent tents can blight this beautiful landscape. But with your own transport, head north to find several more almost empty beaches – some of the most stunning and undeveloped in Turkey.

Empty beach in the Black Sea town of Kiyikoy © Shutterstock

Arguably one of the best beaches in Turkey, just 10km from the town, this beach is 1500m of sugary blonde sand, lapped by warm, pristine water.

The salt lake just inland is a major habitat for migratory birds, especially flamingos. The entire area is supposedly a protected reserve. However this has neither prevented tourist development nor deterred Balkan tourists from wallowing in the shoreline’s black mud, said to have healing properties.

Aydincik, Turkey © Shutterstock

This is the final beach along the Gökçeada coastline, 3km west of little Uğurlu fishing port. It has no facilities but fine sand and a pine-grove backdrop make this a worthwhile and relaxing stop.

Gizli Liman beach, Turkey © Shutterstock

Some excellent beaches are dotted along the scenic 20km road that separates Foça from Yeni Foça. However, they’re only accessible by foot or by paying fees to the campsites that own them. The best sand is at Acar Kamping (after 10km), but 700m before that, paths from the roadside lead down beneath some high voltage power lines to a succession of idyllic coves opposite an islet.

Foca beach, Izmir province, Turkey © Shutterstock

On the Black Sea coast in northern Turkey, this beach is a fine stretch of white sand. It's backed by pine forests and picnic areas and is less frequented than the other beaches. However, unpredictable currents can make swimming dangerous here.

Akliman is located 8 kilometers from Sinop city center © Shutterstock

The most visited portion of the unrestricted zone of Dilek National Park has four good, but often windswept, beaches. The prettiest of them all is Karasu, a 700m stretch of gravel, perfect for swimming. Stand in the sea for long enough and the fish will nibble on your toes.

Dilek Peninsula National Park in Turkey © Shutterstock

For unique windsurfing and kiteboarding conditions, head to a 300m-long sandy beach. Just 4km south of Alaçatı, it's one of the most upmarket locales on the Aegean coast. The strong, reliable “Meltemi” wind, combined with shallow water and lack of waves, makes this bay ideal for learners.

Where to stay near Alaçatı Beach:

• Best for location: Alacatı Port Ladera Hotel
• Best for families: Biblos Resort Alaçatı

Find more accommodation options to stay near Alaçatı Beach

Windsurfing in Alacati, Cesme, Turkey © Shutterstock

The main appeal of this area of the Aegean coast is the posse of beaches that fringe the city of Kuşadasi. One of the best beaches in Turkey, 15km north of the city and accessible by minibus, is Pamucak beach. Note the sea can be rough on windy days.

Pamucak Beach view from mountain in Kusadasi © Shutterstock

The 9km of rough coast road that links Medusiye Bükü with Palamut Bükü makes a tricky prospect without your own transportation. It’s worth the effort though, as this stark setting is balanced by a kilometre-long beach of tiny pebbles, lapped by brisk clear water, with an islet offshore.

Palamut Buku bay in Datca, Turkey © Shutterstock

The deep canyon known as Kaputaş Gorge slashes back into the cliffs on the beautiful coastal road to Kaş, just under 6km out of Kalkan. Steps from the roadside parking lead down to Kaputaş beach, a 150m expanse of pebble and blonde sand. Kaputaş has served as the backdrop for innumerable TV advert shoots, and, unless there’s been a southerly storm, the water is crystalline.

Where to stay near Kaputaş Beach:

• Best for sea view: Kalkan Beach Park Hotel
• Best for modern stays: Payava Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay near Kaputaş Beach

Sandy Kaputas beach - one of the best beaches in Turkey © Ale_Koziura/Shutterstock

Butterfly Valley beach is named after the many species that flutter about during the right seasons. The beach is accessible by boat from Ölüdeniz or a rocky path leading down from the road. The golden sands are backed by a beautiful limestone canyon just inland.

There is a lot more to Turkey than meets the eye. Between the beaches and bustling markets lies a wealth of interesting history filled with religious and literary figures, civil war and a multitude of languages. Learn a little more about Turkey with these facts about Turkey you never knew .

Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Turkey © Shutterstock

Antalya’s western beach, Konyaatı, now spruced up, is finally beginning to live up to its dramatic situation between Antalya’s cliffs and the Beydağları mountains. Shingle, rather than sand, it’s clean and well maintained. However, for fine sand head to Lara beach, 10km southeast of Antalya by bus. The long, gentle waves make for some great swimming spots.

Lara beach near Antalya in Turkey © Shutterstock

Offering watersports and activities from parasailing and banana-boating to go-karting, it's no wonder Kleopatra Beach is one of the best beaches in Turkey. This is the most popular beach in the local area, lined with a multitude of bars, restaurants and souvenir shops as well as tattoo parlours.

Alanya. Turkey. View of the city from fortress © Shutterstock

Explore two Turkish highlights on our tailor-made trip to Istanbul and Cappadocia . Visit Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

Where to stay near Kleopatra Beach:

• Best for location: Aria Riva Apart Hotel
• Best for design: Anjeliq Downtown Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay near Kleopatra Beach

It’s fair to say that the coastal resort of Bodrum has a certain reputation. However its southern flank holds some fantastic beaches. Many of the area's beaches are crowded by (mostly) British tourists and lined with rowdy clubs and bars. However, Kargı beach is somewhat quieter. It's sandy and gently sloping, overlooked by the ubiquitous villas and a handful of fish restaurants.

The next cove on, Bağla, seems initially off-putting. But persevere and you’ll find some of the softest sand on the peninsula.

Spend your day on a boat tour visiting Bodrum's hidden bays. Swim in the turquoise waters surrounding Black Island and relax with lunch at Aquarius Bay.

Bagla in Bodrum province of Turkey © Shutterstock

Turkey is one of the best places to travel with kids. Check out our guide to the best places to go with kids and find some more inspirational ideas for the family holidays.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the Turkey without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Visiting Turkey is a trully unforgetable expirience. For more inspirational travel tips check our Rough Guide books . If you travel further in Turkey , read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Turkey. For inspiration use the itineraries and our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: Iztuzu Beach and Dalyan © Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock

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Turkey boasts countless attractions but it is no surprise that its 7,000 km long coastline (More than double that of Vietnam, when we have 3,260km of coastline) is one of the most popular tourist attractions. So, let’s check out our top rated 17+ top beaches in Turkey which including best beaches in Turkey, most beautiful beaches in Turkey, best beach to visit in Turkey, best beaches in Turkey for families, best beaches in Turkey for snorkeling as follows!

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Many of Türkiye’s most beautiful landscapes can be found along the coast, offering rich local culture to experience right on the sandy shore. So if you’re thinking of flying to the Aegean Sea, you might be curious about where the best beaches in Turkey can be found.

The truth is that it’s hard to find a beach in Türkiye that doesn’t impress, but we’ve still done some basic steps for you and picked out our personal favorites.

With a coastline of 7,200 km, millions of people flock to Türkiye each year to enjoy a wonderful combination of culture, history and beachside experiences. Along the sun-drenched coast, calm, clear waters lap against pristine sands and hidden emerald coves protected by the ruins of ancient civilizations.

From family-friendly beaches to rare gems, these outstanding stretches of sand will have you booking your tickets immediately.

Kabak Beach, Fethiye (# best beaches in turkey)

About 25 kilometers from the resort town of Ölüdeniz, you’ll find the free-style village of Kabak, a popular retreat for backpackers, yogis and nature enthusiasts. Another 30-minute walk will take you down the steep path to Kabak Beach, the jewel of Fethiye.

Located about 25 kilometers south of Ölüdeniz, Kabak beach is a splendid little pocket of white sand and pebbles with clear turquoise waters and nothing to disturb the sense of tranquility. Surrounded on three sides by lush pine forests, the pristine semicircular bay is mainly frequented by backpackers and hikers following the Lycian Way.

The beach is a 30-minute walk from the village of the same name, down a steep path, but its dreamy views and laid-back atmosphere make the effort worth it when you see it in person The most beautiful in Turkey.

This crescent-shaped bay, surrounded by pine forests and mountains, can only be reached by hiking along this trail, but the quiet and tranquil beach below is worth the effort (and the views from above is also stunning).

If you like quiet and pristine beaches, Kabak is the perfect choice. Located at the end of the Kabak valley, on the southwest coast where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean, this stunning little area of shingle beach is surrounded by lush pine forests. Kabak is an exciting adventure with paths located along the tops of large cliffs.

On the pebbles and white sands of Kabak Beach, you’ll mostly walk with locals and backpackers along the Lycian road. You won’t find many amenities, water sports or beach chairs for rent.

The relaxed atmosphere is palpable and people come here mainly to admire the natural beauty and undisturbed peace during their stay at their villa in Turkey.

Several shaded areas are available to avoid the sun’s rays with a fruit juice or beer from one of the beach bars. Other than that, it’s just you, the Mediterranean Sea, and a few friendly turtles.

Mermerli Beach, Antalya (# turkey top beaches)

In the midst of a bustling city like Antalya, you might not expect to find one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, but you actually can.

Not far from the city center, Mermerli beach is a small city beach located next to the old port. Since Antalya is a pedestrian-only area, Mermerli is within walking distance, but there’s nothing better than a place to relax, sunbathe, and swim after a long morning strolling around town.

To enter the beach, you will have to pay a small fee at the entrance to Mermerli Restaurant and then go down the wooden stairs. This fee includes sunbeds and umbrellas, and you can enjoy drinks, ice cream and food delivered right to your seat by the restaurant.

Stone plateaus and wooden terraces extend the small natural beach with brown sand and pebbles, but remember that space here is limited. However, there is plenty of water and a clear view of the ahead coast.

Blue Lagoon, Ölüdeniz (# top beaches in turkey)

Blue Lagoon Ölüdeniz is perhaps the most famous beach in Türkiye, and for good reason. Few places in the world can match its natural beauty, attracting tourists to revel in the vivid turquoise waters for a few relaxing hours on shore.

Sparkling with every shade of blue, the sea here is so vibrant it’s almost surreal. Oludeniz is a popular paragliding destination, attracting experts and first-time paragliders like us from all over the world. From Mount Babadag, you soar into the sky from one of the highest commercial paragliding take-off locations in the entire world!

This lagoon is a much-photographed gem on Turkey’s southern coast, famous for its varying shades of turquoise and blue as well as its soft sand

This vast bay lies at the meeting point of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, in a protected natural park with the Babadag Mountains as its backdrop. The relatively rough sandy beach is where most visitors like to lounge, warm and perfect for safe play for children.

Until the early 1980s, the Blue Lagoon remained a hidden gem, known only to hippies and backpackers. Today, it has flourished with bars, restaurants and many activities.

One of the most popular pastimes is enjoying the view from above while paragliding from the nearby mountains. Or if you prefer to stay at sea level, you can rent a paddleboard to explore.

Whichever you choose, you’ll soon understand why Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed beaches in Europe and the perfect place to visit during your luxury holiday in Turkey.

Icmeler Beach, Marmaris (# most beautiful beaches in turkey)

Nestled just 5 miles from Marmaris, the golden sands of Icmeler Beach grace the resort town of the same name. Once a modest fishing village, Icmeler has transformed into one of Turkey’s most popular seaside getaways, catering to both families and large groups of people.

Despite being surrounded by pine forests and flanked by the Taurus Mountains, Icmeler Beach has a surprisingly Caribbean feel. The 6km stretch of sand never feels overcrowded thanks to a nightly cleaning operation that leaves visitors spotless the next day.

Whether you seek excitement or total relaxation, Icmeler Beach has it all, along with plenty of bars and restaurants. The calm waters with small waves are ideal for lounging in the sun and taking long swims.

For water sports enthusiasts, there are activities ranging from paragliding to jet skiing and scuba diving. The nearby hills have great hiking trails with panoramic views of the beach.

Patara Beach, Gelemiş (# best beach to visit in turkey)

Stretching along the Turkish Riviera – one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines, close to the ancient Lycian city of Patara, the stunning 18km long Patara beach is a nature lover’s paradise, with peaks Towering limestone mountains, undulating sand dunes and well-preserved archaeological ruins provide a stunning backdrop to the dazzling turquoise sea.

Part of a national park, the area is rich in bird species and is a breeding ground for endangered turtles. In addition to being the country’s longest beach, Patara is also one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches along the Mediterranean.

Named after the nearby ancient Lycian city of Patara, this beach requires a walk through the ruins (for a small entrance fee), making for a stunning vista of ruins of temples, roads Ancient streets and domes above the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Stretching 18km, Patara is Türkiye’s longest beach, with minimal development, ensuring you can easily find a private spot. Patara is one of the best beaches in Türkiye. It is located in a national park where Loggerhead turtles are protected. From May and October, the beach will be closed after sunset to allow turtles to lay and incubate their eggs.

Ideal for long walks, sunbathing and swimming, the warm, shallow waters are perfect for children and great for snorkeling during your vacation in Turkey.

This pristine paradise of limestone peaks and rolling white sand dunes is part of a national park. Vibrant local birdlife and protected breeding grounds for loggerhead turtles add to the natural beauty.

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The 10 Best Beaches in Turkey

With 7,200 km (4,500 miles) of coastline, Turkey is one of the world's top beach destinations. Over 450 of the country's beaches have been awarded blue flag certification, which can make choosing where to go a big task for beach lovers. Take a look at our pick of the 10 best beaches in Turkey for some travel inspiration. You will see, it's not hard to find a beach in Turkey that is your perfect fit.

Blue Lagoon, Fethiye

The Blue Lagoon in Fethiye is one of the most stunning beaches in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is no wonder that the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism uses its evocative image on the cover of its guidebooks!

The stretch of coastline twists into a giant curve, cradling the bay. The water with its sapphire hue is unbelievably clear. Mountains encircle the entire coast to form a calm and wave-less lagoon.

The still waters provide the perfect backdrop for a multitude of activities both in and out of the water, including paragliding and scuba diving.

Kaputas Beach, Kas

If you are near Kas, Kaputas Beach is a must-see. Located at the mouth of a canyon, it is a little piece of paradise.

The beach is accessed via more than 150 steep steps. While this descent might not be everyone's idea of fun, the breathtaking view, comprising mountains, islands, white sands, and the pure blue water, is worth the sweat!

Kaputas Beach is public place and under protection by the local government, so there are no privately owned resorts or restaurants in the area. Currently, only one government bar offers drinks and fast food at affordable prices as well as sunbeds and parasols for hire.

Butterfly Valley, Fethiye

As the name suggests, Butterfly Valley is a haven for nature. In the months of June through to September, thousands of butterflies group together and coast through the valley. The bay area is also a peaceful retreat for holidaymakers seeking to reset and relax.

As Butterfly Valley is a designated nature reserve, commercial buildings and activities are banned on the bay. This is a place to camp responsibly and really enjoy the natural setting. The beach is kissed by clear sapphire seas and framed by steep rocks, painting a truly amazing picture.

Away from the bay, a walk to the back of the valley takes you to a waterfall and a sea of wildflowers.

Patara Beach, Gelemis

This broad strip of gently shifting white sand is Turkey's longest beach. People love its warm waters, the body surfing, the waves, and the serried ranks of dunes.

Food and drink there falls within a very reasonable price range, and it is easy to hire parasols and sunbeds at an affordable price.

Cleopatra Beach, Alanya

The enchanting Cleopatra Beach lies at the foot of the rolling hills of the magical medieval castle of Alanya. Legend has it that this beach was enjoyed by Anthony and Cleopatra.

It is popular with young people as well as families due to its variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Its shallow, translucent Mediterranean waters are ideal for swimming and water activities.

Konyaalti Beach, Antalya

Konyaalti Beach is one of Antalya's urban beaches, stretching for 7 km on the west side of this ancient port city.

It is best known for high quality resorts and entertainment venues, a tree-lined beach park full of Turkish pine and hibiscus flowers, and a water park. An endless array of food courts and tasty treats can be found behind the beach.

Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan

This long sandy beach has the sea on one side and a maze lake on the other. Also known as Turtle Beach, it is a state-protected nesting site of the loggerhead turtle.

To protect the turtles, a whole stretch of the beach is prohibited for tourist activities and the beach is closed at night. There is also a Conservation Centre where you can learn more about the endangered species.

Kabak Beach, Fethiye

Kabak Beach is another beautiful secluded bay along the Turquoise Coast. Located about 25 km south of Oludeniz, it is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking to retreat into a secret paradise.

To get to this beautiful little beach, you have to be ready for a hike as the beach is a 30-minute walk from the village with the same name. The bay is so peaceful and surrounded on three sides by luxuriant pine forest. The picturesque views make the hike worthwhile.

Cirali Beach, Kemer

This is one of the most famous beaches of the Antalya region. Lapped by glistening blue waters and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, the beach is a long stretch of sand and pebbles which never gets crowded. It is the ideal place for travelers seeking peace and quiet.

The ancient ruins of Olympos at the southern end of the beach can be reached on foot. As this area is a nesting site for turtles, the beach is closed at night.

Lara Beach, Antalya

Lara Beach is a lovely strip of beach in front of some of the best hotels in Antalya. It is remarkably clean and offers a wide variety of water sports, facilities, and attractions. Though Lara Beach is busy in the high season, it is still a great place to spend summer vacation.

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Sun, sand and turquoise waters await you

Best Beaches in Turkey

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It's going to be hard to resist the  best   beaches in Turkey . After reading this ranking of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey , you will have only one desire: pack your suitcase, dig up your sunglasses, your sunscreen and your flip flops, ready to bask on the most incredible beaches in Turkey .

Kaputaş beach, Ölüdeniz beach, Kleopatra beach, Butterfly valley beach, the most beautiful beaches in Turkey have names that make you dream. Sun, sand and turquoise waters await you. Did you know that the word "turquoise" comes from "Turkey"?

Book your flights at the best price as well as your accommodation , tourist apartment, resort, villa or youth hostel and your tours and activities for an unforgettable stay on one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey .

1. Kleopatra Beach

Kleopatra beach is the golden sand beach of your dreams. Very well maintained and clean, it is a perfect beach for a day out with family, lovers or friends. You can bring your towel and enjoy a lazy day on this dream beach or rent a deckchair (around 10 euros per day).

On its crystalline blue waters, you will occasionally spot a pirate galleon that seems to come from another era. Make your children happy and board this funny boat .

During your stay, visit the  Best Hidden Gems in Turkey ,  Best Places to Visit in Turkey ,  Best Things to do in Turkey ,  Best Castles in Turkey  as well as the  Best Ski Resorts in Turkey  and discover the  best of Turkey .

