6 ways to explore the many delights of Turkey

As a land with so much to offer, how well do you really know this multi-faceted country? Let us be your guide

Turkey is a land that ticks so many boxes. Whatever holiday you’re craving, Turkey is highly likely to satisfy it. 

Whether you long to relax on a sun-drenched beach or crave culture, turn to Turkey. If you’re looking to be amazed by otherworldly natural landscapes or want to step back in time to explore ancient ruins, Turkey will come up trumps. 

Providing a mezze of rich, surprising, cultural and colourful delights, a holiday in Turkey promises to be an unforgettable journey. There’s so much to explore, and so many ways to do it. 

To help you navigate its kaleidoscope of holiday options, we show you six ways you can savour the treasures of Turkey. 

Few cities are as mesmerising as Istanbul. Bursting with energy, Turkey's largest city and its cultural heart makes a fantastic city break. 

Straddling both Europe and Asia, its streets are filled with historic monuments, bustling bazaars, eclectic boutiques and vibrant cafes and meyhanes (Turkish taverns).

The three must-visit sights in the city include the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that has stood for centuries, showcasing the grandeur of both Byzantine and Ottoman empires. 

Next up is the Topkapi Palace, once home to sultans and still today giving a glimpse into the eye-watering, opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman rulers with its dazzling jewel collections and secret courtyards. 

And finally, the iconic Blue Mosque, with its six slender minarets, graceful cascade of domes and beautiful blue-tiled interior.

For an assault on the senses, don’t miss a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest markets, where you can get lost in a maze of over 4,000 shops selling everything from handmade rugs and ceramics to hammam soaps and local sweetmeats.

If you fancy making a purchase don’t be shy when it comes to bargaining - it’s expected. 

Beyond the main tourist attractions lie many quieter streets waiting to be explored at a more relaxed pace. Serdar-ı Ekrem street is the place to go for vintage shopping, while the affluent neighbourhood of Nişantaşı is renowned for its high-end shopping, fine dining and contemporary art scene. 

Come dusk, Istanbul takes on an even more electric vibe with its attractions lit up and reflecting on the waters of the Bosphorus River. This is a perfect time to do a cruise, taking in the city sights from a different perspective while enjoying a meal of traditional Turkish specialities.  

And when you step back on shore, Istanbul’s cosmopolitan nightlife will be in full swing. 

As a perfect antidote, the city’s traditional hammams are relaxing havens in which to cleanse the mind and body. 

Here you’ll experience the traditional Turkish rituals of being scrubbed and chopped, kneaded and soothed while lying on a hot bed of marble. Two standout hammams include the boutique Çukurcuma Hamamı, which dates from the 1830s and reopened in 2018 after a decade of restoration, and the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı built in the 16th century for one of the wives of Suleiman the Magnificant. It has since been immaculately restored to its former glory as a luxurious bathhouse 

Stay at: Sumahan on the Water

On the edge of the Bosphorus, Sumahan on the Water is a small, boutique hotel in a quiet residential district of Istanbul – on the Asian side. The converted Ottoman distillery is filled with character and has just a handful of suites and rooms, with no two the same. Each has polished hardwood floors, working fireplaces and panoramic Bosphorus views. The Family Loft Suites are spread over two levels and have their own garden. 
Its Waterfront Restaurant has a terrace so you can dine al fresco. Facilities include a gym, spa, Turkish hammam and a library of more than 800 books.

For most holidaymakers to Turkey, the beaches beckons – and we can see why. 

Its Turquoise Coast stretches along the Mediterranean and Aegean Sea coastlines, encompassing the provinces of Antalya and Muğla in southwestern Turkey. 

Also known as the Turkish Riviera, the coastline is flanked by a string of dazzling bays and sandy coves welcoming holidaymakers looking to soak up the sun, the culture and the glorious scenery. 

Yet, not all the resorts are created equal. Each has its own charm and attractions. What suits one, may not suit another. 

So here’s a brief rundown of our favourite Turkish resorts: 

A haven for those seeking a blend of history, culture and lively entertainment. Its iconic whitewashed houses cascade down to the Aegean Sea, while the impressive Bodrum Castle, a relic of the Knights of St John, stands as a sentinel over the town’s bustling marina. 

The streets come alive at night with a cosmopolitan mix of travellers and locals enjoying no end of restaurants, chic beach clubs and vibrant bars.

Well renowned for its nightlife, it’s good to know that most of Bodrum’s nightlife is clustered around just one corner of the town – allowing you to steer clear of the clubs if you want to take things at a quieter pace. 

Stay at: METT Hotel & Beach Resort Bodrum

This rustic-luxe lifestyle resort is built into a steep hillside tapering down to a private beach (beach bag provided). The rooms are elegant, the spa is sumptuous - and we love the Turkish hammam and salt room. There’s a gym, three restaurants and a bar. The views from the pool are glorious – you can take them all in while you laze on your cabana-style sun bed. The Loft Sea View rooms are the best thanks to their huge balconies.

Despite tourists discovering this small town over the past decade, it’s still retained much of its charm. 

The town centre is a treasure trove of narrow streets, whitewashed Ottoman houses and inviting boutiques. 

As a cosmopolitan and vibrant resort, Kalkan offers a sophisticated selection of harbour-side lounge bars and rooftop restaurants. It’s got around 200 restaurants serving everything from sushi and tapas to Michelin-style fine dining, but for us, the tavernas serving classic Turkish dishes are the best.

