Turkey holidays bring together golden beaches, historic sights and resorts for every kind of trip.
Big coastlines
Turkey's coastline stretches across the Mediterranean, Aegean and Black seas, giving you plenty of choice when it comes to beach holidays. Along the south and west coasts, you'll find popular resorts like Antalya, Bodrum and Marmaris, with lively beaches, waterfront promenades and towns packed with shops, bars and restaurants. Away from the main resorts, there are peaceful bays and secluded coves to discover. Meanwhile, the Black Sea coast offers a different side of the country, with lush green landscapes, laidback seaside towns and dramatic scenery.
Ancient history
Turkey is home to thousands of years of history, with ancient sites scattered across the country. You can explore the ruins of Ephesus, visit grand amphitheatres and temples or wander through historic old towns where different cultures have left their mark. Even in many of the larger beach resorts, you'll find historic landmarks sitting alongside modern hotels and marinas.
Two continents, one trip
One of Turkey's most distinctive features is its location between Europe and Asia. You'll see this most clearly in Istanbul, where the Bosphorus Strait separates the two continents. The city brings together different cultures, cuisines and traditions from both Europe and Asia – from bustling bazaars and historic mosques to modern neighbourhoods and waterfront cafés.
Best places to stay in Turkey
Find out where you want to base yourself from these top places to stay.
Antalya
Choose Antalya if beach time is high on your list. This Turkish Riviera favourite has long sandy stretches, warm Mediterranean waters and plenty of resort hotels close to the coast. Lara Beach is a popular choice for families, with a wide shoreline and a strong choice of All Inclusive hotels in the area. Away from the sand, Antalya’s Old Town brings together historic streets, cafés and harbour views, while the surrounding area is handy for walks, waterfalls and coastal daytrips.
Bodrum
Bodrum brings together beach days, history and nightlife in one destination. On Turkey's Aegean coast, it's known for its stylish marina, whitewashed buildings and landmarks like Bodrum Castle and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, taking boat trips around the peninsula or hopping on a ferry to Kos, then round off the evening with fresh Turkish cuisine and a drink in a seafront bar.
Marmaris
Set between the Mediterranean Sea and pine-covered mountains, Marmaris offers a mix of beach days, boat trips and relaxed evenings by the water. The resort is centred around a busy marina and seafront promenade, with plenty of restaurants, cafés and bars to choose from. It's also a great base for exploring nearby bays and hidden coves along the coast.
Olu Deniz
Olu Deniz is best known for the Blue Lagoon, where calm turquoise water sits below forest-covered mountains. The resort also has a longer shingle beach, so you can choose between a scenic swim spot and a more traditional day by the sea. Boat trips and paragliding from nearby Babadağ Mountain are popular ways to see more of the coastline, while the resort centre keeps things relaxed with cafés, bars and restaurants.
Kusadasi
Kusadasi works well if you want a bit of everything in one place. Set on Turkey’s Aegean coast, it puts you within easy reach of Ephesus while still giving you beaches, waterparks and plenty of places to eat and drink. The resort has a lively side after dark, but you’ll also find bazaars, mosques and local tavernas if you want to get a better feel for the area.
Istanbul
Head to Turkey's largest city if you like to mix city sightseeing with days on the sand. Istanbul's home to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, alongside modern shopping malls, rooftop restaurants and local markets. When you're ready for a break from sightseeing, nearby beaches along the Sea of Marmara and Black Sea coast provide a change of pace.
Side
Set on the Mediterranean coast, Side’s known for its long sandy beaches and well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and an ancient amphitheatre. The charming Old Town is packed with restaurants, cafés and shops, while nearby waterfalls, boat trips and family attractions provide plenty of options away from the beach.