Book your flights to Antalya and your accommodation at the best price in Alanya as well as your tours and activities , such as a boat trip or a scuba diving tour .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Antalya Airport and drive to Alanya (1h50)

  Where to stay:  “ Labranda Alantur ” is a 5-star resort with direct access to the beach.

2. Gocek Beach

Göcek beach is located just a 40-minute drive from the amazing Ölüdeniz beach, which is also ranked among the best beaches in Turkey . This magnificent seaside resort is a popular destination for boat enthusiasts since Göcek has six marinas. You will therefore see the amazing beaches but also the most beautiful yachts in Turkey.

Need more inspiration? Visit the  Best Hidden Gems in Turkey ,  Best Places to Visit in Turkey ,  Best Things to do in Turkey ,  Best Castles in Turkey  as well as the  Best Ski Resorts in Turkey  and discover the  best of Turkey .

Book your flights to Dalaman Airport (30 min by car) as well as your accommodation at the best price in Göcek.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (30 min by car or book your transfer online).

  Where to stay:   “ Renka Hotel & Spa ” features a Spa & Wellness Centre. Couples particularly like the location.

3. Butterfly Valley Beach - Kelebekler Vadisi beach  

Faralya - Fethiye

This incredible beach of rare beauty is located in the Butterfly Valley, where butterflies come to lay their eggs. Be sure to climb the hill at the top of this beach to take a picture of it. Be careful though, as the hiking trail is not secure. The beach is not very easy to access from the hills.

The easiest way is to book a boat from Ölüdeniz beach to discover Kelebekler Vadisi beach and stop there for a few moments or a few hours. During your stay, be sure to visit Ölüdeniz Beach, a 15-minute drive from Kelebekler Vadisi beach.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights   to Dalaman Airport (1 hour by car) or Antalya Airport (3 hours). Book a boat in Ölüdeniz to explore this beautiful beach that is difficult to access by land.

  Where to stay:  “ Seaview Faralya ” is located a few metres from this beach, in the Butterfly Valley.

4. Icmeler Beach

Icmeler - Marmaris

As you will have noticed, the best beaches in Turkey are almost all found in the province of Muğla in west-central Turkey. From Dalaman Airport you will be spoiled for choice and can explore the beaches of Ölüdeniz, Kabak, Göcek or Içmeler.

İçmeler beach is a sandy beach surrounded by nice restaurants offering food at low prices. The beach is very clean and it is possible to come with your towel or rent a deckchair for the day. If you want to discover other beautiful beaches and coves, board a small boat and sail around the area. İçmeler is located a 15-minute drive from Marmaris , one of the most beautiful and largest resorts in Turkey .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights   to Dalaman Airport (1h40) and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  “ Grand Aquarium ” is a perfect hotel for families with its beautiful swimming pool and water slides.

5. Kaputas beach

Considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey , Kaputaş beach should be at the top of your to do list during your stay in Turkey . In addition to being beautiful, the beach is easy to access and you can spend the day there at small cost. A snack bar restaurant offers small snacks at affordable prices and the rental of a deckchair is less than 3 euros per day).

Kaputaş beach is located on the D400 road which leads to Kas. During your stay, be sure to visit Ölüdeniz beach, located 1 hour by car from Kaputaş beach.

Book your flights and your accommodation in Kas or Antalya .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (1h50 min by car) or Antalya Airport (3h by car).

  Where to stay:  “ Kalkan Park Hotel ” surrounded by the natural beauty of Kalkan’s lush forest and exotic flowers.

6. Kabak Beach

This magnificent beach is a little less touristy than some other Turkish beaches . Here you will mostly come across Turkish families who have come to enjoy a little corner of paradise. It may seem surprising but there also seems to be, at any time of the year, a small group of hippies who also like to meet on this paradisiacal beach. This beach attracts different people who all share a love for nature and beautiful landscapes.

Access to this beach is not easy and requires a bit of agility, so we do not recommend it to travellers with motor difficulties or families with small children.

During your stay, be sure to visit Ölüdeniz Beach. Located 30 minutes by car, it is also ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Turkey .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (1h30) as well as your transfer .

  Where to stay:  “ Seaview Faralya ” located 2km from Kaback beach.

7. Cirali Beach

Cirali - Antalya

Çıralı beach is one of the best beaches in Turkey . Less frequented than some other beaches, it is popular with travellers looking for calm and serenity. Even during the high season (July and August) this beach is a haven of peace for those looking for relaxation, idleness or simply recharging their batteries in the middle of nature. Çıralı is a small village located in the middle of a natural park, which explains why there are no big hotels and big buildings. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers, yoga and…. calm….

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Antalya (1h30) and your transfer online.

  Where to stay:  “ Kimera Hotel - Yoga & Spa ”, 50 metres from Çıralı beach.

8. Olympos beach

This beach is so beautiful that we could not fail to mention it even though… it is located 200 metres on foot from " Çıralı beach" which is also classified among the most beautiful beaches in Turkey . Olympos beach benefits from the same assets as its neighbour: crystal clear waters, calm and a protected environment since this beach is located in a nature reserve.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Antalya (1h30) and your  transfer  online.

  Where to stay:  “ Azur Hotel ” set among citrus trees and aromatic plants.

9. Olüdeniz Beach

The blue waters of Ölüdeniz await you this summer. You will find everything you need on site. Many restaurants and shops are located around this world-famous beach. It is a perfect place for a day out with family or friends. If you have young children with you, swim in the blue lagoon, especially if the waves are strong on that day.

Book your flights to Dalaman Airport as well as your accommodation in Ölüdeniz, your tours and activities in Turkey, such as a “ Paragliding tour over the blue lagoon of Oludeniz ”.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Dalaman Airport (1 hour by car) or Antalya Airport (3 hours by car). 

  Where to stay:  “ Ünsal Hotel ” just a 2-minute walk from the beach.

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• 20 Beaches in Turkey

Turkey Beaches

Here is the list of best beaches in turkey:, quick navigation.

Kabak Beach

Kleopatra Beach

Iztuzu Beach

Blue Lagoon - Oludeniz Beach

Konyaalti Beach

Patara Beach

Cirali Beach

Best of Greece

Kaputas Beach

Best of Switzerland

Butterfly Valley Beach

Best of Spain

Ovabuku Beach

Best of Paris

Icmeler Beach

Best of Italy

Alacati Beach

Best of London

Ortakent Beach

Best of Amsterdam

Best of Rome

Altinkum Beach

Best of Venice

Kalkan Beach

Best of Netherlands

Mermerli Beach

Karasu Beach

Sile Aqua Beach

Ilica Beach

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Unearth the hidden treasures of Gumusler Monastery, a remarkable monastic complex nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey. Enhanced by exploring Europe trip packages, this ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating journey into the region's rich religious and cultural heritage.Explore the intricate frescoes, cave chapels, and underground tunnels, each telling stories of spiritual devotion and artistic brilliance. The serenity of Gumusler Monastery's surroundings, away from the crowds, creates a tranquil atmosphere ideal for reflection and exploration.A visit to Gumusler Monastery is an immersive experience, offering insights into the monastic life of the past and the architectural wonders created by its inhabitants. Embrace the spiritual ambiance and admire the exquisite craftsmanship that makes this hidden gem an exceptional destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the soul-stirring charm of Cappadocia's ancient heritage.

Nestled on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey, the Ari Burnu Cemetery stands as a poignant testament to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. Enhanced by exploring Europe trip packages, this hallowed ground offers a solemn and reflective atmosphere, serving as the final resting place for those who fought valiantly on this historic battleground.As you enter the cemetery, you are immediately struck by the rows upon rows of pristine gravestones, each one representing a life cut short in the pursuit of duty. The quiet serenity that envelops the cemetery invites contemplation and remembrance. Here, visitors have the opportunity to pay their respects, honoring the bravery and resilience of the fallen soldiers.Walking along the paths, you'll notice the meticulously maintained graves, adorned with flowers, wreaths, and personal mementos left by visitors from around the world. These offerings stand as gestures of gratitude and serve as a reminder that the sacrifices made in the name of freedom will never be forgotten.The cemetery also features poignant memorials and plaques that recount the stories of the soldiers and the battles fought in this historic campaign. These tributes offer a glimpse into the human experiences and hardships faced by the soldiers, further deepening the significance of this sacred ground.

Walking along Curetes Street today, visitors are transported back in time. Enhanced by Europe packages, The well-preserved ruins reveal the grandeur of the ancient city, with remnants of towering columns, intricate facades, and ornate carvings. As you stroll along the street, you can imagine the sound of bustling footsteps, the clinking of merchant stalls, and the lively conversations of residents and visitors.The street was lined with various structures, including shops, houses, public buildings, and temples, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the ancient world. The facades of these structures, adorned with sculptural reliefs and decorative elements, provide a fascinating insight into the artistic and cultural achievements of the time.Curetes Street was more than just a thoroughfare; it was a place where the social, commercial, and spiritual life of Ephesus converged. The street led to the iconic Library of Celsus, the impressive Temple of Hadrian, and other significant structures, making it a vibrant and significant part of the city's fabric.Visiting Curetes Street allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of ancient Ephesians, experiencing the ambience of a thriving ancient city. It is an opportunity to appreciate the rich history, architectural ingenuity, and cultural heritage of Ephesus, and to marvel at the remarkable preservation of this archaeological treasure. As you explore the remnants of Curetes Street, you can't help but be captivated by the sense of connection to the past and the enduring legacy of this magnificent ancient city.

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13 Breathtaking Beaches in Antalya, Turkey

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

If you are looking for a tropical vacation in Turkey, there is no better place to be than the incredible beaches in Antalya.

This southern Mediterranean region of Turkey is nicknamed the Turquoise Coast, hugely due to its clear turquoise waters and long stretches of sandy beaches.

This region has the highest concentration of blue-flag beaches in the country, a total of 213 . 

Visitors will find plenty of water sports on Antalya’s beaches, as well as some of the most luxurious beach resorts in Turkey that are incredible and fun!

For that reason, we have decided to write this guide on the best beaches in Antalya and share with you some of our favorite attractions in Antalya!

Planning a trip to Antalya last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Antalya:

• Airport Shuttle From Antalya Airport To City Center (Best way to get into town!)

Here are our recommended tours in Antalya:

• City Tour w/ Cable Car, Boat Trip and Waterfall (A must-do In Antalya!)
• Suluada Island Boat Trip (Secluded island for swimming and snorkeling)
• Traditional Turkish Bath with Massages
• Taurus Mountains Full-Day Jeep Safari (Great for exploring off the beaten path)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Antalya:

• Sky Kamer Hotel Antalya (Has seaview rooms in the historic center!)
• Megasaray Westbeach Antalya (All-inclusive resort right on the beach!)
• Hostel Vauge (Most famous hostel in Antalya!)

Are There Sandy Beaches in Antalya?

Luckily for all beach lovers, there are plenty of sandy beaches in Antalya. Many of which are within a short drive or a short public transport ride from Antalya city center. Whether you are searching for beautiful beaches or crystal-clear water, Turkey’s Mediterranean coast will provide that and more.

Though there are plenty of sandy beaches, there are also numerous pebbly beaches in Antalya.

To avoid some of the beaches with pebbles, here are some of the best sandy beaches on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey:

• Cleopatra Beach
• Kaputas Beach
• Cirali Beach
• Patara Beach

Blue Flag Beaches In Antalya

If you are from somewhere else besides Europe, you might not know what a blue flag beach is. Simply put, blue flag beaches are pretty much the gold standard for beaches. The award is given out by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained. -Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)

For tourists, these beaches are guaranteed to have some of the cleanest waters you can find for swimming.

What Are the Best Antalya Beaches?

In no particular order, here are some of the best Antalya Beaches!

1. Lara Beach

Lara Beach is perhaps the most popular blue flag beach in not just Antalya, but the entire Turkish Riviera. Boasting a long, sandy stretch of beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters, it is no wonder why Lara Beach in Antalya is so popular with visitors.

Lined with sun loungers and umbrellas that are available to rent for a low fee, this soft-sand beach is perfect for sunbathing and a must-visit on your trip to Antalya . You will be spoilt for choice with beach clubs and nice dining options to enjoy lunch overlooking the beach. 

Located east of the city center, you can easily reach Lara Beach within 40 minutes using public transport or by car in 30 minutes. There are many facilities nearby, such as showers, bathrooms, and places for you to change. 

Many holiday goers choose to stay in one of the many 5-star hotels and resorts that are situated at Lara Beach.

If you are searching for a high-end, cost-effective beach holiday, then staying at one of the Lara Beach resorts may be ideal as you will be only a stone’s throw away from one of the best sandy beaches in Antalya. 

Delphin BE Grand Resort is one of the best hotels in Antalya near Lara Beach.

2. Konyaalti Beach

If you are searching for a stunning beach close to the center of Antalya then look no further than Konyaalti Beach. Just a short ride on public transportation, you will find 13 km of clear turquoise water that is perfect for swimming as well as several eateries and beach clubs close by, making it a popular choice for families.

The most magical part of swimming at Konyaalti Beach is having the dramatic Beydağları Mountains as you take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

At certain times throughout the year the mountains are snow-peaked, making your experience that much more unique as you swim or relax on the shores to work on your tan under the Turkish sun.  

Konyaalti Beach is a pebble-covered beach, meaning the water stays clear and clean. Adjacent to the beach is a green park with plenty of shade to escape the heat or relax with friends and family. You’ll find parts of the park situated on cliffs that give stunning views of the beach and the mountains behind.

Guests will find plenty of bathrooms, changing rooms, and showers available to use on Konyaalti Beach in Antalya.

3. Kaputas Beach

The blue flag Kaputas Beach is known as one of the most Instagrammable beaches in the Turkish Rivera and for obvious reasons, as its vibrant turquoise water will have you in awe at its natural beauty.

Kaputas Beach is reachable by car or taxi within 10 minutes from Kalkan or only 25 minutes from the center of Kaş. There is no entrance fee, however the use of the sun loungers and umbrellas will come at a small cost. 

This golden sand beach is the number one summer destination thanks to its incredible turquoise waters for swimming and fine sand for sunbathing all day long.

The beach is surrounded by beautiful cliffs, meaning visitors can overlook the beautiful bay to take amazing pictures. It will be worth your while to stay until sunset to enjoy the incredible views over one of the best beaches in Antalya, Turkey!

4. Olympos Beach

The Turkish Rivera is often referred to as the Turquoise Coast, with Olympos Beach being one of many to prove that this is a well-suited name. Serene, calm waters in a beautiful, secluded area make Olympos Beach a popular place to visit for many travelers from around the world.

This hidden gem is in a protected nature reserve and is surrounded by untouched greenery, allowing beach goers a taste of the best of what Turkey has to offer. If you are lucky, you might even encounter sea turtles.  

At this beach there is no entrance fee, however you will not find any facilities like bathrooms, showers, or places to change, meaning you will need to go prepared. However, there are several eateries and cafes along the beach. 

Nearby, you can also find Çirali Beach, a beautiful sandy beach that is only a 20 minute walk from Olympos.

Located next to the beach is the Ancient City of Olympos Archeological site, meaning history fanatics will be treated to seeing classical Roman ruins during their visit to this incredible beach. 

5. Cleopatra Beach

Named after the Egyptian queen herself, Cleopatra Beach is renowned for incredible blue waters, swimming, water sports, and great facilities. This famous blue-flag beach in Antalya District is situated in the small town of Alanya, a popular destination for families and international travelers alike.

The main characteristic of Cleopatra Beach is that it is a white sand beach. Tourists will easily find great hotels, restaurants, and bars along the promenade, all of which are located nearby the beach to maximize the summer holiday experience.

The main beach is around two kilometers from the center of Alanya and is reachable by public transport.

If you are looking to partake in some water sports on your summer holiday then head to Cleopatra Beach and try your hand at sailing, kite surfing, or scuba diving.

If you fancy taking a boat tour in Antalya , Cleopatra Beach is a great place to do just that. Book in advance to secure yourself a great deal and enjoy seeing the coastline from a different viewpoint. 

6. Patara Beach

After a visit to the historical Patara Ruins, you can cool off at the beautiful, long, white sand Patara Beach. This beach is a must-visit during your time in Antalya if you are searching for a clean, quiet place to swim and enjoy the beauty of the natural area.

The sand dunes and surrounding areas are protected to enable the sea turtles to have a safe place to rest. One key thing to know is that, due to this, the beach closes at 8 PM. 

This is one of the few beaches in Antalya with an entrance fee. The ticket can be bought in conjunction with the Patara Ruins ticket or separately from the ticket office on-site. Hiring a sun lounger will have an additional cost, however the shower and bathroom facilities are free.

Patara Beach takes the title as the longest beach in Turkey sitting at 18 kilometers long. It is easy to reach, by local minibuses or by car, and is only a 30-minute drive from the well renowned Kaputas Beach.

The nearest village is Gelemis, but you could plan to visit Patara easily if you were staying in either Fethiye or Kaş.

📚Read more: Best beaches in Fethiye!

7. Mermerli Beach

If you are looking for a beach around Antalya Old Town, then check out Mermerli Beach. In terms of location, this beach is the most convenient and is likely to be a walkable distance from your accommodation if you are staying near the center.

This is one of the smallest beaches in Antalya, so if you are visiting Antalya during peak season you should get there early to secure a great spot with an umbrella.

From your sun lounger, you will be able to look out across the Old Port and Marina of Antalya so you can watch as the boats head out for the day. One of the perks of going to Mermerli Beach is the number of great restaurants and cafes in close proximity. 

The facilities at Mermerli Beach are free to use and include showers, changing rooms, and restrooms. Spend your time snorkeling, diving into the blue waters from the rocks, or relaxing on your rented sun lounger.

📚 Read more: The Best Restaurants in Antalya

8. Adrasan Beach

Adrasan Beach is ideal for swimming and for soaking up the Turkish sun while working on your tan.

Framed with hills on either side, this sheltered bay is perfect for all ages. Along the beach are restaurants and bars, which can provide beach-goers with something to eat and drink during their visit. These beach bars and restaurants also provide sun loungers for rent.

Make the most of the tranquility of the area by walking along the pebble beach or set yourself up at one of the beach clubs nearby.

If you are looking to take a day trip from Adrasan Beach, there are two boat tours that you can choose from. One to the popular island of Suluada or to Cenevis Bay, a hidden gem in the Antalya region.

9. Suluada Beach

Want to have an island getaway without leaving Turkey’s Turquoise Coast? Then Suluada Island should be on your radar.

