best places to visit in turkey coast

20 Best Beach Towns and Coastal Cities in Turkey

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

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While Turkey is well known for its metropolis landscapes, there is also no shortage of amazing beach towns and coastal cities for a bit of sun, sea, and sand.

Turkey is blessed with thousands of miles of stunning shorelines which are hugged by urban settlements, allowing travelers to combine relaxation and urban exploration on their vacations.

From the azure waters of Antalya to the golden sands of Bodrum, each sun-soaked destination has unique landscapes, a diverse and rich history, and even a regional, mouth-watering cuisine. And let’s not forget about the seaside towns by Turkey’s Black Sea in the North!

Because each beachside destination in Turkey is different and offers something special, it can be hard to choose which beach town or coastal city to visit. So we are here to share the best coastal cities and beach towns in Turkey, so you can decide which one you would most like to visit.

What Are The Best Beach Towns in Turkey?

1. ölüdeniz.

Ölüdeniz is without a doubt one of the most stunning and beautiful coastal towns in Turkey. Famed for its breathtaking Blue Lagoon , Ölüdeniz offers its visitors genuinely crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand beaches, all with the incredible contrast of the diamond-green colored, pine tree-laden mountains in the background.

Blue Lagoon isn’t the only famous attraction in Ölüdeniz . Thrill-seekers will be glad to know that there’s the option of paragliding off of the side of Babadag Mountain which rewards those brave enough with spectacular views of the rugged, mountainous coastline.

For those that want to stay on two feet, the Lycian Way Trail ends in the hills of Ölüdeniz and near Butterfly Valley, and after a long and strenuous hike through waterfalls, jagged clifftops and ancient ruins, you’ll have the best views of Ölüdeniz and Fethiye in the distance.

Perched on a small peninsula extending out into the Black Sea is the beautiful Turkish coastal town of Amasra. Full of charm and tranquillity, Amasra is a perfect destination for a summer holiday that’s properly off the beaten track.

Amasra has a rich history with the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines all settling in the town leaving behind remnants of the empires that once were. The town is also home to well-preserved ancient ruins, bridges, and even a Roman castle.

There are also two picturesque bays, one on either side of the main peninsula, with beautiful soft sand and equally beautiful water. On an evening, the promenades come alive with the many bars and restaurants all vying for custom, serving cocktails, and freshly caught seafood.

📚 Read More: Can You Swim In The Black Sea?

Named after the many Ottoman fountains found spread throughout the city, Cesme is a lovely little seaside town in Turkey, just one hour’s drive from Izmir, that is becoming more and more popular with tourists and locals looking for a relaxing, yet lively beachside escape.

Hotels have largely taken over the beaches in the immediate area but there’s still ample space for those wanting to just relax for free and take in the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Several luxury hotels and mega beach resorts line the beach giving you a misconception that Cesme is a busy resort town.

But among the all inclusive resorts, beach clubs, and snazzy bars, you’ll find traditional narrow streets lined with quaint cafes, local restaurants, boutique hotels, and markets of a weekend giving you an amazing blend of vibrancy and all-important Mediterranean vibes.

Alacati is a small beach town on the south Aegean coast, a little less than an hour’s drive from the popular coastal city of Izmir.

This Turkish seaside town is known for its picturesque charm, with rustic stone houses smothered in the almost luminous pink of Bougainvillea and snaking cobbled streets of the Ottoman Empire filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes combine to create an incredibly unique bustling but laid-back Turkish coast atmosphere.

Once you’re done exploring all of the nooks and crannies of the old town, head down to the bay and test yourself with some windsurfing. Alacati is one of the best places in Turkey to windsurf due to the strong winds coming off of the open ocean.

5. Kusadasi

Kusadasi, nestled within its own bay, is an attractive beach town in Turkey often referred to as the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, which is just a 20-minute drive away. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the remarkable archaeological site as well as for a relaxed, beachside holiday perhaps with the children in tow.

Ladies Beach is one of the most popular spots to catch some Mediterranean sun, and its intriguing name is due to the fact only females were allowed to swim here during the Ottoman Empire’s reign of the region.

Elsewhere, the palm tree-laden promenade is a peaceful evening walk along the beachfront leading into the multitude of bars and restaurants catering to hungry locals and tourists alike.

Moving further down south, Kaş is an unspoiled Turkish beach town in the province of Antalya, and a firm favorite of historians and archaeologists due to being built on the site of the ancient port of Antiphellus . Ruins that can be seen today include various hillside tombs and a perfectly preserved amphitheater dating back over 2000 years.

Aside from these fascinating relics of Turkey’s past, Kaş is also home to some of the best beaches in Turkey. Kaputas Beach , nestled in the middle of towering cliffs, is one of the beaches in Turkey that’s most dramatic, and Big Pebble Beach in the heart of Kas is another that’s always a popular choice for swimming and sunbathing.

Don’t forget to grab a snorkel or go out on scuba diving boat trips. Kaş is one of the best places for snorkeling and diving in the entire Mediterranean Sea with shipwrecks and plane wrecks to explore and various rare marine life to swim with.

Much like the small seaside village of Oludeniz, Icmeler is a charming town completely surrounded on all three sides by pine forests in the mountains. With this in mind, Icmeler is a stunning little beach town for those that like to stay active through hikes and other activities.

The turquoise waters and white sand of Icmeler Beach are beautifully maintained, offering visitors hundreds of sun loungers and umbrellas. Along the beachfront, you’ll also find plenty of bars, restaurants boutique hotels, and shops to keep you busy.

Being only a 15-minute drive away from the incredibly popular beach resort town of Marmaris, Icmeler offers a more laid-back atmosphere than its loud and busy neighbor but is still within close proximity to enjoy everything it has to offer.

What Are The Best Coastal Cities In Turkey?

1. istanbul.

Istanbul is one of Turkey’s most popular destinations, and for good reason. A melting pot of East meets West, where Europe becomes Asia. Now, many might not immediately think of Istanbul being a coastal city, but it’s certainly right on the Turkish coast, two in fact. The Black Sea to the north, and the Sea of Marmara to the south, with the Bosphorus Strait flowing in between.

Exploring the best of what Istanbul has to offer will lead you to some incredible places, like the Hagia Sophia, a 1,500-year-old church turned mosque following the invasion of the Ottoman Empire, and The Blue Mosque, standing tall in Sultanahmet Square since the early 1600s with its famous blue-tiled interior.

A stroll down Istiklal Street will see you pass hundreds of shops, cafes, and restaurants with Turkish street food sellers on the side, and how can you forget a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the former headquarters-turned-museum of the Ottoman Empire before retiring back to one of the many boutique hotels in the city.

📚 Read More: Suggested Istanbul Itineraries: 3 to 7-Day Options

With a population of almost 3 million, Turkey’s third-largest city happens to sit on the southern coast of the Aegean Sea, bathing in the gorgeous Mediterranean sun year-round. This makes it a perfect destination for any time of year. Even in January, the thick of the Turkish winter, temperatures still rarely drop below 12-13 degrees Celsius.

There are many things to do in Izmir . The myriad of mazy alleys and streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants all emanating some amazing smells just keep you wanting to explore deeper and deeper. If you fancy catching some fresh sea air, head down to Izmir’s promenade which extends pretty much the entirety of the bay along the Aegean.

Finally, what’s a visit to Izmir without seeing the famous Clock Tower? Built in 1901 in the city’s Konak Square, it’s become a symbol of the city and even featured on Turkey’s 500 Lira banknotes.

📚 Read More: Best Time To Visit Izmir

Antalya is Turkey’s second most popular tourist destination thanks to its gorgeous soft sandy beaches of Kaputas, Kleopatra, Lara, and Konyaalti.

Part of the Turkish Riviera, many private beach resorts have set themselves up to cater to the mass influx of domestic and international tourists here in the summer months, but even beyond the golden sands and deep blue of the Mediterranean, there’s still plenty to see and do in this incredible city and province.

Starting with Aspendos Theatre , this remarkably well-preserved ancient amphitheater is unmissable on a trip to Antalya, and just 25 miles from the center, it’s the perfect day trip from Antalya for any history buff.

Duden Waterfalls is an amazing waterfall in Antalya and a popular option for holidaymakers wanting some adventure, and speaking of adventure, hikers will love the famous Lycian Way, which begins in Antalya and stretches over 500 kilometers of pristine Mediterranean coastline.

Don’t miss Antalya’s historic center, otherwise known as “ Kaleiçi ” or Old Town. It’s a beautiful area that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the city. This district is where you can truly feel the historical and spiritual influences that have shaped Antalya over centuries.

And of course, we have to mention Lara Beach (again). It is perhaps the most famous beach in Turkey, a blue flag beach with long stretches of soft sand, beach clubs, water sports centers, and a stunning hotel zone.

📚 Read More: When Is The Best Time To Visit Antalya?

Heading an hour’s drive east of Antalya city center sits the quaint town of Side (pronounced ‘see day’) on the famed Turquoise Coast . Mostly overshadowed by its much larger and more popular neighbor, Side often flies well under the radar of those wanting a typical Turkish beach holiday.

It’s a beautiful blend of the typical Mediterranean natural beauty, with ancient history that makes one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey . Two beautiful beaches, appropriately named East & West Beach, effectively surround the historic town itself, and just a short 10-minute drive out of town, you’ll find the jaw-dropping natural wonder of Manavgat Waterfall .

It’s one of the most visited waterfalls in Turkey, with locals and tourists bringing picnics and spending the day at this stunning site.

Not to be confused with the very similar-sounding city of Antalya, Alanya is a much smaller coastal city nestled away in between the imposing Taurus Mountains and the Meditteranean Coast, offering travelers a unique natural landscape.

Alanya has a deep history which is on show at historic sites even today, with the iconic Alanya Castle being the number one thing to do. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it was built on the remnants of an ancient Byzantine fortress.

Other than visiting the most beautiful beach towns and white sandy beaches in the area like Cleopatra Beach , why not head out on an adventurous jeep safari where you’ll traverse the mountainous terrain stopping off at canyons, waterfalls, and mud baths along the way? There are so many things to do in Alanya , despite being relatively small in size.

6. Marmaris

Marmaris is one of the most popular destinations for holidaymakers on Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast and is evidenced by its heaving nature pretty much year-round. In recent times, it’s become a little bit more party-oriented than catering to just families, but that’s not to say it’s all beers, cocktail buckets, and thumping music until the early hours.

Peaceful boat trips are one of the best things to do in Marmaris , making full use of the stunning blue seas and panoramic vistas at your disposal. One of our favorite boat trips from Marmaris is to Dalyan to see the ancient Rock Tombs, followed by a stop by Iztuzu Beach which is a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles. We even saw one in the river when we visited!

Marmaris Marina is also a pleasant place to spend the evening, with the lights from the boats and the many bars and restaurants along the waterfront, having some cocktails and a candlelit dinner is a great way to end the day. For the kids, Marmaris is home to some of the best waterparks in the country such as Atlantis and AquaDream.

The closest airport to Marmaris is Dalaman Airport, which has direct flights from several destinations in Europe, including regional airports in the UK, making Marmaris one of the biggest hot spots for British travelers.

📚 Read more: How To Get From Dalaman Airport To Marmaris: 5 Best Ways

Situated on the South Aegean Coast is the beautiful coastal city of Bodrum, one of the most popular beach destinations in Turkey. Bodrum really comes alive in the evenings, when the sun goes down and everyone comes to enjoy the bars, restaurants, and boutique shops in the charming streets of the city’s Old Town.

Nightlife in Bodrum is definitely catered to the tourist crowds here, with ‘Bar Street’ a bustling favorite, and when the night gets a little too heavy, the beautiful sandy beaches to recover on aren’t far away. Gumbet Beach is a popular choice, as is Turgutreis, which is a 25-minute drive away, and hosts a wonderful local market on Saturdays.

Bodrum is also home to some of the most luxurious beach resorts in Turkey . So if you want to splurge on your vacation and be by the beach, then make sure you check out Bodrum!

Fethiye is a picturesque port city on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast and offers picture-perfect landscapes that are hard to beat anywhere on the planet. Fethiye is worth visiting if you’re a nature lover.

The city itself is built upon an old ancient town, some of which you can still see today like the Lycian Rock Tombs (Amyntas Rock Tombs) that are carved into the mountainside. If you’re up for it, you can actually hike up to these tombs and go inside. Turn around and you’ll get incredible panoramic views of Fethiye and its bay, though there’s not much inside of them.

Saklikent National Park is also a great day out, where you can hike through imposing narrow canyons and cool off the fast-flowing, ice-cold water. If you need some rest and relaxation, Oludeniz is not far away, and it’s postcard-worthy Blue Lagoon . Oh – and don’t forget a sunset dinner on top of Babadag Mountain. The views across the coastline are unmissable.

Fethiye is also a good base to explore the Butterfly Valley , a dense pine forest valley that leads to a secluded beach with turquoise waters and beautiful views!

📚 Read more: Best Beaches in Fethiye For Sun Seekers in 2024!

An old seaport dating back to the 7th century, Kemer is nothing short of a hidden gem when it comes to Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

One must-visit place is Tahtalı Dağı , also known as Mount Olympos. Whether you hike or take the Olympos Cable Car, reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the region.

Explore the ancient city of Phaselis , where you can wander through its well-preserved ruins and marvel at the ancient Greek & Roman way of life. It is believed that the ruins date back to 700 BC!

For a beach destination that features historic sites, stunning beaches, and beautiful mountains, Kemer is the place to go!

10. Trabzon

Leaving the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean behind, we find ourselves on Turkey’s northern coastline with the Black Sea city of Trabzon. It’s a far cry from any of the other sun-bleached, sand-filled Turkey coastal cities we’ve mentioned, instead focusing on the luscious hillsides and valleys of this often-forgotten region of Turkey.

The most famous attraction in Trabzon is the phenomenal Sumela Monastery . Built into a steep cliff 1,200 meters (3,900 ft) above ground in the Altındere valley, this ancient Orthodox monastery is one of the most stunning landmarks in Turkey .

Don’t miss Uzungol , a natural lake and a picturesque village approximately 1.5 hours from the seaside city of Trabzon. The lake is situated on the foothills of the Soganli Mountains and is surrounded by lush greenery and high mountains, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

The Mediterranean City of Mersin is one of the best hidden gems in Turkey. The city is most famous for being built on the ruins of an ancient settlement, perhaps as old as more than 6000 years ago.

Mersin’s geographical location, right on the cusp of the Middle East, brought together several empires, notably the Persians, Romans, and Byzantines.

Mersin’s beaches are beautiful and relatively untouched, with Maiden Beach being the best along with Susanoglu near Silifke. In Mersin city center, Mersin Marina is one of Turkey’s largest and features a huge variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars for you to enjoy, and whilst you’re in the area, Saint Antuan Latin Catholic Church is a must.

Situated along the Black Sea, Samsun is the largest city on the Turkish Black Sea coast, lying between the deltas of the Kızıl and Yeşil rivers.

The city is also known for being called Amisos, which is the name of the city under the Byzantines. It was only renamed Samsun after the Seljuq Turk took over in the latter half of the 12 century. The city is recognized as the place that inspired the Turkish War of Independence.

For beach lovers, make sure you check out Atakum Beach , a sandy beach that stretches a good portion of the city. It has a beautiful promenade with a cycling path, and it’s lined with cafes and restaurants where you can sample local cuisine.

Because it is believed that the start of Turkish War Independence was started here, there are many museums dedicated to that event. Don’t miss out on the Bandirma Vapuru Museum, a replica of the steamboat that carried Mustafa Kemal Atatürk from Istanbul to Samsun at the start of the Turkish War of Independence.

13. Çanakkale

Tucked in the north Aegean Coast, The coastal city of Çanakkale is one of the most overlooked seaside destinations in Turkey. While there aren’t stunning beaches like those destinations on the southern Turkish coast, Çanakkale has a beautiful waterfront with charming cafes and restaurants.

The landscape in Çanakkale is gorgeous, as visitors can admire the beauty of the extremely narrow Dardanelles Strait that decides Europe and Asia. The nearby Gallipoli Peninsula is best known for its significant role in World War I during the Gallipoli Campaign, or the Battle of Gallipoli. Here you can visit the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial, a powerful tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War I.

Çanakkale is also known for the ancient ruins of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Bronze Age civilization. The site gained worldwide fame through Homer’s epic poem, “The Iliad,” which recounts the story of the Trojan War.

Map of The Best Turkish Beach Towns And Coastal Cities

Beach Towns And Coastal Cities In Turkey FAQs

What are the best places to visit on the turkish riviera.

The best places to visit on the Turkish Riviera are Antalya, Fethiye, Bodrum, Kas, Kusadasi, Side, and Alanya. These destinations are home to some of the best beaches in Turkey and are filled with history and gorgeous landscapes.

Where Are The Best Beaches In Turkey?

The best beaches in Turkey are near the country’s Southern Mediterranean Coast. It is also nicknamed the Turquoise Coast thanks to the high concentration of blue flag beaches and crystal clear water!

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing coastal cities and beach towns in Turkey! Whether you are looking for a destination with pristine beaches, a historic seaside city, or a lively port city with restaurants bars, and a lively nightlife, hopefully you found it in this article!

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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Turkish Riviera: Guide to Turkey’s Turquoise Coast in 2024

Looking for the ultimate guide to the turkish riviera.

Along the coast of Turkey resides the picturesque Turkish Riviera. This area comprises 600 miles of beautiful sandy beaches like Konyaalti Beach and lovely welcoming beach towns such as Kas and Kalkan.

This beautiful coastline also referred to as the Turquoise Coast, is home to 500 beaches, myths, legends, and two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (Temple of Artemis and the Mausoleum of Mausolus ruins). The Turkish Riviera remains a unique and culturally rich area to explore.

Each town and community that spans this stretch of land offers beautiful sandy beaches, archeological ruins, diverse landscapes, and hidden gems frequented by the locals and visitors who are lucky enough to stumble upon them.

With stunning turquoise waters (hence the nickname) and lovely towns, it’s easy to see why the Turkish Riviera is one of the most stunning places in the world. Its beauty is so apparent that it is said Mark Antony gifted the Turkish Riviera to Cleopatra, his bride.