Top Turkey holiday deals
Devamli Hotel By Verde +16
Icmeler, Dalaman Region, Turkey
299 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £391pp
Carmina Hotel
Ölüdeniz, Dalaman Region, Turkey
297 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £391pp
Sinem Hotel
Marmaris, Dalaman Region, Turkey
495 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £397pp
Orient Apart Otel
Side, Turkish Riviera, Turkey
54 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £420pp
Club Amaris Apartments
Marmaris, Dalaman Region, Turkey
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £424pp
Tolay Hotel
Fethiye, Dalaman Region, Turkey
454 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £425pp
Rayon Apart
Armutalan, Dalaman Region, Turkey
386 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £426pp
Koçer Club Apartments
Marmaris, Dalaman Region, Turkey
465 reviews
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Your holiday: £427pp
Nazar Otel
Didim, Bodrum Area, Turkey
257 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £428pp
Yavuz Hotel
Dalyan, Dalaman Region, Turkey
123 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £429pp
Club Viva Hotel
Armutalan, Dalaman Region, Turkey
1535 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £436pp
Günes Hotel
Fethiye-Calis, Dalaman Region, Turkey
228 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £439pp
Binlik
Dalyan, Dalaman Region, Turkey
567 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £442pp
Gazipasa Star Hotel & Apart
Side, Turkish Riviera, Turkey
1420 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £446pp
Lavinia Apart Hotel
Alanya, Turkish Riviera, Turkey
60 reviews
Different flights might be available on the next step
Your holiday: £447pp
Turkey highlights
SAND AND SEA
From the Blue Lagoon to the golden beaches of Antalya and Bodrum, Turkey's coastline is made for days by the water.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
Ancient ruins, Roman landmarks and bustling bazaars offer a glimpse into Turkey's rich past and traditions.
CITY SIGHTSEEING
Explore vibrant cities like Istanbul, where historic sights, local markets and modern neighbourhoods sit side by side.
MIX OF CUISINES
Turkey's food scene blends Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Asian influences, from fresh seafood to traditional kebabs and meze.
Your guide to Turkey
Best-known beaches
These are some of Turkey’s most popular spots for a beach day.
Blue Lagoon, Olu Deniz – One of Turkey's most photographed beaches, known for its calm, turquoise waters and mountain backdrop.
Lara Beach, Antalya – A long stretch of sand lined with family-friendly resorts and All Inclusive hotels.
Cleopatra Beach, Alanya – A wide sandy beach with clear water and views across the Mediterranean coast.
Icemeler Beach, Marmaris – A popular beach backed by pine-covered hills, with calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere.
Beaches for families
Choose these stretches for family-friendly days on the beach.
Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan – A wide sandy beach with shallow waters and plenty of space for family beach days.
Sarigerme Beach, Dalaman area – Known for its long stretch of soft sand and calm waters, making it a popular choice with families.
Patara Beach – A spacious beach that's ideal for walks, games and escaping the busier resorts.
Bitez Beach, Bodrum – Sheltered waters and a relaxed atmosphere make it a good option for families looking for a quieter day by the sea.
Beachfront venues
If you want a more comfortable beach day, these venues offer loungers, sea views and places to eat and drink.
Palm Beach Club, Antalya – A beachfront venue on Antalya's coastline, popular for its sea views, sun loungers and relaxed atmosphere by the water.
Kalamar Beach Club, Kalkan – Set beside a sheltered bay, this popular spot offers swimming platforms, watersports and sea-view dining.
Buddha-Bar Beach Bodrum – A stylish seafront venue known for its waterfront dining, cocktails and sunset views.
Ancient wonders
From ancient cities to iconic landmarks, these sites offer a glimpse into Turkey's past.
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul – One of the country's most famous landmarks, showcasing centuries of history and architecture.
Ephesus, Izmir – Explore one of Turkey's best-preserved ancient cities, home to impressive ruins and the iconic Library of Celsus.
Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Bodrum – Discover the remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Beldibi Cave, Antalya – Step inside a prehistoric cave known for its archaeological discoveries and evidence of some of the region's earliest inhabitants.
Popular excursions
Make the most of your trip with Sundeals Experiences and get even more memories out of your holiday to Turkey.
Istanbul Old City tour – Explore some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, while learning about Istanbul's history and culture.
Turkish mosaic lamp workshop – Create your own colourful mosaic lamp and discover the traditional techniques behind one of Turkey's best-known handicrafts.
Pamukkale and Hierapolis tour – Visit Pamukkale's famous white terraces and explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis in the same trip.
Side boat cruise – Spend a relaxed day on the water, with coastal views, swim stops and time to see another side of the Turkish Riviera.
Waterparks and rides
Check out some of Turkey’s best theme parks and waterparks.
The Land of Legends, Antalya – One of Turkey's biggest theme parks, with waterslides, roller coasters, family rides and live entertainment all in one place.
Aqua Fantasy Aquapark, Kusadasi – One of the country's largest waterparks, with slides, splash areas and attractions for different ages.
Aqua Dream Water Park, Marmaris – Set on a hillside overlooking Marmaris Bay, this popular waterpark combines thrilling slides with panoramic views of the resort.
Local markets
Shop like a local at one of these spots.
Grand Bazaar, Istanbul – One of the world's oldest covered markets, with thousands of shops selling ceramics, textiles, jewellery, spices and souvenirs.