Reachable only by boat from Olympos Beach or Adrasan Beach, this island is the perfect day trip from Antalya . Its Maldives-like blue water and small white pebbles will take your breath away.

Make sure to check out the natural spring (with drinkable water) that sits on Suluada Island. As this island is small and secluded there is no building infrastructure, meaning no restaurants or cafes.

The good thing is, if you travel here with an organized tour then food will be provided by the company. On your way to the island, you will pass by Suluada Coves and the many stunning bays of the surrounding beaches. 

With some luck you will encounter some natural wildlife and marine life, such as turtles or fish. For many, this trip is a highlight of their visit to Antalya so be sure to book ahead if you are planning to visit this stunning island. 

📚 Read more: Which is better; Antalya or Marmaris?

10. Phaselis Beach

Separated into three bays—North Bay, Ancient Bay, and South Bay—Phaselis Beach is a unique beach in Antalya, with the ancient city Phaselis Ruins nestled right near the beach. After you meander through the ruins, you can choose between the three bays to relax or go for a dip in the beautiful clear water.

Kemer is the closest town and the best place to take the local minibuses from, as the journey is only 30 minutes. The beach has many trees in the area, meaning you will find plenty of shade to escape the hot sun. There are a few stalls that offer drinks and snacks but there are no restaurants so prepare accordingly if you plan to stay for the day.

Rich with Roman history, stories of pirates, and remnants of ancient civilization, this beach will offer you more than just a beautiful place to swim.

Some ruins remain underwater, so if you are a keen diver or have a snorkel with you, then you will enhance your experience that much more by seeing this underwater marvel.

11. Kiriş Beach

Just a one-hour drive from Antalya city center is Kiriş Beach and town. The water here is very clear so beach goers can enjoy snorkeling and swimming anywhere along the 2.1-kilometer stretch of paradise. 

Pebbles cover this beach, as well as plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas, which you can rent for a fee. If you are wanting to upgrade your holiday experience, you could opt to stay in one of the high-end resorts along Kiriş Beach. 

Kiriş Beach is another one of the incredible blue flag beaches in Antalya, thanks to its superb water quality. For your convenience, there are showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms here. To access the beach, you will find a wooden wharf with ladders leading into the sea. 

Should you want to taste the local cuisine, there are many nice eateries and cafes in the area or in the town nearby.

12. Akçagerme Beach

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Boya 🎨 Foto 🏞 Tuval 🖼 (@boyafototuval)

One of Kaş’s best-kept secrets is the blue-flag Akcagerme Beach. This pebble covered beach is favored by tourists and locals alike. Beach goers can expect to find sun loungers or cabanas for rent and free showers and toilets with a few restaurants nearby.

The beach itself is only 200 meters long and is framed with rocks at both ends, offering a gorgeous and unique scenery for all visitors.

This beach is located only 10 minutes drive from Kaş’s center and is reachable by minibus from the Kaş Bus Station. Akçagerme Beach is great for families, as the beach comes equipped with an inflatable aqua park and calm waters that are perfect for swimming with young children. 

There is a nice area that has picnic tables and even a barbeque if you want to cook your own lunch under the trees. Spend the day here with your family to experience an authentic Turkish summer feeling.

13. Tekirova Beach

If you are looking for a long stretch of clean beach with a mountain view, consider the beautiful blue flag Tekirova Beach. It is only a 15 minute drive from Kemer and five minutes from Phaselis Ruins/ Beach, so it is very convenient to visit Tekirova Beach if you are in the area.

From Antalya, it takes about an hour to get to by car.

Showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms are available at no cost, however, to use the sun loungers and umbrellas there is a small charge.

Tekirova Beach also comes equipped with a wooden wharf reaching out across the water. Along the beach itself, there are a few restaurants and plenty more traditional cafes and restaurants after a short walk into Tekirova town.

If you have a sporty side then this might be the beach for you, as water sports such as parasailing, diving, ocean swimming, and jet skiing are very popular here.

If relaxing is also on your agenda, then you can find a nice, secluded space on Tekirova Beach to sunbathe for the day. 

Best Beaches in Antalya Map

Above is a map of all the best beaches in Antalya we have mentioned. Because the district of Antalya is so massive, some of the beaches are situated far from Antalya city.

Luckily, there are plenty of small towns along the southern coast that travelers can use as a base for exploring the beaches in the area. If you click the small start next to the title of the map, you can save it to your personal device and use it for your trip.

Using this map, hopefully you can properly plan your visit and decide where to stay in Antalya when exploring some of the most amazing beaches in the region!

Antalya Beaches FAQs

Does antalya have nice beaches.

The beaches in Antalya are incredible with turquoise waters and a mix of sand and pebbles, depending on which beach you go to. There are over 200 blue-flag beaches in the region, earning it the nickname “Turquoise Coast”.

What is the best beach in Antalya for families?

The best beach in Antalya for families is arguably Konyaalti Beach. Though travelers will find that most of the beaches in Antalya are incredible for families.

What is the best beach in Antalya for water sports?

Cleopatra Beach is the best beach in Antalya for water sports, but Tekirova Beach is very nice as well.

Before You Go

With numerous beaches in Antalya, picking the perfect one cannot be more difficult.

Hopefully, our guide gives you a good idea of where you’ll be dipping your toes in the sand!

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

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10 of the best places to visit in Türkiye

Dec 14, 2023 • 6 min read

Plan your visit to Türkiye with these top places to see © rudi_suardi / Getty Images

The eclectic city of Istanbul, the fantastical rock forms of Cappadocia, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the glimmering Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines are Türkiye ’s biggest draws, but each region of the country has something distinct to offer.

The diversity of landscapes, heritage and culinary culture will surprise those who have never ventured beyond holiday resorts and the beach. Even though it’s easy to get around Türkiye , the country has too much to see and do to tackle it all on one trip. Because most domestic flights route through Istanbul, spend at least a few days in this dynamic global metropolis before heading out to one of our other top places to visit in Türkiye.

1. Istanbul

Best for ancient sites and modern neighborhoods

One of the world’s greatest cities, Istanbul should be on every traveler’s must-visit list. Highlight sights like the grand Byzantine basilica Aya Sofya , often called Hagia Sophia in English, and the Ottoman sultans’ lavish Topkapı Palace attest to the city’s centuries-long history as the capital of powerful empires.

But set aside some time to experience Istanbul as it is today, too. Go cafe- or bar-hopping in the hip Kadıköy neighborhood, wander the backstreets of more conservative Fatih or peruse contemporary art in Beyoğlu . Don’t forget the simple pleasure of drinking çay (tea) on the ferry while taking in spectacular views of the city.

Planning tip:  You could easily spend your entire vacation in Istanbul, but if you have the time, it's worth venturing further afield in search of other Turkish delights.

2. Cappadocia

Best for its unique landscape

Cappadocia is a geological wonderland in the center of Türkiye. The history of early Christians in Anatolia comes alive at the Göreme Open-Air Museum and the other cave churches and underground cities scattered around the valley. Romance blossoms in the area’s cozy cave hotels and restaurants, not to mention sunrise balloon rides complete with a champagne toast. Adventure awaits amid the green valleys and undulating rocks for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners .

3. Turquoise Coast

Best for history lovers and beaches

Yes, Türkiye's  Mediterranean coastline between Fethiye and Antalya is full of beautiful places for sun, sea and sand vacations , but it’s also dappled with evidence of the ancient civilizations that once populated the area. The seaside ruins of Patara (which boasts one of Türkiye's best beaches too) and Phaselis are particularly picturesque, and the rock tombs of Myra are especially impressive. The Antalya Museum offers good insights into the region’s history. Explore by sea on a gület cruise, on foot along the Lycian Way hiking path or by driving the scenic (but winding!) coastal roads.

4. Eastern Black Sea and Kaçkar Mountains

Best for rural traditions

The rough, cold waters of the Black Sea aren’t particularly inviting, but turn your gaze inland, where lush green valleys spill down to the coast from high peaks, to see the region’s appeal. The lower elevations are home to most of Türkiye's tea and hazelnut production, while the high plateaus ( yaylalar ) like Pokut , that were once used as summer pastures for livestock, are becoming popular with tourists seeking out scenic views and a taste of traditional Black Sea culture and cuisine. Further above, the Kaçkar Mountains offer spectacular trekking in summer for experienced hikers.

Planning tip:  Trabzon, home to the cliff-side Sumela Monastery , is the area’s main hub for air travel.

5. Southeastern Anatolia

Best for culture and food

The often-overlooked southeastern Anatolia region is one of Türkiye's cultural – and culinary – stars. The cities of Gaziantep and Antakya (Hatay) are famed for their food, and both also boast museums with incredible collections of Roman mosaics. Mardin ’s picturesque, well-preserved old town also makes a great base for exploring the monasteries and Roman ruins in the surrounding area. The world’s oldest religious site, Göbeklitepe , lies just outside of Şanlıurfa, which has its own fine archaeology museum and bazaar .

6. Datça and Bozburun peninsulas

Best for relaxation

Chilling out and getting back to nature is the order of the day on the remote  Datça and Bozburun peninsulas in the south Aegean. In place of the boisterous nightlife of nearby Bodrum and Marmaris, you’ll find miles of dramatic rocky coastline, scenic rural villages, and small, quiet beach resorts and seaside towns.

Planning tip:  The Carian Trail long-distance hiking path encircles both peninsulas. Check before setting out as some sections of the route were inaccessible following wildfire damage in the summer of 2021.

7. Türkiye's far east

Best for rugged beauty

The vast landscapes of Türkiye's far east have a remote ruggedness unmatched elsewhere in the country. Perhaps best known to travelers as the terminus of the Doğu Ekpresi (Eastern Express) , a popular and scenic overnight train trip from Ankara , the border city of Kars retains striking architecture from its years as a Russian outpost in the 1800s. Nearby are the extensive and evocative UNESCO-listed ruins of Ani , an ancient Armenian capital.

A three-hour drive south will take you to the remote İshak Paşa Palace , passing by the fabled Mt Ararat (Ağrı Dağı) en route. Continue on to Van , where you can fuel up on one of the city’s famously elaborate breakfast spreads before visiting the fine museum in town and taking a day excursion to Akdamar Kilisesi , a masterfully decorated Armenian church and monastery complex on a small island in Lake Van.

8. Gallipoli and the North Aegean

Best for WWI history and ancient Troy

Cemeteries devoted to the tens of thousands of soldiers who died in bloody battles on the Gallipoli Peninsula during WWI are scattered around bucolic rolling hills, all the more poignant amidst such serenely beautiful landscapes.

The area is also the gateway to Türkiye's North Aegean coast, a more relaxed alternative to the Mediterranean where you can take a leisurely tour of pleasant seaside towns like Ayvalık and Foça, the island wineries of Bozcaada, the ancient city of Troy (with its standout museum ) and the spectacularly sited hilltop acropolis of Bergama .

9. Safranbolu

Best for Ottoman atmosphere

Named for the saffron that was grown and traded here for centuries, Safranbolu is today popular with visitors who come to soak in its old Ottoman atmosphere. Many of the town’s historic wood-framed mansions have been restored and converted into picture-perfect boutique hotels, cafes and restaurants.

Planning tip:  If it all starts to seem a little too cutesy, the canyons, waterfalls and woods of the nearby Yenice Forest are a natural tonic.

10. Pamukkale

Best for its ancient spa

The bright-white terraces of Pamukkale are surely one of the most photographed sites in Türkiye, incongruously gleaming above the rural town like freshly fallen snow. The warm mineral water that flows through them was the basis for the ancient spa city of Hierapolis , whose extensive remains sprawl out along the hilltop next to the famous travertines.

Planning tip:  Pamukkale also makes a good base for visiting other nearby ancient sites like Laodicea , Tripolis and – most notably – the gorgeous ruins of Afrodisias with its impressive collection of Roman marble sculptures.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated December 2023

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Where to Stay on the Turkish Coast: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Heading to the Turkish Coast this year? Here’s a complete rundown on where to stay in Turkey on the coast (also referred to as the Turkish Riviera); which part of the coastline to head for, the best beach resorts -whether you’re booking DIY accommodation or looking for a package vacation – and standout beach hotels. This resort guide will cover:

• which part of Turkey to stay in – we’ll be covering the Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines from Canakkale around to Alanya ( but not the Black Sea, Sea of Marmara, and Eastern Med ) including the beautiful Turquoise Coast ,
• where to stay in the cities of Izmir , Kusadasi , Bodrum , Fethiye , and Antalya
• Turkey’s main beach resorts ; the best places to stay for nightlife, cheap packages and a younger crowd
• a rundown of Turkey’s  quieter resorts and villages; the best places to stay for couples, families and nature

THE BEST PLACES TO STAY ON THE TURKISH COAST

• BEST LUXURY HOTELS :  Six Senses Kaplankaya , Bodrum Edition , Amanruya , Maçakizi
• BEST HOTELS ON THE BEACH :   D Maris Bay Resort , Maxx Royal Kemer
• BEST FAMILY BEACH HOTEL : Akra Fethiye TUI Blue Sensatori
• BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS : Costa Maya Bodrum , Ölüdeniz Blu Luxury Unique Hotel
• SWANKY VILLAS : Club Prive
• BEST INFINITY POOL : D Maris Bay Resort ,  Hotel Villa Mahal
• CHIC ROMANTIC ESCAPES : Golden Key Bordubet , Layla Gocek
• BEST PLACE FOR NIGHTLIFE : Bodrum
• PRETTIEST COASTAL VILLAGES : Kaş, Kalkan, Alaçatı
• BEST QUIET BEACH RESORTS : Assos, Foca, Çıralı, Side 

Turkish Coast Overview

The Turkish Riviera encompasses a huge stretch of coast, basically the entire SW coast – plus some. The section commonly known as the Turquoise Coast is the part between Fethiye and Antalya.

Generally speaking, Turkey (officially now Türkiye ) has some incredible beaches but they’re not the best if you’re looking for soft white sand. But Turkey offers great value – especially in comparison with similar properties in Greece or elsewhere in the Mediterranean. The food is fantastic, the scenery is often jaw-dropping, and there are adventure activities and ancient sites aplenty.

Beach tourism here is a healthy mix of purpose-built areas with all-inclusive resort hotels, charming harbour towns popular with sailors, and small back-to-nature villages with wooden bungalows.

A quick note on booking sites – I’ve provided hotel links for Booking.com as it’s the most popular booking engine however its use is restricted in Turkey (due to a tax spat). The restriction means that you can only book hotels in Turkey from outside the country, not whilst you’re there (although you could use a VPN).

If you would prefer not to use Booking.com or you’re already in Turkey then you’ll find most of the hotels listed here on Agoda too.

Getting Around

Airports : There are four airports along the coast which are served by both international (both charter and scheduled) and domestic flights: Izmir , Bodrum , Dalaman , and Antalya.

Bus : If you’ve never caught the bus in Turkey before then it’s a joy. Bus travel is very common in Turkey, for both long and short distances. Most towns and cities have a bus station (called an otogar ) outside the centre for catching long-distance buses. These are usually in comfortable and well-equipped coaches with reclining chairs.

Local buses tend to be small minivans known as dolmuş. These are essentially shared taxis that run set routes. There isn’t usually a schedule but they run frequently with plenty of stops. For less popular routes you have the option of paying for the whole van or waiting for more passengers.

Ferry : If you’re arriving from Greece then there are several options for ferry connections:

• Lesvos – Ayvalik
• Chios – Cesme
• Samos – Kusadasi
• Kos – Bodrum / Turgatreis
• Rhodes – Fethiye / Bodrum / Marmaris
• Symi – Bodrum 
• Kastellorizo – Kas 

Which Part of the Turkish Coast to Choose?

• NORTH AEGEAN : Not as touristy as the other parts of the coast, but you will find dark sand beaches and handsome Byzantine architecture. Good for hidden gems though the beaches themselves do get busy. Due to the winds, it’s the most comfortable part of the coast, temperature-wise, in the summer.
• BODRUM AREA : Of the cities, Bodrum is by far the prettiest and most pleasant – and is also Turkey’s summer nightlife capital. The surrounding area is devastatingly pretty and chic, sometimes with prices to match. Explore by boat if you can.
• MARMARIS AREA : Rugged and green coastline with some of Turkey’s most popular beach resorts but also nature parks and small islands. 
• TURQUOISE COAST : The section of coastline from Fethiye round to Antalya is particularly mountainous and beautiful. There aren’t many sandy beaches so for a long time this area was under the radar, but gulet sailors and posh Brits have discovered the scenery and plentiful historic sites. The heat can be stifling in July and August. 
• ANTALYA AREA :  The coastline gets busy at Antalya, a large coastal city with a developed resort coastline although less upmarket hotels.

East of Antalya the coastline is known as Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast. The resorts here are less popular with Western tourists but if you’re feeling adventurous then I recommend buying the Rough Guide to Turkey .

The town of Çanakkale is most well-known for its WWI history – it was the site of a year-long battle with heavy casualties. It guards the entrance to the Dardanelles Strait and therefore to Istanbul and the Black Sea. It’s the first real tourist destination along the coast but it’s a lengthy drive from any airport and not really a beach destination. Çanakkale is mainly popular with visiting Australians visiting the battlefields, particularly around ANZAC Day.

South of town, you’ll find the ruins of Ancient Troy, hence the large wooden horse in the harbour, but there’s not really much to see compared (in comparison to some of Turkey’s other archaeological sites at least).

There is a small domestic airport at Çanakkale, or else it’s a 4 hour + drive from Istanbul or Izmir.

Where to Stay in Canakkale 

Hotels in Çanakkale are excellent value – have a look at the quirky Hotel des Etrangers for historic charm with harbour views, and Hotel Cura and the Set Ozer Hotel for excellent value boutique rooms.

Backpackers can find cheap dorms at the basic Anzac House Youth Hostel . 

If you’re looking for a cool and under-the-radar summer destination in Turkey then the island of Bozcaada is right up your street. It’s one of the few Aegean islands that belong to Turkey rather than Greece, and is loved by weekending hipsters and couples from Istanbul. Its charming streets are filled with bougainvillaea, colourful woodwork, and cute cafes. Bozcaada also has fantastic vineyards and some of the best sandy beaches in the Northern Aegean area.

To get there take the passenger ferry from Çanakkale (high season only) or the car ferry from Geyikli.

Where to Stay in Bozcaada

There are endless cute guesthouses in Bozcaada, the difficulty is in choosing. Watch out for places with no AC if that’s important to you. Start with the white-and-teal rooms at Posthane Guesthouse .

