Turkey is famous for its position as the gateway to Asia from Europe. It is where East meets West and, over the years, numerous groups have left their influence, including Persians, Phrygians, Christians and Lycians. Turkey is a melting pot of Mediterranean, Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, making it a unique holiday destination with a rich and deeply-rooted history and culture. With the vibrant capital city of Istanbul, quaint villages, ancient ruins and idyllic destinations on the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Sea coasts, Turkey is full of hidden gems.
As you navigate its complex terrain, take a cue from the Turkish people who are always friendly and delighted to share their magical treasure trove. Holidays to Turkey are perfect for those who seek a culturally enlightening experience. The country is teeming with archaeological sites, historic landmarks, cultural institutions, traditional customs, and of course, natural beauty. From the ruins of ancient citadels and vibrant cosmopolitan cities, to remote churches and Islamic monuments, to bustling bazaars and serene beach resorts, to deliciously cheap street food and exceptional fine dining, Turkey holidays are filled with endless opportunities and amazement.
If an exciting and enriching trip If that sounds like your cup of çay (Turkish tea), prepare to drink it all in! While Istanbul draws in tourists for its multifaceted culture and history, the beautiful beaches are just as enchanting. Turkey’s coastline boasts pristine beaches, breathtaking views and the warm, teal waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. The southwestern coast, known as Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, is home to many popular resorts where travellers can relax in the lap of luxury while experiencing all of Turkey’s classic delights. Farther east along the Black Sea coast, you’ll find archeological sites and other hidden gems.
The verdant mountains, unspoilt beaches and quaint villages all provide for a beautiful and serene experience. Whether you are after a culture-kick, a fun-filled family holiday or a couples retreat in paradise, cheap holidays to Turkey have it all! Search our incredible deals to book the perfect holiday to Turkey in 2024 and 2025 today.
Antalya
This city resort is a magnet for thrill-seekers craving an unforgettable holiday experience. An old harbour filled with bobbing yachts, golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters help make Antalya a fabulous destination. Luxurious hotels, fabulous shops and bazaars, top-class restaurants and a rich history and culture further add to its charm and appeal.
Bodrum
Bodrum is a cosmopolitan resort on the site of the ancient city of Halicarnassus. There’s so much to see and do in this up-beat coast city which oozes charm and style. Superb beaches, turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, sensational restaurants and iconic historical landmarks are among the attractions. You’ll also discover trendy bars, glitzy boutiques and a picturesque harbour in this sun-kissed getaway which is popular with couples, families and groups of friends.
Dalaman
This awe-inspiring district region in the heart of Turkey’s ‘Turquoise Coast’ boasts a myriad of fabulous attractions including golden sandy beaches, secluded bays, jaw-dropping scenery and inviting crystal-clear waters. It’s also home to many historical landmarks including the 16th century Marmaris Castle and the ancient Lycian rock tombs. A visit to the ghost village of Kayakoy, a relaxing trip on a traditional gulet boat and the chance to barter for a bargain at Fethiye market are just a few of the delights that await in Dalaman.
Marmaris
This resort town is a real winner with its glorious beaches and glistening Mediterranean waters. Its magnificent palm-lined promenade is home to bustling bars, fabulous restaurants and pulsating nightclubs. A charming marina, a wonderful old town and an enchanting Ottoman castle add to the appeal of this popular coastal port city which is nestled against the backdrop of beautiful pine-forested mountains.
Side
The ancient port city of Side is renowned for its amazing Greco-Roman ruins, sensational long beaches and charming harbour. Key attractions for history buffs include a 2,000 year old amphitheatre and the captivating Temples of Apollo and Athena. Vibrant nightlife, gourmet restaurants, fantastic shops and a wealth of water sports also help make Side a compelling choice for a sunshine escape.
Alanya
It’s fun and entertainment all the way in Alanya, a sensational south coast resort which is home to bustling bars, vibrant night clubs and fantastic live music venues. The sandy beaches and shallow waters here are perfect for families with young children, while a myriad of delightful beachfront restaurants and bars are ideal for wining and dining. Natural caves, a modern marina, a superb aqua park and a 13th Seljuk century castle are among the other attractions in Alanya.
Olu Deniz
This spellbinding blue lagoon resort makes a big impression on visitors with its beautiful sandy beach, romantic seafront restaurants and backdrop of lush pine forests and towering mountains. It’s a popular escape for couples and families craving some fun in the sun. The resort shoreline is home to charming gulet boats which provide magical island-hopping trips, with the chance to snorkel and dive in the crystal-clear waters.
