Top 10 Holiday Ideas for Turkey
Holidays in Turkey are mainly associated with beach holidays, but Turkey is amongst the biggest countries that have land in Europe and there is much more to it than the beaches (although the beaches are amazing).
If you want to visit Turkey but you don’t know where to begin, you can read more on our blog about travelling to Turkey from the UK or you can call us and we can plan your holiday together!
Best Airline Companies that Fly to Turkey
Top 10 Beaches near Antalya
Without further due, here’s our list of top 10 holiday ideas for Turkey:
City Breaks in Turkey: Best Cities to Visit in Turkey
1. Istanbul
When it comes to holiday ideas in Turkey, Istanbul might seem like the obvious choice for a city break. Although it is over 2000 years old, Istanbul lives up to its name as a buzzing metropolis where most of the population is young. Combining the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, the West and the East and Europe and Asia, it’s an indefinitely exciting place to be.
If you like exploring a city like a local, read this article on our blog: A Local's Travel Guide to Istanbul
2. Izmir
Known as a seaside city, Izmir is close to many summer holiday destinations as well as ancient citadels. Izmir is a great choice for those planning a holiday in Turkey with both beaches and some history. The incredible heritage of Izmir includes Ancient Greece and Armenia. Ephesus, where you can see an ancient Roman library and other historical treasures, is only an hour away. If you are curious to see more of Greco-Roman ruins, the ancient city of Pergamum is 2 hours away. It's a must-see historic area to explore, where you can imagine the golden age of Roman era.
3. Gaziantep
Gaziantep is the food capital of Turkey, where pistachio is sparkled on every food item just like in Sicily. Not surprisingly, you can find the best baklavas in Gaziantep, along with kebabs, regional dishes and other incredible desserts like katmer. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, it dates back to Neolithic and Hellenistic periods. The Gaziantep Archaeological Museum is the best place to witness the diverse cultures who chose Gaziantep as their home.
4. Nevşehir
Another picturesque historical city in Turkey is Nevşehir, famous for the Göreme National Park or as you probably know: Cappadocia. The fairy chimneys and hot air balloons have become synonymous with Instagram almost, but there is more to this amazing town. It is one of the best holiday ideas for Turkey if you want to experience something completely different in winter. Seeing the chimneys partly covered with snow, with no tourists on site, can take you into another world. You can even have a cosy stay in one of the cave hotels.
5. Trabzon
Located on the historical Silk Road, Trabzon was and continues to be home to many cultures, languages and diverse people. One of the biggest cities in the Black Sea Region of Turkey, Trabzon is known for its hiking routes, incredible regional food (particularly kuymak: a hot bread dipping dish with melted cheese and polenta), traditional dance and the incredible Sumela Monastery.
Summer Holidays in Turkey: Best Beach Holidays in Turkey
6. Kaş or Patara in Antalya
Kaş looks like a Greek town, and for good reason: a huge Greek population lived here until 1923. If you are looking for a sandy beach, Kaş is not your destination but you will surely get away from the tourist crowds (except for local tourists) and enjoy a clear blue sea here. Sand lovers can instead go to Gelemiş (which is more of a village than a town), just outside of Kaş. You can visit the Patara beach, but you will need to leave early because loggerhead turtles are its real residents and they are endangered.
Top 10 Beaches Near Antalya
7. Bodrum
Bodrum is a great holiday destination for laid back, luxury-loving travellers. Offering many options for relaxing on the beach, eating delicious food and a lively nightlife, Bodrum is both tourists’ and locals’ favourite.
8. Datça
70 kilometres outside of the city Marmaris, Datça is the harbour town on the Datça Peninsula. Datça’s pebble stone beaches and crystal clear sea can revitalize you, and you can soak in the sunshine and enjoy walking through the small Aegean town. If you want to escape a busy tourist destination, you should go to Datça.
Best Family Holidays in Turkey
You can get the best holiday deals for Turkey with an all-inclusive holiday if you are travelling with family. Many 4-star or 5-star hotels in Turkey have high service standards and you will most certainly feel welcome.
9. Sueno Hotels Deluxe Belek
Golf loving dads and spa loving mothers can relax while their children enjoy the many activities available to them at this hotel. The hotel is in Belek, Antalya Province. The surrounding area is famous for their spas and mineral waters received from seven springs. Families can rent a car to explore the many ancient sites or book a day trip.
10. Rixos Premium Tekirova
Another great hotel in Antalya Province is between Kemer and Çıralı. Rixos Premium Tekirova is a great option for families with kids. It has a beautiful beach in front of it, and many activities and a water park for kids. It’s also very close to the ancient Lycian town of Phaselis.
Please contact us today to book your holidays in Turkey. We are an IATA Accredited Agent (91285445) and a full member of ATOL (10660). All your holidays are protected.