Sitting between Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country that offers a unique holiday experience. Steeped in history dating back to the famous Ottoman Empire and home to the ancient city of Troy, Turkey has an enviable position with coastlines on both the Mediterranean, Aegean and Black Sea. With cheap holidays to Turkey widely available, there really hasn’t been a better time to visit. Here’s a guide to the top Turkish destinations for a fantastic beach break.
Antalya
Located on the southern coast of Turkey and looking out onto the Mediterranean Sea, Antalya is both the largest and fastest growing tourist town in the country. Sheltered from the north by the Taurus Mountains, the climate is hot and dry which is the perfect weather to enjoy the pristine white sand beaches and crystal waters. The town itself is steeped in history and the cobbled, winding streets of the walled old town of Kaleci really do provide a step back in time. Any savings made booking the holiday to Turkey will certainly go a long way enjoying the rides here. For something a little cheaper, spend time relaxing on the beach here which is has endless miles of sand, an upmarket food court and bars and even a blue flag to prove its excellence.
Marmaris
Sitting where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean Sea, Marmaris couldn’t be in a more idyllic location if it tried within the Turkish Riviera. Set against the backdrop of the Marmaris Mountains, this town provides a great place to take a Turkish holiday. Marmaris has a perfect mix of bustling nightlife in town and amazing culture and scenery in the surrounding areas. To get a feel for Turkish history, visit the Ottoman castle of Suleyman the Magnificent and the amphitheatre ruins in town. To enjoy the beach life in all its glory, visit Cleopatra Island which is deemed to have some of the best sand in the world. Marmaris is also a great place to dive and sail, providing a chance to enjoy the landscape whilst relaxing.
Bodrum
Nestled within the Aegean, Bodrum sits on the peninsular to the south west of Turkey and provides the chance to let the hair down with its fantastic nightlife. The best beaches along the peninsula are Gumbet and Bardacki, both of which are peaceful idylls complete with olive groves that reach down to the sea which are crystal clear and shallow so suitable for families. To add some culture to this holiday, visit St Peters’ Underwater Museum and the 15th Century castle in Bodrum Harbour. Alternatively visit Kadikalesi, a small resort with village charm which gives an indication of authentic Turkish life.