Ayvalık and Assos

Ayvalık is a working harbour town famous for its fishing and agricultural industries – foodies will love it here. The olive oil and fresh produce is some of the best in Turkey.

It’s more popular with local tourists than foreign, except those visiting on a day trip from neighbouring Greek island Lesvos (which is easy to reach). But it has several wide sandy beaches and islands ( Cunda and Alibey are the main ones) around its meandering coastline, as well as a Byzantine old town with superb restaurants and converted mansions.

To the north of Ayvalık is the small picturesque seaside village of Assos (pictured above), which is also known as Behram or Behramkale. It has a Greek feel with a small row of brightly painted fishing boats, a pebble beach , and smart stone buildings along the waterfront . A short drive uphill is the main village where you’ll find a wider range of accommodation, most in historic buildings.

Transfer time : Ayvalik is a 2-hour drive from Izmir airport.

Where to Stay in Ayvalık

5-star Hotel Murat Reis is directly on the beach, as is the sleek 4-star spa resort Ortunc (adults-only) on Cunda Island.

For rooms in town, CundAda Hotel is a cosy converted mansion with a good price.

Where to Stay in Assos

Assos Behram Hotel (adults-only) is right on the waterfront. Further up the coast is the smart Ida Costa Hotel which has a rural feel and a private section of beach.

Along with Çeşme, Foça is one of the most popular resorts in the wider Izmir area. It’s popular with the yachting crowd and upmarket Brits thanks to its winding waterfront filled with fishing boats and yachts, restaurants and bars. 

Transfer time : 1 hour from Izmir airport.

Where to Stay in Foça  

Hanedan Hotel Foca Izmir has a waterfront location and a good breakfast.

Izmir is one of Turkey’s biggest cities and one of its most young and liberal. It’s a modern city that doesn’t have too much in the way of tourist sights – there’s a small bazaar, but most of its old buildings were destroyed by fire nearly a century ago.

But if you enjoy an urban vibe and cosmopolitan waterfront area then it makes a decent base for exploring the area’s blockbuster historic attractions such as Pergamum , Selcuk , and Ephesus . Most visitors staying in the area will choose to head to the nearby resorts of Çeşme or Foça though.

Transfer time : 25 minutes from Izmir airport

Where to Stay in Izmir

The big chain and resort hotels are well represented in Izmir town. There’s a Hilton Garden Inn and a Hilton Doubletree , a Movenpick , and the Swissotel Grand Efes .

Key Hotel is on the waterfront and has a wine cellar.

For comfort on a budget check out the Met Boutique Hotel .

There are a few hostels in town but there are cheaper (and more secure) guesthouses for not much more. Try the Olimpiyat Otel .

Çeşme and Alaçatı

Izmir is tucked into a bay whereas Çeşme sits out on the end of the peninsula to the south of the city. It’s the main beach resort area around Izmir and is also a working port town with ferries across to the nearby Greek island of Chios (just 8km across the water).

Çeşme has an engaging harbour area and, like many of Turkey’s coastal towns, beach resort hotels stretch out in either direction along the coast. The peninsula is home to some of the region’s most popular beaches.

Slighty inland of Çeşme is the trendy area of Alaçatı , one of Turkey’s best boutique destinations with its flower-filled streets and lovely B&Bs.

Transfer time : 1 hour from Izmir airport

Where to Stay in Çeşme

There are some great 5-star luxury hostels in the Çeşme peninsula including:

• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa – has a private beach and Turkish bath
• Boyalık Beach Hotel & Spa – beachfront location
• Reges Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – beachfront location

Where to Stay in Alaçatı

On a mid-range budget, Casa Bella has boutique appeal, as does Morisi Konak .

Sleek adults-only The Stay Warehouse has private beach transfers and impressive communal areas.

Kuşadası is a large, modern port town – similar to Izmir though with slightly more of a vacation vibe. It’s surrounded by resort beaches and in close proximity to the ancient site of Ephesus. Fun boat trips and cruises run from the city’s harbour, and cruise ships call here too.

The city has a lively waterfront area with a promenade and its nightlife attracts visitors from the surrounding area. There’s a small old town with city walls, a bazaar and narrow streets. 

The Greek island of Samos is a short ferry ride away and the beautiful Dilek National Park is to the south of the city. There are lots of large beaches in the area, the busiest are Ladies Beach and Long Beach ., as well as several large waterparks. It’s a popular package tourism destination.

Transfer time : 1 hour 30 minutes from Izmir airport

Where to Stay in Kuşadası  

Kuşadası has a wide range of accommodation options with something for every budget.

In town, the DoubleTree by Hilton offers convenient 5-star rooms on the waterfront.

Check out Villa Konak for simple rooms in a family-run guesthouse with a pool in the historic quarter.

Want to be by the beach? Charisma De Luxe Hotel has a private beach/sunbathing platform and infinity pool.

Bringing the kids? Check out the 5-star Pine Bay Holiday Resort or Aqua Fantasy Aquapark Hotel & Spa . 

The sparkling coastal city of Bodrum is without a doubt Turkey’s swankiest resort town. The picturesque city with its castle and pretty Aegean-whitewashed buildings is home to the best nightlife this side of Mykonos. It’s cheaper and more under-the-radar than St Tropez and Ibiza – but just as glam and its boho credentials go back to the 70s. The waterfront is lined with beach clubs and upmarket restaurants, and the coastline with beach clubs and infinity pools overlooking the Aegean. 

It’s also one of the Aegean’s major yachting and sailing hubs. It’s the spiritual home of gulet boats – the ‘ Blue Cruise ‘ was born in this area and it’s still one of the best places to pick up a boat. By sunset, the bay is filled with party boats and superyachts gleaming in the last rays of sunlight.

There are several smaller beach outposts along the coast which make for a more low-key vacation but with easy access to the city – Ortakent and Bitez have the nicest beaches and high prices to match. For something more low-key try Gümüşlük . The surrounding coastline and peninsula is one of the prettiest parts of the Turkish Coast with endless coves to discover.

Ferries connect with the Greek island of Kos from both Bodrum and the nearby port of Turgutreis.

Transfer time : 35 minutes from Bodrum airport.

Where to Stay in Bodrum

The Bodrum area is unsurprisingly a top destination for luxury hotels. There’s a full showing of luxury brands here including:

• Six Senses Kaplankaya
• Bodrum Edition
• Mandarin Oriental
• Susona Bodrum LHR (formerly Nikki Beach)

Maçakizi Hotel is a local luxe fave.

Boutique Costa Maya Bodrum has minimalist boho interiors, pool, and is located right by the port.

El Vino Hotel & Suites is an oasis within the city.

For beachfront in Bodrum start with:

• METT Hotel & Beach Resort
• Kaya Palazzo
• Prive Hotel Bodrum (adults-only)

Akyaka, Datça and Bozburun

Akyaka is making a name for itself as one of Turkey’s premier slow travel destinations. There is a small beach of dark gritty sand but the main reason to come is the nature , the food, and the traditional wooden architecture . It’s not well known by foreign tourists but is loved by locals as a peaceful retreat in the hot months. 

South of Aykaka you’ll find the Datça and Bozburun peninsulas. This is one of the greenest and most tranquil parts of the Turkish coast. It’s a great sailing area but there’s not too much in the way of development, perfect for those looking for an authentic vacation. There are many superb hotels tucked away in its sleepy hills and quaint villages with stunning sea views across to the Greek island of Symi .

Transfer time : Akyaka is 1 hour 30 minutes from Bodrum airport. Add an extra hour for destinations on the peninsula from Bodrum or Dalaman – roads are slow.

Where to stay in Akyaka

Boutique guesthouses abound in Akyaka – the Elif Hanim Hotel is a good example. Just outside town, the Ikselem Hotel has a waterfront location but be warned the water is cold!

Where to Stay in Datça

Secluded luxury spa resort D Maris Bay spans 5 private beaches (some sandy) in Datca, you’ll hardly need to leave the resort as it has everything you’ll ever need.

For something different try, the romantic adults-only Sabrina’s Haus , the historic Mehmet Ali Aga Mansion , or the agritourism vibe at The Olive Farm .

The Golden Key Bordubet is a hidden 5-star gem located between the two peninsulas and an emphasis on nature. It has a serene location with wooden river platforms, a pool, and a small play area for children. To reach the beach it’s a 10-minute walk through the forest or take a short boat ride down the river.

Golden Key have another location at nearby Hisarönü – not to be confused with the village near Oludeniz – which is directly on a private beach. The sand is a dark red colour.

İçmeler and Turunç

İçmeler is the first proper beach resort in the Marmaris region and has been an established tour operator offering for decades. It has a long organised beach (a mix of dark sand and shingle) in a lovely setting backed by big green mountains. There are some great walks and activities in the area, but also a lively nightlife and easy day trip access to Marmaris and Rhodes. Restaurants and cafes cater to the British tastes.

Around the coast is the smaller resort village of Turunç , in an equally picturesque setting. It has a narrow sand-and-shingle beach and is one of the best resorts for older couples and families looking for a quiet vibe with a selection of bars and restaurants for the evening. It has easy water taxi access to larger resorts.

Transfer time : Around 1 hour 40 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in İçmeler

There are several big resort hotels on the beachfront, the best-rated is Aqua Hotel .

At the back of the village is the tranquil Petunya Konak Boutique Hotel .

Where to Stay in Turunç

Perios Beach House is right on the beach and has an infinity pool and whitewashed boho decor.

Turunç Resort Hotel occupies its own bay and has two private beaches.

Marmaris is one of the biggest and most popular resorts on the Turkish coast. It’s a large resort city but the name tends to refer to the wider area too, as you’ll find plenty of big resort hotels along the coast in either direction.

Marmaris lacks the aesthetic appeal of Bodrum but is well known for its shopping (particularly the fake designer goods in the Grand Bazaar) and lively nightlife. There are also some excellent food markets around, handy if you’re going self-catered. If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of the larger resorts in Spain and the Canary Islands then you’ll find a similar appeal here. It’s loud and boisterous but somehow manages to retain a traditional Turkish beach town atmosphere. The nightlife around Bar Street is infamous.

The city is surrounded by the vast Marmaris National Park which provides a playground for boat trips and adventure activities. Day trips and ferry connections to the Greek island of Rhodes are available.

Transfer time : 1 hour 30 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Marmaris

There are many big hotels right on the main beach such as TUI Blue Grand Azur .

But some of the best hotels are out of town along the coast:

•   Joya del Mar Boutique Hotel – relaxing, has a private beach
• Cook’s Club Adakoy (adults-only) – stylish, has a private beach

The friendly town of Dalyan is not on the coast but slightly upriver. It has an incredible natural setting but still plenty of restaurants and bars for the evening. The crowd here is a mix of domestic tourists and Europeans looking for a lack-back nature escape. It has some impressive rock tombs and ancient remains, and you can take boats to the protected Iztuzu Beach (one of the main turtle nesting beaches) and mud baths near Lake Köyceğiz.

Transfer time : 35 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Dalyan

Despite its lack of beach, Dalyan is a popular package holiday destination. There are lots of friendly hotels with simple rooms, a pool, and bargain prices, such as the Darian Hotel Nish Caria .

Göcek is sometimes referred to as ‘the Monaco of Turkey’ but don’t take that comparison that at face value, Göcek is nothing like Monaco. There are no high-rise buildings, casinos, or polished streets here. It’s a small and pleasant harbour town with an unusually high concentration of superyachts in the marina (and a well-organised laundry system to service them). There’s a small beach at the end of town.

Restaurant and shop prices are slightly higher than average, and there are some smart places to stay, but otherwise it doesn’t feel dramatically different to other resorts in the area.

It gets entertainingly busy on a Saturday which is changover day for the charter boats.

Transfer time : 30 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Gocek

Rixos Premium is a luxury adults-only with a private beach. The same group also offer high-end villas (Club Prive) in a quiet location further around the coast.

If you don’t mind being slightly out of town then the Layla Gocek is lovely and has a large pool and boutique feel.

Fethiye manages to somehow be two things at once: a reasonable-sized working city and a pleasant place for tourists. The town itself has no beach, the nearest is Calis Beach a few kilometres from the main part of town but served by regular minibus and water taxis.

The promenade-lined harbour, which is packed to the gills with boats plying day trips and longer gulet cruises, is the centre of all the action here. There’s also a small bazaar in the streets behind, and a fish market where you can choose a fish and take it to one of the nearby restaurants to be grilled. And the hill behind the city sports some impressive rock tombs. 

There’s a year-round expat crowd and you will find a few English bars and cafes, but the flavour is mainly Turkish. It attracts more independent travellers than Marmaris and has a great range of accommodation options.

Transfer time : 50 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Fethiye

There are plenty of great beach club hotels in the Fethiye Bay area including one of Turkey’s finest – Hillside Beach Club , which has its own private Blue Flag beach, a spa, and plenty of Instagrammable details. 

5-star Club & Hotel Letoonia is one of the best family hotels in the area. It occupies its own peninsula with several small private beaches and pools, charming wooden buildings tucked away in the pines, and plenty of entertainment options for all ages. Town is a taxi away though.

The best boutique hotels in town are the Yacht Classic and Yacht Boheme , close to the marina. The former has a design pool, and boat trips can be arranged on their fleet of yachts.

Hotel Unique has a pleasant pool and good views. 

Akra Fethiye TUI Blue Sensatori is a sleek beachfront resort with excellent facilities just outside the main town. It has an adults-only section too.

Backpackers can find pod beds and fierce A/C at the well-run Sakura Hostel is one of the best along the coast. For a home-style guesthouse try Ferah Pension with its shady courtyard.

Ah Ölüdeniz – the most famous beach in Turkey. You’ll no doubt have seen it gracing brochures and adverts. But what’s it like?

The first thing to know is that Ölüdeniz is a small development directly behind the beach, which is Blue Flag and busy but not quite as sandy as it can appear in photos. Towards the south end, where it forms the ‘Blue Lagoon’, is a protected zone that requires a ticket to enter. Even this section is crowded with sunloungers and cafes.

A short drive up in the hills behind the beach are two busy resort villages of Hisaronu and Ovacik , purpose-built to absorb the package tourists who flock to the area. If you like your holidays cheap and loud, with sports bars and steakhouses, then you’ll like it here. Otherwise, avoid.

Down by the beach, Oludeniz is busy but development is limited by its location. It attracts a mix of British, German, Russian, and Turkish tourists. There are some good Turkish restaurants here, and an increasingly good standard of beach bar where you can watch the paragliders land.

There are regular minibuses connecting Fethiye with Oludeniz, Hisaronu and Ovacik.

Transfer time : 1 hour from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in  Oludeniz

If you’re looking for accommodation in Oludeniz then be sure to double-check the location as Hisarnou/Ovacik hotels are often passed off as Oludeniz.

The best resort hotels are on the other side of the lagoon – Sugar Beach Club and Club Hotel Meri , both have private beach access. 

Ölüdeniz Blu Luxury Unique Hotel is a 4-star within the main part of Oludeniz, towards the back of the resort. It has modern boho decor and a focus on food (including vegetarian and vegan options).

Butterfly Valley and Faralya

Butterfly Valley is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey . The beach is located at the end of a steep gorge and is usually reached by boat. It’s a protected zone thanks to the butterflies which inhabit the area (June is the best time to see them). The only way to stay in Butterfly 

At the top of the surrounding cliffs is the small and scenic village of Faralya . The viewpoint attracts selfie-hunters (be careful), but there’s a cluster of wonderful accommodations and it’s worth staying a while if you enjoy peace and nature. 

Where to Stay in Faralya

Faralya Botanica captures up the spirit of the village and you can choose from stone house or timber bungalow.

Beautiful little Kabak is a hidden gem, loved by hippies and nature lovers. The small sand-and-stone beach is nestled in a majestic valley – and the bus ride to get here is a bit of an experience. Traditionally the accommodation was camp-style in simple wooden huts but there are an increasing number of boutique hotels, mainly up at the top of the village to take advantage of the amazing views. It’s a further hike down to the beach or you can hail one of the cheap and bumpy shuttle cars.

Transfer time : 1 hour 45 minutes from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Kabak  

The Olive Garden is worth visiting for its pool alone (pictured above) – and people do, it’s a popular weekend escape for those living in the Fethiye area.

There are numerous budget backpacker options in basic huts. For the true hippie spirit try Reflections Camp .

Kalkan has gone from a sleepy fishing village to one of the most popular resort towns on the Turquoise Coast. As is common on this part of the coast, the heart of the town is the harbour which is lined with bars and restaurants. There’s a small (and steep) old town area with wooden Ottoman houses draped in bougainvillaea. It attracts a variety of people including posh Brits and yachties looking for somewhere with a bit of buzz and ambience – as such it’s not the cheapest resort on the coast.

There is a small pebbly town beach that’s nothing to write home about. Plenty of the waterside resort hotels have beach club areas though, some with decking areas for sunbathing.

The area is best suited to those prepared to do some exploring – there are some spectacular historic sites and beaches in the wider area.

Where to Stay in Kalkan

Kalkan is packed with fine boutique guesthouses such as:

• Hotel Villa Mahal
• Elixir Hotel
• True Blue Boutique Hotel

The wider area is home to some standout villas, many of which have an infinity pool – check VRBO .

Kaş is like Kalkan’s cute and charming little sister. It’s a similar harbour town but a bit smaller, a bit sleepier, and a bit more boho. It’s one of the most laid-back resorts along the coast yet still has plenty to do. The scenery is divine and it’s a short boat ride across to the stunning small Greek island of Kastellorizo which is a popular day trip. 

In fact, it’s a great place to stay if you like exploring independently thanks to the frequent bus and minibus services. There are also lots of adventure activities and excursions in the area which make it ideal for young couples as well as families with older children. Sea kayaking is a particular highlight.

There are a few pebbly but scenic coves on the outskirts of town, some with beach bars attached.

Transfer time : 2 hours + from Dalaman airport.

Where to Stay in Kas

It’s hard to go wrong in Kas there are so many great value mid-range hotels. The Gardenia Boutique Hotel is a classic.

As with Kalkan, there are many excellent villas around – see VRBO for choices. For example, the Sundown Villa sleeps 8 and has an infinity pool with amazing views.

Olympos and Çıralı

Olympos and Çıralı are two villages joined by a long beach but divided by some hills – to go between them you have to drive uphill to the main road and down again, or walk along the beach.

They are both located in the Olympos Coastal National Park hence the incredible untouched scenery and lack of concrete hotels. Planning restrictions mean that most accommodation is in wooden structures of varying quality.