Use Our Helpful Guide to Learn:

• Where is the Turkish Riviera
• Best towns on the Turkish Coast
• What to do on the Turkish Riviera
• Where to stay on the Turkish Riviera
• Turkish Riviera travel tips

Below, you’ll find a guide to the Turkey Turquoise Coast, from places to eat to spots to visit, activities, accommodations, and more.

I’m excited to help you plan the best trip possible, and share all of my favorite travel resources! Some links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you purchase items through these links, and that helps me keep this blog running. Enjoy!

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Where Is the Turkish Riviera?

The Turkish Riviera stretches alongside the southern coast and southwest Turkey coast from Antalya to Bodrum. This coastline is primarily in the Mediterranean , with a smaller section in the Aegean coastal regions, which help provide the area with its turquoise waters.

Even though the Turkish Riviera is not overcrowded, it remains a popular area for families to visit in Turkey . This is especially true because of the warm weather and charming towns/communities.

Best Towns on the Turkish Riviera

Spending time in any of the lovely areas of the Turkish Riviera is a treat. If you can only stay on the Turkey Turquoise Coast for a short time, you’ll want to consider visiting and staying in the below locations.

While the Turquoise Coast is generally known for its beaches, Alanya is particularly revered for its beach options. It’s also full of ancient sites like the medieval Alanya Castle. Head here for relaxation, history, and a stay at one of the many resorts available.

Side is a charming city in Turkey, the perfect mixture of modern amenities and historic ruins. Explore such sites as the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Athena, and the ancient theater while in Side.

Belek is a town in Antalya that is considered a tourist hub. It’s loaded with four- and five-star hotels that offer you luxe all-inclusive stays during your travels. This town is also famous for its mineral waters and spa, supplied by seven springs.

Antalya is the gateway to the Turkish Riviera and provides visitors with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and plenty of activities. This city is well-known for its breathtaking nature scenes and plentiful historic sites. It’s also home to the longest hiking trail in Turkey (Lycian Way).

See our guide for what to do in Antalya with kids .

Cirali is the perfect beach getaway with you family to wind down and take it slow. Enjoy the beach and all of the outdoor activities that Cirali has to offer. Don’t miss hiking up to the Eternal Flames and exploring the ancient ruins of Olympos during your stay.

Kas is another charming town in the Antalya province that features lively nightlife options and many restaurants to visit. Alongside its cobblestone streets lies live music venues, cafes, restaurants, and bars that provide a peek into life for the Turkish locals. Kas pronounced Kash also features some of the most beautiful beaches in the Turkish Riviera (and Turkey).

Fethiye is where you’ll find the perfect home base for visiting heritage sites, historic ruins, majestic mountains, lovely beaches, Butterfly Valley, and stunning lagoons. It’s also the home base for many of the blue cruises that run along the Turkish Riviera.

Dalyan is known for the Lycian rock tombs, its riverboat cruises through the canals out to the sea, and the Mudbaths and Hot Springs. Iztuzu Beach is known as a protected beach for the Caretta Caretta turtles to lay their eggs.

Marmaris is known as the party city of the Turkish Riviera. Many people travel to this city from Greece or other parts of Turkey to enjoy the energetic nightlife scene in the summer. It’s also loved for its natural beauty, including lush forests and picturesque coastlines.

Bodrum is an easily accessible city (due to its proximity to the local airport), making it an excellent destination for visitors. This city is also known for its nightlife which can be accessed by visiting Bar Street, lined with bars and live music venues. Bodrum also offers stunning coastline views and a mixture of luxury 5-star hotels and backpacker-friendly options.

What to Do on the Turquoise Coast

There is much to do in the Turkish Riviera ranging from relaxing at the many available beaches to heart-pumping activities and taking day trips to nearby towns. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a longer period, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you and your family occupied on the Turquoise Coast.

Choose a few of the below activities or include as many as possible depending on your length of stay.

✅ Beaches on the Turkish Riviera

There are 500 beaches to choose from spread throughout the region. The Turkish Riviera is known for its “empty” beaches. Regardless of which beach you spend time at, you won’t have to worry too much about overcrowding.

Some of the most popular (and well-known) beaches include Ölüdeniz, İztuzu, Konyaalti , and Patara . Though, any beach you find in this region will be pleasant and picture ready.

✅ Blue Cruise on the Turkish Riviera

A Turkish blue cruise, blue voyage, or blue tour involves taking a boat and cruising around the Turkish Riviera. On each boat trip, you’ll find various activities that range from island hopping to snorkeling and exploring historical sites. Typically, these blue cruises last a few days and include a ride on a gulet – a traditional wooden motor yacht.

These cruises are ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and friend groups. An experienced group of crew members leads each cruise. The idea behind blue cruises is a relaxed getaway enjoying the local area and food caught and cooked by the crew (like fresh fish). This voyage is not meant to be a port hopping experience.

✅ Hiking the Turquoise Coast

Hiking is an excellent way to see the Turquoise Coast and its many nature offerings. Depending on the town or community you’re visiting, you can expect to find trails that lead along mountains, waterfalls, caves, and many beaches.

In particular, Antalya is known for its beautiful hiking areas alongside the Taurus Mountain Range, which offers views of prancing wild horses.

✅ Adventure Activities

Hiking and cruising are not the only ways to explore the Turkish Riviera. There are many adventurous activities that you can take advantage of as well. Below are some more popular ways to enjoy the region from a different perspective.

Paragliding

Paragliding allows travelers to see the sparkling turquoise waters from above. This activity is popular in the Turkish Riviera as it simultaneously provides views of stunning nature scenes and historic sites.

Two of the most popular paragliding sites include Ölüdeniz and Kas. They are great paragliding spots for viewing stunning nature scenes and the Mediterranean Sea.

While there are multiple locations where you can kayak, the primary kayak location is Kas and the area around the Kekova Islands. This option is great for kayakers of all skill levels with the option of joining a tour or renting a kayak.

Take your kayak to see the famous underwater Sunken City ruins nearby, and then explore the Ancient Simena ruins in Kaleköy.

Diving on the Turkish Riviera

Diving is another excellent way to explore the Turkish Riviera. Bodrum and Kas are some of the top areas to start your scuba diving excursion, though there are locations around the region that offer excursions.

The best way to indulge in a scuba exploration is by choosing a day-long blue cruise that offers scuba diving. Many people who go scuba diving in the Turkish Riviera do so from a gulet.

The vast number of canyons available in Antalya offers many opportunities for people to go canyoneering and clamber over rocks. Kıbrıs or Hacıoğlan Canyons are only a few of the available options to pursue this activity. While children can participate in this activity, it’s generally not safe (or allowed) for those under 12.

Rafting is another adventurous activity that visitors try while in Antalya. Koprulugu National Park is a top spot for those interested in rafting. Here, a guide will teach you the ropes before you splash through gorges and float between Cyprus Trees.

✅ Day Trips on the Turquoise Coast

If you have an extra day or two, you can take a road trip to one of the smaller beach towns. Driving to these towns offers you an opportunity to view the historical sites nestled along the coast. Below are a few historical sites that you should aim to see during a day trip.

This archaeological site was once a Greek and Roman city that sat alongside Lycia. Now, it holds some of the most impressive ruins, monuments, and artifacts. Phaselis is well-known for its lovely beach and picnic areas, so you can kill two birds with one stone by visiting this location.

Cirali is a charming town that features stunning beaches, historic sites, and unique attractions. This town is home to the Chimera, aka the eternal flames. These mysterious flames have been burning for years due to methane gas deposits.

This town also holds the ancient city of Olympos, which sits right on the beach. A small fee takes you into the forest, where you can spot various ruins (like a Roman temple) along the path.

Kalkan, a fishing town, has many offerings regarding food and rooftop restaurants that allow you to see the pristine beaches and water while enjoying a meal. It features impressive Greek Ottoman buildings and Xanthos, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites. Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the former capital of Lycia and now consists of ruins like an amphitheater and tombs.

Located on the Turquoise Coast, Dalyan offers a variety of activities for travelers looking to explore and experience its stunning natural beauty. From boat tours along the winding riverbank leading to the famous Iztuzu Beach, to exploring ancient ruins or swimming in thermal springs, or visiting the carretta carretta turtles rescue center, there’s something for everyone in Dalyan on the Turkish Riviera.

Datca is a lovely town filled with relaxing beaches and coves to explore. Inland, you’ll find almond trees and olive farms that you can explore. This tranquil getaway leads to Old Datca, a stunning area with historic Mediterranean stone houses.

Nearby, Knidos, an ancient Hellenic city, is waiting to be traversed. It is said that a nude, lifelike statue of Aphrodite once resided in Knidos, drawing visitors from all over the world.

How to Get to the Turkish Coast

Flying is your best bet as a transport option to reach the Turkish Riviera, especially if you’re traveling abroad. There are a few major airport hubs that you can fly into, with additional options for reaching your destination.

The three main airport hubs that lie on the coast include the Antalya Airport, Dalaman Airport, and Bodrum Airport. If you’re planning to spend most of your time near Antalya visiting locations like Fethiye, the Antalya Airport is the best option.

The Dalaman Airport lies between Antalya and Bodrum, making it the best choice for exploring the middle of the Turquoise Coast between Fethiye and Bodrum. Of course, the Bodrum Airport will take you directly to Bodrum.

All three are international airports , so it’s best to base your chosen airport on where you plan to spend most of your trip.

Private Transfer

Once you arrive in the Turkish Riviera, you’ll need to use a private transfer to move from the airport to your accommodations. Turkey, as a whole, is known for its public transport and many bus routes available. Taking the bus will allow you to reach your final destination easily, though you will likely have some walking required.

Otherwise, renting a car is another alternative to make traveling to your accommodations easy. A car rental is also ideal if you plan any road trips or day trips while visiting the Turkey Turquoise Coast.

Where to Stay on the Turkish Riviera

Since there are many towns and cities on the Turkish Riviera, there are quite a few accommodation options that range from luxury 5-star hotels to budget stays and villas. If you’re hunting for places to stay during your trip, try one of the below options.

✔️ Villas in Kas

You can rent a villa on the Kas peninsula with stunning views of the Mediterranean and surrounding islands. Most villas have infinity pools, luxury amenities and options for a professional chef and tours. You can look for villas through Airbnb or local real estate agents. During high season, rates are around $900+ per night, while in the off-season, you can find great places for around $300 per night.

✔️ Luxury Resorts & Hotels

From luxury resorts to high-end hotels in the middle of the city, we’ve got some of our favorite places to stay on the Turkish coast.

Ela Quality Resort (Belek)

Ela Excellence Resort in Belek is a wonderful family-friendly option if you’re looking for all-inclusive luxury accommodations on the Turkish Riviera.  From watersports, outdoor sports, and multiple pools there are many options for guests to have a lavish stay without ever leaving the property.

📍Click Here to Book the Ela Quality Resort

Akra hotel (antalya).

The Akra Hotel is a beachfront property in Antalya that provides guests with a balcony view of the Mediterranean Sea or the stunning Taurus Mountains. The hotel is in the heart of Antalya, offering guests easy access to local attractions.

This hotel features various restaurants and bars with cuisine ranging from authentic Turkish to global dishes. This 5-star hotel also has a wellness center with four pools and a spa. Akra Hotel is a great spot for couples or friend groups. Prices start at $291 per night.

📍Click Here to Book the Akra Hotel

Marmaris bay resort (marmaris – adults only).

The Marmaris Bay Resort is a luxe family resort with accommodations like a large pool, playground, and lovely garden to spend time in. Tennis, ping pong, and darts are a few of the activities available at this resort.

Enjoy a continental breakfast before your daily excursions here. The Dalaman Airport is the closest airport to this resort. It’s also close to the marine and the market in Marmaris. This resort is slightly less than the Akra Hotel, at $229 per night.

📍Click Here to Book the Marmaris Bay Resort

✔️ mid-range hotels.

We have several mid-range hotels on the Turkish riviera that will make your trip complete. With high ratings and a touch of elegance, these are some of our favorite places to stay on the coast.

El Vino Hotel & Suites (Bodrum)

El Vino Hotel & Suites provides a stunning view of Bodrum Castle as you relax under the gazebo at the pool. Each room comes with a balcony for a panoramic view of the area. The lovely rooftop restaurant offers organic seafood dishes and locally sourced wine. Enes and I stayed at El Vino on a couple trip to Bodrum and loved our stay as well as dining at the restaurant.

This hotel is only a few minutes away from The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus and Myndus Gate by foot.

📍Click Here to Book the El Vino Hotel

Roas hotel (bodrum).

This hotel is right outside Bodrum city in Bitez. While technically not on the Turkish Riviera, it’s a short drive from the hotel to local attractions. The Roas Hotel provides guests with complimentary breakfast and is only a few steps from the beach.

An outdoor swimming pool, bar, garden, and restaurant are available at the Roas Hotel. Rates start at around $142 for this accommodation.

📍Click Here to Book the Roas Hotel

✔️ budget pensions.

If you’re looking for budget options for places to stay on the Turkish Riviera, we have great options in the most popular destinations. All of our suggestions have high ratings with affordable prices.

White Garden Hotel (Antalya)

Couples and friend groups will enjoy visiting the White Garden Hotel as it has an adults-only policy. This pension has stunning Kaleiçi-style architecture, a pool, a rooftop terrace, and epic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains.

The Antalya airport is less than eight miles away, making the White Garden Hotel convenient for those who want to explore the city. It’s also very close to Mermerli Beach.

📍Click Here to Book the White Garden Hotel

Costa maya bodrum.

The Costa Maya Bodrum is an even more affordable stay with a starting price of around $50 per night. The hotel features spacious rooms some with private balconies.

There’s a lovely outdoor pool and sundeck where you can enjoy meals or a drink in the shade of the grapevines. Costa Maya Bodrum is family-friendly and a great spot for an affordable stay.

📍Click Here to Book the Costa Maya Bodrum

Mulberry suit apart (kalkan).

This mid-budget villa in Kas offers guests minimalistic rooms with lovely Sea views. Each room includes a full kitchen with a dishwasher and a fireplace to relax next to. The Mulberry Suit Apart is nearby the Kalkan Public Beach and Dalaman Airport.

📍Click Here to Book the Mulberry Suit Apart

Doganın ruhu hotel & bungalow (kas).

This hotel offers a budget-friendly stay with a breakfast buffet and a pool to lounge by. There’s a garden and a playground, making it an excellent stay for the whole family. The Doganin Ruhu Hotel & Bungalow is near Kas Hellenistic Theatre and the Kas Yacht Marina.

📍Book the Doganin Ruhu Hotel in Kas

What to Eat on the Turkish Riviera

Turkey has much to offer regarding food. The Aegean and Mediterranean regions particularly thrive on various fish dishes due to the proximity to the sea, along with olives, wine, and fresh produce. Below are a few foods and drinks that you must try while staying on the Turkish coast.

Small & Large Fish

Fish is a standard entrée on the Turkish coast for lunch and dinner. It’s typically eaten very simply – grilled or fried with a small squeeze of lemon. Fresh vegetables like arugula are also included on the side.

Turkey is number four in the world for top producers of wine grapes. Because of this, there are quite a few wineries on the Turkish Riviera where you can enjoy tastings. It’s also common to see many tourists in this area drinking a glass of wine with their meal.

Pamukkale Anfora Kalecik Karası and Paşaeli Yapıncak are both varieties from the Aegean area. The legal drinking age in Turkey is 18 years old, so if you’re traveling with college-aged children, they are able to have a glass of wine with you.

Olives are a staple in Turkish food . You’ll find that olives appear in every meal (including breakfast) in Turkey. The main olive growing areas lie next to Turkey’s coastline, making the Aegean a large part of olive production.

The Domat and Memecik varieties are from the Aegean region, and you’ll likely see these on your plate in some form here. If you’re not eating whole or sliced olives, you’ll certainly be consuming olive oil in a majority of the dishes.

Like olives, salads are a major part of Turkish cuisine. They’re served at every meal and even for dinner parties. Salads are so popular that salad varieties arise from different cities or towns, like the Antalya Bean Salad.

Don’t be surprised if you see a small salad bowl drizzled with olive oil during mealtime.

Throughout the year, the available produce changes, so you’ll be offered different fruit depending on when you visit. Oranges are considered a winter fruit on the Turquoise Coast. Finike oranges are popular in the area; they hail from Antalya.

Lemons are a spring fruit grown on the Turkish Riviera. This fruit is one of the most exported Turkish fruits.

Figs are a summer fruit that is typically ready for harvest in June. The most well-known variety is the Aydin Figs which are ready to pick at the same time as apricots, nectarines, and plums.

More information is available about food to try while in Turkey in our Turkish Food Guide.

How Many Days on the Turkish Riviera

Since there are so many towns, cities, and communities available to explore in the Turkish Riviera, one week is the recommended time to spend in the area. If possible, an extended trip of 10 days to two weeks is even more ideal. This length will allow you to try the various restaurants, explore the area, see the historic sites, and take part in a blue cruise.

You can certainly travel to the Turquoise Coast for a shorter time of about 3-4 days. However, you’ll want only to choose one beach town to visit, so you’re not jam-packing your trip with an overabundance of activities. The Turkish Riviera is best visited in a relaxed manner that aligns with the vibes of the region.

Final Thoughts on the Turquoise Coast

The Turquoise Coast is one of the most idyllic places in Turkey. It’s home to many historical sites, beautiful sandy and pebble beaches, and some of the most charming beach towns and cities.

While many cities have resorts and luxury stays, there is still a bounty of budget-friendly options. Travel to the Turkish Riviera for a fun-filled, adventurous trip with your family.

Some links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you purchase items through these links, and that helps me keep this blog running. Enjoy!

Dania Demirci is your go-to travel expert for exploring Turkey and co-founder of Adventurefolio.com. With her extensive knowledge and personal experiences spanning over 20 years, Dania helps fellow travelers create the ultimate Turkey itineraries. From hidden gems to must-visit spots, she shares practical tips so you can confidently explore Turkey.

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 Best of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast Itinerary (2 Weeks)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

Kas. Olympos. Antalya. Fethiye. These are the romantic Turkish cities scattered along the Mediterranean Coast. Or the Southwest coast aka Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. Popular with resort travelers, but often missed by budget travelers who instead hit Istanbul and Cappadocia . But you can spend a week or two beach-hopping and hiking along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast with this 2-week itinerary on a budget quite easily. And it was actually my favorite part of our 6-week visit to Turkey.