Kusadasi
This beautiful sunshine resort is nestled on a quaint peninsula which is shaped like a bird’s head. Sensational sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and ancient archaeological ruins are among the joys to discover in this cosmopolitan town on Turkey’s south west coast. Other attractions include a quaint harbour, a charming marina and a delightful promenade lined with shops, bars and restaurants.
One of the best times to visit Turkey is between May and October, as the weather is perfect for relaxing on the beach and exploring the country’s major cities and attractions. Temperatures at this time average between 25°C and 35°C. Alternatively, if you want to explore the mountainous area of Turkey, visit between October and April, as many of the resorts will have snow-capped summits and perfect conditions for winter sports.
Turkey really has the wow factor when it comes to sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and romantic bays and coves.
If you crave a magical beach holiday in picturesque sun-kissed surroundings, then Turkey is easily capable of making your wish come true.
From long expanses of pristine sand with family-friendly calm and shallow waters to tranquil pebbled coves where couples can enjoy romantic strolls together, Tukey has it all.
Whether you desire some thrilling water sports action on the waves, a traditional sandcastle building session with the kids or a romantic sunset meal at a promenade restaurant, this awe-inspiring destination has a beach to suit all needs.
Oludeniz beach oozes charm and beauty with its enchanting blue lagoon, golden sands and gulet boats on the shore which take you out to sea for an island-hopping tour. The beach is lined with fabulous restaurants where you can watch paragliders landing on the sands after taking flight from nearby Babadag Mountain.
Patara Beach is Turkey’s longest sandy expanse, spanning an incredible 11 miles. It is home to protected Loggerhead turtles and has plenty of captivating lagoons and creeks to explore. Another sensational beach can be found at Butterfly Valley where more than 100 species of butterfly can be found.
Cleopatra Beach is a hive of activity with a myriad of lively bars, party boats and no shortage of thrilling water sports action. Legend has it that this sandy delight at Alanya was frequented by Anthony and Cleopatra.
The beach at Ortakent near Bodrum also has plenty of appeal with its golden sands, boutique hotels and charming whitewashed buildings, while Kabak is an unspoilt secluded bay where you can escape the crowds and immerse yourself in peace and tranquillity.
Other wonderful beaches in Turkey include Icmeler Beach, Cirali Beach, Kaputas Beach and Iztuzu Beach.
There are plenty of gastronomic delights and traditional meals in Turkey which will tantalise your taste buds. Here are a few popular culinary pleasures which are worth trying out during your stay.
Hunkar begendi is a much-loved lamb stew which is served up on top of roasted aubergine puree, while Anali kizli is a scrumptious soup which features meatballs, bulgur, chickpeas, olive oil and tomato.
Kisir is a delicious classic traditional salad which is made with bulgur wheat, red pepper flakes, tomatoes, garlic, mint, parsley and lemon juice or sour pomegranate molasses.
Kofte is Turkey’s version of meatballs and you’ll find them on the menu in cafes and restaurants throughout the land. They are often served with rice or fresh salad.
A mouth-watering dessert is lomka which consists of flavoursome balls made with flour, yeast, sugar and salt, which are deep-fried and covered in honey or syrup. Baklava is another fabulous offering which features layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and lashings of honey or syrup.
A popular alcoholic drink is raki, a delicious aniseed-flavoured spirit which is distilled from fermented grape pomace.
Antalya Aquarium
This place boasts the world’s biggest tunnel aquarium and provides a great family day out. It comprises 40 impressive themed sections with many creatures from the deep including sharks. It is also attached to other great attractions including Snow World, Ice Museum and an Oceanride XD cinema.
Butterfly Valley
This picturesque beach near Oludeniz is surrounded by towering cliffs and is home to more than 100 species of butterfly, including the orange, black and white Jersey Tiger. The area has been deemed a protected area since 1987 and can only be reached by boat.
Aktur Park
This is a sensational amusement park in the heart of Antalya which is packed with traditional high-energy attractions, including a twister coaster, bumper cars, ferris wheel, gondola and horror tunnel. There’s also a 3D cinema and a huge shopping mall nearby.
Turkish Bath
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating session in a traditional Turkish bath (hammam) where can experience a full body massage by a trained attendant, as well as enjoying some relaxing time in a steam bath or sauna. You won’t have to travel far to find a hammam during your holiday.
Jeep Safari
Head off for a thrilling adventure is a jeep or all-terrain vehicle. A popular choice is the Marmaris Jeep Safari which drives you around the spellbinding Bozburun Peninsula and Marmaris National Park. Most safaris will pick you up at your hotel and also provide a tasty lunch during your trip.
Kursunlu Waterfalls
These spectacular falls near Antalya are a great place to visit with the love of your life. You can enjoy a romantic stroll through the lush pine forests and discover crabs, tortoises and fish in the river. The waterfalls look truly magical as they cascade into the river from 18 metres.
