A magnificent land full of delights, Turkey boasts fabulous golden beaches, ancient history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Pick a modern beach resort brimming with top-class entertainment, or perhaps a tranquil bay as the base for your Turkey holiday. Alternatively, take to the seas and see Turkey on a relaxing gulet cruise. With a foot in both Asia and Europe, the country brings you the best of both continents, from Istanbul’s 21st century nightlife and fashions, to the mystic Sufi culture in Konya.
Things to do
If you're visiting Istanbul, don't forget to see the city's impressive mosques such as the Baroque Revival style Ortaköy Mosque or the 17th century Sultan Ahmed Mosque. The city is also famous for its Hagia Sophia Byzantine basilica and busy and noisy markets, and is the world’s only transcontinental city. Other popular Turkey destinations include the ancient city of Ephesus, the breathtaking 'fairy chimney' rock formations of Cappadocia in the interior, and the Sandland sand sculptures in the Antalya area
If you're a photographer, spend a couple of nights in Cappadocia, which is known for its striking rock formations and hot air balloons. Watch an amazing sunset, and stay in one of the enchanting stone cave hotels for an experience you'll never forget. Alternatively, see the enormous Roman Theatre of Aspendos near Antalya, or visit the equally astounding Greco-Roman ruins of Pergamum in Bergama. In fact, there’s so much to snap, you may need to bring a couple of extra memory cards!
Where to stay
Wherever you stay you will be tempted by sandy beaches, perhaps the most famous of which is Olu Deniz. The white sand beach and beautiful blue lagoon have been designated a national park. Turkey’s picturesque Turquoise Coast dotted with Roman remains is a huge draw; city resorts including Antalya, Bodrum and Marmaris offer a mix of family fun, historic culture and funky nightlife. Further east on the Aegean coastline lies the ancient Greco-Roman town of Ephesus, one of the Roman Empire’s greatest cities and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
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Expect glorious sunshine in the summer months, and mild temperatures during the winter. The main resorts along the Turquoise Coast, otherwise known as the Turkish Riviera, have very long, hot summers, with daytime temperatures in the low to mid-30s °C by July and August. Along this coast, rainfall is rare from around June to August, and in the sunniest month, July, there's an average of about 11 hours of sunshine per day. It can get very hot in July and August especially in the Antalya area and Turkey destinations inland, although most hotels have air conditioning.