How to Spend 2 Weeks on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

We started our journey through Turkey by flying into the small resort town of Antalya . Most tourists in search of cheap flights, however, fly into Istanbul. No matter where your Turkish adventure begins this itinerary can be done in a loop. I’ll share the route from Istanbul as your starting point since that will be most helpful for the majority of people.

Also, this route can obviously be extended to allow for more time at each destination. But this is an itinerary for travelers tight on time who want to know what the minimum amount of time required to see the “western” half of Turkey is.

Istanbul (2 days)

Unlike every other blogger in the world it seems, when I first arrived in Istanbul I hated it. But after a few sunny days and scouting out the best neighborhoods, I too fell for the city. The more time here you can spend the more you’ll enjoy it. Istanbul has lots of “must-see” attractions but I found them to be overcrowded, expensive, and generally a disappointment. Check out my full guide to the best things to do in Istanbul for my favorite food + cafe recommendations.

Istanbul to Ankara: Book the high-speed YRT Train at least 4-days in advance. This is why it can be beneficial to give yourself more time in Istanbul. The train costs about $8 and takes 4.5 hours vs a bus which costs nearly $18 and takes 9 hours. A little planning ahead helps a lot here.

Ankara (1 day)

Many people skip Ankara entirely. If you don’t plan to add Cappadocia to your itinerary then I recommend skipping Ankara and continuing on to Antalya. This extra day could be used for Istanbul eating instead.

But if you are curious about the cultural (and political) capital of Turkey I’ve got some food + lodging recommendations for you.

Where to Eat + Sleep in Ankara

Ankara is a concrete city. Few hostels, guesthouses, and even fewer “typical” tourist attractions indicate that the city is not a common stopover for foreign tourists. What it lacks in stuff to do + see, it makes up for with great food.

Minthat Hotel. Actually spelled Otel.

One of the only budget-friendly options in the city. Your room will overlook one of the most impressive mosques in the area as well. This also means front row seating for the call to prayer at 4:30 AM.

Inn 14 Hostel is another great option if you’re okay with bunks.

WARNING! Booking.com does NOT work when you are inside Turkey. This is a huge bummer and has to do with the Turkish government’s ongoing feud with the company. This means that unless you have a VPN (super easy to get an app) you won’t be able to book on the website. I recommend booking as much as you can before you arrive in Turkey. Or just use a VPN and keep your flexibility.

Uludag Kebapçisi

If you only eat one meal in Ankara make it this one. Don’t be put off by the starched white tablecloths and the fact that it’s inside what appears to be a fancy hotel. The prices are very cheap. They only offer a handful of dishes (despite the bulky menu they give you) but that’s fine because what you want is the Iskender. Sometimes called Iskender Kebap. It’s not on the menu but it’s their specialty. Thinly sliced meat laid over crispy pita croutons topped with tomato sauce + then drenched in several sticks worth of melted butter poured onto your plate tableside.

Urfali Haci Memet

This was a busy local restaurant that also specialized in Kebap. Super cheap, tasty, and you get unlimited tea with your meal.

This cafe is at the top of the hill overlooking all of Ankara and has one of the best Turkish breakfasts (with real coffee) in all of Turkey. It’s in a super touristy part of town, but don’t be fooled it’s worth eating for sure.

The real reason we ended up in Ankara was the Iranian Embassy. Picking up our visa documents for Evan’s solo venture to Iran. You can read about his time in the world’s most difficult country to enter (with an American Passport) here.

Ankara to Antalya or Cappadocia: Both cities have bus connections in Ankara. For Cappadocia, you’ll want to go to the town of Göreme (where the balloons are) + where you’ll likely stay.

Add On: Cappadocia (4 days)

I have a full guide covering all the things you need to know about the Cappadocia region including why you should stay for no less than 4 days. Especially if you plan on flying in one of the hot air balloons. Even though this is technically not on Turkey’s turquoise coast, this is a great add-on for a 3-week tour of Turkey.

Cappadocia to Antalya: You can also take a bus directly from Göreme to Antalya. You’re not even off track.

Antalya (1 day)

Turkish people know this small city as a popular resort destination. I found it to be a lovely relaxing stopover (with again, some great local eats) with a beautiful seaside boardwalk for strolling + a European vibe you don’t find in most other places in Turkey.

Here is our full guide to the best eats in Antalya.

I also recommend picnicking at the pier, exploring the streets of the old town, checking out the nearby Düden waterfall, or taking an extra day to visit the Güver Canyon on a rafting tour. We stayed at Lily Boutique Guesthouse where the host was able to give us all the best recommendations for the city.

Antalya to Olympos: This is an easy bus journey. About 1.5 hours and you’ll be dropped at the side of the road to wait for the little minivan or Dolmus that will take you the rest of the way to your hotel near Olympos beach.

Olympos (1 day)

Every country seems to have one remote town that the hippy community takes over. Olympos is that place. Huge rocky karsts (popular with rock climbers) jut from the green mountains and this small community set on a river sits between them. But what makes Olympos unique is that it’s also seaside. Pressed against the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea with ancient Lycian ruins practically on the pebbly beach. In high season, Olympos is filled with trekkers (from the Lycian Way) and party backpackers. But during the shoulder months of Spring + Fall, it’s the perfect place to unwind.

What to do with one day in Olympos.

• Stay at Mercan Pension. Cheap, comfortable, cabin-style lodging very near the beach. It also includes breakfast + dinner buffets.
• Olympos Beach. It costs $6 but it’s an absolute must-see. Great for a swim in warm weather too.
• The Lycian Ruins. Especially in Spring while wildflowers erupt through the broken stone it’s a sight to see. Your entrance fee to the ruins is included in your ticket to the beach.
• Climb the ancient church. There is a heavily vegetated trail to the top of the beachside church. This vantage point offers the best view of the beach.
• Walk the coastline. Not toward the other seaside town but along the trail to the right of the beach. You can find it on maps.me and discover your own little hidden bays to relax in.
• Enjoy Gozleme at one of the family-run stalls near the beach ticket office. Since nearly all lodging takes care of breakfast and dinner you only have to fend for yourself during lunch.
• This is also a great town to try beginner rock climbing.

Olympos to Kas: Catch a dolmus (around 9 AM) in Olympos to the top of the hill and wait for a bus to Kas. This is only another hour or so away.

Kas (1-2 days)

Kas is filled with jewel-colored waters, sunken cities, and is very popular with wealthy resort tourists. We didn’t stop and stay in Kas and definitely regret it. Since it’s such a beachy destination it’s best during the end of spring through summer months.

Here’s what I wouldn’t miss.

• Kayaking the Sunken City.
• Visiting Kaputas Beach (we actually did do this).

By the way, it’s pronounced “ cahsh “. This region of Turkey’s turquoise coast is also very well suited to a road trip and seeing all the isolated roadside beaches + vistas, we wished we had our own rental car to drive from Antalya to Fethiye.

Kas to Fethiye: Bus time again. About an hour and a half. Unless you were smart and rented a car for this portion of the journey.

Fethiye (1 day)

Fethiye is a far larger city than it feels initially. Large boats moored in the marina, crumbling mossy Petra-like ruins overlooking the city carved into the cliffside. Almost all travelers who linger here are planning to embark on the Lycian Way. Or they won’t stay long.

You must visit the Ancient city of Telmessos. Those massive carved ruins I mentioned before. It’s under a $1 to visit them close up. But unless you visit for sunset when the hillside they sit on offers the best view of the city, you might as well just admire them from anywhere in the old town region.

Kayakoy ghost town is also well worth an afternoon. This entire 10,000-person hillside village was forcibly abandoned when Turkey “swapped” citizens with Greece after the war. The Christians who inhabited the town were moved to Greece + a large number of Muslim residents of Greece were sent to Turkey. It was supposed to help both countries create a sort of national identity. But due to differences in lifestyle the Muslims (farmers) couldn’t utilize the rocky landscape and left the town abandoned. Where it still sits crumbling into the countryside.

I chose to stay at Sakura Hostel in Fethiye + found the dorms to be super cheap, right in the heart of old town, and they were able to help us plan for the Lycian Way.

Fethiye to Lycian Way: After preparing for your multi-day hike let’s get you to the trailhead. You have three potential starting points. The top of Butterfly Valley, the bottom of Butterfly Valley, or the town of Oludeniz. The town of Oludeniz and the top of Butterfly Valley are both reachable via small local buses. It takes either 15 or 25 minutes depending on the end destination. The bottom of Butterfly Valley (my recommended start point) is accessible only via boat from Oludeniz pier. Take the bus to Oludeniz and then the boat.

Lycian Way (3 days)

The Lycian Way is one of the most underrated and least known things to do on Turkey’s turquoise coast. If you are at all a fan of the outdoors or hiking you have to at least hike the route for a day or two. The trail in its entirety is more than 3 weeks long stretching from Fethiye to Antalya. You’ll need to shoulder a pack filled with sleeping materials including a tent & several days’ worth of food at a time (at the very least). Most travelers simply aren’t equipped for that kind of adventure unless it was planned far in advance.

Fortunately, you don’t have to do the trail in its entirety to relish the Lycian Way experience.

You can leave the majority of your stuff in Fethiye (securely at a hostel like Sakura Hostel ). & then either rent a tent or rely on guesthouses in each of the stops mentioned above.

What you Need to Know About Hiking the Lycian Way

• Best time to hike? No crowds: April-May, Best Swimming Weather: June-July
• Guesthouses typically won’t have a book online option + you will have to rely on walk-up.
• During the April- early May trekking months, there are FAR fewer amenities and guesthouses open on the trail. Pack more snacks + consider renting a tent to bring on your own. We did it without a tent but options were limited and much more expensive than usual.
• In places like Kabak + Butterfly Valley, you can rent a tent from the guesthouses nearby as well for a budget-friendly lodging option.
• Bring lots of water. The trails are pretty exposed and involve a lot of elevation change in some parts.
• Maps.me is your best friend for this trail. They even have some incredible wild camp spots marked for travelers.

What’s my recommended route for typical travelers?

(3 Nights) Begin at the Bottom of Butterfly Valley

Night One: Top of Butterfly Valley

Night Two: Kabak

Night Three: Alinca (via Paradise Beach)

Optional Night 4: Gavuragili or take the bus back to Fethiye.

If you really short on time you can try this 2-night alternative.

Begin at the Bottom of Butterfly Valley

Night Two: Kabak (hike out + back to Paradise Beach)

Whatever you don’t skip Paradise Beach. All of the coastline is incredible but this area is particularly beautiful.

End of Lycian Way: Now it’s time to nab a bus back to Fethiye where you left your stuff and continue onto Pamukkale or Selçuk. This could be another great time to add a rest day so you can shower and not just jump straight onto another bus.

Add on: Pamukkale (1 day)

I think that the mineral pools of Pamukkale get a little too much hype in my opinion. Even in peak season, they aren’t the crystalline mineral blue pools you’ve seen on Instagram. & the town is incredibly small. You definitely won’t need more than a single day.

The bus from Fethiye was stunning and my favorite part of choosing to visit Pamukkale. That and the delicious traditional Turkish food at Heira Cafe . Make a reservation as soon as you arrive to ensure they can accommodate you for dinner. The cafe is actually reservation only after COVID.

Pammukale to Selçuk: Another set of buses. You’ll take the shared minibus back to Denizli and from there a larger bus to Izmir and then another quick minibus to Selçuk. I’m sure you could also find a direct tourist shuttle but you’ll pay far more. This chunk of transport will take the better part of a full day. Keep this in mind.

Sulçuk + Ephesus (1 day)

When I was told Sulçuk was a popular port for cruises in the area, I almost canceled our visit. But Evan is a history nerd and wouldn’t let us leave without seeing Ephesus firsthand. Which turned out to be the best decision.

This little town is anything but your typical touristy cruise port. Set around a lovely park rimmed with citrus trees, Selçuk is also one of the largest stork nesting sights in the world. The storks migrate up from Egypt + if you visit in the Spring you’ll catch them laying eggs in thier nests here. As far as actual sights to see, other than simply savoring the small-town life, it’s pretty much just Ephesus. Okay, that’s not entirely true. There’s tons of history in the area but it’s up to you how deep you want to dive into ruins + biblical caves. This is a quick list of all the things you could stay and see in Selçuk.

• The sprawling city of Ephesus. $9 entry fee. Incredibly preserved + you can walk from town.
• Cave of the Seven Sleepers. A cave where 7 men who claimed to have slept for hundreds of years to avoid religious prosecution were buried.
• Church of the Virgin Mary.
• Caves where John the Baptist + the Virgin Mary were supposedly buried. Really not big on religious history so this kind of attraction isn’t really my thing.
• Selçuk Castle. It’s in the middle of town. You’ll definitely see it even if you don’t go inside.
• Temple of Artemis. One of the original ancient wonders of the world. Now, it’s pretty much nothing but still interesting to know where it was.

Where to Stay in Selçuk

We stayed at Boomerang Hostel + Guesthouse.

It was a *good* experience. It was one of the only “cheap” options we could find in the city. But the breakfast was ok + the dorm room is one massive room with 12-single beds in the basement of the building. Not the most ideal situation but fine for a night or two.

Where to Eat in Selçuk

Amazon cafe..

Definitely one of my favorite meals I ate in Turkey. Despite the odd name, this little restaurant is unassumingly inside an old house right across from the site of the Temple of Artemis. They make a handful of mezze dishes each night and a few local specialties. This isn’t a cheap meal. Unless you want to just split a mezze which you totally could because portions are huge. But it is a traditional meal. Where dishes are lovingly prepared and done correctly.

Selçuk Pidecisi

Great pide (like a Turkish version of Pizza) for lunch.

Carpouza Cafe Cheap Wine + Beer

I can’t speak for the food here but sitting outside in the sunshine drinking $1.50 glasses of wine + cheap beer is the best way to spend an afternoon. Go before sunset because they do run out of wine.

Sencan Restaurant St. John

This place has some great kebap + you can even get the flaming Kurdish Kebap here. Even though it isn’t technically on the menu.

Selçuk to Istanbul: This chunk of the route can be done in various ways. Most of them are quite painful. The most common…an overnight bus. 12 or so hours for about $17 pp. The buses in Turkey are very comfortable considering. Another option for those who hate the overnight bus is a train + ferry combo. You can hop on a train (or bus) to the port cities of Bursa or Bandirma. From there the public ferry is only a few dollars and offers a scenic journey across the Sea of Marmara to Istanbul. It only departs twice per day, however. 7 AM + 6 PM. They might increase the frequency after COVID. Check the official website for details.

Istanbul (1 day)

Welcome back to Istanbul. You’re two or three weeks in the country have come to an end and you’ll begin to realize now just how little of the country you’ve covered. If you have the time add a few more days in this city to really dive into the food scene. Again just check out my quick guide to the best food + cafes in Istanbul. There’s a reason the city is so beloved by digital nomads.

Map of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast (2 Weeks Itinerary)

This itinerary is just enough to give you a taste of Turkey. The rural villages of the far East are still on our list for exploring and offer a completely different side to the country. Any questions about planning your Turkish itinerary? Feel free to leave a comment or shoot me a message on Instagram.

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Further Reading...

Your Big Fat Guide to Budget Travel in Istanbul (Food, Maps, + More)

Best Places to Eat in Antalya, Turkey

16 Things You NEED to Know Before You Visit Cappadocia, Turkey

Hi Geena, I hope you’re doing well! I’m a solo traveler planning to explore the Turkish Riviera, starting from Datça and making my way to Antalya. I’m trying to figure out the most practical and budget-friendly mode of transport for this journey. I usually rent a scooter, but so far, I’ve only found rental options in Antalya. Do you have any recommendations or tips for getting around? I’d really appreciate your input!

Thanks a lot, and wishing you many more happy travels! Cal

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beyond_the_bucketlist

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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11 Top-Rated Attractions on the Black Sea Coast, Turkey

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 11, 2023

Author Jess Lee has been writing about Turkey for travel guidebooks for over a decade and regularly visits and travels in the Black Sea region.

For lush landscapes, the Black Sea Coast is one of the best places to visit in Turkey. This region is a world apart from the rest of the country, with the clusters of villages that speckle its narrow coastline hemmed in by the sea on one side and thickly forested rolling mountains on the other.

The winding road that threads its way along the coast is one of the most scenic in the country, making road-tripping through this region one of the most popular things to do.

The region's star tourist attraction is Sumela Monastery, but the Black Sea beaches, pretty harborside hamlets boasting remnants of ancient fortifications, and lush tea-growing hills and alpine pastures out in the east provide more than enough for an entire week's itinerary.

Help plan your trip with our list of the top tourist attractions on the Black Sea Coast.

1. Visit Sümela Monastery

2. swim & relax on the black sea beaches, 3. see the other hagia sophia in trabzon, 4. day trip to the alpine landscape of uzungöl, 5. stroll the historic harborfront of amasra, 6. admire the ottoman architecture of sinop, 7. head into turkey's tea-growing region from rize, 8. delve underground at karaca cave, 9. stroll the old town district of inebolu, 10. stop off in giresun, 11. get a taste of black sea city life in samsun, best time to visit turkey's black sea coast.

Highlight: A Byzantine-era monastery clinging to a cliff with an interior of fresco remnants

The Black Sea Coast's most famous tourist attraction is Sümela Monastery (official name: Monastery of the Virgin Mary), which seems to sprout out of the sheer cliff face enclosing it.

About 70 kilometers south of Trabzon, Sümela has a history that stretches back to the 4th century when the Athenian monks Barnabas and Sophronios arrived and founded a small church here.

Sümela was an active monastery right up until 1923, when the monks were forcibly removed as part of the Turkey-Greece Population Exchange under the conditions of the Treaty of Lausanne.

There are fabulously vibrant (though sadly defaced) frescoes within the main chapel, and the warren of rooms and chapels that make up the rest of the complex give you a good idea of the austerity of religious life in previous centuries.

Possibly the biggest highlight of a visit here though are the views of the entire monastery, clinging to the rock face, on the winding road up to the entrance.