For many years Olympos was a stop on the hippie trail and it became well-known for its treehouse dwellings. In reality, there are only a few actual treehouses (mainly at Kadirs). Eventually backpacking Aussies replaced the hippies, and these days the Aussies have been mostly replaced by holidaying Turkish families and hipsters who come for the cheap camping vibe. The reggae soundtrack remains though. Note that to reach the beach you have to walk through an ancient site that requires a ticket.

Cirali is more family-friendly. It keeps the back-to-nature appeal but has more facilities, shops, and space, less reggae, and better road access. The beach is an important turtle nesting zone so access at night is not permitted.

Most accommodation (even at the budget end) is half board and the food is generally excellent. The are plenty of activities on offer, from boat trips to rock climbing and diving, and visits to the nearby natural flames. The beach is a mix of course sand and small pebbles.

Transfer time : 1 hour 40 minutes from Antalya airport.

Where to Stay in Olympos

Kadirs is the original hippie treehouse location and still going strong but is a long walk from the village. Turkmen is good if you’re in a group, Bayrams for the solo travellers.

Where to Stay in Cirali

Cirali has a wider range of accommodation options. The Olympos Lodge is the closest thing to luxury here and is directly behind the beach, whereas the Azur Hotel is somewhere in between – it’s ideal for the kids with its big pool and buffet meals.

There are also many lovely river hotels (and restaurants) in Adrasan, the next village south, and you can also find more pools here.

Kemer and Tekirova

As you leave the mountains and drive towards Antalya, you’ll find a complete change of scene at Kemer . This is one of Antalya’s premier resort areas and its wide pebble/sand beaches are backed by large (in some cases, colossal) all-inclusive resort hotels which are particularly popular with Russian package tourists.

The town has plenty of amenities though lacks the atmosphere of other resorts. It’s by no means dead though, there’s a busy marina and a few nightclubs, but most people choose Kemer for a particular hotel rather than the resort itself. Tekirova is similar.

Transfer time : 1 hour from Antalya airport.

Where to Stay in Kemer

The nicest of the many luxury resort hotels is the swanky Maxx Royal Kemer which has everything you can think of – several beaches decked out in daybeds, a waterpark with impressive flumes, and villas with private pools.

Antalya is one of Turkey’s largest coastal cities. It’s sprawling and modern with an attractive historic centre (called Kaleici ), a lively harbour area, and excellent transport connections/day trip options. Mix in some ancient sites (Hadrian’s Gate, the nearby Aspendos Theatre), great food, and some of Turkey’s better nightlife, and you have somewhere that ticks all the boxes for city break fans.

Flanking each side of the city are two extensive beaches – Lara and Konyaalti – which are surrounded by blingy all-inclusive hotels. The Russians love it, and there are an increasing number of halal resorts catering for Muslim tourists. Of the two, Lara is sandier and is home to more upmarket all-inclusive hotels. It’s closer to the airport and to the impressive Duden Waterfalls .

Konyaalti has a more interesting local vibe with good food and better budget hotel options, but the beach is small pebbles.

Transfer time : 15 minutes to 30 minutes from Antalya airport depending on location.

Where to Stay in Antalya

We can’t not mention the Titanic-themed Titanic Beach Lara Hotel .

If that doesn’t float your boat (sorry), there are plenty of traditional hotels in historic buildings in the old town – try Palm House 17 and Ruin Adalia (adults-only).

There are plenty of bargain rooms in old town guesthouses such as Sabah Pension which cater to solo travellers.

Perge Hotels (adults-only) sports stylish modern design and has its own swimming platform.

Side (pronounced see-day ) is a small seaside resort which is notable for its beachside ruins. The fantastic history, attractive harbour, and sandy beaches here have made it a magnet for tourists for decades. West Beach has some of the softest sand in the area.

It can feel a bit crowded though,  on summer weekends in particular. It has less of a British feel than resorts to its west and is particularly loved by Germans and Scandinavians. It gets many return visitors and the average age skews towards the older, and so the nightlife here is more genteel bar than throbbing nightclub. There are resort hotels with family facilities.

Boat trips to the many waterfalls in the area are a good way to escape the intense summer heat.

Where to Stay in Side

5-star Acanthus & Cennet Barut Collection Luxury All-Inclusive is the best of the beachfront picks.

Halfway between Antalya and Side is the flash 5-star Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort .

The coastal city of Alanya has a similar appeal to Side – minus the ruins but plus extra beach space. There’s much more room to spread out on the excellent beaches here. The better sand is at Cleopatra Beach .

It’s a medium-sized resort city with a long promenade and lots of shopping and nightlife, an old town, and an impressive castle. It attracts an young international crowd with relatively few Brits and a large number of domestic tourists. It’s a more chilled out and family-friendly alternative to Marmaris, and prices are extremely competitive.

Transfer time : 2 hours from Antalya airport.

Where to Stay in Alanya

En Vie Boutique Beach Hotel (adults-only) is directly on the beach, as is Anjeli House Boutique Hotel .

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Image credits:

Marmaris: © den-belitsky / Adobe Stock

Kaputas: © fotopanorama360 / Shutterstock

Alanya beach: © muratart / Adobe Stock

Kabak beach: © Kotangens / Adobe Stock

Map of Turkish beach resorts: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Canakkale: © Sergii Figurnyi / Adobe Stock

Bozcaada: © Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

Assos: © muratart / Adobe Stock

Foca: © melihcan / Adobe Stock

Izmir: © casfotoarda / Adobe Stock

Cesme: © Nejdet Duzen / Adobe Stock

Kusadasi: © Sergii Figurnyi / Adobe Stock

Bodrum: © ColorMaker / Shutterstock

Bodrum Ortakent beach: © Neonyn / Adobe Stock

Datca Peninsula: © muratani / Adobe Stock

Icmeler: © Konstantin Gushcha / Adobe Stock

Dalyan Iztuzu Beach: © sedan504 / Adobe Stock

 Gocek: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Fethiye: © Olena Rublenko / Adobe Stock

Oludeniz: © Dudarev Mikhail / Adobe Stock

Oludeniz sunloungers: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Butterfly Valley: © NiglayNik / Shutterstock

Kabak: © Kotangens / Adobe Stock

Olive Garden Pool: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Kalkan: © Youngj / Adobe Stock

Kas: © Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

Olympos: © Clayton / Adobe Stock

Cirali parasols: © The Mediterranean Traveller

Tekirova: © Patryk Kosmider / Adobe Stock

Antalya: © muratart / Shutterstock

Konyaalti beach: © Andrey Prokhorov / Adobe Stock

Side: © Nikolai Sorokin / Adobe Stock

Alanya: © Damla Karacabay / Shutterstock

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Home > 53 Top Destinations In Turkey: Best Places To Visit In Turkey For All

53 Top Destinations In Turkey: Best Places To Visit In Turkey For All

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Here is your complete guide to all the best places to visit in Turkey, which I have discovered as a local.

This guide has beautiful places in Turkey, from ancient sites, palaces, rock formations, beautiful beaches, hot air ballooning, scenic views, underground cities, amusement parks, and all the most famous places with countless historical landmarks and a seaside town (or 10) for every kind of traveler.

Best Places In Turkey To Visit For Every Kind Of Traveler

• Beach Resorts

Top Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want To Shop

Places to visit in turkey if you want to party, places to visit in turkey if you want to eat, places to visit in turkey if you want nature.

• Saklikent National Park Antalya
• Koprulu National Park
• Butterfly Valley
• İztuzu Beach
• Mount Ararat

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want History And Archeological Sites

• City Of Safranbolu
• Mount Nemrut
• Göbekli Tepe

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want Authentic Culture

• Any village

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want To Go Off The Beaten Track

• Northern And Central Turkey
• Black Sea Coast
• Gelemis 
• The Lycian Way

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Like The Cold

• Uludağ Ski Resort

Places To Visit In Turkey If You Want To Sunbathe

• South Coast
• The Blue Lagoon

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Find The Best Places To Visit On The Map

There are so many things to do in Turkey, from the lush greenery stretching from Fethiye to the Anatolia region to the ancient churches and underground cities waiting to be discovered.

Where Are The Best Places To See

You’re wrong if you think that Turkey is all beaches and Istanbul! Turkey is a vast country packed with major cities, towns, villages, beach resorts, and the list goes on.

That means there is something for everyone – and I’ll show you my favorites. My guide offers all the best places in Turkey to visit for history, food, nature, partying, and more.

Sure, not every destination will suit you, but I aim to provide a list so you know what you want to do and experience; then, you can find the ideal place that will suit you best.

If you want to know the best cities to visit in Turkey, jump ahead here .

For instance, if you want to enjoy the nightlife, it’s not a good idea to head somewhere like Adana, Aydin, Trabzon, or Rize. However, my husband and I always find fantastic opportunities to party the night away in Istanbul, Izmir, the province of Antalya, and any beach resort south on the Mediterranean coast .

If you want to enjoy history, you’re probably not going to find what you’re looking for that much in Marmaris (well, we have never). Still, in Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, you’ll have more history than you can possibly absorb into your brain! With Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Bosphorus Strait, and dozens of Turkish baths , to name a few.

It comes down to what you want and then figuring out where you want to go.

Let me give you some ideas on where to go in Turkey…

We’ve got the low down on the best places to visit in Turkey to shop!

1. Istanbul And Izmir

You can find everything in Istanbul —in fact. Taksim is the ideal spot for high-street stores, but there are also huge malls across the city, such as Cevahir and the Mall of Istanbul .

Izmir is also a great shopping spot , with several other malls and plenty of your international names. If you want traditional souvenirs , you’ll find these in most places, but you can’t beat Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar for choice and experience!

• Guide To Istanbul
• Guide To Izmir

We’ve compiled a list of the best places in Turkey to party.

2. Istanbul – Izmir – Antalya – Beach Resorts

Most people are surprised when they see the amount of nightlife in Turkey . Sure, it’s not everywhere you look, and some of the smaller cities and towns still tend to be more traditional in terms of beer houses, mainly for men, etc., but you’ll find many International and modern bars, too.

Taksim and Besiktas in Istanbul are ideal for party fans , but Izmir and the Antalya Province will tick your boxes, too. Taksim is home to some seriously loud nightclubs if that’s what you’re after!

Alternatively, the beach resorts on the Mediterranean Sea , such as Marmaris , Gumbet, Bodrum, and Alanya, also have plenty of bars and nightclubs.

• Istanbul Nightlife
• Where To Stay In Izmir
• Best Beach Towns On The Turkish Coast

If you like to eat, here are the best places to visit in Turkey .

Adana is a beautiful city of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modernity. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Seyhan River and visit the Grand Mosque’s striking architecture. Don’t forget to savor Adana kebabs , renowned for their delicious blend of flavors.

• Guide To A Turkish Breakfast
• What To Eat In Turkey
• How To Tip In Turkey

4. Istanbul

There is nothing you won’t find here, including traditional Turkish food. Turkish food all over the country is delightful , and if you can head to a small village, be sure to try the homemade fare there.

You need to chow down in Istanbul and not miss trying the street food , as it’s not only cheap but also super filling.

• Lesser Known Istanbul Street Food
• Best Rooftop Restaurants & Bars In Istanbul
• Where To Eat In Istanbul

Nature lovers, take note; here are the places in Turkey to head to to get your dose of lush greenery.

5. Saklikent National Park Antalya Or Cappadocia

One of the most iconic travel photos worldwide is one of a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia , which is a true must-visit. The unique landscape around here is something to behold, and the so-called ‘fairy chimneys’ formed by years of rock erosion are genuinely magnificent. You can even stay in a traditional cave hotel!

Alternatively, or possibly also, head to Antalya’s Saklikent National Park. You can go canyoning, rock climbing, or sailing down the river, but whatever you choose to do, it’s genuinely breathtaking.

• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Guide
• The Best Cappadocia Tours
• Where To Stay In Cappadocia
• Nearest Airport To Cappadocia

6. Koprulu National Park

Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in Koprulu National Park. Raft down the Köprüçay River through stunning canyons or go hiking amidst pine forests. The park’s natural beauty and outdoor activities make it an excellent destination for adventure seekers.

7. Pamukkale

Its name means “cotton castle” in Turkish; Pamukkale is one of Turkey’s best tourist attractions that everyone will love, from kids to the most well-traveled people.

Whether you’re into nature or not, you’ll undoubtedly be impressed by the extraordinary features of this vast thermal spring. This natural UNESCO World Heritage Site is in inland southeastern Turkey but is a great day trip for major coastal cities.

Millennia of endless water flow and mineral deposits have created a stunning collection of travertine terraces, pure water, and snow-white limestone shimmering in the Turkish sun. Since antiquity, people have visited these hot springs and pools when it was the location of the Roman city of Hierapolis (Holy City).

Pamukkale is easily one of the best places to go in Turkey for a day trip from the coastal resorts. Although the terraces and pools are off-limits to visitors nowadays, you can still see them up close on footpaths. The on-site Roman ruins and museums are worth visiting , too.

• Guide To Pamukkale
• Best Thermal Hotels In Pamukkale
• How To Get From Pamukkale To Cappadocia

Nestled on Turkey’s southwestern coast, Akyaka is a hidden gem that beckons travelers with its serene charm. This picturesque town is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and water sports lovers.

The crystalline waters of the Azmak River wind their way through Akyaka, offering opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. Stroll along the charming boardwalk and indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Akyaka’s unique architecture, with its traditional Mugla houses , adds to the town’s allure.

For a perfect day in Akyaka, explore the surrounding pine forests and soak in the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.

• Why You Need To Visit Akyaka

Brands We Use And Trust

Places to visit in turkey if you want history.

So, where are the best places to visit in Turkey to learn about history?

9. Istanbul

Turkey is packed with history; if you want to study natural history, you should head to the southeastern region. While traveling there isn’t forbidden by any means and is relatively safe provided you’re careful , certain restrictions and places are not ideal.

Many governments warn their citizens not to go to the border area with Syria, for example. This is quite a shame because Mardin, which isn’t too far from the Syrian border, is one of Turkey’s oldest and most historic sites .

Despite that, Istanbul is the best place to go in Turkey for history, hands down, if not the entire world. There are more historical places to see in Turkey than you will ever have time to visit on one vacation!

• The Istanbul Museum Pass – Save Time & Money
• Whirling Dervishes In Istanbul
• 17 Amazing Mosques In Istanbul Not To Miss
• Best Museums In Istanbul

10. Çannakale

Çannakale, located on the shores of the Dardanelles, offers a gateway to ancient Troy and the historic Gallipoli Peninsula. History buffs will be enthralled by the remnants of the ancient city of Troy, where the famous Trojan War unfolded. The Gallipoli Battlefields, a poignant reminder of World War I, is a solemn but essential stop for those interested in history.

Çannakale’s waterfront promenade provides breathtaking views of the strait, and the city’s warm hospitality ensures a memorable stay. Experience the intersection of history and natural beauty in Çannakale.

11. Ancient City Of Ephesus

Located near the present-day town of Selçuk on Turkey’s southeast coast , Ephesus is one of the world’s most magnificent ancient ruins and is one of the top places to go in Turkey for ruins.

This ancient Greek city dates back to the 10th century BC, after which it grew to become one of the twelve cities of the Ionian League in Classical Greece . The Roman Empire conquered this stunning city in the 2 nd century BC.

Now, the ruins of this ancient city are a UNESCO World Heritage Site ; Ephesus is easily one of the best sites in Turkey to visit ancient architecture and history. It was home to the fabled Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Simultaneously, other iconic buildings include the imposing Library of Celsus, the Gate of Augustus, and the Tomb of John of the Apostle. If you only have time to visit one historic site in Turkey, this should be it.

• What To See & Do In Ephesus
• Tours From Istanbul To Ephesus
• Getting From Izmir To Ephesus

12. Aspendos

Another spectacular Turkish site dating from antiquity is Aspendos. This ancient Greco-Roman city is near Antalya on the southern coast of Turkey. There’s plenty of history to discover and learn about here, making it one of the best places in Turkey for history buffs to visit. The absolute star main attraction, however, is the massive Aspendos Theater.

One of the best-preserved theaters from antiquity, the Aspendos Theater, dating from the 2 nd century AD, once seated no fewer than 12,000 spectators. It is exceptional for its superb acoustics and impressive architectural design. The Theater of Aspendos is even more remarkable because it’s still in use today—it hosts the annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.

13. City Of Safranbolu

Another one of the many beautiful places in Turkey , the old City of Safranbolu, was an essential stop on the main east-west trade route between Europe and Asia in the 13th century. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site for its significance to historic trade and its well-preserved buildings.

The Çarşı District is home to beautiful Ottoman Empire architecture, including hundreds of red-roofed traditional houses that line cobblestone streets. Other top attractions in Safranbolu include the 17th-century caravansary of Cinci Han and the restored Tarihi Cinci Hamam bathhouse.

• Day Trips Ideas From Istanbul

14. Mount Nemrut

By now, you’ve probably noticed that several of the best places to visit in Turkey are historical or cultural sites. And here we have yet another historic UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey. Mount Nemrut is no different.

Also known as Nemrut Dağ, Mount Nemrut is situated in southeastern Turkey and is one of the tallest mountains east of the Taurus mountain range.

This striking mountain is topped with several ruins, buildings, and famous statues. It is assumed to be the mausoleum of Antiochus, the former late-Hellenistic king of Commagene, which originated after Alexander’s empire fell. Seeing the temple tomb’s colossal statues and sculpted slabs is an experience that makes the trip out there more than worth it.

• Top Landmarks In Turkey
• Should You Visit Southeastern Turkey

So, where are the best places to visit in Turkey to experience culture?

15. Trabzon

If you’re looking for a breathtaking Turkish city to add to your travel list, look no further than Trabzon. This Black Sea gem in northeast Turkey is known for its stunning natural scenery , rich history, and delicious cuisine.

One of the must-see sights in Trabzon is the Sumela Monastery. Nature lovers will also enjoy exploring the Uzungol Plateau , hiking through the Altindere Valley National Park, and relaxing at one of the many scenic beaches.

No visit to Trabzon would be complete without sampling some of the local dishes like hamsi (anchovies), karadeniz pidesi (black sea bread), and kuyu kebabi (lamb cooked underground).

So, if you’re looking for a city with everything – from beautiful landscapes to tasty food – make sure to put Trabzon, Turkey, on your radar !

• Guide To Trabzon

16. Sanliurfa

Sanliurfa, often called the “City of Prophets,” is a unique place of historical and spiritual significance. According to local legend, it is the birthplace of the biblical prophet Abraham. Visit the vibrant bazaars of Sanliurfa, where you can shop for colorful textiles, spices, and handicrafts.