Dalyan Delta
An exciting boat trip in the Dalyan Delta nature conservation area is highly recommended. You’ll observe protected loggerhead sea turtles swimming in the water as your boat weaves through the delta’s network of channels. You’ll also stop at mud baths and sulphur springs, as well as getting the chance to swim and sunbathe.
Marmaris Safari
This adventure on horseback is a great way to discover the wonders of Marmaris National Park. You’ll enjoy a leisurely mounted trek to quaint villages, imposing orange groves and beautiful pine groves.
Miniaturk
This open-air museum provides a great day out with a group of friends and features 135 scaled down models of Turkey’s major monuments and places. Miniature obelisks, tombs, bridges, mosques and palaces are just some of delights at this popular attraction in Istanbul.
Bodrum Harbour
Immerse yourself in the magic of Bodrum Harbour, an enchanting attraction which has been around for 3,000 years. You’ll discover dozens of traditional gulet boats, a myriad of charming bars and restaurants, plus the nearby captivating Bodrum castle.
Grand Bazaar
Don’t miss the chance to shop till you drop in Istanbul’s amazing Grand Bazaar which spans more than 60 streets and boasts over 4,000 shops. You’ll get the opportunity to test your haggling skills and you’ll be amazed at the huge range of produce available, from jewellery and clothing to kilim rugs and Turkish lamps.
Lycian Way
Enjoy an invigorating walk along one of the world’s most impressive long-distance trails which runs for 540km along the Turkish coast, from Antalya to Olu Deniz. You’ll be wowed by the stunning landscapes and breath-taking sea views – just remember to bring plenty of water and sun cream!
Holidays to Turkey provide the perfect beach getaway for relaxing and recharging. However, if you yearn for adventure, there are plenty of water sports and thrilling activities to enjoy. The waters’ clear visibility and ideal conditions are great for snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing and jet skiing. The water isn’t the only place to have fun. The nearby mountain ranges boast lush hiking trails, cliff dwellings and stunning scenery. And, for a truly exhilarating experience with impressive views, take to the air by paragliding over the vast ocean waters or hot air ballooning over the sprawling land.
Many visitors are drawn to Turkey’s impressive ancient ruins and architectural monuments. Turkey is home to a staggering 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites - these iconic landmarks and historical sites include the Great Mosque and hospital of Divrigi in Sivas, the Goreme National Park and the rock sites of Cappadocia in Nevsehir, Mount Nemrut in Adiyaman, and the archaeological site of Troy in Canakkale. Sightseeing during holidays to Turkey is only part of the fun. For a quintessential Turkey experience, take a culinary tour of the country’s rich dishes and take part in the ancient customs and traditions that Turkish people cherish. For an incredibly relaxing time, soak in a thermal pool, or opt for a thorough massage and cleansing, in a classic hamam (Turkish bath) where you’ll be pampered by an attendant and receive a heavy-handed scrubbing. In Turkey, tea is more than just a delicious drink. It is a significant cultural ritual and a sacred time that can be a truly rewarding experience when shared with locals. In addition to tea, the country is known for its gastronomy. The fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes creates a burst of intense and harmonious flavours. Just don’t leave without trying the kebabs and the alcoholic drink, Raki. ?
Turkey’s markets are world-renowned for their hand-crafted and ornately decorated goods. From carpets, textiles and furnishings, to clothing and jewelry, to spices and traditional street foods, there certainly isn’t a shortage of shopping. The markets provide the best opportunities for scoring one-of-a-kind pieces and luxurious, but surprisingly cheap finds. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is the most magnificent of them all. The vivid colors, energetic vendors and tantalizing smells are reason enough to visit. Stock up on all sorts of goods including ceramic bowls, leather clothing and items made of brass, copper and wood. It will be a great opportunity to brush up on your bargaining skills! There is no doubt that upon your arrival you will be showered by the friendly and endearing people of Turkey. Yet, before can hear the ubiquitous and peaceful phrase “merhaba” (hello and welcome), you first have to book your trip. For amazing deals on Turkey holidays in 2024 and 2025, check out our wide range of offerings.
When you go all inclusive in Turkey, the savings that result will allow you to experience so much more of this captivating land. The nation has a lot to offer groups of friends and families with children. Zante is well known for its buzzing nightlife, while Mamaris is a fantastic spot for beach sports including parasailing and jet skiing, as well as thrilling buggy and jeep tours.
Find your perfect cheap Turkey all inclusive holidays with HolidayGems today. Don’t miss out on all inclusive holidays in Turkey, book now!
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