Highlight: Discover Turkey's other summer beach destination along the far less-developed Black Sea coast

Not many foreign tourists venture to the Black Sea specifically for a summer beach break, but the locals know a good thing when they see it.

While the Black Sea beaches can't compare with beach resort hot spots such as Antalya and Bodrum , they make for relaxed spots to break up a road trip along the coast.

Heading west to east, Iğneada is a sleepy village just 15 kilometers south of the border with Bulgaria, right at the western tip of Turkey's Black Sea Coast.

During the summer months, the fine white-sand beaches that speckle the surrounding shoreline are a major magnet for local tourists, particularly Istanbul and Edirne residents looking for an easy weekend escape from the city's heat.

Nearer to Istanbul, Kiyiköy is a fishing village that snaps to attention on summer weekends, when city-siders arrive in droves to soak up the sun on the beach.

The stretch of sand here has plenty of family-friendly appeal, with sun loungers and umbrellas for those who simply want to relax and pedalos available to hire for seaside fun. It's a great place to sample a slice of tourism local-style, with the shoreline cafés packed to the brim with young Turks sipping tea between swims.

Roughly midway between the region's two big cities of Samsun and Trabzon, chilled-out Ordu is one of the top spots for Black Sea beaches along the eastern half of the coast, with sweeps of sand just to the east and west of town.

Ordu itself occupies the site of the Ionian settlement of Kotyora, and although all hints of a grand past have long since disappeared, Ordu retains plenty of character, with an old Ottoman-Greek quarter full of timber-framed houses lining narrow alleys and a quaint, old-fashioned seafront.

Çaka Beach is one of the best stretches of sand in the Ordu area and in summer attracts plenty of local families for picnics and a spot of sun-slothing, though it rarely gets crowded, even in the height of the vacation season in July and August.

Highlight: Admire the fine frescoes inside Trabzon's most prominent Byzantine relic

Bustling Trabzon is a large harbor city enclosed by the soaring peaks of the Eastern Pontic Mountains, which run along the coast.

It was founded perhaps as early as the 8th century BCE by Greek settlers and soon flourished as part of the caravan trade route between Persia and the Mediterranean.

The main tourist attraction is the Trabzon Hagia Sophia, the smaller namesake of Istanbul's Hagia Sophia . Trabzon's version was probably built by Emperor Alexius Comnenus immediately after his arrival in Trabzon from Constantinople (modern Istanbul) in 1204.

The church was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era, became a museum in the 1960s, and was later reconverted into a mosque again.

The original church cruciform plan is preserved with a nave flanked by aisles and a transept with frescoes.

Along the base of the south doorway is a frieze depicting the story of Adam in a style showing a clear Eastern influence. Despite the fact the wall paintings are severely defaced, they are still beautiful.

Address: Zübeyde Hanım Caddesi, Trabzon

Highlights: Enjoy the fresh air and lush mountain and forest vistas in one of the prettiest corners of Turkey

One of the most popular places to visit on a day trip from Trabzon, the alpine vistas of Uzungöl look as if they could have been plucked straight out of central Europe.

This alpine lake and its shorefront village, set between steep, forested mountain slopes is one of the Black Sea region's most famous landscapes.

There's not much to actually do here except soak up the views and then relax in one of the lakefront restaurants and cafés, which get crammed with diners on summer weekends.

The best scenic views of the lake are taken from high above the village. Most of the tours running to Uzungöl from Trabzon add stops at these look-out points into the itinerary.

Uzungöl is 96 kilometers southeast from Trabzon.

Highlights: Explore the alleys of this historic coastal town then take in the views on a boat trip

By far the Black Sea Coast's most beautiful harbor town, Amasra's old town is chock-a-block full of colorful houses crammed close together along narrow streets that tumble down to the sea. It's a photographer's dream, with plenty of street scene potential.

The Byzantine citadel beside the small harbor is the main tourist attraction, while Amasra's small museum on Dereoğlu Sokak has some well-laid-out displays.

For most visitors, though, it's all about swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the old-town atmosphere.

Boats leave from the small harbor on daily sun and sea excursions that allow you to explore the surrounding coves.

Highlights: Ramble the lanes rimmed with Ottoman-era houses before exploring the ancient harbor fortifications

Charming and cosmopolitan Sinop is both the most northerly point on the Turkish Black Sea Coast and also the best protected harbor.

It is now a place of little consequence compared with its importance in antiquity, when it was a busy commercial city at the northern end of principal caravan routes from Cappadocia and the lands of the Euphrates.

The town streets, with some lovely surviving Ottoman houses, are a delight, while history fiends will enjoy climbing upon the old city fortifications with their panoramic sea views down by the harbor.

The old jail building on Sakarya Caddesi is also a fascinating historic building to explore.

Sinop province offers further historical attractions. In particular, if you're interested in caravanserai architecture, it's well worth diverting inland off the coastal highway to stop off in Durağan on a Black Sea Coast road trip.

This small, rather bland town, 112 kilometers south of Sinop, is home to the Durak Han, a Seljuk caravanserai built in 1266 by Pervane Süleyman.

The fortified complex has semi-circular towers on each corner, while the external walls are reinforced with additional rectangular towers. Inside, it boasts a large summer courtyard surrounded by vaulted chambers leading to a triple-aisled winter hall.

Highlights: A pilgrimage point for every tea drinker, lush tea-plantation views

Rize is the capital of Turkey's tea-growing region, and every fan of a hot brew should make a stop here. The town itself is a thoroughly modern affair, surrounded by lush green tea plantations.

Take a trip to the Tea Garden above town, where you can sip your tea while admiring great views across the rolling hills. As well as being home to a huge range of tea plants, the garden has a collection of subtropical flora.

More fine panoramic views are on offer at Rize Castle (Rize Kalesi), which the Genoese built during the medieval era, and there is another relaxing tea garden here.

Turkey's tea-growing villages are to the northwest of town in the Çeçeva-Haremtepe area. Take a drive through the hill country here to soak up the lush, emerald-green views.

Highlight: Head deep underground to explore one of Turkey's most famous caves

This cave network is one of Turkey's best and most accessible. Located 97 kilometers inland from Trabzon, near the small town of Torul, the cavern system here stretches for 107 meters long and is filled with huge stalagmites and stalactites that have been formed in weird and eerie shapes.

Well-maintained walkways and excellent lighting allow visitors to view the cave's formations up close.

The cave is also known locally for its health-giving properties, with locals claiming the oxygen levels in the cave are beneficial for both asthma sufferers and those suffering from other respiratory problems.

Even in the height of summer, bring a sweater. It gets colder the farther you delve underground into the cave.

Highlights: Stroll this laid-back Black Sea town and discover remnants of its Pontic heritage

Having retained plenty of its historic character, Inebolu is a favorite overnight stop on a Black Sea road trip.

This port town in the western Black Sea region, about halfway between Amasra and Sinop, is home to a ruined castle, a wealth of traditional Ottoman wooden houses (many crumbling into disrepair), and plenty of handsome vernacular Pontic-style townhouses with slate-covered roofs.

In antiquity, the town was known as Abonoteichus but was renamed Ionopolis (hence its modern name) during the Roman era.

Wandering the lanes of the central old town district is the main thing to do here, but the surrounding coastline also offers small stretches of beach for those who want to swim.

Highlight: Head up to the Byzantine castle remnants and take in the coastal views

If you're a cherry fan, you have Giresun to thank for this fruit. It was from here that the Roman general Lucullus tasted his first cherry (the town's name stems from the Greek word for cherry) and took the fruit back to Rome.

Giresun occupies the site of ancient Kerasous, founded by Miletus in the 7th century BCE.

Despite this rather long history, there's not much to see, but the ruins of a Byzantine-era castle above town offer great views across the surrounding countryside, and Giresun Museum on Atatürk Caddesi, in the center, has an excellent collection of archaeological finds if you're passing through.

Highlight: Stop off on a Black Sea road trip to visit Samsun's important regional museums

The largest city on the Black Sea is all about bustling industry. The surrounding coastal plain around Samsun produces tobacco, cereals, and cotton, which is then exported from the city's busy port.

Despite its long history (the site of ancient Amisos, founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BCE, lies three kilometers northwest), the modern city doesn't have huge amounts to offer visitors but it's worth a stop here for the museums.

Samsun's Archaeological Museum exhibits finds from ancient Amisos and the Ghazi Museum (set in the hotel where Atatürk stayed) remembers Samsun's role as the starting point for the Turkish War of Independence in 1919.

While you're in the central city, there are also some interesting mosques to take a look at. The Pazar Cami (Market Mosque) and Ulu Cami (Great Mosque) are both worth a visit.

The best time to visit Turkey's Black Sea Coast is during the months of June, July, August, and September when the weather is most dependably warm and sunny.

The Black Sea coast is Turkey's wettest region, and even during the sunniest months of July and August, when daytime average temperatures sit around 28 degrees Celsius on the coast, you should pack with plans to encounter rainy weather, and include a warmer layer for after dark when nighttime temperatures are an average of 15 degrees.

Inland from the coastal towns and cities, in the densely forested mountains and hill country that rims the coast, summer temperatures are much milder even in the height of July and August.

June, July, August, and September are the prime months for hiking and further exploration deeper into the Black Sea's mountain area — as with down on the coast, this is when blue skies and sunshine are more likely to dominate.

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Historic Regions: The Black Sea coast is great for road tripping. For other regions in Turkey with plenty of historic sites check out Cappadocia , known for its fairy-chimney rock formations and Byzantine churches, and Pergamum and the North Aegean , home to the hilltop ruins of ancient Pergamum.

The Coast: A trip along Turkey's Black Sea coast will take you off the typical tourist trail. If you want to sample Turkey's famed sun-and-sea stretch of holiday coast head to the Mediterranean. Both Antalya with its old town district and beaches, and Fethiye , loomed over by Lycian tombs, are favored bases for further explorations of this stretch of coastline.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 17, 2024

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 Stay on the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey

SD › Best Places to Stay along Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast Updated: September 16, 2020 By Santorini Dave

The Best Areas to Stay on the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey

The best area for first-timers and families on Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast is Alanya, with its beautiful port and several vibrant festivals and events through the year.

Turkey is blessed with three coastlines: along the Black Sea to the north, the Aegean Sea facing Greece and its numerous islands to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea in the south. The latter is dotted with so many golden beaches and such crystal-clear waters that it’s often called the Turquoise Coast . Most major towns along this coast have an extended marina, ancient castle, old town with meandering cobblestoned streets, and, of course, plenty of tourists, especially from mid-May to mid-September. In high season (May to early October) all places listed below are efficiently connected by public buses and, sometimes, ferries. Buses run less regularly during the offseason and ferries stop altogether.

Where the coast along the Aegean meets the Mediterranean Sea, Marmaris is one of the region’s most appealing towns and especially popular for its active nightlife. About 50 miles via an inland road, Dalyan is so likably different to anywhere else on the coast: based along a canal, it features ancient ruins just across the water and boats to an inland lake and a protected (and, therefore, undeveloped) beach.

An attractive regional hub less affected by tourism (because the nearest decent beach is 10 miles away), Fethiye is dotted with ancient ruins and often used as a departure point for cruises on traditional yachts. Also easily accessible by local bus, trendy (and more expensive) Kalkan is renowned for its range of outdoor activities and restaurants along a very scenic bay. Close by, Kaş is the finest spot for diving and snorkeling along the coast, if not all of Turkey.

Most hotels in the two major towns along the eastern part of the coast remain open during the off-season because the weather is still mostly mild. The largest city along the Mediterranean Coast, Antalya boasts a wonderful old town perched along a hilltop overlooking the spectacular bay. Even more appealing, Alanya offers a magnificent harbor/marina/ferry terminal below the old town and two golden beaches, both remarkably convenient.

Further east of Alanya and certainly beyond Silifke, tourist amenities, and attractions become fewer and/or more isolated. Thereafter, the coast is too close to Kurdish separatist areas and the Syrian border.

The Best Places to Stay along the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey

The Antique Roman Palace in Alanya, Turkey, is right across from a gorgeous beach and offers fantastic sea views.

• Best Luxury Hotels along the Mediterranean Coast Antique Roman Palace (Alanya) • Puding Marina Residence (Antalya) • Grand Paşa Hotel (Marmaris) • Dalyan Paradise • Hotel Emir Palas (Dalyan) • Ece Hotel Sovalye Island (Fethiye) • Sovalye Hotel (Fethiye) • Hotel Villa Mahal (Kalkan) • Hotel Sonne (Kaş)
• Best Boutique Hotels along the Mediterranean Coast Centauera Boutique Hotel (Alanya) • Lemon Villa Hotel (Alanya) • Hotel Villa Turka (Alanya) • Kaleici Marina Boutique Hotel (Antalya) • Mediterra Art Hotel (Antalya) • White Garden Hotel (Antalya) • Mets Boutique Hotel (Marmaris) • Sunset Marmaris Boutique Hotel & Spa • Michelangelo Boutique Hotel (Daylan) • Eon Dalyan Boutique Hotel • Marina Boutique Hotel (Fethiye) • Orka Boutique Hotel (Fethiye) • Kalkan White House • Old Town Hotel Kalkan • Linda Boutique Class Hotel (Kaş)
• Best Family Hotels along the Mediterranean Coast Blue Diamond Alya Hotel (Alanya) • Kahya Hotel (Alanya) • Monte Carlo Hotel (Alanya) • 8 oDa Boutique Homes (Marmaris) • Casa De Maris Spa & Resort Hotel (Marmaris) • Paşa Beach Hotel (Marmaris) • Akkent Garden Hotel (Fethiye) • Pier Aparts (Kalkan) • Diva Residence Hotel (Kaş)
• Best Moderate Hotels along the Mediterranean Coast Seaport Hotel (Alanya) • Villa Sonata Hotel (Alanya) • Castle Boutique Hotel (Antalya) • La Paloma Hotel (Antalya) • Cettia Beach Resort (Marmaris) • City Hotel Marmaris • Sunprime Beachfront Hotel (Marmaris) • Halici Hotel (Marmaris) • Delta Hotel (Fethiye)
• Best Budget Hotels along the Mediterranean Coast Hotel Frankfurt (Antalya) • Sibel Pension (Antalya) • Dalyan Terrace Hotel • Kano Hotel (Dalyan) • Hotel Uygar (Fethiye) • Old Kalamaki Pansiyon (Kalkan) • Kalkan Gül Pension • Kaş Köy Hotel (Kaş)