Fethiye Market, Fethiye – Buy fresh produce, handmade crafts and souvenirs while experiencing a lively local market atmosphere.
Antalya Old Bazaar, Antalya – Browse local shops and market stalls tucked among the narrow streets of Antalya's Old Town.
Local dishes
These are a few Turkish favourites to look out for while you’re away.
Kofte – Seasoned meatballs made with herbs and spices, often served with rice, salad or flatbread.
Kebabs – One of Turkey's best-known dishes, with regional variations featuring marinated meat cooked over charcoal.
Gözleme – A traditional savoury flatbread filled with ingredients such as cheese, spinach or potato.
Baklava – Layers of flaky pastry, nuts and syrup make this a popular Turkish dessert.
Sip like a local
Turkey offers a few different signature drinks.
Turkish tea – A strong black tea served in small tulip-shaped glasses and enjoyed throughout the day.
Turkish coffee – A rich, unfiltered coffee traditionally brewed in a small pot and often served after meals.
Ayran – A refreshing yoghurt-based drink that's commonly paired with kebabs and other savoury dishes.
Raki – A traditional anise-flavoured spirit, often enjoyed alongside seafood and meze.
Why we love Turkey
Here are some top tips from our team
Expert recommendation
“Take in a different perspective of Turkey's Mediterranean coast with a ride on the Olympos Teleferik cable car. Head up the Tahtali Mountain and take in the panoramic views that stretch across the coastline, forests and surrounding peaks. It’s a really memorable experience and I’d definitely recommend it – as long as you’re comfortable with heights!” – Rachel Coppenhall
Non-touristy activities
Tucked away in the hills near Izmir, Sirince offers a quieter side of Turkey away from the larger resorts. Wander along cobbled streets lined with traditional stone houses, browse small shops selling local produce and handmade crafts and stop at one of the village's wineries to sample regional wines.
Free things to do
One of Istanbul's most recognisable landmarks, the Blue Mosque, is free to enter and easy to combine with a walk around the historic Sultanahmet district. Admire its impressive architecture, intricate interior details and six minarets before exploring nearby squares, parks and waterfront viewpoints.
Popular holiday types
All Inclusive holidays to Turkey
Turkey is known for its wide choice of All Inclusive hotels. Resorts like Antalya, Side and Lara Beach offer everything from family-friendly stays to adults-only escapes, helping you keep holiday spending predictable once you're there.
Family holidays to Turkey
With sandy beaches, waterparks and plenty of family-friendly resorts, Turkey is a popular choice for travelling with children. Resorts such as Antalya, Side and Kusadasi offer a mix of beach days, attractions and accommodation designed with families in mind.
Last-minute holidays to Turkey
Turkey's relatively short flight times from the UK and large choice of resorts make it a great option for a last-minute getaway. Check out our last-minute deals to see our Turkey holidays departing as soon as possible.
Luxury holidays to Turkey
From five-star beachfront hotels to boutique stays overlooking the coast, Turkey offers plenty of options for a more luxurious holiday. Expect stylish spas, private beach areas, fine dining and sea-view rooms in destinations like Bodrum, Antalya and the Turkish Riviera.
Turkey FAQs
The best time to visit Turkey depends on the type of holiday you're after. June to August are the hottest months, with long sunny days that are ideal for beach holidays, but they’re also the busiest as it’s the school holidays. If you'd prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, consider travelling in April, May, September or October.
Turkey uses the Turkish lira (TRY) as its official currency. While some hotels, shops and tourist areas may accept other currencies, you'll usually get the best value and widest acceptance by paying in lira.
Your spending money depends on your board basis and how much you plan to do while you’re away. If you book All Inclusive, most meals, drinks and snacks are usually covered, so you may only need extra money for trips, shopping or the odd meal out. If you choose Bed and Breakfast, Half Board or Self Catering, set aside more for food and drinks. As a guide, around €50–€60 per day should cover casual meals, drinks and a few extras for many travellers, but budget more if you’re planning several excursions or bigger nights out.
When visiting mosques and other religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees, and some sites may ask visitors to remove their shoes before entering. Women may also be asked to cover their hair in certain places. For everyday sightseeing, comfortable clothing is usually fine, but it's worth keeping a lightweight cover-up handy if you plan to visit cultural or religious attractions.
When you click through to book your holiday, we’ll supply the exact travel requirements for your chosen destination through our partner, Passolution. In the meantime, check the FCDO for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements and health and safety information.