The city’s stunning Balikligol (Pool of Sacred Fish) is a serene oasis surrounded by gardens and historical sites. Witness the mesmerizing dance of the sacred fish, which is said to bring good luck. As you explore Sanliurfa, you’ll be immersed in a city where legends from ancient times and modern life coexist harmoniously.

17. Diyarbakir

Diyarbakir, located in southeastern Turkey, is a city of ancient walls and rich traditions. The city’s iconic black basalt walls, dating back to Roman times, encircle the old town and stand as a symbol of its resilience through centuries.

Explore the bustling, narrow streets of Diyarbakir, where you can savor traditional Kurdish cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to taste the delectable mutton dishes and baklava. The city’s Grand Mosque and the Hevsel Gardens along the Tigris River are must-visit attractions. Diyarbakir’s cultural heritage and warm hospitality make it a popular place for those seeking authenticity.

Konya is a city in Turkey that is full of history and culture. There are many fun things to see and do in Konya, making it a great place to visit. Some top sights include the Mevlana Museum, the Alaeddin Mosque, and the Selimiye Mosque.

There are also plenty of outstanding restaurants and shops to explore. If you’re looking for a city full of character and culture, Konya is definitely worth a visit .

• How To Get From Istanbul To Konya

Mardin, perched on a hilltop in southeastern Turkey , is a captivating blend of history and culture. The city’s ancient stone buildings, adorned with intricate carvings, transport you back in time.

Explore the narrow alleyways of the old town, where the scent of spices fills the air from bustling bazaars. The iconic Mardin Houses , made of local beige stone, offer a glimpse into the region’s architectural heritage. Don’t miss the chance to savor traditional Mardin cuisine, which combines flavors from Arabic and Turkish influences. As you wander through Mardin, you’ll discover a city where history and tradition harmoniously coexist.

20. Any Village

Many tour operators will take you to local villages and show you the local way of life . If you visit cities and towns , you’ll surely see some of them, but they’re usually touched by modern life and have changed a little. You must visit a local village to see how people live off the land, focus all their time and energy on family, and value communities. The food is also excellent!

Turkish people, by nature, are very welcoming, and hospitality is high on their list. If you meet a local family and they invite you to their home, you’re more than blessed in terms of the culinary delights that will come your way, too!

The good news is that many villages are close to the main tourist resorts on the south coast of the Turkish Riviera, so you can visit them if you hire a car.

Get off the beaten track and visit one of these options, which are among Turkey’s best places to visit.

21. Northern And Central Turkey

Turkey is a safe country, and provided you listen to advice, e.g., the advice we gave before about not going close to the Syrian border; you’re more than fine. This is a huge country, and it’s exceptionally welcoming. Thanks to a very high-quality long-distance bus network, traveling around Turkey is straightforward, meaning you can go from place to place relatively cheaply.

If you want to leave the main tourist resorts and cities, head to the Black Sea Coast , with destinations in Turkey such as Rize and Trabzon. Do be aware that during the winter , however, this part of Turkey sees heavy snowfall, but it’s beautiful to see! Central Turkey is also a delight, and this is where the capital city of Ankara is situated.

• Guide To The Black Sea Coast
• Surfing The Black Sea

22. Gaziantep

Gaziantep, often called the “City of Gastronomy,” is a culinary haven in southeastern Turkey. Renowned for its delectable dishes and rich culinary heritage, Gaziantep offers a feast for the senses. Sample the world-famous Baklava, prepared with layers of thin pastry, pistachios, and honey, at local bakeries.

Explore the Gaziantep Castle and the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses remarkable ancient mosaics. The bustling markets of Gaziantep are perfect for indulging in traditional sweets and savory delights. With its culinary delights and historical sites, Gaziantep promises a delightful journey for foodies.

Edirne, a city steeped in history, is a treasure trove of architectural marvels and cultural richness. Known for its stunning Selimiye Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edirne’s skyline is dominated by its magnificent dome and minarets.

The city’s annual Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival is a testament to its cultural heritage, attracting participants and spectators from all over the world. Edirne’s Ottoman-style bridges, including the Meric River Bridge, offer captivating views and a glimpse into the past. Sample Edirne’s famous liver and meatball dishes at local eateries and immerse yourself in the grandeur of this historic city.

We’ve got the tourist spots in Turkey that are still fun while cold.

Do you think the best places to visit in Turkey are reserved only for the summer months?

Wintertime in Turkey can be magical, a great opportunity to relax, recharge your batteries, and see the traditional way of life. Of course, you can still embrace plenty of hectic action in the large cities, especially Istanbul .

• Christmas In Turkey
• Best Things To Do In Istanbul In Winter
• Istanbul In January
• Why You Should Visit Turkey In Winter

24. Cappadocia

Did you know that Cappadocia Is open all year round?

This beautiful fairy chimney landscape in Central Turkey is iconic for the hot air balloons flying high at sunrise every day. You might not know that Cappadocia isn’t close, so you can still head there and enjoy the beautiful scenery even when the weather is freezing and the snow is falling.

While hot air balloons are subject to cancellation at any time of year, depending upon weather conditions, it’s more likely to happen during the winter months. Don’t let that stop you, however, as there are many days when flights take off exactly as scheduled!

Even if you can’t get on the balloon, there are many things you can do around Cappadocia, with walking trails, cuisine, museums, archaeological sites , and, of course, the chance to stay in a cave museum!

Winter in Turkey is undoubtedly something you should do. While you might not be able to jump into the sea and get a suntan, you’ll experience something far more valuable – authenticity!

• How To Enjoy Cappadocia In Winter

Places To Visit In Turkey For All

Turkey’s capital city, Ankara , is a modern metropolis with a rich history. Explore the awe-inspiring Atatürk Mausoleum and the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus. The city’s museums, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culinary scene offer a glimpse into contemporary Turkish life.

• Epic Things To Do In Ankara
• Istanbul To Ankara Train Guide
• Istanbul Vs. Ankara – Which To Visit

Top Destinations If You Want To Sunbathe

If you want to know where to go in Turkey for the sun, we’ve got you covered (in 50+).

26. South Coast

Finally, if you want to kick back and relax, get a tan, and enjoy the summer temperatures (although, be warned, they’re hot), you should definitely head south and visit one of the many tourist resorts on the south coast.

• Things To Do In Kas On Turkey’s Southern Coast

27. Side Antik Kenti

Side Antik Kenti is a seaside archaeological wonder that transports you to the ancient world. Stroll through the well-preserved ruins of temples, theaters, and baths overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a perfect blend of history, sun, and sea.

Belek is a coastal paradise known for its luxurious resorts and pristine beaches. It’s a golfer’s dream destination with world-class golf courses. Relax by the turquoise waters, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or explore the nearby ancient ruins.

Lapped by the Mediterranean and Aegean Coast, you can also choose between some of the most beautiful places in Turkey.

• Guide To The Turkish Riviera

29. Kusadasi

Nestled along the stunning Aegean Sea, Kusadasi is a traveler’s paradise . With its crystal-clear waters, Kusadasi offers some of the most breathtaking beaches in Turkey . Beyond the shore, you’ll discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, where history comes to life. Stroll through the bustling bazaars, savor the local cuisine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem.

Bodrum is a coastal town that effortlessly combines history, culture, and natural beauty. The Bodrum Castle, overlooking the marina, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Relax on the pristine beaches during the day, and as the sun sets, immerse yourself in Bodrum’s vibrant nightlife, filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants.

• Where To Stay In Bodrum
• Ferry Day Trip From Kos To Bodrum
• Best Beach Resorts In Bodrum
• Bodrum Beach Guide

If you’re seeking a lively beach destination, Gumbet is the place to be. Known for its energetic atmosphere, Gumbet offers many water sports, beach parties, and vibrant nightlife. During the day, you can explore nearby Bodrum or bask in the sun along the golden shores.

• Aegean Coast Of Turkey – Izmir, Bodrum & Beyond

32. Icmeler

Tucked away on the southwest Turkish coast, Icmeler is a hidden gem known for its tranquil charm. The beach here is a haven for relaxation, and the town’s friendly locals make you feel right at home. You can leisurely stroll along the palm-lined promenade, indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, and unwind in this serene coastal retreat. It is always a place where you can really unwind. 

• Luxury Beach Resorts On The Turkish Riviera

33. Marmaris

Marmaris is a diverse coastal town that caters to all types of travelers. Whether you’re interested in water sports, a boat trip to a secluded cove, or exploring the picturesque old town, Marmaris has it all. Don’t forget to visit the famous Marmaris Castle and enjoy a taste of the local nightlife.

• Marmaris Or Bodrum – Which Is For You
• Marmaris Or Antalya – How To Choose
• Your Guide To Marmaris

With its dramatic cliffside castle and two stunning beaches, Alanya is a coastal paradise with a touch of history that never disappoints me. Explore the centuries-old Alanya Castle, offering panoramic views of the coastline, and then relax on Cleopatra Beach, said to be the favored bathing spot of the ancient queen herself. Alanya’s vibrant markets and dining scene add to the charm of this captivating destination.

Not to mention, these cities along the southern coast are perfect for day-tripping to Greece!

• Alanya Or Antalya – How To Choose
• Your Guide To Alanya

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Turkey Travel FAQs

Should i go to turkey.

Yes! Turkey is an incredible country that offers diverse sights and delicious food. It is a melting pot of culture, history, and modern-day life.

When is the best time to go to Turkey?

If you want beach time, the best time to visit is from May to the end of September. If you’re more interested in sightseeing and city life, Turkey is a year-round destination.

What are the popular places to visit in Turkey?

While Istanbul is an obvious choice, the southern beach resorts are also bustling during the hottest months.

Where is Turkey?

Turkey is located on the border between Eastern Europe and Asia. It is bordered by eight different countries: Armenia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Bulgaria, Greece, Iraq, and Syria.

What is the most beautiful part of Turkey?

All of Turkey is beautiful in different ways. The south coast is particularly home to some of the best towns to visit, and when the sun is shining, it’s blindingly beautiful.

What is Turkey the most famous for?

Turkey is famous for its food, fantastic beaches, centuries-old history, music, and warm welcome to all guests.

Is Turkey safe to visit?

Yes. Turkey is safe like any other country. It is advised to avoid the border areas with Syria and Iraq and to watch your belongings in crowded spaces. 

What are the must-see cities in Turkey?

The must-see cities in Turkey include Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, and Ankara.

Is Turkey cheap or expensive?

Compared to the rest of Europe, Turkey is considered a cheaper country, though prices have risen a lot in the last 12 months.

What are some of the best places to visit in Turkey?

Turkey offers a variety of incredible destinations to explore. Some of the best places to visit include sun-drenched beaches, lush mountains, vibrant cities, and ancient ruins.

What activities can I try while in Turkey?

In Turkey, you can engage in various activities depending on your interests. You can enjoy water sports at the beaches, go hiking in the mountains, explore bustling markets, indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the country.

Are there any recommended places to stay in Turkey?

If you’re looking for accommodation options in Turkey, there are numerous great places to stay. Depending on your preferences, you can choose from luxurious hotels, cozy guesthouses, seaside resorts, or even unique stays like cave hotels in Cappadocia.

How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are there in Turkey?

Turkey boasts an impressive total of 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites showcase the country’s significant historical and cultural landmarks, providing visitors with awe-inspiring experiences.

Whether you are looking for panoramic views, water sports, natural wonders, or small-town feels, you can see that Turkey is the perfect place for everyone to go.

• What To Pack For Turkey
• Explore The 7 Geographical Regions Of Turkey
• Best Hookah Lounges In Istanbul
• 5 Reasons To Visit Gallipoli, Turkey
• Top Things To Do In Istanbul
• How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia
• What To Wear In Turkey: Area-by-Area Guide
• Things To Do In Cappadocia Other Than Ballooning

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7 best Turkey holiday destinations – and when to travel to each one

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A country steeped in history, Turkey combines lively cities, popular coastal towns, ancient historical sites and some of the most varied natural phenomena on Earth into one diverse nation.

From cosmopolitan Istanbul and the capital of Ankara to beloved beach resorts such as Bodrum, Alanya and Marmaris, the country’s main towns and cities attract millions of tourists a year to sample everything from culture to coastlines.

With an array of idyllic beaches, high-octane cities and incredible natural sites like the Pamukkalelake and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, Turkey has bagged a place among the world’s most popular tourist destinations – it welcomed over 44 million visitors in 2022 the fourth highest number of any country in the world.

If you’re planning a trip to this varied and storied country, read on; below, we’ve rounded up a list of some of its premier destinations.

The most populous city in Europe is where the west meets Asia. Having been the capital of three different empires, the city has over 2,500 years of history and its main attractions include Byzantine structures such as the Hagia Sophia and the soaring minarets of the Ottoman-era Blue Mosque.

Other popular tourist spots include the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern, but a simple visit to the Sultanahmet district will likely cover many of the ‘must-do’ things in the city. Those wanting to venture further afield will want to see the city’s famous Grand Bazaar, the Bosphorous Straight and neighbourhoods including Balat and Fener, where you can discover everything from foodie delights to local markets. For great views, try climbing the Galata Tower.

When to visit Istanbul

June and September are the most pleasant times to visit Istanbul. Average temperatures will hover around 22C, while you’ll avoid the peak summer crowds – perfect for enjoyable sightseeing and al fresco dining.

Where to stay

Located in the Taksim area of the city, Hotel The Public is set in a historic building – built in 1901 – on the well-known Istiklal Avenue. Interiors are contemporary but period features like exposed brick walls remain, creating an eclectic aesthetic right in the thick of the city.

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Rates provided by Booking.com

Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing.

A destination that is popular with those wanting a taste of the Turkish coast, Bodrum is another city with links to ancient times. Once known as Halicarnassus (and home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), Bodrum still houses some ancient ruins as well as its own famous medieval fortress, Bodrum Castle. Away from the sights, Bodrum has a vibrant and lively nightlife scene, with a mix of bars and clubs in the town, on the beaches and in the marina area.

However, most tourists flock here for access to some of Turkey’s best beaches. The surrounding region is a scenic mix of charming villages, rolling green hills and tranquil marinas, with dozens of fine golden sand-stretches lapped by turquoise water. Set back from the sea, several hotels and resorts offer a mix of luxury and more affordable stays.

When to visit Bodrum

Bodrum can be sweltering in the summer, with average daily highs hitting 35C in July and August. With average temperatures of 22C and very few crowds (apart from at half-term), October can be a good choice for a more affordable trip to the southern resort.

Kaya Palazzo is a large resort right on the Bodrum coast, just 15 minutes away from Bodrum itself. The accommodation features a private section of beach and a seasonal outdoor pool, while rooms are elegant and modern.

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The chances are that a visit to the Cappadocia region will be unlike any other trip you’ve been on. Starting with nature, Cappadocia has a distinctive topography shaped by soft volcanic rock, volcanic activity and erosion that has caused various rock formations such as the so-called ‘fairy chimneys’ (rock spires seen in the image above), as well as the presence of a large range of caves throughout the region. Many of these caves now act as charming hotels, with rooms carved into the rock and restaurants that serve authentic local fare overlooking the hills.

While hiking, biking and visits to open-air museums are some of the popular activities in the area, the stand-out excursion is a hot air balloon trip, offering unforgettable views of mesmerising landscapes and orange sunsets. For a bit more exploration, the main towns in the region include Avanos, Goreme, Uchisar and Urgup.

When to visit Cappadocia

Daily temperatures at the height of summer can vary as much as 15 degrees between 32C and 17C, but with average temperatures around 24C, these months are a good choice for pleasant weather and hot air balloon watching.

For a sensational stay near Goreme, opt for Argos. Located in the hills near the centre of Uchisar, the hotel consists of a series of stone buildings offering accommodation options ranging from smooth stone rooms to large suites carved from tuff (a light rock local to the area) with private indoor pools.

Another popular destination on the southern coast, Antalya is the main city in the Antalya province. The province as a whole offers miles of coastline, ancient city ruins (including Perge, Aspendos, and Termessos) and a range of activities ( Belek is well-known for its range of golf courses), while the city itself is also an excellent choice for a holiday. Its charming Old Town (Kaleici) is a maze of narrow, paved streets, Ottoman-era architecture and ancient walls, while the marina and harbour areas offer sea views in a relaxed setting. There are many family-friendly sites too, including a zoo, aquarium and waterpark.

Near the city, the Duden and Kursunlu waterfalls are a dramatic site of natural beauty, while the Taurus Mountains offer opportunities for hiking. For soaking up the sun and taking a sip, Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara are some of the best beaches in the region.

When to visit Antalya

Antalya is another place where summer highs can reach over 35C, so July and August are best avoided. September generally receives little to no rain, and average temperatures will stay around a much more manageable 25C.

Tuvana Hotel is situated in the historical heart of Antalya, just 450m from Hadrian’s Gate. Traditional Ottoman decor and retained period features line the interiors, with several garden areas providing a great option for romantic drinks and dinner.

The third most populous city in Turkey may not be on most visitor itineraries, but this coastal hub has a rich history to add to its contemporary arts and cultural scene. There are nearby top-notch beaches in places like Cesme, Alacati, and Urla, while in Izmir itself you’ll find a 20th-century Clock Tower, the Agora and Kadifekale (an ancient castle). Modern living is showcased in the shops and restaurants of the lively Kordon Promenade or the city’s annual International Fair, and visitors can enjoy a blend of Turkish, Greek and Aegean cuisine.

When to visit Izmir

June and September carry average daily temperatures of 25C and 26C. Alternatively, for a better mix of cooler (but still pleasant) temperatures (think 21C on average) and far fewer crowds, visit in May or October.

Key Hotel is situated right on the city’s coastline, boasting spectacular sea views from its reception and restaurant plus some rooms.

Kas is another destination on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, lying between Bodrum and Antalya. A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, it sits between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, while the 320-mile Lycian Way hiking route runs near the town, providing excellent hiking opportunities and the chance to do a host of activities including kayaking, scuba diving and paragliding.

The town itself is a smaller settlement with whitewashed houses and russet-tiled roofs and cobbled streets, with a laid-back atmosphere both in the centre and on beaches such as Kucuk Cakil. Historical sites such as the ruins at Xanthos, Patara, and Myra, the Kas Amphitheater and the Sunken City of Kekova can all be found within the region.

When to visit Kas

Similar to Antalya, temperatures in Kos can get sweltering at the height of summer. Consider May and October to beat the crowds, with average highs that are perfect for some winter sun (think around 22C).