Best Areas along the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey for…

• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Sightseeing: Dalyan Dalyan is uniquely positioned along a canal where boats head to a vast lake with therapeutic mud baths and hot springs before reaching an excellent and remarkably undeveloped beach with a research/rehabilitation center for protected turtles. And just across the canal from the town center are ruins of the ancient city of Kaunos and the remarkable Kings’ Tombs somehow carved into the cliffs. Also easy to day trip by public bus to the adorable town of Marmaris, with its sprawling old town and extended beaches, and to Fethiye, a pleasant regional hub with easy connections to the ruins at Telmessos, Greek ‘ghost town’ of Kayaköy, and spectacular beach at Ölüdeniz.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Beaches: Alanya For over 40 miles, the road from Antalya to the airport beyond Alanya is absolutely jam-packed with massive and, often, garish resorts. Outside of Alanya, most of these resorts face a beach which can be disappointingly narrow and, sometimes, pebbly, and are positioned along a busy and noisy road. Far more attractive and convenient are the two beaches within Alanya: Cleopatra Beach, in the town center and connected to the castle by a cable car, and the seemingly unnamed beach between the Panorama and Sunset Beach hotels. This 6-mile-long stretch of sand (which starts just outside the town center) is lined with mid-sized hotels and lavish resorts, many offering rates which include all meals and drinks, making them ideal for families.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Outdoor Activities: Antalya For locals as much as foreign and Turkish tourists, an impressive range of activities are available at the largest city along the Mediterranean Coast. These include ‘safaris’ in a jeep – either drive-yourself or chartered with a driver – along bumpy mountain roads and shallow creek-beds, white-water rafting, getting dirty on quad bikes, and hiking along the Lycian Way trail which starts close to Antalya and stretches over 300 miles towards Fethiye. Also, from the spectacular port/marina/ferry terminal, wooden boats – often with a ‘pirate’ theme – head to secluded coves and bays, and reputable companies organize diving trips to shipwrecks.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Diving and Snorkeling: Kaş More charming than most resort regions – but also more upmarket and expensive – Kaş is popular for its range of activities on and below the water. Local and foreign experts regard the area in and around Kaş as the finest along the coast, if not the entire country, for diving and snorkeling among shipwrecks and submerged ruins. Several reputable companies offer good-value tours as well as rentals and internationally-recognized courses. Underwater attractions, some within swimming distance of the shore, are also accessible via hikes and kayaks.
• Best Areas along the Mediterranean Coast for Boating: Marmaris and Fethiye It’s hard to imagine a more picturesque marina and harbor anywhere along the Mediterranean than at Marmaris. In fact, the bay is so sheltered that the inlet is very difficult to see from the esplanade. At Marmaris, boat-lovers can hire yachts – or charter one with a crew – while others can join organized boat trips to remote coves for swimming, snorkeling, and/or scuba-diving. A must-do for those with enough time and money is joining a leisurely cruise along the Turquoise Coast in a traditional wooden boat called a gulet. Usually starting at Fethiye, trips up to four days include stops at secluded bays, pristine snorkeling spots, and coastal ruins otherwise difficult to reach.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Nightlife: Marmaris Where the Aegean Coast ‘meets’ the Mediterranean Sea, the charming town of Marmaris also has a reputation for its nightlife. A delightful seaside path skirting the old town is packed with top-class waterfront cafés and bars, some featuring live music. The path heads further northeast to the marina via a thoroughfare called ‘Bar Street’, which is crammed with places to drink, dance, and socialize with names like Joy Club and Crazy Daisy. Pleasingly distant from most hotels, these bars and nightclubs compete by offering the sort of loud music, flashing lights, and drink specials that can (almost) rival parts of Ibiza.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Food & Restaurants: Kalkan Kalkan is renowned across the country as the finest place anywhere along the Turkish Mediterranean Coast for the quality, range, and settings of its restaurants. Many of the foreigners who now call Kalkan home have set up fashionable places to eat, drink, shop, and stay, and the town generally attracts big-spending tourists rather than those on packaged tours. So, many of the eateries are world-class and fairly pricey. Along the idyllic bay, visitors can enjoy a morning croissant and latte at a French-run patisserie, devour lunch and a pint or three at an English-style pub, and then relax over a seafood dinner at a family-run bistro on a terrace with live jazz.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Families: Alanya Alanya offers two particularly lovely stretches of sand: Cleopatra Beach, conveniently located within the town center and linked to the hilltop castle by cable car, and, just a few miles from downtown, the extended yet unnamed beach lined with resorts. Many top-end resorts and some mid-sized hotels across Alanya offer children’s pools, activities for families, and package deals that include all meals and drinks – great for saving money and pleasing fussy eaters. These beaches are linked by an efficient bus service, which also heads to the Alanya AQUAPARK. Activities easy to arrange through the hotel receptions include boat trips to explore caves, white-water rafting, jeep safaris, and quad-bikes. (Note: all other beach areas near Alanya will be alongside a busy road, face a narrow beach, and be up to an hour by bus from the town center.)
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for History: Antalya The largest city along the Mediterranean Coast is the ideal place to learn about the region’s rich and fascinating heritage. The world-class Antalya (Archaeological) Museum explains in English the extensive history of the coastal areas, while another in a renovated mansion provides intriguing displays about more recent traditions. Along stone paths within the vast old town are numerous Ottoman-era homes, many converted to guesthouses, as well as ancient walls and old towers with strategic and scenic views of the remarkable harbor. Just outside the old town, there are substantial remains of Hadrian’s Gate, built nearly 2,000 years ago. From Antalya, it’s also easy to organize day trips to the remarkable ruins at Aspendos and Perge/Perga.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Vibe & Culture: Fethiye This administrative center and transport hub is often ignored by tourists, so it can offer a more authentic slice of Turkish life while still providing plenty of tourist amenities around an attractive bay. The town is dotted with reminders of its heritage, including an ancient theater, tomb, and fortress, and public buses regularly head to charming villages as well as the Greek ‘ghost town’ of Kayaköy and ancient ruins at Telmessos. With the nearest beach and major resorts 10 miles away, Fethiye retains a likable vibe and offers several festivals – whether for locals (e.g. mushroom harvests) or tourists (e.g. folk music and dance).
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Festivals and Events: Alanya Alanya offers much more than the usual folk music and dance festivals (although there is one of these). Events in this adorable town are traditional (e.g. those based around the oncoming of spring), touristy (e.g. stone sculptures), sporty (e.g. triathlon), or simply lots of fun for locals (e.g. fishing tournaments and Christmas markets). Public holidays, such as the National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, are also particularly vibrant. Adding to the appeal is that Alanya is close enough to visit festivals on day trips to Side (for culture) and Antalya (for film and jazz).
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Shopping: Antalya As the largest city along the Mediterranean coast, Antalya is sizeable enough to offer the best of all worlds: large malls in the suburbs, fashionable boutiques along winding streets around Kaleiçi (old town), and the centuries-old Iki Kapili Han bazaar also in Kaleiçi. Radiating from the edges of the old town, several streets – some for pedestrians only – are crammed with everyday shops priced for locals, not tourists, and accessible by the excellent tram service.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Transport: Antalya About halfway along the tourist-oriented section of the Mediterranean Coast, the region’s largest city is the natural point for reaching this part of Turkey and then exploring further. The airport offers numerous domestic and international flights and, unlike most towns and tourist regions in Turkey, it’s conveniently less than 10 miles from downtown. Plenty of buses head to major cities like Istanbul and Ankara, regional villages such as Side, and tourist centers in both directions. Within Antalya, two tram lines link both the city center and old town with the bus station and attractions like the museum and waterpark. Metered taxis are also available.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for Romantic Holidays: Kalkan Quieter, smaller, and more laidback than Antalya and Marmaris, Kalkan is also very attractively positioned on a hillside along a scenic bay. Not tacky or overbuilt, it retains the sort of old-world charm often lacking elsewhere but is more expensive overall. For a romantic getaway, Kalkan offers a delightful old town for lazy walks and no-hassle shopping, boat trips to secluded coves and caves, and some activities rarely offered anywhere else, like cooking classes. What’s more, the range and quality of restaurants here are renowned across Turkey and those along the waterfront are especially dreamy after sunset. The choice of accommodations ranges from quaint guesthouses in the old town to spacious suites up the hill.
• Best Area along the Mediterranean Coast for First-Timers: Alanya Alanya offers an (over)abundance of hotels within meters of the sand, whether in the delightful inner-city area around Cleopatra Beach or the extended (and unnamed) beach just a few miles further southeast. Many resorts and even some mid-sized hotels offer package deals that include all meals and drinks – avoiding possible hassles of finding restaurants and ordering unfamiliar food. With so many amenities within walking distance of almost every hotel and an excellent bus service along the beaches, Alanya also has plenty to see and do. These include a hilltop castle accessible by cable car, boat trips on ‘pirate ships’, day trips to ancient ruins, and a range of outdoor activities. (Note: all other beach areas near Alanya will be alongside a busy road, face a narrow beach, and be up to an hour by bus from the town center.)
• Safest Area along the Mediterranean Coast: Kaş Over recent years, Turkey has suffered some sporadic political unrest, but this is almost entirely limited to the cities, particularly Istanbul and Ankara. Possible serious conflict involving Kurdish separatists and neighboring Syria are restricted to border areas in the far west, over 500 miles from Antalya. No areas along the tourist sections of the Mediterranean Coast are particularly unsafe, and most trouble that tourists get into is self-inflicted, e.g. not swimming between flags and drinking too much. In crowded areas, like the trams in Antalya and bars of Marmaris, opportunistic petty crime is always possible, so take the usual precautions. Probably the safest area is the quieter and more upmarket town of Kaş.

The 7 Best Areas along the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey for Tourists

The beautiful pool with waterslides at the Grand Pasa Hotel in Marmaris, Turkey.

1. Marmaris

Marmaris is arguably the nicest of many adorable towns along the coast. The castle dominates the hillside old town which is a delight to wander about – although getting disoriented or even lost along the steep and winding lanes is inevitable. The beach in the town center is, ironically, less crowded than the one in the tourist district further southwest, which is narrow and a little rocky in places. Adding to the appeal is the very efficient bus service linking the old town and tourist district, but for some, a major attraction is the nightlife, especially along ‘Bar Street’ between the old town and the new and secluded marina, which is popular among yachties. A few charming guesthouses are in the old town, but most accommodations are spread along the beach in the tourist district. Best Luxury Hotels : Grand Paşa Hotel • Elegance Hotels International Marmaris • Julian Marmaris • Motto Premium Hotel & Spa • Begonville Beach Hotel Best Boutique Hotels : Mets Boutique Hotel • Sunset Marmaris Boutique Hotel & Spa Best Family Hotels : 8 oDa Boutique Homes • Paşa Beach Hotel • Casa De Maris Spa & Resort Hotel Best Moderate Hotels : Cettia Beach Resort • City Hotel Marmaris • Dost Otel • Sunprime Beachfront Hotel • Halici Hotel

Pleasingly laidback and likably different, Dalyan is based along a canal. Across the water from the town center are ruins of the ancient city of Kaunos and the remarkable Kings’ Tombs carved into the cliffs. Boats and buses regularly head to the excellent Iztuzu Beach. Named after the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles that nest there, the beach is surprisingly underdeveloped and home to a research and rehabilitation center. Boats and buses from downtown also go to an amazing lake dotted with therapeutic mud baths and hot springs. Accommodations in Dalyan include budget-priced and mid-range hotels within the town, less charming villas in the suburbs, and more upmarket options along the coast nearby. There are no hotels, however, along Iztuzu Beach, which is part of a conservation area and off-limits after dark. Best Luxury Hotels : Dalyan Paradise • Central Park Hotel • Princess of Özalp • Hotel Emir Palas Best Boutique Hotels : Michelangelo Boutique Hotel • Eon Dalyan Boutique Hotel • Caretta Caretta Hotel • Midas Pension Best Family Hotel : Minta Apartments Best Budget/Moderate Hotels : Yaprak Hotel • Alinda Motel • Hotel Binlik • Dalyan Terrace Hotel • Kano Hotel

Substantially destroyed by an earthquake about 60 years ago, Fethiye is a regional administrative center and transport hub often ignored by tourists and, therefore, comparatively quiet and un-touristy. Based along an attractive bay, Fethiye is an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions such as the old Greek ‘ghost town’ at Kayaköy and ancient ruins of Telmessos, virtually in the suburbs, and there are even more historical remnants to explore around town. Fethiye is also a departure point for extended cruises on traditional gulet boats. Many appealing and inexpensive hotels are within the town center, while more upmarket options are dotted along Ölüdeniz, about 7 miles south and regularly connected by minibus. This beach is beautifully located along a lagoon facing a national park and lined with cliffs that are ideal for paragliding. Best Luxury Hotels : Jiva Beach Resort • Ece Hotel Sovalye Island • Sovalye Hotel • Club & Hotel Letoonia • Yacht Classic Best Boutique Hotels : Blueberry Boutique Hotel • Marina Boutique Hotel • Orka Boutique Hotel Best Family Hotels : Akkent Garden Hotel • Infinity Exclusive City Hotel Best Budget/Moderate Hotels : Hotel Uygar • Rebin Beach Hotel • Bahar Hotels • Delta Hotel • Eyna Hotel

Built along a hillside overlooking a picture-perfect bay, Kalkan is among the prettiest towns along any Turkish coast. It is also more romantic and upmarket (and, therefore, more expensive) than other towns and resort areas along the Mediterranean Coast. Kalkan is home to many expats and popular among tourists who return year after year for its beach, which is conveniently located within the town center, and range and quality of restaurants. Popular activities include boat trips around the coves and scuba-diving among the wrecks. Most accommodations are mid-range guesthouses offering charm and value along the meandering streets of the old town. Best Luxury Hotels : Patara Prince Hotel & Resort • Hotel Villa Mahal Best Boutique Hotels : The Old Trading House • Kalkan White House • Old Town Hotel Kalkan • Turkuaz Pansiyon • Zinbad Hotel Kalkan • Enda Boutique Hotel Kalkan Best Family Hotel : Pier Aparts Best Budget/Moderate Hotels : Old Kalamaki Pansiyon • Kalkan Gül Pension

Barely 15 miles by regular bus from Kalkan (see above), Kaş is quieter, cheaper, smaller, and in many other ways, more appealing. Most come for the range of outdoor activities, which include boat trips around the islands and coves, guided kayaking tours, mountain biking, paragliding, and superb scuba diving and snorkeling – arguably the finest in Turkey. Just along the finger-shaped peninsula from Kaş are some ancient ruins as well as several sandy beaches accessible by water-taxis. And all-year ferries chug along to the Greek islands which are easily seen from Kaş’ pretty bay. Most accommodations are dotted along the peninsula and beachside road in town. Best Luxury Hotels : Doria Hotel • Hotel Sonne • Blanca Beach Hotel • Lukka Exclusive Hotel Best Boutique Hotels : Nur Hotel • Linda Boutique Class Hotel • Cinar Boutique Hotel • Lumina Otel • Lycia Hotel Best Family Hotels : Saylam Suites • Sunset Butik Aparts • Diva Residence Hotel • Deniz Feneri Lighthouse Otel Best Budget/Moderate Hotels : Kaş Köy Hotel • Kale Hotel

Easily the largest city and most developed area for tourism, Antalya still retains plenty of charm and an abundance of history. The atmospheric Kaleiçi (old town) is particularly enjoyable for wandering about and the fascinating cafés along the marina, flanked by dramatic cliffs, offer excellent people-watching opportunities. Unusually, most guesthouses in the old town are accessible by taxi, while many upmarket hotels are about 3 miles away and particularly family-friendly. A useful tram service links the old town with the bus station as well as the pedestrian-friendly streets packed with shops and several inner-city attractions, including a world-class museum. Popular for its range of outdoor activities and very easy to arrange day trips to the ancient ruins at Termessos, Perge/Perga, and Aspendos. Best Luxury Hotels : Puding Marina Residence • Eski Masal Hotel • Casa Sur • Elegance East Hotel • Cap d’PERGE Hotel • Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Antalya Best Boutique Hotels : Deja Vu Hotel • Kaleici Marina Boutique Hotel • Mono Hotel Antalya • Mediterra Art Hotel • White Garden Hotel • Tuvana Hotel Best Family Hotels : Aspen Hotel • Rixos Downtown Antalya • Hotel SU & Aqualand • Sealife Family Resort Hotel Best Moderate Hotels : Castle Boutique Hotel • La Paloma Hotel • Tekeli Konaklari • Char Me Boutique Hotel Best Budget Hotels : Hotel Frankfurt • Özmen Pension • Sibel Pension • Hotel Twenty • Patron Hotel • Held Hotel

The coastline on either side of Alanya is packed with massive Vegas-style resorts, but most are too close to the main road, face an unimpressive beach, and lack nearby amenities. Far more appealing are the hotels and resorts facing Cleopatra Beach in the inner city and those along the extended and nameless stretch of sand starting a few miles southeast of downtown, all of which are also easily accessible by bus. Looming over a spectacular bay with a marina, port for trips on ‘pirate boats’, and terminal with ferries to Cyprus, the old town is home to several adorable boutique hotels and an ancient castle (also accessible by cable car). Many upmarket hotels and resorts offer package deals that include all meals and drinks, but decent mid-range and budget-priced options are limited. Alanya is also the finest place along the coast for festivals and particularly good for families and those traveling to the region for the first time. Best Luxury Hotels : Antique Roman Palace • Oba Star Hotel & Spa • Kleopatra Atlas Adults Only Hotel • Xperia Saray Beach Otel • Sunprime C-Lounge Hotel Best Boutique Hotels : Centauera Boutique • Lemon Villa Hotel • Hotel Villa Turka Best Family Hotels : Blue Diamond Alya Hotel • Kahya Hotel • Monte Carlo Hotel • Labranda Alantur • Club Big Blue Suite Hotel Best Moderate Hotels : Seaport Hotel • Villa Sonata Hotel Best Budget Hotels : Hotel Kaptan • Anjeliq House • Melody (Melodi) Hotel

About Santorini Dave

Wander-Lush

25 Beautiful Places in Turkey for Your Travel Itinerary (Must-sees & Hidden Gems)

A land of immense natural beauty and diverse cultures underpinned by eons of history, Turkey (Türkiye) is a country like no other.

Here are 25 jaw-droppingly beautiful destinations (including 10 hidden gems!) you can’t overlook when planning your trip, from hot springs to beach resorts, coastal towns to ancient cities hewn from rock, palaces, monasteries, sparkling lakes, sacred mountains, and much, much more!

In travellers’ terms, Turkey is in a league of its own. This is the place where East meets West; where Europe and Asia collide and produce a transcontinental culture clash. Amazing food, diverse traditions, religions and histories – these are the things that make Turkey such an unforgettable travel destination.

Although Turkey is known for its beautiful beaches and hot air balloon-filled skies, it’s so much more than that. Once the playground of great figures such as Cleopatra, Caesar and Alexander the Great, Turkey’s historical significance is proudly displayed in the palaces, mosques, monasteries and countless archaeological sites that dot the vast landscape. There are no fewer than 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey plus 41 national parks where unforgettable valleys, lakes and mountains lay in wait.

Fragrant bazaars and stunning views at every corner, from the narrow streets of Istanbul – one of the world’s great cities – to Turkey’s small towns and villages, the urban landscape is every bit as enigmatic.

To help you narrow down your wish list, I’ve rounded up the most beautiful places in Turkey to visit.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

Summer is peak tourist season in Turkey, when prices go up – along with the temperatures – and popular destinations become overcrowded, especially the bigger cities such as Istanbul and towns along the Turquoise Coast.

A better time to visit Turkey is during spring or fall shoulder season . Winter is a great time to plan an Istanbul city break , just note that the east of Turkey and the mountainous regions experience very cold winters. See a list of the best places to visit in Turkey in winter .

How to get around Turkey

One thing to know before you visit Turkey is that this country is big! Most travellers fly into Istanbul, which is indeed a good place to start your itinerary. It may be necessary to take a domestic flight or two to travel onwards to central or eastern Turkey. The country’s railway network can also come in handy: There are regular trains from Istanbul to Ankara and Kars.

Once the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway launches, this will make it possible to travel into Eastern Turkey overland from the South Caucasus.

If you want to visit all of these diverse and beautiful destinations, renting a car for a Turkey road trip is the best option. I recommend using Local Rent .

25 of the most beautiful places in Turkey to add to your itinerary

From the domes of the Blue Mosque to the cobalt waters of the Black Sea, the bustling city of Istanbul and the enigmatic Hagia Sophia to the hidden secrets of Turkey’s underground cities and historic sites, from popular tourist attractions to hidden gems , here are the most gorgeous places to visit in Turkey!

1. Istanbul: The most beautiful city in Turkey

A melting pot of cultures in the truest sense of the term, Istanbul has to be one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey. It’s a transcontinental city, meaning you can literally travel between Europe and Asia in a matter of minutes – in fact, it’s as easy as crossing a bridge.

Istanbul’s skyline is dotted not only with the spires and domes of mosques, but also with medieval European architecture. This is because the city was the capital of four major empires throughout the ages, including the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Latin Empire and the Ottoman Empire.

But that’s not all. Istanbul is known for its delicious food, cafes that serve up Turkish coffee, traditional baths (hammams), Whirling Dervish ceremonies , vibrant nightlife and unique shopping experiences, which include the biggest covered Bazaar in the country: The one and only Grand Bazaar.

There are countless famous landmarks to see in Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Galata Tower , Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and many more. And then there are Istanbul’s hidden corners, including the gorgeous Arnavutkoy neighbourhood , with its Ottoman-era mansion houses.

Get there: Fly into Istanbul Airport. Where to stay: Ayramin Hotel Taksim, boutique hotel 200m from Istiklal Street. Search rooms here .

