Turkey holidays

Turkey is generally seen as a safe place to visit on holiday. The country has a well-developed tourism industry and millions of people visit Turkey every year without incident. However, as with any destination, make sure you’re clued up on any local risks before you go – the UK government provides all kinds of useful information about places all around the world, including Turkey. It’s kept up to date by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

With a reputation for rich history, eye-catching landscapes and sun-soaked beaches, there’s no shortage of fantastic resorts for a holiday to Turkey. Of course, it does depend on what you’re looking for, so to help you decide where to visit, here are some of the best places to stay:

1. Antalya: This beachside city is the cultural heart of the Antalya region, and is known for its stunning sand spots, sparkling blue waters and cultural heritage. The Old Town (Kaleici in Turkish), Hadrian's Gate and Antalya Museum are just a few of the city’s top attractions. Plus the Mediterranean Coast is the best area in Turkey for year-round holiday weather (so long as you're not planning to sunbathe in the winter months, when it does get a tad chilly!). It’s perfect for relaxation and adventure, with plenty of watersports and other activities to try.

2. Bodrum: A top-drawer resort town on the Aegean coast, Bodrum’s got plenty going for it! Best visited in summer when the weather’s divine, it’s great for family beach days, lively nights out and a bit of sightseeing. Top of the list of old sites to check out are the Castle of St Peter (aka Bodrum Castle) and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

3. Marmaris: Another big-hitter on the Aegean coast, Marmaris is perfect for summer escapes. Look forward to a wide range of activities – including diving, pedaloes, waterparks, boat trips and exploring Marmaris Castle – plus an exciting and eclectic nightlife scene. Not to mention the sheltered sand and shingle beaches offering something for everyone!

4. Fethiye: If it’s charm you’re after, head to Fethiye. It’s the place to go for one of Turkey’s most famous beaches, the incomparable Oludeniz on the Blue Lagoon. But that’s not the only thing to do in this part of Turkey. For starters, you can also step back in time with a visit to the spectacular Lycian Rock Tombs, or take a boat trip to the nearby islands.

5. Kusadasi: With everything from sandy stretches and various watersports to historical must-sees such as the ancient city of Ephesus, it’s no wonder Kusadasi is so popular. You could even hop on a ferry for a day on the Greek island of Samos, which is so close you can see it from the resort.

6. Alanya: One of the Antalya region’s stand-out resorts – Alanya is, like the rest of the Med Coast, known for its dazzling beaches and year-round sun. It's also home to several big-name historical sites, including Alanya Castle and the Red Tower, plus natural attractions like the dramatic Damlatas Cave.

7. Belek: Head here if you’re seeking a touch of luxury. There are plenty of stylish hotels to choose from. This swish beach town has an upbeat atmosphere too, with lots of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep you busy. And to complete the picture, it’s also one of the best places in Turkey for a golfing holiday – you’ll find many world-class courses in the area.

Turkey is known for its beautiful coastal spots – there are many great options to choose from. Here are some of the best beaches in Turkey:

• Ölüdeniz Beach – Just outside Fethiye, Ölüdeniz Beach is famous for its incredible scenery. It's a popular spot for paragliding and other water sports on the supremely Instagrammable Blue Lagoon.

• Patara Beach – This long, sandy beach on the Lycian Coast is known for its natural beauty and unspoiled landscape. And that makes it a wonderful place for families, couples and friends looking to relax and enjoy the sun.

• Iztuzu Beach – Located near Dalyan, Iztuzu Beach is a protected area that's home to sea turtles. It's a sight to behold with fine sand and clear water. 

• Lara Beach – There’s no way we were missing this one from the list! Lara’s one of the ritziest beaches in Turkey, thanks to its luxe hotels and top-notch entertainment. And as it’s been awarded a Blue Flag, you can be sure of quality standards while you’re digging your toes in the sand or taking a dip.

• Bodrum Beach – Attracting countless visitors to the town of the same name, this popular stretch of seashore is in the heart of Bodrum. And that means you’ll be an easy flip-flop stroll from plenty of bars and restaurants.

• Cleopatra Beach – One of Turkey’s most famous beaches, Cleopatra is named after the Egyptian Pharaoh who is said to have gone for a swim here. Located in Alanya, it’s known for its fine sand lapped by the sparkling sea.

These are just a few of the many beaches to check out in Turkey. Other winning holiday hotspots include the enchanting Butterfly Valley beach in Fethiye, and Olympos Beach, which is in a nature reserve on the Lycian Coast.

If you’re a British citizen you won’t need a visa for holidays to Turkey, so long as you’re there for less than 90 days in total during a rolling 180-day period. So, if you’re off on a two-week holiday and don’t go to Turkey very often (for any reason, business or pleasure), you’ll be absolutely fine to go without a visa.

For full details and the most up-to-date information, check the advice from the UK government’s FCDO.

Turkey’s a popular destination with a low cost of living, so there are all sorts of options for accommodation, tours, and activities. That helps keep prices reasonable, making it a good destination for an affordable holiday.

Like most places around the world, the cost of holidays to Turkey can vary based on the kind of trip you’re planning. That includes details such as the time of year, whether you nab a last minute deal, the type of hotel you book, how you get around, what you want to do and where you decide to eat.

Our top tips for a cheap holiday to Turkey:

• Hotel options range from budget-friendly to sleek luxury. Whatever you’re looking for, make sure you check out the huge array of All Inclusive holidays to Turkey, as that can be a great way to manage your budget.
• Taking the kids? Look out for the many hotels with an onsite waterpark, which is usually free for guests to use. That could save you some dosh on family days out!
• When you’re out and about, street food and local markets offer tasty and affordable options, especially if you’re keen to sample authentic flavours. Restaurants and bars can range from inexpensive to high-end, so you might want to do some research before you set off.
• From exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on the beach, Turkey offers a variety of activities for holidaymakers on all budgets. Many, such as hiking or visiting local markets, are free or low-cost, meaning you can experience Turkey without breaking the bank.
• Local transport options, such as buses, dolmus (minibus) and metro systems, tend to be pretty cheap, while taxis can be more expensive. Book your airport transfers before you go and that’s one less cost to cover while you’re away!