The Mandalina sits at the western tip of a peninsula just west of Kas (roughly 10 minutes away by car). The hotel has a pool with sweeping sea views and access to a private beach area, while the suites offer spacious and comfortable accommodation (some with balconies and private pools).

Oludeniz is one destination where nature is the focus. The main attraction is the Blue Lagoon, an idyllic bay where azure waters are surrounded by curved stretches of white sands backed by green hills. Oludeniz Beach is popular for swimming and water sports ranging from jet skiing to snorkelling, and there are plenty of other beaches in the nearby Kidrak National Park.

Away from the sea, Babadag Mountain has a range of hiking trails and is a popular paragliding spot, with panoramic views over the Blue Lagoon and other areas. The area around the village is a nature reserve, offering untouched landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere; for those who do eventually want to return to civilisation, the village itself has options for eating, drinking and nightlife, and the popular town of Fethiye is just a 30-minute drive away.

When to visit Oludeniz

June and September are the best options outside of school holidays, with average temperatures staying at 24C, providing optimal weather for relaxing by the sea.

Sitting just 50 metres from the beach, the Bronze Hotel has a large outdoor pool and terraced seating where buffet breakfasts are served every morning.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Steeped in history with a landscape that encompasses beaches and soaring mountains, Turkey has acted as the gateway between Europe and Asia for thousands of years. Being a place of trade and of exchanging cultures has made Turkey a richly diverse country. The point where East meets West, the wealth of culture and breadth of influences has left its mark and is revealed in the country’s mouthwatering culinary landscape, as well as in the innumerable religious monuments and archaeological sites.

Istanbul, once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, features prominently in most travel plans but there are many more great destinations. You could enjoy your time here staying in boutique hotels inside caves and floating in hot air balloons above the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, wandering in the midst of the Greco-Roman world in Ephesus, or simply soaking up the sun in the luxury beach resorts along the Aegean Sea. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Turkey:

10. Ankara [SEE MAP]

Turkey’s capital city, Ankara, is a sprawling, modern city home to government buildings, commercial businesses, universities and foreign embassies. Located right in the center of the country and the Anatolia region, Ankara is an important transportation hub, linking nationals and tourists alike to other major destinations in Turkey. However, Ankara is not all business. This bustling city also offers a few historic sites and some arts and culture.

An old city once inhabited by various cultures including Hittite, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman, Ankara is riddled with ancient structures and ruins reflecting its history. Some of the most notable of these are the Temple of Augustus, the Citadel, and a Roman Theatre. Numerous historic mosques can also be found throughout the city. An important 20th century landmark, Anitkabir, is a mausoleum housing the tomb of Turkey’s first President, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Ankara boasts a lively arts and culture scene with a large concentration of theaters and museums, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which houses more than 200,000 objects. Traditional markets and modern malls provide fantastic shopping choices where items such as fresh produce, spices, carpets and electronics can all be purchased.

9. Mardin [SEE MAP]

Perched on a strategic hilltop overlooking the plains of Mesopotamia in southeastern Turkey, Mardin is the capital of the Mardin Province. One of the oldest settlements in the region, Mardin is best known for its cultural diversity and Old City of sandstone buildings that cascade down the hill.

Mardin’s Old City is easily toured by walking. The maze of meandering streets leads visitors along terraced houses and popular sites like Deyrü’z-Zafaran Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the world, and the Sultan Isa Medresesi, a medieval monument that once served as an astronomical observatory. Zinciriye Medresesi, a 14th century Islamic school, features beautiful courtyards and art works.

The Great Mosque, with its soaring minaret, is hard to miss. Although closed to the public, the citadel presents fantastic photo opportunities. Throughout the Old City is a myriad of shops selling the likes of pottery, silverware, leather and traditional headdresses.

8. Konya [SEE MAP]

One of the oldest cities in the world and best known for its remarkable Seljuk architecture and Whirling Dervishes, Konya is a large city in Turkey’s Central Anatolia Region. In the 12th and 13th centuries, Konya prospered as a capital city under the rule of the Seljuk Dynasty. Today, attractive buildings from that era can still be admired such as the Alaeddin Mosque, which houses the tombs of several sultans. Another popular example is the Ince Minare Medrese, now a museum displaying artifacts from the Seljuk and Ottoman eras.

Although in ruins, the Seljuk Palace is also worth a visit. A modern day architectural attraction is the Seljuk Tower, one of the tallest skyscrapers in Turkey, featuring a revolving restaurant at the top two floors.

In the 13th century, Konya was the home of the Persian theologian and Sufi mystic, Rumi. His tomb, the Mausoleum of Rumi, with its neighboring Melvana Museum, is a must-see site in Konya. Rumi’s followers founded the Mevlevi Order, which are also known as the Whirling Dervishes due to their famous religious ceremonies in which they spin around and around on the left foot while wearing white, billowing gowns. These ceremonies, also known as Sama, can be observed weekly at the Mevlana Cultural Centre.

Konya also offers beautiful green spaces and parks such as Alaeddin Hill, in the city center, and the Japanese Park with its lovely pagodas, waterfalls and ponds.

Because Konya is one of Turkey’s more conservative cities, bars and nightclubs are not as plentiful. However, some hotels and cafes do offer alcoholic drinks.

7. Antalya [SEE MAP]

Nestled along the beautiful Turkish Riviera on the Mediterranean coastline, Antalya is a large, vibrant city welcoming tourists with numerous resorts, hotels, bars and restaurants. Spectacular scenery frames the city with gorgeous beaches and lush green mountains dotted with ancient ruins. From swimming and sailing to mountain climbing, sightseeing and family fun, Antalya offers something for everyone.

A walk around Kaleiçi, the Old Quarter, offers a step back into the city’s ancient past with views of the old city walls, Roman gates, maze-like streets and historic structures that include the Clock Tower and beautiful, old churches, mosques and temples. At the heart of the Old Quarter is the Cumhuriyet Square, surrounded by shops, cafes, Turkish baths and street performers.

Antalya’s main beaches, Konyaalti and Lara, offer white sands, water sports, resorts, bars and restaurants. Nearby the beaches are water parks, amusement parks and a zoo. Several museums exhibit artifacts and relics from the area, including the award-winning Antalya Museum.

6. Marmaris [SEE MAP]

One of Turkey’s most popular seaside resorts, Marmaris is a picture-perfect setting of pine-clad mountains, sandy white beaches, turquoise waters and historic architecture. Located along the Turkish Riviera in southwest Turkey, this stunning cruise port is a tourist paradise with exceptional sightseeing opportunities, water sports, fantastic dining and buzzing nightlife.

Marmaris presents so much to see and do that visitors will be spoiled for choice. A walk along the cobblestone streets of the old quarter offers attractive architecture and a visit to the 16th century Castle of Suleyman the Magnificent. Various boating tours take visitors exploring around the picturesque bays and neighboring villages.

Horse safaris canter through lush pine forests, orange groves, traditional villages and around untouched bays and stunning waterfalls, while jeep safaris present off-the-beaten-track adventures.

Marmaris also features water parks for the whole family and Turkish baths for total pampering and relaxation. If that is not enough, there are a number of day trips from Marmaris to outstanding destinations like Dalyan, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Cleopatra Island.

The nightlife scene in Marmaris is one of Turkey’s most exciting. There are hundreds of restaurants featuring cuisines from all over the world from fast food to fine dining. Bars and clubs are found throughout the city and along the beaches. Not to be missed are the Turkish Night Show venues, which feature traditional Turkish food, mezes and belly dancing.

5. Side [SEE MAP]

A major port in ancient Pamphylia and occupied by Alexander the Great in 4th century BC, Side today is a picturesque town of classic ruins and modern day resorts overlooking sandy white beaches. Located on Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast in the Antalya Province on a small peninsula, Side offers fantastic sightseeing, nightlife and outdoor adventure.

Side’s star attraction is an excavated site of ancient Hellenistic and Roman ruins that include the remnants of a colossal amphitheater, an agora, a Byzantine basilica, public baths, marble columns and various temples. The Roman baths are now restored to house a museum, which displays a number of Roman statues and artifacts. Overlooking the beach, the Temple of Apollo is a spectacular sight, especially at sunset.

Featuring narrow streets and attractive gardens, the charming town of Side offers many restaurants ranging from delis and pizza shops to upscale dining in a variety of cuisines. Just outside of town, the Manavgat River offers boat tours, white water rafting and impressive waterfalls.

4. Bodrum [SEE MAP]

Located in the Mugla Povince in the southern Aegean region of Turkey, Bodrum is the site of the ancient fortified city, Halicarnassus, which was once home to marble buildings, temples, statutes, paved streets and the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

After falling into ruins, the city remained a quiet fishing village until the 20th century when Turkish intellectuals brought popularity to it through their writings. Today, Bodrum’s intriguing ruins, stunning beaches and cliff-top resorts attract people from all over the world.

On Bodrum’s eastern side, tourists will find a beautiful beach overlooking brilliant blue water. Near the beach are plenty of cafes, bars and nightclubs. On the western side of town is the marina, shopping centers and restaurants.

No visit to Bodrum would be complete without seeing the Castle of St. Peter, also known as Bodrum Castle. Built from 1402 by the Knights Hospitaller it now operates as a museum. Other sights include the last remains of the Mausoleum, and ancient amphitheater and the Myndos Gate, which was once the scene of a bloody battle during a siege by Alexander the Great.

Besides sightseeing, other things to see and do in Bodrum include the award-winning Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology which is housed inside Bodrum Castle, historic windmills, Turkish saunas and mud baths, windsurfing, scuba diving and boat tours that feature nightclubs and glass-bottomed dance floors.

3. Ephesus [SEE MAP]

Europe’s most complete classical metropolis, Ephesus is an ancient site located in Aegean Turkey. By the 1st century BC, Ephesus was one of the largest cities in all of the Roman Empire, boasting one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. The ruins of Ephesus are well preserved and contained within a large archaeological site, making it one of Turkey’s most popular tourist attractions.

Ephesus was declared a Roman settlement in 133 BC, although it did not reach its peak until some 200 years later. At one point, when the city was the capital of Roman Asia Minor, Ephesus housed more than 250,000 permanent residents. St.Paul lived in Ephesus, fostering Christianity among many other religions. With the decline of the harbor of Ephesus, and the sacking of the city by Germanic Goths in the third century, Ephesus began its decline.

For roughly 1,500 years, Ephesus was all but forgotten. The remnants of this incredible classical city were hidden from the world until the 1860s, when an international team of archeologists began unearthing the ruins. Today, less than 20 percent of Ephesus has been excavated, but it is still one of the largest accessible archeological sites in the world.

Without question, the most famous structure in Ephesus is the Temple of Artemis. The temple was once the largest on the planet, showcasing just how important the city of Ephesus was. Unfortunately, the temple itself was largely destroyed around the fifth century, but it is still possible to tour the ruins.

Some of the most recently excavated attractions in Ephesus, and certainly some of the most popular, are the Terraced Houses. These were the homes of the richest residents of Ephesus in approximately the first century, and they were built in a modern Roman style.

Remarkably, some of the homes had hot and cold baths, marble floors and even heating systems. On the walls, you can spot unusual artwork, mosaics and even love poems scrawled by hand.

No trip to Ephesus would be complete without seeing the famed Library of Celsus. Built in 123 AD, the library was once of the largest libraries in the ancient world, coming in third after the libraries of Alexandria and Pergamum. The library has been restored, making it easier to see its two-story design, its columns and its capitals.

Be sure to admire the four statues that represent the four virtues. While these are now replica statues, and not the originals, you can still see Sophia, representing wisdom, Episteme, representing knowledge, Ennoia, representing thought, and Arete, representing goodness.

Just two miles from Ephesus is the town of Selçuk, where many visitors choose to spend time before or after exploring the ruins of Ephesus. In the center of Selçuk, you might want to stop and admire the Roman aqueduct that once supplied water to the city, or you could learn a little more about the archeology of the region by exploring the collections at the Museum of Ephesus. You can also browse at the market or pick up double knot carpets, the most popular souvenir from the area.

2. Cappadocia [SEE MAP]

Situated in Central Anatolia of Turkey, Cappadocia is best known for its fairytale landscape of unusual formations resembling chimneys, cones, mushrooms and pinnacles. Natural processes such as ancient volcanic eruptions and erosion have all sculpted these odd formations over the ages, with some of them rising as much as 130 feet (40 meters) high. However, thousands of years ago, mankind added remarkable touches to the landscape by carving out houses, churches and underground cities from the soft rock.

Inhabited as early as 1800 BC, Hittites and other residents chiseled out underground tunnel complexes, seeking safety from invading Persians and Greeks. Much later in the 4th century AD, Christians, fleeing out of religious persecution from Rome, sought refuge in Cappadocia’s tunnels and caves. Today, the region’s natural wonders and historic sites all make it a popular destination.

While much of Cappadocia is located in the province of Nevsehir, some of the main towns in the region are Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, Ortahisar and Mustafapasa. Many of these towns offer hotels, restaurants, nightlife options and attractions such as museums, rock castles, fairy chimneys, underground tunnels, old Greek villages, monasteries and handicraft markets. Some of the caves in the region are actually hotels and cater to tourists.

1. Istanbul [SEE MAP]

Once serving as the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, Istanbul today is the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Istanbul stretches across both sides of the Bosphorus, a narrow strait that connects Asia and Europe, making it the only city in the world spanning two continents. Impressive architecture, historic sites, dining, shopping, nightlife and exotic atmosphere all make Istanbul one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

See also: Where to Stay in Istanbul

The Old City is where most of the city’s impressive historic sites are found, which include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Another important district is New City, known for its modern day attractions, skyscrapers and shopping malls. Beyoglu and Galata are popular zones for nightlife and entertainment, while the Bosphorus area is home to beautiful palaces, waterfront mansions and urban parks.

There is no shortage of exciting things to see and do in Istanbul . A shopping affair not to be missed is the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Visiting a Turkish bath is also a great way to experience the local culture. The nightlife scene in Istanbul abounds in numerous restaurants, pubs and nightclubs to suit every budget and preference.

Map of Turkey

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Reader interactions.

June 29, 2018 at 12:49 pm

You must go to Rize too.

December 18, 2017 at 3:41 pm

Izmir is one of the best Turkey there is,lots of historic places and many great places to see

November 13, 2017 at 8:45 am

You should have added Bursa and Cumalikizik to your list. Bursa and its vicinities offer a lot for the visitors, who would like to taste great food, experience thermal baths, Turkish baths, visit bazaars, mosques, madrasas and enjoy beautiful nature…

June 29, 2017 at 1:56 pm

Turkey has a lot to offer for those who wants to see mixture of cultures, tradition and history. I have been to half of the places mentioned above and each place has its unique history and taste to it. Actually i am planning to move to live in Izmir with my family in less than a month time. We are so excited about this venture, and look forward to get more of Turkey in next few years.

June 21, 2017 at 10:33 pm

I can’t believe you skipped Kastamonu

May 30, 2017 at 2:29 am

I’m suprised you skipped Gaziantep. Gaziantep has the most beatiful Turkish cuisine. You have to taste beyran, kebab, baklava, kadayıf.. In addition, I strongly recommend you to see the ancient city of Zeugma . There are many wonderful muesums and castlle in Gaziantep. I must say that Gaziantep has the biggest zoo.

February 23, 2017 at 12:49 am

Black Sea would be the hidden Gem!! From amazing mountains to the Black Sea it has so much for all to see.

November 15, 2015 at 12:53 pm

I like Ankara, Istanbul, and Antalya. But I really love Ephesus because I really like Greek mythology and historical cities.

June 7, 2015 at 8:52 am

Antalya is definitely one of the best places. When I was a kid, I went there with my family for three days, the beach was sooo awesome!

May 16, 2015 at 12:43 pm

Turkey rocks. Its an amazing destination with a lot of beautiful n mesmerizing sights. Pammukale, Izmir, Uzungöl n safran bolu, Amasra, çanakale should b added to this list if u have time. Moreover u can skip Ankara.

February 26, 2015 at 1:16 am

in addition to: For the ones who are interested in history, Edirne is wonderful to see.

February 26, 2015 at 1:11 am

Don’t make a mistake and never go to Ankara. One of the worst cities in Turkey. I know because I live in Turkey and I lived in Ankara.

Bodrum, Istanbul, Ephesus, Kapadokya, Mardin (security is important), Side, Fethiye (dead sea), Datca and Cunda. These are the best i think

January 8, 2015 at 2:56 am

I cannot believe that you mentioned Ankara in the list. There should be Bursa which has 7 sites (5 Ottoman sultan complexes, Ottoman bazaar and Cumalıkızık Ottoman Village) in Unesco World Heritage list. The city is only 90 minutes by ferry from Istanbul. I highly recommend.

November 3, 2014 at 1:33 am

i’m planning to visit Turky soon ,because it is amazing

October 25, 2014 at 6:49 am

I think,Istanbul is the best to travel,however,Ankara is also awesome place.

October 11, 2014 at 7:42 am

I can’t believe you missed out Pamukkale! That place looks incredible! Other than that, great list! I can’t wait to explore more of Turkey.

September 8, 2014 at 6:26 am

I like Uzungol, Sultan Murat & Sekarsu nice climate, nature at Iis best …

September 2, 2014 at 7:30 pm

Nice list, Side is definitely amazing. Visiting ancient sites in Kas is something travellers shouldnt miss. Two cities are very different one is more touristy and both have great Roman ruins.

August 22, 2014 at 7:50 pm

Izmir is SOOOOOO much better than Istanbul , its crazy that its not even on this list

June 15, 2014 at 7:38 am

If you have 5 days in Istanbul , thats just nice to see it alone . Stay near the Grand Bazaar entrance, which is very near to the tram station of Beyjezit. you can walk to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi palace . and Citedel Basalica. Take a tram to Eminonu , where the Spice market and famous Fish restaurants, and then take the Bosphorus Cruise from there. On the third day take a City bus ride to see the outskirts of Istanbul. On 4th day you can go back to see more of what you havent covered the first three days.

April 12, 2014 at 1:01 pm

March 10, 2014 at 12:13 am

Very surprised that the Black sea region is not on your list

January 25, 2014 at 11:44 am

Can somebody advise where to go in turkey for 5 days.?

January 16, 2014 at 9:22 am

I visited Turkey last year and i must say i was impressed greatly! If you want a bit of everything on a trip then dont miss this place.