2. Pamukkale & Hierapolis

The mineral spring waters that have cascaded down this hillside for thousands of years have created an extraordinary sight. Located in Turkey’s Büyük Menderes Valley, the 17 tiered pools of Pamukkale – which means ‘cotton castle’ – make up the most beautiful thermal spring you’ll ever see. You can find the stacked white Travertine terraces overlooking the city of Denizli. 

Back in the day, Pamukkale was one of the most popular thermal pools in Turkey. It was a spa, first used in the 2nd century BC and famous for its healing properties. Today, the perfectly blue water that fills these white limestone bowls still stays at a comfortable 34 degrees Celsius.

No day trip to Pamukkale is complete without a stop in Hierapolis, one of the first thermal spa resorts in the world. This spa city was also founded at the end of the 2nd century and is home to the famous Antique Pool, also known as the ‘Cleopatra Pool’.

Legend has it that the famous Cleopatra herself often bathed in these warm waters, gifted to her by Mark Antony on the occasion of their wedding. The pool itself was once covered by the Roman temple of Apollo, but now the columns lie dormant in the water, adding even more charm to this unique bathing experience.

Get there: 1-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Hotel Sahin, simple rooms 20m from the Pamukkale travertines. Search rooms here .

3. Ancient Ephesus

Did you know Ephesus is considered one of the great outdoor museums of Turkey? In ancient times, Ephesus was a port city and was considered to be one of the most important Greek outposts and trading centres in the entire Mediterranean region. Throughout history, many different forces conquered the city. It even played a role in spreading Christianity.

Today Ephesus is one of the largest and most celebrated Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean and remains a popular Christian pilgrimage destination. In 2015, the ancient town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other nearby famous landmarks include the House of the Virgin Mary on Mount Nightingale and the Ruins of the Temple of Artemis, which is one of the Wonders of the Ancient World.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Izmir or 7 hours by coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Eliada Hotel (Kusadasi). Search rooms here .

4. Cappadocia

If you have an Instagram account, then you’ve probably already seen the iconic photos of hot air balloons soaring over unique landforms in Cappadocia.

Located just outside the town of Goreme in the south-centre of Turkey, Cappadocia is known for its otherworldly, cone-like rock formations. As well as the ‘fairy chimneys’, the landscape is dotted with magnificent rock-cut monasteries including Selime Monastery, a popular sunset spot.

Every morning, 100-150 hot air balloons float over Goreme to create one of the most beautiful scenes in Turkey. But don’t be fooled, hot air ballooning is not the only thing you can do in Cappadocia . This area is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking. Popular sunrise trails can be found in Love Valley, Pigeon Valley and Rose Valley.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Sofa Hotel (Avanos), one of the area’s best cave hotels. Search rooms here . Recommended reading: Learn more about the famous hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia and other things to do in Goreme here .

5. Butterfly Valley

Only accessible by boat, or via a very difficult trek down from Faralya village, Butterfly Valley is a real hidden gem. If you manage to get here, you’ll find its one of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences in Turkey.

The valley takes its name from the roughly 100 species of butterflies found in the area, including the endemic orange, black and white Jersey Tiger. The Turkish Government declared the 86,000sqm valley a preservation area in 1987 to protect the butterflies and the local flora.

With lush greenery, waterfalls and a sandy cove, this whole area is perfect for hiking. Those that make their way to the water’s edge are often looking to slow down and connect with nature. On the shoreline you’ll find a campsite with a beach bar that serves beers and grilled fish.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Fethiye.

6. Bodrum: One of the most beautiful places in Turkey

Often called the ‘St. Tropez of Turkey’, this beautiful resort town is located on a peninsula enveloped by shimmering sapphire and turquoise waters. Bodrum is most famous for its array of sandy beaches – more than 60 in total.

With a unique mix of archaeological sites, attractions, nightlife and culture, Bodrum is an alluring destination for travellers of all types, not just sun-seekers. It also happens to be surprisingly affordable if you’re savvy about where to stay.

If you’re a history buff, then one of the highlights of the city is the waterfront-located Bodrum Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only visually beautiful but also packs a historical punch. Inside the castle you will find the Underwater Archeology Museum, which features a variety of artefacts unearthed from the seabed. Another highlight is the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Get there: 1-hour flight or overnight coast from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Ena Boutique Hotel, overlooking Bodrum Castle. Search rooms here .

7. Mount Ararat

Mythical Mount Ararat is actually two separate peaks, both of which are dormant volcanoes. Their summits are snow-capped throughout the year. The thing that makes Ararat so famous is that it’s believed to be the mountain on which Noah and his ark landed during the great flood.

If you ‘re looking to do some trekking , climbing Mount Ararat doesn’t require much technical skill as most of the path is quite easy. The biggest challenge, however, is the altitude, as it is over 5,000m high. The trek takes around 8-9 hours.

Get there: 3 hours by road from Kars. Where to stay: Tehran Boutique Hotel (Dogubayazit). Search rooms here .

8. Kas: The prettiest village in Turkey

Another place where you can escape the hustle and bustle, the old fishing village of Kas is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey. This seaside town offers a cool combination of ancient history that traces back to the Lycian kingdom plus modern leisure activities that you can enjoy around its twin harbours.

One of the more interesting sites in Kas is the Lycian Rock Tombs (Likya Kaya Mezarlari), which mirror similar tombs found in other parts of Turkey. According to Atlas Obscura , the Lycians believed their dead were carried to the afterlife by magic winged creatures, thus they placed them in geographically high places such as the cliffside. Some of these tombs can be seen just above the Old Town in Kas, including the King’s Tomb, which is located at the top of the bazaar street in the heart of the old town.

Kas is also known for its gorgeous whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets that lead down to white-sand beaches.

Quick tip: Be sure to visit Kaputaş Beach. If you’re into exploring the underwater world, then head to the island of Kekova.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Luna Kas, beachfront hotel with a pool. Search rooms here .

9. The Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz)

Oludeniz is known all around the world as Turkey’s Blue Lagoon because of its perfectly aquamarine waters. The natural cove is formed by a long peninsula that curves around the Mediterranean coastline, creating a giant swimming hole reminiscent of Croatia’s Adriatic coast .

One of the most popular activities at the Blue Lagoon is obviously to pull up a beach chair and enjoy the sun in between fresh dips in the ocean’s calm waters. If you’re an active traveller, then this beach is one of Turkey’s best spots for paragliding due to the amazing views of the lagoon and surrounding cove.

The Lycian Way, Turkey’s famous long-distance hike, passes through this area.

Get there: 20 minutes by road from Fethiye. Where to stay: Harbour Suites (Fethiye). Search rooms here .

10. Koprulu Canyon

Koprulu Canyon is both a canyon and a national park in the province of Antalya. It’s also Turkey’s most popular water sports area.

The canyon trails for 14km along the Koprulu river , its rock walls towering to a maximum height of 400m. The surrounding park is home to a rich diversity of flora including pine, fir, and oak trees, and even wild olives. It also hosts the largest cypress forest in Asia Minor.

Highlights include whitewater rafting on the river Oprucay, visiting archaeological sites and historic Roman bridges nestled in the park, hiking and even camping.

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Antalya.

Ankara might not be Turkey’s most famous city, but it is the nation’s capital. A mecca for Turkish food and a centre for the performing arts, music and dance, Ankara is a dream destination for culture-focused travellers who want to sink their teeth into Turkish traditions.

Kemal Ataturk, the first president of Turkey who was born in Thessaloniki , declared Ankara the capital in 1923. His mausoleum, Anitkabir, sits prominently above the city centre as a hilltop tribute to his role in shaping modern Turkey.

Don’t miss the world-class Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which documents the region’s preclassical history in stunning detail. The Citadel (Kale) neighbourhood is the most charming part of town for a wander, with dozens of cafes, craft workshops and boutiques nestled inside quaint red-roofed houses.

Get there: 1.25-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Divan Cukurhan, one of Turkey’s finest boutique hotels. Search rooms here .

12. Lake Van

One of Turkey’s largest lakes, Lake Van, is located in the eastern part of the country close to the cities of Erzurum and Kars. Formed by tectonic movements, the water is naturally high in saline. In the 11th century, it formed a land border between the East Roman Empire and the Turko-Persian Seljuk Empire.

The city of Van on the lake’s eastern edge is a natural jumping-off point for enjoying this sublime landscape. Nearby, the abandoned 15th century Ktuts monastery sits on a tiny island, creating one of the area’s most striking scenes. The Armenian Apostolic edifice sits on Akdamar Island just off the coast and can be accessed by ferry for an up-close look.

For the perfect sunset spot, head to Van Fortress. Find more exciting things to do in Van here .

Get there: 4 hours by road from Kars. Where to stay: RÖNESANS LİFE HOTEL (Van). Search rooms here .

13. Trabzon & the Black Sea Coast

Though not as famous as the Turquoise Coast, Turkey’s Black Sea Coast is another popular tourist destination that comes alive in the warmer months. As well as white sand beaches, you’ll find dramatic cliffs and panoramic views.

The city of Trabzon is a good base for exploring the countless small seaside resort towns that run up and down the seashore. Breathtaking mountain peaks rise us behind the water, framing the beaches beautifully. This is Turkey’s tea tourism capital, so you simply must sample the local leaves while you’re in town!

There are plenty of treasures to be found in the hills as well, including Soumela Monastery (AKA Sumela Monastery) and Uzungol, a picturesque lakeside village at the edge of the Kackar Mountains.

Get there: 1.5-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon. Search rooms here .

14. Gaziantep

If you are a foodie, then this one’s for you! Gaziantep is one of the oldest settlements in the region, with roots that go back more than 10,000 years. This is a city where ancient history meets culinary culture .

If you need proof: Gaziantep was added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a city of gastronomy in 2015. Between the fresh produce, wonderful desserts, delicious sauces and blends of flavours, there are more than 400 local specialties to try in Gaziantep – so what will you try first?

Get there: 1.5-hour flight or overnight coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Anadolu Evleri, historic hotel in the centre. Search rooms here .

15. Antalya

Antalya, one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey, is also the hub of the Turkish Riviera and is the largest settlement on the country’s Mediterranean coast.

This is an urban metropolis much like Istanbul but with the kind of laid-back charm only a city with world-renowned sandy beaches can offer. A beautiful history lies beneath the surface: Antalya is dotted with mosques, churches, and a Turkish bath from ancient times designed in the Greco-Turkish style.

Be sure to set aside plenty of time for visiting Kaleiçi, the city’s historic old town. Before Antalya was one of Turkey’s top resort destinations, it was the ancient city of Attalia. The old town has structures dating back from the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman and even modern Turkish republican eras. It is the perfect mix of old and new and should not be missed – it ‘s also incredibly walkable as it falls within an area of one square kilometre.

Get there: Fly into Antalya Airport (1.25-hour flight from Istanbul) or overnight coach. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Sibel Pension, traditional guesthouse with panoramic sea views. Search rooms here .

Top 10 hidden gems in Turkey

16. ishak pasha palace: a hidden gem in turkey.

One of Turkey’s most striking but lesser-visited historical sites, the Ishak Pasha Palace is located in the country’s far east, close to the borders of Iran and Armenia . Commissioned in 1784 by the Kurdish Sanjak Chief Ishak Pasha, it’s a rare example of an Ottoman-period palace that has stood the test of time.

The vast complex combines Ottoman, Seljuk, Persian and Armenian architectural styles to perfectly reflect the layers of culture and history that define this part of Turkey. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful facades, a mosque, opulent ceremonial halls, arched gates and a mausoleum.

The Ishak Pasha Palace cuts a striking figure against a backdrop of mountain peaks, with the city of Doğgubeyazit stretched out in the valley below.

Quick tip: This part of Eastern Turkey experiences heavy snowfall in winter , so it’s preferable to visit in late spring or summer.

17. Alacati: A charming alternative to Cesme

Located on the Aegean Coast close to Izmir, Alacati is a little slice of blue-and-white paradise. If you want to walk relatively quieter laneways and experience sleeping inside an authentic stone house, Alacati is a good alternative to the more-popular Cesme.

Charming stone houses draped in bougainvillaea flowers and cobbled streets make this one of the most traditional towns in Turkey. There is plenty to do in Alacati to warrant staying for a few nights, from boat trips and windsurfing to summiting the nearby 16th-century Cesme Castle. But your time might be best spent simply weaving your way between cute restaurants and bars that serve local wine.

Subtle differences in the shape and layout of Alacati’s historic houses reveals the story of their owners: Homes that belonged to Ottoman Greek families have an enclosed balcony and cumba alcove window, and are usually painted in violet or Aegean blue. Besides the architecture, windmills and street murals add to Alacati’s appeal.

Get there: 1 hour by road from Izmir. Where to stay: Gaia Alacati, stunning rooms inside an authentic stone house. Search rooms here .

18. Safranbolu: One of the best small towns in Turkey

If you’re on the hunt for Turkey’s cutest small town, look no further than Safranbolu. Located in the Black Sea region on a former tributary of the Old Silk Road , Safranbolu used to be a centre for growing and trading saffron. Hence the name, which combines the name of the precious spice and the Greek word polis , meaning ‘city’.

The town revolves around Çarşı district, where hundreds of perfectly preserved Ottoman houses line charming cobbled streets. This style of architecture can be seen across the old Ottoman world, from Berat in Albania to Plovdiv in Bulgaria . Safranbolu’s houses are among the finest in the region – no wonder the entire town was inscribed as a UNESCO Site in 1994. More than 1000 other registered historical artifacts can be found on Safranbolu’s streets, including an ancient sundial.

The 17th-century Cinci Han – once a caravanserai – now provides visitors with sweeping views from its rooftop, while the restored Tarihi Cinci Hamam offers the chance to experience a traditional 17th-century bathhouse.

Get there: 6-hour coach from Istanbul. Search tickets here . Where to stay: Mehves Hanim Konagi, design hotel in a heritage Ottoman mansion. Search rooms here .

19. Mount Nemrut: A lesser-known archaeological site

Well-known among Turkish people but still relatively obscure on the world stage, Mount Nemrut is a true hidden gem. Located in south-eastern Turkey within Mount Nemrut National Park, this 2,100-metre-tall peak is one of the highest in the country.

Majestic as it may be, it’s not the natural landscape that makes Mount Nemrut memorable – rather, it’s the area’s ancient ruins. Recognised by UNESCO as the royal tomb of Antiochus, the site dates to the 1st century BC. Huge limestone heads now strewn across the volcanic soil once topped seated statues depicting the Greek and Persian gods. At some point in history the pantheon was ransacked and the statues desecrated, creating the otherworldly scene you see today.

Often referred to as the ‘Throne of the Gods’, Nemrut Park has many more archaeological treasures to discover, including burial sites, Roman bridges , and the ruins of ancient cities associated with the ancient Kingdom of Commagene.

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Adiyaman. Where to stay: Nemrut Kervansaray Hotel, historic property and closest option to the top of Mount Nemrut. Search rooms here .

20. Mardin: An ancient city in Anatolia

Floating on a rocky outcrop above the Mesopotamian plain, the city of Mardin in Anatolia is both a time capsule and a living library of history, archaeology and religious heritage. Better still, it’s almost completely free of mass-tourism.

Fashioned almost entirely from locally mined, buff-coloured limestone, the city emerges from the landscape as if it were a natural rock formation. The narrow streets are bristling with traditional houses – take note of the local building style, which favours sloping facades and big courtyards – interspersed with historic buildings and little workshops belonging to the city’s Syrian Orthodox silversmiths.

Climb up to the top of the ridge for stunning views of the mountain village and surrounding grasslands from the citadel. On a clear day, you might be able to see all the way to the Syrian border.

There is immense beauty in Mardin’s diversity: The proliferation of churches and mosques belonging to different denominations attest to the area’s long and storied history. Be sure to visit the Meryem Ana Syriac Catholic Church (1895), the Surp Kevork Armenian Apostolic Church, the Mor Hirmiz Chaldean Catholic Church, and the Mor Petrus and Pavlus Assyrian Protestant Church.

Get there: 2-hour flight from Istanbul or 4 hours by road from Gaziantep. Where to stay: Maridin Hotel, stunning suites set in a historic stone building with rooftop terraces, Turkish baths and a pool inside a cave! Search rooms here .

21. Konya: Home of the Whirling Dervishes

Konya is known throughout Turkey and the world for one thing: As the home of the Islamic Mevlevi Order, AKA the Whirling Dervishes . As the last residence of Rumi, the Sufi sect was founded here in Turkey’s spiritual heartland back in 1273.

One of the top things to do in Konya is of course to enjoy an authentic Whirling Dervishes experience. Semas take place on weekends at the Mevlana Cultural Centre. The Mevlana Museum is very much worth visiting if you want to learn more about Dervish traditions – or for a fully immersive cultural experience, attend the Mevlana Festival, which is held every December.

Other points of interest include the myriad of beautiful mosques and the Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden.

Get there: 1-hour flight from Istanbul or 3 hours by road from Ankara. Where to stay: Konya Dervish Hotel, cosy rooms inside a 200-year-old Ottoman house. Search rooms here .

22. Amasra: A laid-back fishing village on the Black Sea

The fishing village of Amasra is a somewhat peaceful place to retreat from the crowds that descend on Turkey’s Black Sea Coast every summer. Small sandy beaches, restaurants serving fresh fish, and boat trips to the two nearby islands, Big Island and Rabbit Island, are among the most popular activities on offer.

Curvaceous Amasra takes its form from the natural harbour at its centre. The Roman-era Amasra Castle overlooks the bay, with a tide of little red roofs running down the hill to meet the inky waters of the Black Sea.

Get there: 5.5 hours by road from Istanbul. Where to stay: Amasra Kerem Apart, self-contained beach apartment with panoramic terrace views. Search rooms here .

23. Aladaglar National Park: Crimson Peaks & waterfalls

The perennially snow-capped mountains of Aladaglar National Park are a popular destination for skiing in winter and for trekking in the warmer months. The highest peaks in the park – there are no less than four that tower above 3,700 metres – command views of both the Black Sea and the Mediterranean.

The Ala-Daglar range extends over four provinces in central Turkey and offers some of the country’s best alpine hiking and mountaineering. One of the most beautiful spots here is the Kapuzbasi Waterfalls and glacier ponds, which offer cool relief for trekkers during summer.

Sunset in Aladaglar National Park is something else. Known as the ‘Crimson Mountains’ in Turkish, the Ala-Daglar are graced by a brilliant scarlet flush every evening, painting a truly magnificent picture.

Get there: 2 hours by road from Kayseri. Where to stay: Taurus Guest House, simple rooms and Turkish food prepared from organic ingredients at the edge of the park in Cukurbag. Search rooms here .

24. Sirince: Turkey’s breakfast village

One of the best things to do in Turkey is eat a lavish kahvalti spread breakfast – and one of the best places for breakfast in the entire country is in picturesque Sirince.

This small village on a hill is easy to reach from Izmir and less than 30 minutes’ drive from the ancient city of Ephesus. Known for its organic garden produce and the buzzing Sirince Bazaar, chefs here draw on local supplies to furnish some of the most delicious breakfast mezes in the land. There are dozens of cafes and pansiyons on the town’s pedestrian-only streets, each serving up different early morning specialties. Hilltop Sirincem Restaurant & Cafe Pansiyon is one of the most popular.

Come for breakfast, stay for the views! The old-style houses here command gorgeous outlooks from every direction. Spend a couple of slow-paced nights using Sirince as a base for visiting the various sights around the area – and you can enjoy a home-cooked kahvalti every morning!

Get there: 20 minutes by road from Ephesus or 1 hour by road from Izmir. Where to stay: Heaven’s Gate, an idyllic stone-and-wood family home with generous private suites and a pool. Search rooms here .

25. Sanliurfa: The City of Prophets

Sanliurfa (Urfa) is the ideal place to stay when visiting the world’s oldest temple, Gobekli Tepe. The Neolithic archaeological site is a mere 30 minutes by road from the city. But Urfa has its own charms that make it more than worthy of your time.

Sometimes called ‘the City of Prophets’, legend says that Abraham was born in Urfa. Its relevance to Jewish, Christian and Islamic history makes Sanliurfa a popular pilgrimage site for believers of the three faiths. Many of the city’s most prominent landmarks, including the Pool of Sacred Fish (where Nimrod cast Abraham into the fire), are tied to Biblical history. Take a stroll through the leafy Golbasi Park or explore the warren-like souq. Don’t miss the views from the 9th-century Urfa castle or a visit to the stunning 12th-century Great Mosque.

A must-do in Urfa is to stay at the Palmyra Boutique Hotel, which is set inside a restored palace. The opulent rooms and character-filled hallways and terraces are reason enough to visit Urfa!

Get there: 1.5 hours by road from Gaziantep. Where to stay: Palmyra Boutique Hotel, elegant rooms in the city centre. Search rooms here .

Which of these pretty places in Turkey are you most excited about visiting? What did I miss? Leave your recommendations in the comments below!

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Turkey inspiration

• The perfect first-timer’s itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul
• Essential travel tips for Istanbul
• Istanbul travel budget
• Guide to Arnavutkoy , a hidden gem in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Istanbul’s Galata Tower
• Where to go in Turkey in winter

Amazing Information.

Thanks for the great list.

Great list. I would also add Sanliurfa, Mardin and Diyarbakir. I believe they are amazing.

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Scenic, But Underrated: This Small Town Is The Perfect Alternative To Honolulu

10 small towns to retire in florida, ranked by cost of living, 10 arizona road trips that are best taken in winter.

Turkey's blue coast and its many seaside towns are often on the lists of many tourists buckling up for a perfect summer getaway. Surrounded by four seas: the Marmara, Aegean, the Black Sea, and the Mediterranean, Turkey is home to many scenic coastal towns that are awaiting tourists to discover their natural landscapes, luxurious resorts, picturesque nightlife, and local hidden gems. Breathtaking in both summer and winter, these coastal towns invite thousands of tourists yearly to explore their natural and historic wonders while spending some time basking under the sun.

For tourists searching for scenic beaches and beautiful towns to visit this summer, here are 10 incredible coastal towns to explore when visiting Turkey.

Related: Amalfi Coast: How To Visit Europe's Most Expensive Destination With A Budget

10 Fethiye, Mugla

Located on Turkey's southwest Turquoise Coast in the province of Mugla, Fethiye is a port city famous for its beautiful harbor, sapphire waters, and multiple rock tombs, the famous among them being the 4th-century B.C. Tomb of Amyntas, which is carved into a cliff above the city. A famous tourist destination in Turkey , this coastal town is home to the Oludeniz Natural Reserve and Beach, which is renowned for offering many adventure-filled activities, including paragliding, scuba diving, turtle spotting, canoeing, and much more. Fethiye is also known for its glittering nightlife, with countless luxury resorts, clubs, and hotels offering accommodations to end a day of exploring its beaches perfectly.

The closest airport to this city is Dalaman Airport, taking 40–50 minutes for tourists to reach.

Related: 10 Places In Turkey That You Should Consider Visiting

9 Kalkan, Antalya

Neighbor to the famous city Kaş in the province of Antalya, Kalkan formerly used to be a scenic fishing village before it started attracting international tourists from all over to its historical sites, wildlife, and attractive coastline. Kalkan is located at the foot of the Taurus mountains, embellishing it with serene mountain beauty to go along with its history of Greek culture and ruins and tourist-heavy beach attractions. Charming whitewashed bougainvillea-covered houses and steep cobbled streets greet tourists after they arrive from a two-hour journey from the nearest airport, Dalaman Airport. The most famous beach in the city is Kaputas Beach, which is always swarming with tourists on boats and canoes to experience the beauty of Kalkan Gorge.

The city welcomes tourists all year round. However, September and October are the best to visit Kalkan to properly explore its multiple attractions.

8 Didim, Aydin

Didim is a small seaside town on the South Aegean Coast that invites both domestic and international tourists to its pebbly beaches, crystal clear Mediterranean waters, luxurious resorts, and delicious seafood spots. Located 123 kilometers away from the provincial capital city of Aydin, Didim was formerly the ancient city of Didyma, where the destroyed Temple of Apollo used to be. One of the most popular beaches in the city, Altinkum Beach, which means “The Golden Sands,” attracts tourists all year round to explore its breathtaking scenery. The beach lives up to its name in both daytime when its pebbly shore is lit-up with sunlight and gentle waves, and in the nighttime, when all bars, hotels, and cafés are full of people dancing, singing, relaxing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the city.

Didim is famous for offering great prices for Turkey's top seaside resorts, with exclusive access to sandy beaches, excellent service, relaxing spa centers, and thrilling water sports activities.

Related: These Amazing Turkey Destinations Must Be On Your Itinerary In 2022

7 Side, Antalya

Joined by the crystalline waves of the Mediterranean, heir to the richness of antiquity, and home to scenic tourist attractions of the modern world, Side continues to be one of Turkey’s famous summer getaway destinations. Once Pamphylia's historic Mediterranean seaport, this charming town is located on a small peninsula about 50 miles east of Antalya.

Whether tourists wish to leisurely enjoy strawberry margaritas while soaking up the sun, relax with nature under a green canopy, or study the region's ancient history by touring the famous ruins, Side is a perfect town to visit on a summer holiday. Besides the sea and skies coexisting in perfect harmony, visiting the historic theater from the Roman period, the ruins of the temples of Apollo, Athena, and Men, and the Roman baths building near the agora are among the top things tourists must do when visiting Antalya . Tourists can also visit the Manavgat Waterfall and Köprülü Canyon National Park to experience the local natural landmarks of the city.

Tourists can reach the city by either cars or mini-buses leaving from Antalya and Alanya.

6 Bodrum, Mugla

One of the most luxurious and mesmerizing seaside towns on the South Aegean Coast, Bodrum is known for its spectacular coastal and land scenery and several ancient ruins dating back to 1000 BC. Meaning “the land of eternal blue,” Bodrum was formerly known as Halicarnassus and now is home to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the seven wonders of the old world. The city is home to Bodrum's most famous luxury resorts , boutique hotels, stylish restaurants, and lively clubs. The town is also famous for its whitewashed houses that capture the coastal beauty of the Aegean architecture. Visiting Bodrum is the perfect choice for those who want to explore the most beautiful landmarks on the Turkish Riviera.

The closest airport to Bodrum is Milas-Bodrum Airport.

Related: Visit These 10 Gorgeous Islands In Turkey For Stunning Views

5 Kaş, Antalya

Situated on the Turquoise Coast, Kaş is ideal for both families and adventurous travelers alike. Although it’s recognized as Turkey's best scuba diving destination, this seaside town offers more than just a scenic diving experience. With its ancient ruins, seaside restaurants, and bougainvillea-covered villas with Ottoman-style balconies, Kaş is well worth including on any Turkey travel itinerary .

Neighbor to Fethiye and Antalya, both famous travel destinations, the town has a 500-kilometer-long track called Lycian Way that follows the coast of ancient Lycia while offering some breathtaking views along the way. Captivating history lovers, the town offers guided tours to explore the ancient settlement of Antiphellos and a 4th-century B.C. Lion Tomb. After tourists are done enjoying Kaş's aquamarine beaches, historic ruins, and natural landscape, they can also visit the nearby Greek island of Kastellorizo.

4 Bozcaada, Canakkale

The calm and vibrant island of Bozcaada, which welcomes more and more tourists each year, is Turkey’s third-biggest island. Situated on the North Aegean Coast, the island sits close to the entrance of the Dardanelles, a historic strait that links the Black Sea with the Mediterranean Sea. Formerly known as Tenedos, the island has an overall tranquil environment that’s perfect for visitors to enjoy during summer while exploring the sunlit beaches, coves, and fruit gardens. The island is famous for its authentic olive oil, wine, and jams, which both domestic and international tourists line up to buy. Tourists can explore vineyards, drive around the island, enjoy lunch or dinner at beachside cafés that serve Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine, or go camping or glamping on the warm and breezy beaches.

Car ferries are the cheapest way to travel from Canakkale to Bozcaada.

3 Olympos (Çirali), Antalya

Formerly an ancient Lycian city located in a river valley near the southern coast of Antalya, Olympos or Çirali is a rural town in the Olympos Baydaglari National Park with a lovely long beach at the foot of the mountains. A breathtaking landmark of its own, the city is filled with historical and natural attractions. Tourists can swim in the crystal clear water of the beach, go hiking on the famous Lycian Way hiking trail or explore the unique sight of the eternal flame known as Chimera (Yanartaş). Instead of regular beach guest houses or hotels, tourists get to stay and enjoy the lulling waves of the sea in their colorful tree houses. Aside from its glittering beach and historic attractions, the city offers adrenaline activities to indulge in, including scuba diving, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and paragliding.

Related: Fly Under The Radar With A Visit To These Hidden Mediterranean Beaches

2 Dalyan, Mugla

Situated around the river between Lake Köyceiz and the Mediterranean Sea, Dalyan's lakes, rivers, and mountains make it the ideal destination for a relaxed summer getaway. Dalyan embraces the Turquoise Coast and offers a gorgeous sun-kissed beach to visitors looking to bask under the Mediterranean sun and breeze. From rock-cut tombs to steamy hot springs, the town faces the ancient city and ruins of Kaunos, a seaport dating back to the 10th century. The main streets of the town are a popular tourist attraction because of the always-bustling seafood restaurants, bars, and cafés. More of a tranquil town filled with natural and historical wonders and less of a party city, visiting Dalyan is a great option for tourists who want to immerse themselves in Turkish culture by exploring old ruins, hiking, cruising to explore beautiful coves, and enjoying its coastal beauty.

1 Alaçatı, İzmir

A charming Greek town situated on the Aegean Coast, Alaçati is a famous coastal town known for its traditional stone houses framed with colorful wooden shutters, trendy eateries and cafés servicing local wine and olive oil, and most of all, its snowy white beaches, which are perfect for leisurely enjoying the sun and the sea. The main town of the city is vibrant with trendy boutique hotels, high-end seafood restaurants, cozy shops and cafés, and windsurfing clubs. Alaçati offers a trendy Bohemian atmosphere, inviting tourists to explore its famous market, an open-air theater, and the windmill park while sampling the Aegean cuisine and trying windsurfing at the breezy beaches.

The closest airport to Alaçati is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, which takes an hour to reach by car or bus.

• Destinations

12 unmissable things to do in Turkey

Jan 3, 2022 • 8 min read

The landscape of Cappadocia and its horizon filled with hot air balloons is one of the most iconic sights in Turkey © Francesco Riccardo Iacomino / Getty Images

Whether your ideal vacation involves sunbathing on a Mediterranean beach , trekking in rugged mountains or learning more about the complex cultural layers laid down over thousands of years of history, Turkey has options to entice every kind of traveler. 

The country boasts an abundance of ancient sites and diverse natural landscapes, as well as lively cities, tantalizing food and opportunities for adventure. You'll never cover everything on just the one vacation but here’s our pick of the best things to do in Turkey to get you started.

Tour the ancient city of Ephesus

The well-preserved streets of Ephesus are lined with evidence of what daily life was like for the ancient Greeks and Romans who inhabited the city for hundreds of years: the remains of their shops and schools, temples and public toilets.

Highlights of the main site include the intricately carved facade of the Library of Celsus – once the third-largest library in the world – a huge open-air theater, a Roman bath and numerous monumental fountains and gates. Well worth the separate admission fee are the Terraced Houses . These luxurious residences belonged to the Roman elite and are full of mosaics, frescoes and marble worthy of an episode of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.”

Luxuriate in a Turkish bath

In the days when most homes lacked indoor plumbing, hamams (commonly referred to as Turkish baths in English) played a crucial role both as a place to get clean and to socialize. Today, they’re typically a special-occasion destination, more often frequented by tourists than locals, but still a luxury well worth indulging in.

The full treatment includes a scrub and massage by a same-gender attendant, but you can also opt to bathe yourself in their steamy chambers. With their marble-covered interiors and sky-lit domes, the grandest hamams – such as the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı , the Cağaloğlu Hamamı and the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Istanbul – are a treat for the eyes as well as the body. In the old Ottoman capital of Bursa, hamams like Eski Kaplıca and Yeni Kaplıca feature pools fed by the area’s natural thermal springs.

See Cappadocia from above and below

First thing in the morning, the skies above Cappadocia fill with hot-air balloons that take visitors floating above the area’s canyons, fairy chimneys and other fantastical rock formations. Even if you don’t fancy a flight, it’s worth getting up early to see the colorful aerial display from the ground. For a more, er, down-to-earth experience, follow labyrinthine tunnels many stories deep into underground cities such as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı , where thousands of people took shelter from invaders for months at a time. In addition to living quarters, these subterranean settlements included facilities to stable animals, cook, worship and even make wine.

Feast on meze and fish

The “rakı-balık” night is a quintessential Turkish dining experience, particularly in Istanbul and along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. What some call the national drink of Turkey, rakı is a strong anise-flavoured liqueur typically mixed with water and ice, and balık is fish. Such meals typically start with an assortment of meze, which are often the real stars of the show.

These small dishes meant for sharing feature both classic and creative combinations of vegetables, herbs and seafood, often topped with yogurt or cooked in olive oil. If you do manage to save room for the main course, popular fish choices depending on the season include grilled levrek (sea bass) and çipura (sea bream), or lightly fried istavrit (mackerel), barbun (red mullet) and hamsi (anchovies).

Shop in colorful bazaars

Despite the proliferation of shopping malls and grocery stores, traditional bazaar culture remains strong in Turkey. Most historic centers will have at least one çarşı , a shopping arcade or maze-like marketplace district with vendors selling everything from cheap souvenirs to handmade leather or metal crafts. Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar (known as the Kapalı Çarşı, or “covered marketplace” in Turkish) is the most famous example, but ones in cities like Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa are more atmospheric and authentic.

Equally colorful and important to local life is the pazar , an open-air market for fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables and other food products, as well as clothing and household goods. Depending on the town or city neighborhood, they might be set up in the street under rigged-up tarps, in an emptied parking lot or garage, or in a purpose-built structure. Held in different areas on set days of the week, they’re cheap and lively places to buy staples or just browse. Some large pazars , like the weekly market in the resort town of Fethiye, feature stalls selling gözleme (stuffed flatbreads) and other simple dishes to sate hungry shoppers.

Admire architectural splendor in Istanbul

The rulers of the city formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople left their marks in grand style. The Hagia Sophia ’s soaring dome still leaves visitors awestruck a millennium and a half after its construction, while the towering Aqueduct of Valens and the vast subterranean Basilica Cistern attest to the impressive engineering feats that the Romans employed to supply the city and its residents with drinking water. 

With a prime position overlooking the confluence of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn and Marmara Sea, Topkapi Palace evokes the might of the Ottoman Empire at its peak: lavishly decorated chambers, a treasury dripping with massive jewels and a kitchen that could feed 4000 people. Istanbul’s minaret-studded skyline is a heritage of the Ottomans as well. The famous Blue Mosque gets the most attention, but visitors shouldn’t miss the tiny, tile-bedecked Rüstem Paşa Mosque and the graceful Süleymaniye Mosque , perched atop one of the old city’s seven hills. History buffs can really dig into the different cultural eras in Istanbul by exploring its wealth of museums detailing the fascinating legacy of the city .

Cruise turquoise waters on a gület

Few vacations are more relaxing than a multi-day cruise aboard a gület (traditional wooden yacht) plying sections of Turkey’s southwestern coastline between Bodrum and Antalya . While away the long, sunny days swimming in secluded coves, reading or playing tavla (backgammon) on deck, eating fresh-caught fish, drinking rakı as the sun sets and sleeping out under the stars. If you get tired of blissfully lazing around, you can hop ashore along the way to explore the ancient ruins of Knidos , climb to the top of the Crusader Castle in Kaleköy or stop for lunch at one of the cool cafe-restaurants in Kaş . 

Hike the Lycian Way

For a more active way to explore the Turquoise Coast, consider taking on part of the Lycian Way , a long-distance trekking path stretching 540 km (335 mi) from Fethiye to Antalya. Best traversed in spring or fall, the sometimes challenging trail winds along spectacular coastal cliffs, through bucolic villages and beach towns, past ancient ruins and up into the mountains.

Most sections have accommodation options in small pensions as well as camping. Highlights along the way include the secluded valley of Kabak , the long sandy beach of Patara , the massive rock tombs of Myra , the ruins of Olympos and the “ burning rock ” at Çıralı. If you want to see more of Turkey's incredible landscape on foot and escape the crowded tourist spots, extend your trip and spend some time exploring the country's stunning array of national parks .