October 7, 2013 at 12:49 am

Wey!! I have done all of them apart from Ankara and looking to do that this winter

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Where to go in 2024: The best places to visit

Editor’s note: Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travel’s weekly newsletter . Get news about destinations, plus the latest in aviation, food and drink, and where to stay.

So many places to see in the world. So many people eager to see them.

International tourism reached about 90% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, and the United States issued a record number of  passports . And if you visited any popular destination over the summer, you’d probably argue it was more crowded than ever.

So maybe it’s time to look at places that are still largely undiscovered, or alluring in the offseason, or frequently overlooked for their larger first cities or neighbors. Maybe it’s time to head to places that are making it easier for tourists to visit and those that pay close attention to encouraging tourism that’s sustainable.

With those things in mind, CNN Travel chose 24 places to consider as you make your 2024 plans:

Sumba, Indonesia

For those looking for a beach destination that prioritizes community consciousness and sustainability, the Indonesian island of Sumba delivers.

With its remote villages, untouched forests, ancient rituals and world-class surf breaks, Sumba is the perfect antidote to the crowds of Bali, which is just an hour’s flight away. It might not be internationally famous yet, but that doesn’t mean it’s small. Sumba is more than 4,000 square miles in size (more than 10,000 square kilometers) – twice the size of Bali.

It was the  Nihi Sumba  resort that brought this island into luxury seekers’ sights when it first opened in 2012. More than a decade on, Sumba has welcomed several new luxury eco-resorts. These include  The Sanubari,  a series of beachfront villas that opened in 2022, and  Cap Karoso , located on the island’s southwest.  —Karla Cripps

Turkey’s Black Sea coast

Far less known than the Mediterranean yacht-magnet resorts of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the  Black Sea region, also known as Karadeniz,  offers a very different side of the country. Less touristed and with a cooler, damper climate that produces verdant scenery and  delicious black tea , the region has historic towns and villages as well as beaches and adrenaline-producing activities.

In summer, it’s a refreshing escape from Turkey’s more sweltering regions. Visitors can explore ancient streets that still echo to the clang of blacksmith hammers in Safranbolu, soak up beach life in Amasra and climb to where one of the world’s oldest monasteries clings to a cliff at Sumela.

For thrill-seekers, there’s white water rafting, and when winter brings heavy snowfalls, the region’s eastern Kaçkar Mountains transform into a  heli-skiing paradise .  —Barry Neild

Tartu, Estonia

Pucker up. Tartu, in southern Estonia, has been named a European Capital of Culture for 2024 — with  special attention paid to kissing . One of this university city’s most celebrated sights is its statue of two students locked in a passionate embrace, but here in the “City of Good Thoughts,” the love-in is more high-minded than carnal.

Tartu is renowned as Estonia’s intellectual center, home to its oldest university as well as the must-visit Estonian National Museum and the impressive Science Centre AHHAA, the largest science museum in the Baltics.

The Old Town is the perfect place to base yourself, but just north of the city center on the banks of the Emajõgi River, Supilinn (“Soup Town”) is also worth a visit. This historic neighborhood filled with pretty, wooden houses was formerly a slum but is now becoming one of the city’s most desirable addresses.  —Maureen O’Hare

Tainan, Taiwan

Celebrating its 400th anniversary in 2024, Tainan has become a Taiwan hotspot on the international stage. This southern city has surpassed the capital, Taipei, to boast the highest overall hotel occupancy rate in Taiwan in the past two years.

What makes it so special? Tainan is considered the street food capital of Taiwan and is loved for its beef soups and oyster omelets, otherworldly natural landscapes (check out Tsao Shan Moon World), scenic sunsets over salt farms, colorful old temples and cool new museums.

It was also listed among Booking.com’s top 10 sustainable tourism destinations in 2023.  —Maggie Hiufu Wong

Northwest Michigan

Refreshing, unsalty Lake Michigan lures boatloads of tourists in summer, but the shoreline, quaint towns and rolling countryside of Northwest Michigan have plenty to offer year-round.

On Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City makes a great home base for exploring wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas or picking cherries or apples in season. Then fall’s foliage is ripe for peeping, followed by winter’s inviting blankets of snow.

From Traverse City, the scenic M-22 highway winds up the Leelanau Peninsula and hooks back down through Leland, home to a  historic fishing village  and a collection of interesting  shops and galleries .

Glen Arbor is another town worth perusing on the way to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , where off M-109 an all-sand, 3.5-mile hike over massive dunes to the Great Lake and back preps hardy hikers for a delicious dinner.

Farm Club , a farm-restaurant hybrid seven miles from downtown Traverse City, serves beautifully prepared dishes showcasing the region’s ingredients — many grown on site — in a minimalist, barnlike space that spills outdoors.  —Marnie Hunter

Trans Dinarica Cycle Route, Balkans

Launching in 2024, the Trans Dinarica Cycle Route will be the first and only bike route to link all eight countries of the Western Balkans. The 100-stage trail is designed for cyclists of all abilities and its 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles) is made up of quiet asphalt roads, forest trails and bike paths.

Riders can enjoy Albania and Croatia’s spectacular coastlines, Kosovo’s national parks, Montenegro’s rugged mountains and lush woodland and sparkling rivers throughout Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Serbia.

Riders can get more information and sign up for news of route updates, maps, accommodation and services at  transdinarica.com .   —MO

Culebra, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is large and makes for a great island escape. But what if you want an escape from your great island escape? That’s where little Culebra comes in. It’s about 20 miles (32 kilometers) off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico and world away from  San Juan’s noisy, rum-soaked nightlife .

The emphasis here is on outdoor activities and unwinding. Be sure to check out  Flamenco Beach , curving for about a mile around a sheltered bay. It has little in the way of waves, making it a superb spot for snorkeling and swimming. And a graffitied tank — a US military relic — offers a striking photo op.

Much of the island is  a natural refuge , and you can also go hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and fishing. Take  a day trip  or  stay over  and make it your main destination.  —Forrest Brown

This southern African nation is trying hard to make a break on the tourism scene, having recently introduced a  quick-approval tourism e-visa . While major tourism infrastructure might not be up to speed yet, it’s a chance to explore a country still off the travel radar.

The capital of Luanda has a reputation as a pricey party city, but out in the wide-open spaces beyond, Angola has some jaw-droppingly spectacular scenery and cultural treats. Second city  Lubango  offers Portuguese colonial architecture, an impressive Rio-style Christ the King hilltop statue and access to the Tundavala Gap, a giddying plunge from cool tablelands into shimmering dusty plains.

Also worth a look: the dramatic 1,300-foot-wide (396 meters) Calendula Falls and Atlantic coastline surfing paradises such as Barra do Kwanza and Cabo Ledo.  —BN

Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

Not to be confused with St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland, Saint John is located in New Brunswick — also on Canada’s east coast. This charming little city is an excellent base from which to enjoy the nearby  Bay of Fundy , famed for having the world’s highest tides.

The city itself is filled with historic architecture, including the  Saint John City Market , a National Historic Site of Canada. Built from 1874 to 1876, it’s filled with shops and food venues. A five-minute walk away is the  Saint John Arts Centre . Set in the city’s historic Carnegie Building, it’s the only former Carnegie Library in eastern Canada.

In terms of accommodation, there are seaside cottages, hotels, motels, campgrounds, historic inns and B&Bs. Food here is as excellent as you’d expect from a maritime city in Canada, with a broad range from cheap eats to fine dining.  —KC

South Korea

With word that “Squid Game” — still the most-watched show on Netflix — is set to return with a new season in 2024, it’s time once again to embrace the K-wave.

Thankfully, travel to the country is easier than ever before. The government is waiving its K-ETA requirement — the electronic travel visa for South Korea — for travelers from  22 countries  till the end of 2024 as part of its Visit Korea Year campaign.

This is a country that truly has it all. After exploring futuristic cities such as Seoul and Busan, the cultural and historic side of old Korea awaits at Andong, dubbed the “Spirit of South Korea,” or the seven cemeteries of the ancient  Gaya Tumuli , newly inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023.  —MHW

Sandwiched on the Adriatic coast between Greece and Montenegro, it’s astonishing that Albania wasn’t more popular as a beach destination before. But its wallet-friendly prices have seen tourism boom here over the past few years — so much so that in 2023, record numbers of Italians flocked across the Adriatic for their bargain summer breaks.

2024 sees the opening of a new airport at Vlorë, on the coast, which will make those beach trips easier. But there’s far more to Albania than its coast. The country has a rich culture, including Christian and Muslim history, with historical centers in towns such as Berat and Gjirokastër, as well as jaw-dropping mountain landscapes (Theth is the most popular).

In 2023, Albania got Europe’s first wild river national park, around the 168-mile (270-kilometer)  Vjosa River  — or to go really off the beaten track book a self-drive tour with  Drive Albania .  —Julia Buckley

Stretching about 2,700 miles from top to toe, long and slim Chile offers a little something for everyone.  In the north, spectacular landscapes simulate  Mars on Earth  in the Atacama Desert, where the 51-room  Our Habitas Atacama  emphasizes sustainability.  The new hotel is a good fit for the “world’s leading green destination,” a title Chile just picked up at the World Travel Awards for the second year in a row.

The natural world puts its best foot forward all over the country: Thousands of miles of Pacific coastline to the west, the towering Andes in the east and lakes, volcanoes and wild Patagonia in the south.

World-class skiing in July and August — a welcome break from the sweltering Northern Hemisphere — is two hours or less from the capital, Santiago. And the new high-altitude Parque Nacional Glaciares near the city protects land in the country’s most populous and  historically little-protected  area.  —MH

Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia

Every year there’s another installment in the soap opera surrounding the Great Barrier Reef — will it be de-listed by UNESCO? Has the coral regrowth gone well this season?

For tourists who’d rather not wade into the situation, there’s another way to experience some of Australia’s gorgeous underwater bounty. About 37 miles (60 kilometers) off the coast of Western Australia, the lesser-known  Abrolhos Islands  are home to some of the most beautiful scenery of the country’s Coral Coast, above and below the water.

Humpback whales pass through in the Southern Hemisphere’s winter, and lucky travelers may catch a glimpse of Australian Sea Lions. There are no hotels on the islands, so intrepid visitors can either overnight in the town of Geraldton or splash out for a liveaboard boat, which provides opportunities to watch brilliant sunsets over the Indian Ocean and scuba dive in the early hours when the fish are at their most active.  —Lilit Marcus

Macedonia, Greece

Athens and the islands get more crowded every year, but in northern Greece, the region of Macedonia is relatively free from overtourism. Yet it has everything visitors flock elsewhere in Greece to see: archaeological sites, history-rich towns and beaches galore.

This was the land of Alexander the Great. His father, Philip II of Macedon, is buried at Vergina, where his tomb has been turned into a world-class  subterranean museum  displaying the finds. Nearby, there are Byzantine remains in the hilltop city Veria, and superb wineries such as  Kir-Yianni  in the rolling hills around Naousa.

Thessaloniki — the region’s capital and Greece’s second city — is a gastro hub as well as a mishmash of architectural and archaeological eras. Near the city are the sandy beaches of Halkidiki; toward the border with Thrace are archaeological spots like ancient Philippi, and the city of Kavala, whose Ottoman past shows in every building . —JB

It may be most famous for the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal, but this Central American country is so much more than a transit destination.

Not only does Panama have a vibrant capital city with a historic old quarter that’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the country also holds over a dozen national parks, including Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, the highest point in Panama.

Panama City is also the only world capital with a tropical rainforest within its city limits. Visitors keen to delve further into Panama’s cultural landscape in a sustainable way can book community-based tourist adventures through a digital portal called  SOSTUR Network , which connects travelers with rural communities and tourism businesses.  —Tamara Hardingham-Gill

Galicia, Spain

Empty beaches bordered by the wild Atlantic Ocean and framed by the rugged landscape of the  Islas Atlánticas National Park . Mouth-watering seafood. And a historic city forever entwined with the famed  Camino de Santiago.  Welcome to Galicia, an autonomous region in the northwest tip of Spain.

Galicia’s regional capital city,  Santiago de Compostela , has long been on the tourist map thanks to its striking 12 th -century cathedral, which is the endpoint for the hundreds of thousands of walkers who  embark on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage  each year. But even if you weren’t planning on packing your walking boots, bustling Santiago should be on your radar.

And for spectacular views, head to  Cabo Fisterra , a rocky peninsula home to the picturesque Finisterre lighthouse. The former lighthouse residence is the  Hotel O Semáforo de Fisterra . Lighthouses are a bit of a theme in Galicia — there are 19 in total, including the UNESCO-protected 1st-century  Tower of Hercules , believed to be the world’s oldest surviving Roman lighthouse.  —Francesca Street

Singapore’s offshore islands

The city-state of Singapore shows urbanism at its finest: biophilic skyscrapers, neon-lit supertrees and six-star hotels all outdoing each other to redefine “luxury.” But venturing off the peninsula is quickly becoming a more interesting option.

Singapore is developing some of its smaller, uninhabited islands by, well, not developing them. Just a ferry ride away from the mainland, Lazarus Island is now home to a few rentable tiny houses made with reconstituted wood and powered by solar energy. Nearby, Sisters’ Island will open the country’s first marine park — including a sea turtle hatchery and coral protection area — in 2024.

Already open for exploring is St. John’s Island, where a 1.7-mile trail highlights native plants and flowers while shining a light on the island’s colorful history, which included a period as a quarantine center during a cholera outbreak. It’s a fitting place to think about life after a pandemic.  —LM

Mérida, Mexico

The Yucatán Peninsula is best known for its tropical beaches, but venture inland, and you’re in for an unexpected urban treat.

“Mérida’s uniqueness comes from a blend of Mayan and colonial heritage,” said David Casanova, who has a  real estate YouTube channel  on Yucatán state’s capital city with his wife, Megan Sequeira Casanova. “The city’s excitement starts with its diverse cuisine and friendly locals and expands to its year-long favorable weather.”

In town, Paseo de Montejo is lined with historic mansions, museums, art galleries and local vendors. The Casanovas tout the city’s boutique hotels, including  Kuka y Naranjo . For nearby getaways, there’s Progreso Beach (less than an hour away), fascinating Mayan ruins and underground water caves called cenotes.

If you’re concerned about personal safety in Mexico, the  US State Department  rates Yucatán and Campache states as the two safest as of December.  —FB

A longtime travel favorite thanks to its diverse landscape and spectacular architecture, Morocco has bounced back determinedly after a devastating earthquake this past September.

While visitors tend to congregate in popular cities such as Marrakech, Rabat and Fes, the country certainly isn’t short of less crowded spots that are arguably just as alluring. Standouts include Tétouan, the city near the first  Regis Hotels and Resorts Morocco property , and the historic Meknes, which is among the country’s nine UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Morocco is proving to be a world leader when it comes to sustainable tourism, with the launch of various initiatives to boost its renewable energy generation. The country is also home to a number of significant eco-friendly hotels, including the Berber-run  Kasbah du Toubkal , located at the base of the spectacular High Atlas Mountains.  —THG

Florida’s freshwater springs

How would you like to immerse in water clear as gin any day of the year? You can do that in some of the 1,000 or more recognized  fresh-water springs  scattered around northern and central Florida.

These  pristine natural pools  provide stable temps and visibility for swimming, tubing, snorkeling, diving, wildlife viewing and more. Here are a few of the best:

Wakulla Springs  has a swimming area in 70 F (21 C) degree water, and the state park offers a boat ride tour. The  depth at the vent  is about 185 feet (56 meters).  Rainbow Springs  is considered one of the most beautiful in the state.  Ginnie Springs , a privately owned site, is renowned for its diving and cavern.  —FB

Texas Hill Country

In the heart of Texas, Hill Country boasts its own natural springs. One prime spot,  Krause Springs  in Spicewood, lures visitors with more than its spring-fed pool and natural swimming hole — there’s also a butterfly garden full of magical wind chimes. And the  Blue Bonnet Cafe  — home to some of the world’s most divine cream pies — is just a short drive away in Marble Falls .

Meanderers will also find rolling hills and hiking trails, winding rivers,  wineries , barbecue, music and dance halls, plus an explosion of wildflowers in March and April. And in 2024, April also brings a celestial spectacle to Hill Country — the total solar eclipse on April 8.

Gruene Hall  in New Braunfels is legendary among Texas’  historic dance halls , and Luckenbach, a tiny hamlet outside the larger German-influenced town of Fredericksburg, has a dance hall and regular pickers’ circles under the oak trees.  —MH

One of the smaller and lesser-known emirates of the United Arab Emirates, Fujairah is as mellow as it is beautiful. Filled with spectacular mountain ranges and pristine beaches, it’s significantly less developed than the likes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering an authentic and tranquil vibe that’s hard to beat.

Fujairah has a cooler climate compared with the other emirates because of its mountainous setting, but the winter months are definitely the most pleasant time to visit.

Snoopy Island, a snorkeling spot that looks like the famous cartoon dog lying on his back, is a top draw thanks to its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, while the cascading waterfalls of the Wadi Wurayah National Park are another must-see.  —THG

The jaw-dropping landscapes of Greenland — an autonomous territory of Denmark situated northeast of Canada — are set to get a little more accessible for international travelers this year.

New international airports are opening in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, and the coastal city of Ilulissat. These aviation hubs promise longer runways that will be able to handle larger commercial aircraft. The climate crisis is a visible, real threat in Greenland, and investment in the tourism sphere is increasing as changing climates  pose roadblocks to traditional industries.

Learn more about how Greeenland is adapting, and the stories of the Inuit people who’ve lived in the region for thousands of years at the  Icefjord Centre  in Ilulissat on the West Coast. Colorful Ilulissat is also home to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, which offers the staggering sight of a bay filled with floating icebergs. In general, nature is the main event in Greenland, with other highlights including whale watching, dog sledding and Aurora Borealis sightings.   —FS

Before the pandemic, Uzbekistan was poised to be the  next big thing  in travel thanks to a series of ambitious reforms to transform the country into a world-class destination.

Now, its time has finally come.

Offering visa-free access to citizens of 86 countries, Uzbekistan’s untouched landscapes and well-preserved architecture are ready and waiting to awe visitors.

For greater insights into Uzbekistan’s position at the heart of the fabled Silk Road, a historic trade route that ran from China and India to the Mediterranean, the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva await. Meanwhile, the mountainous Uzbek village of Sentob — about 3.5 hours from Samarkand — was added to UNESCO’s list of “ Best Tourism Villages ” in 2023. It’s been cited for its commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on nature, organic food and eco and mountain tourism.

Getting around the country is easy thanks to the high-speed Afrosiyob Express train, connecting capital Tashkent with Samarkand and Bukhara.  —KC

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