See incredible Roman mosaics

Tiny colored cubes of glass, ceramic or stone were used during the Roman era to make amazingly detailed tableaux depicting mythological tales, heroic battles, lavish banquets and other scenes. Splendidly preserved examples of these mosaics, which often decorated the floors of grand palaces and villas, can today be found in numerous museums in Turkey, most notably the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum , the Hatay Archaeology Museum and the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum in Şanlıurfa.

Linger over a leisurely Turkish breakfast

It’s hard to think of a better way to fuel up for a big day of sightseeing than with a Turkish breakfast spread ( serpme kahvaltı ). Start with the savory nibbles: olives, cheeses, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, perhaps some spicy pepper paste along with your eggs. Then satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade jams and a decadent swirl of honey and thick cream ( kaymak ). Different parts of the country have their own special additions: fresh herbs along the Aegean coast, cornmeal cooked with melted butter and cheese (called mıhlama or kuymak ) in the Black Sea region, and fermented cheese and hot peppers in Hatay. Endless small glasses of black tea are universal.

Watch the sunrise from atop Mt. Nemrut

The surreal sight at the summit of Nemrut Dağı is testament to both the extent of the power that can be wielded by a ruler and to its inevitable decline. In the 1st century BCE, a Hellenistic king had massive statues of deities, mythic beasts and other figures built on top of a rocky peak as a monument to his own greatness. Earthquakes over the centuries toppled the heads of these statues from their bodies and they now sit scattered around a stark, remote landscape. Tour groups typically bring visitors up here at sunrise or sunset, but if you stay overnight at one of the simple lodgings a little below the summit, you can experience both.

Imagine the beginnings of human civilization

Turkey is home to some of the world’s most important Neolithic sites , which are still yielding new insights – and questions – about how humans lived more than 10,000 years ago. In the center of the country near Konya, the excavations of Çatalhöyük have provided clues about early “urban” life, the period when people started to transition from nomadic ways to settled agrarian livelihoods. In the southeast outside of Şanlıurfa, the findings at the ritual complex of Göbeklitepe – thought to be the world’s first place of worship – have transformed our understanding of when humans began to develop religious beliefs and practices.

You might also like: Do you need a visa to go to Turkey? The 10 most incredible places to visit in Turkey How to drink Turkish coffee like a local

This article was first published Oct 12, 2021 and updated Jan 3, 2022.

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Where to Stay in Bodrum: Best Areas Guide

August 19, 2024

Travel-Influencer

Read Time: 3.9 min

Uncovering the Best Areas to Stay in Bodrum

B odrum, located on Turkey’s stunning southwestern coast, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern luxury. Choosing the right area to stay in Bodrum can significantly enhance your experience, whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, or historic charm. This guide explores the best neighborhoods and accommodations in Bodrum, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your stay.

Bodrum City Center: The Heart of Bodrum

Bodrum City Center is the vibrant hub of the region, offering easy access to historic sites, lively nightlife, and a variety of dining options. Staying here means you’re at the center of all the action, with everything from the famous Bodrum Castle to the bustling marina just a short walk away.

Accommodation Options

• The Marmara Bodrum – Adult Only This luxurious, adult-only hotel offers a peaceful retreat just 1.2 km from downtown Bodrum. With stunning views and top-tier amenities, it’s perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for a refined experience.
• Degirmenburnu Residence Located close to the beach, this residence offers spacious rooms with sea views, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to stay near the coast while enjoying the vibrant city life.
• Churchill Townhouse Situated in the city center, this townhouse combines comfort with convenience. It’s an ideal option for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Bodrum’s lively atmosphere.

Gumbet: The Nightlife Hub

Gumbet is famous for its energetic nightlife, making it the perfect area for those looking to party. This neighborhood is also known for its beautiful beach, where you can relax during the day before heading out to explore the local bars and clubs at night.

• La Quinta by Wyndham Bodrum Offering a beachfront location and modern amenities, this hotel is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sun and the sea by day and the vibrant nightlife by night.
• Manastir Hotel & Suites Located near the beach, this hotel offers a tranquil setting with easy access to Gumbet’s lively bars and restaurants.
• Maltese Mansion A stylish boutique hotel in Gumbet, ideal for travelers looking for a mix of luxury and proximity to the area’s famous nightlife.

Yalikavak: Luxury and Relaxation

Yalikavak is a luxurious area known for its high-end resorts, beautiful marina, and upscale dining options. This is the place to stay if you’re looking for a more tranquil and sophisticated experience.

• Susona Bodrum, LXR Hotels & Resorts A luxurious beachfront resort that offers stunning views and world-class amenities, perfect for those looking to indulge in comfort and relaxation.
• Bodrum Ortakent Luxury Private Villa with Pool For those who prefer privacy and luxury, this private villa with a pool offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, with all the comforts of home.
• Villa Castello This elegant villa offers a luxurious stay with breathtaking sea views, ideal for families or groups seeking a lavish retreat.

Bitez: Family-Friendly and Laid-Back

Bitez is a more laid-back area, perfect for families and those looking for a quieter stay. The calm beach is ideal for children, and the area’s relaxed vibe makes it a great spot to unwind.

• Villa Bitez A spacious villa with a private pool, perfect for families who want a home-away-from-home experience in a peaceful setting.
• Hotel Karia Princess Located close to the beach, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and family-friendly amenities.
• Seafront Flat with Excellent Sea View This beachfront apartment is ideal for families or small groups, offering stunning views and direct access to the beach.

Turkbuku: The Celebrities’ Favorite

Turkbuku is known as the St. Tropez of Turkey, popular with celebrities and wealthy travelers. This area is famous for its beach clubs, luxury hotels, and exclusive atmosphere.

• Villa House Sea View Türkbükü A luxurious villa with panoramic sea views, perfect for those looking for an exclusive stay in one of Bodrum’s most glamorous areas.
• Villa No 5 A stylish and modern villa offering comfort and privacy, ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious and tranquil escape.
• Sea View Villa with Private Pool This villa offers the ultimate in luxury, with a private pool and breathtaking sea views, perfect for a lavish getaway.

Bodrum offers a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife in Gumbet, luxury in Yalikavak, or a family-friendly atmosphere in Bitez, Bodrum has something for everyone. Use this guide to choose the perfect area for your stay and make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of Turkey.

For more travel tips and guides, visit the Travel Guide of Türkiye .

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Home > Visit The Turkish Paradise Of Amasra On The Black Sea Coast Before Everyone Else

Visit The Turkish Paradise Of Amasra On The Black Sea Coast Before Everyone Else

Written by our local expert Enes

Originally from North Macedonia, Enes is a well-traveled enthusiast residing in Türkiye. He combines his extensive knowledge and avid wanderlust to bring you insightful narratives of his Turkish adventures.

Planning your next holiday to Turkey but cannot decide where to go? Have you explored all that Istanbul offers and seeking a change?

Therefore, it’s a great destination for those seeking a cheap holiday to Turkey .

If you want to learn more about Amasra and its wonders, grab your cup of coffee and keep reading this article I prepared for you!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Amasra – The Black Sea’s Hidden Gem

Guide To Amasra Turkey

Amasra, Turkey, is  a true hidden gem with gorgeous landscapes and charming urban scenery. The city is known for its distinct, white-washed houses and unique local architecture.

Do you think you know Turkish architecture? Get ready to be surprised because Amasra will challenge your preconceptions of traditional Turkish architecture with its whitewashed contemporary houses rising among the ruins of historical structures!

Compared to major cities like Izmir , Istanbul , or Antalya , Amasra preserves its historical wealth quite well. Every corner of this tiny settlement carries the marks of past centuries and civilizations.

In addition to its magnificent urban look, Amasra is a great destination for those seeking a nature getaway . If you want a peaceful and quiet spot for your Turkey vacation, this charming seaside town nestled on the Black Sea might offer you the perfect retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

In the heart of the city lies the famous Amasra Castle, situated on a cape stretching towards the sea. On either side of the cape are two bays serving as sheltered harbors. There are also several independent islands connected to mainland Amasra, offering a unique adventure for hikers and explorers . Amasra houses, bordering narrow streets covered in faint greenery, have panoramic views of the Black Sea and the nearby islands.

Additionally, thanks to its proximity to Istanbul, Amasra is a perfect spot for Istanbul day trips . You can get to this tiny town after a few-hour drive and explore the majority of attractions in another few hours.

Despite its popularity among Turkish visitors, Amasra doesn’t seem to be a favored spot for visitors looking for Turkey travel .

Yes, Amasra, compared to other popular tourist destinations, is a smaller and quieter settlement. Nevertheless, its affordability, natural beauty, and tranquil atmosphere make Amasra the perfect location for a cheap holiday to Turkey.

Things To Do In Amasra, Black Sea

Once you decide to visit Amasra during your trip to Turkey, you should start planning your unforgettable adventure . If you cannot decide where to go or what to do in Amasra, you’re at the right place! Let’s discover the best things to do in Amasra.

1. Wander Through Its Narrow Streets

Amasra’s narrow, cobblestone streets, bordered by traditional houses, offer visitors an extraordinary urban experience. If you enjoy discovering cities and urban structures, Amasra might be a great option for your Turkey family holidays . Since the city is relatively small and quite walkable, you can get around without needing to take a bus .

You can visit all the significant attractions in Amasra in only one or two days, as most are located within close proximity. But if long stretches on the beach and exploring hidden gems are your priority, consider extending your stay to discover the beauty of Amasra’s neighboring coastal towns.

When touring around the city, don’t forget to sit at one of the local cafes or pide houses to taste local delicacies . These local businesses, most family-owned, offer both residents and visitors extraordinary tastes.

While you’re at it, Amasra might be the best spot to discover Turkish tea garden culture. Explore Amasra’s coastline, dotted with charming tea gardens, each offering a unique ambiance. Find your perfect spot to unwind and sip on delicious Turkish tea while the Black Sea’s magnificent waves unfold before you.

2. Visit Its Golden Beaches

Inkumu Beach

This 3-kilometer stretch of sand, known for its very fine sand and magnificent scenery, is a highlight of the Black Sea coastline.

While the beach is blessed with pleasant nature, it can get too crowded at times. Especially during the peak summer months, visitors from nearby towns and cities drive to Amasra just for Inkumu Beach. So, if you’re planning a visit to this distinct beach, you should get there in the early hours of the day to find a suitable spot.

Cakraz Beach

Cakraz Beach is a true Black Sea paradise!

If you have this beach on your itinerary, you have to drive to the beach town of Cakraz. Although the town is usually quiet, there are many hotels and resorts near the beach, so in summer, the beach gets more crowded than one might expect. The most significant advantage of Cakraz, on the other hand, is the facilities nearby.

Bozköy Beach

Surrounded by a lush forest, Bozköy Beach is one of those paradisiacal spots where you can just lie down, close your eyes, and have a soothing rest. The beach is a tad rocky, so it might be difficult to swim. Nevertheless, Bozköy Beach definitely deserves a visit for its peaceful atmosphere.

Besides these three, there are many pristine coves and hidden beaches around Amasra. So, if you like beach vacations, the city might be the perfect spot for you.

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3. Bask In History

Seeking the best Turkey tours for a cultural trip ? The historical heritage Amasra boasts might surprise you! As a history fan myself, Amasra is one of my favorite places to visit in Turkey .

Since the city is founded upon the ruins of an ancient castle, every corner of Amasra is home to a historical monument or structure. Even the most mundane parts of the city have a history going back hundreds of years.

For example, the tiny bridge locals use to travel between Boztepe Island and the mainland was built in the 8th century and is still in use. Amasra’s Culture and Art House also offers a surprising contrast – a vibrant center for contemporary creativity housed within a humble 9th-century structure.

Amasra Fortress

Amasra Fortress, the ruins of which surround a significant part of the contemporary city, is among Amasra’s symbols. This historic castle, built approximately 3,000 years ago, was a strategic point for the Byzantines and later the Ottoman Empire, defending the city from invaders throughout history.

Parts of the Amasra Fortress contain different historical structures as well. The historical Castle Gate has the coat of arms of the Genoese families that ruled over the city. Plus, within the fortress lie the ruins of a once mighty Genoese manor.

Kuşkayası Monument

Historical landmarks in Amasra aren’t limited to those, of course. Among the most famous monuments in Amasra is the Kuşkayası Monument, a roadside landmark erected in the Roman era.

The unique monument, by Gaius Julius Aquila, procurator of Bithynia et Pontus, includes a statue of a now headless human figure, the Roman eagle (also headless), and a bilingual inscription in Greek and Latin.

When heading to Amasra via D.010 road, you should definitely visit this monument to marvel at the marks of a long-gone civilization.

• Must-See Landmarks & Historical Places In Turkey

4. Sample The Local Cuisine

Seeking the perfect destination for an unforgettable gastronomy adventure ? It might be time to add Amasra to your itinerary.

One of the most popular Turkey holiday destinations for domestic tourists, the town is known for its unique, peaceful culture.

In this tranquil part of Turkey, the fast pace of big cities is almost non-existent. So, if you’re familiar with Istanbul’s crowded and noisy atmosphere, Amasra might be a great alternative for a more slow-paced, tranquil holiday. Plus, thanks to its unique cuisine, in Amasra, you can taste new dishes and sample distinct local delicacies.

Amasra Salad

One of the most popular dishes in Amasra is the famous Amasra salad . This salad, made from 15 different veggies, is an exceptionally healthy addition to your diet. Locals prefer this salad as a side dish when they eat fish.

Amasra Pide

Another well-known dish from Amasra is the famous Amasra pide , a pizza-like dish consisting of a flattened dough base topped with various ingredients. You can taste this delicious pide at the city’s traditional pide houses , some standing strong for centuries, and enjoy an authentic Turkish dining experience.

Bartın Mantı

Don’t miss Bartın mantı , Amasra’s take on the classic Turkish dumpling.

Unlike its boiled counterpart, Bartın mantı boasts a unique preparation method. Here, the dumplings are filled with a savory blend of meat and rice and baked in an oven until golden brown. Finally, they are bathed in a rich meat sauce, creating a dish that’s both crispy and bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Turkish mantı or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, Bartın mantı is a must-try in Amasra.

It’s impossible to list all the delicious dishes in Amasra’s unique cuisine. Amasra offers a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Prepare to be surprised!

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Where to eat in amasra.

Amasra is home to many traditional Turkish restaurants, local pide houses, and famous meyhane taverns. Its small size shouldn’t fool you because this hidden Black Sea gem truly has a lot of culinary delight to offer.

Amasra Pidesi Haydar Usta

One thing you must try in Amasra is the famous Amasra pide , also known as Karadeniz pide to some. There are many traditional pide houses around the city’s center, where you can sample the best pide . I recommend the local restaurant Amasra Pidesi Haydar Usta , which serves some of the best pide in the area.

Mustafa Amca’nın Yeri

You shouldn’t finalize your trip to Amasra without eating seafood. Thankfully, you don’t need to go far from the city center to find good seafood. Along the coast are many great restaurants that serve the best dishes.

The perfect venue is Mustafa Amca’nın Yeri , which is a popular fish restaurant among both locals and visitors. If you want to top the experience and have an authentic Turkish feast, consider having rakı, a type of Turkish alcoholic beverage, and mezze with fish!

Best Time To Visit Amasra

For example, the summer season is perfect for enjoying the sun, sea, and sand. Amasra’s golden beaches will offer you an unforgettable experience swimming and sunbathing. However, remember that Amasra can be a tad crowded during summer due to visitors coming from nearby cities and towns for a refreshing swim in the Black Sea.

You can avoid the crowds by picking a date in mid to late spring . Although you cannot swim during fall or winter, these seasons might be perfect for a cultural and culinary experience. Winter transforms the town. The summer crowds fade, replaced by a tranquility that invites exploration.

You can wander Amasra’s winding streets freely and explore various local establishments for a truly authentic experience. If you can catch the snow season , you may enjoy witnessing Amasra transformed into a winter wonderland with snow-covered streets. In short words, Amasra’s off-season is the perfect opportunity to escape the city’s cacophony and relentless pace and enjoy serenity.

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Best Places To Stay In Amasra, The Black Sea Port Town

Thanks to the many hotels and resorts around the city, you won’t have any difficulty finding a good place to stay during your visit to Amasra! Below, you can find some of the best places to stay in Amasra!

1. North Door Hotel – Amasra

This four-star hotel is quite popular among both international and domestic visitors.

North Door Hotel is situated in close proximity to the coastline – it’s a great spot if you enjoy soothing morning promenades. Most rooms at the hotel have a magnificent Black Sea view and boast Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges. You can pick the complimentary breakfast option for sampling a delicious breakfast buffet.

2. Sahil Otel Amasra (Coast Hotel)

Located near the Black Sea coast , Sahil Otel Amasra is a strategic base for those wishing to explore the city. Amasra’s most popular attractions are conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

All rooms have access to Wi-Fi and come with flat-screen TVs and minifridges. Plus, the hotel offers room and laundry service in order to enhance the comfort of its visitors.

3. Sardinia Hotel

Situated near the historical fortress, Sardinia Hotel is the perfect spot for those seeking a base at the city’s heart.

The hotel boasts comfortable air-conditioned rooms with balconies. Sardinia also offers free Wi-Fi and houses a restaurant that serves delicious international and local dishes. Plus, as the hotel is located in a bustling area with many shops, cafés, and restaurants, you can easily immerse in the local culture.

4. Diamond Liman Hotel

A humble hotel near the coast, Diamond Liman Hotel is the first choice for those looking for a comfy and strategic base. The hotel sits just steps from the public beach, offering easy access to the calming Black Sea waves. Plus, its well-decorated rooms boast magnificent views of the Black Sea and provide a soothing experience.

5. Frau Güler Boutique

If you’re seeking an alternative to those big hotels, Frau Güler Boutique is a great choice! The lodge’s humble garden and comfy rooms with sea views will make you feel at home. Every morning, you will enjoy a complimentary breakfast, freshly prepared with local ingredients.

Since it’s located in the historical fortress, you can get to the most popular attractions within a 10-minute walk from the hotel. However, you have to hurry – the boutique hotel has only six rooms, and they get booked out fast!

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