Don’t expect nightclubs. Instead you can look forward to jazz bands and late-night music bars. 

Kalkan is also very close to glorious Pattara, renown for its 14-mile stretch of sandy beach that serves as a nesting ground for turtles. 

Stay at: Kalkan Saray Suites 

This boutique-style property is perched on the hillside overlooking the bay. Foodies will enjoy a delicious fusion of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site Loft Bistro. There is also a pool area and rooftop bar. Some rooms come with their own private pool.

This has to be one of the most popular resorts in Turkey during the summer months. Tourists flock here in droves to spend long, lazy days on the beach and nights enjoying Marmaris’ intense clubbing and party scene.

No end of watersports are on offer from the beach and the promenade is lined with cafes, bars and restaurants. 

Marmaris is also a popular spot from which to embark onto a boat from where the party continues at sea. 

Despite being a busy tourist resort, Marmaris is not without its charms. It is home to an Old Town that's crowned by Marmaris Castle, originally built in the 11th century.

Stay at: TUI BLUE Grand Azur, Marmaris

Located right on the beach, this resort is a firm favourite of ours. It’s got pools in the gardens and indoors. There are four eateries to pick from, including a fine-dining restaurant serving eastern Mediterranean cuisine. Plus, there’s a bar by the pool and another by the beach. Active types can join fitness classes or play tennis on the multi-sports court. The spa’s got massage cabins and a Finnish sauna if you fancy a pamper session. Marmaris is only a 10-minute drive away.

This port town has it all. The glorious beach of Ölüdeniz is nearby and is often the postcard star of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. The silky sands of Ölüdeniz stretch along a spit, dividing the seafront beach from the rippling waters of the Blue Lagoon. Its shallow waters are perfect for families. The town’s waterfront is a bustling hub of yachts and traditional wooden boats. 

Adventure seekers can paraglide from Babadağ Mountain, offering an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the coastline, while history lovers can explore the Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs above the town. The nearby ghost village of Kayaköy adds a mystical touch to Fethiye’s rich cultural tapestry.

Fethiye has a great, bustling nightlife, but it still retains a lot of its charm with much of the nightly party scene congregating around the harbour. 

Stay at: The Residence at TUI BLUE Sensatori

This adults-only resort is one for those looking to check into the lap of luxury. The rooms feature interiors fit for the glossiest of home magazines – think free-standing bath tubs. If you upgrade to the Lake House Suite then you can expect butler service, a ‘press for Champagne’ button and swim-up pool access. As well as the beach on its doorstep, this glorious hotel has five pools, six restaurants, several bars and loads of entertainment.

For a more tranquil escape, Kaş (pronounced ‘cash’) remains a hidden gem along the Turquoise Coast. This bohemian seaside town enchants visitors with its charming streets adorned with bougainvillea and artisan boutiques. 

Kaş is a diver’s paradise, boasting some of Turkey’s best underwater experiences, including diving trips to the nearby sunken city of Kekova, where glass-bottomed boats glide over the remnants of a lost civilisation.

Stay at: Radisson Blu Hotel Kas

There’s a charming Scandi style to the décor at this hotel situated on the picturesque Kas peninsula. The sea views from the pool are stunning. The hotel also offers a free shuttle bus down to the beach where there are lots of restaurants - although the hotel’s a la carte restaurant is worth staying in for at least for a few nights during your holiday.

Synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, Göcek is a favourite among yachting enthusiasts. With its stunning marina filled with sleek yachts and elegant waterfront restaurants, it exudes sophistication.

Unlike the larger tourist resorts, Göcek remains an intimate retreat. A private boat tour through its idyllic archipelago reveals hidden coves and secret beaches.

Stay at: Club Privé by Rixos Göcek

This hotel puts you right on the seafront in Göcek and flaunts an Insta-ready mountain backdrop.

There are two pools and the hotel has its own private beach – accessible via the hotel’s own boat. 

Yoga classes and tennis lessons are offered and you’ve got four restaurants to choose from. The hotel also offers you a free, three-hour boat trip around the coast when you stay here.

Just so you know, this hotel doesn't allow bookings with children under the age of 13.

No where else in the world is quite like Cappadocia. It’s an otherworldly land of fairy-tale rock formations, whimsical chimneys, centuries-old cave dwellings and underground cities. It’s a surreal dreamscape and one of Turkey’s unique treasures. 

One of the best ways to take it all in is from a hot air balloon and the skies of Cappadocia are almost always dotted with brightly coloured balloons soaring across the honey-coloured valleys. 

Taking to the skies at sunrise is a magical and memorable experience. With the sun casting its rays on the lunar-like landscape, the bird’s-eye views are spectacular. You’ll fly through impressive valleys, each with distinctive rock formations and colours, and then float up over rippled ravines. If the winds allow it, you’ll be able to drift between the fairy chimneys.

On the ground there is so much to explore. Entire cities were carved into the rocks and underground. Historians believe they date way back to the 8th and 7th centuries BC. We do know for sure that they were the homes for Christians who were persecuted for their faith during the Byzantine era. 

Make time to explore the Unesco World Heritage-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum, home to centuries-old cave churches with beautifully preserved frescoes depicting biblical scenes. 

And be sure to venture below ground to the cities of Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu, where early Christians carved entire communities beneath the earth to escape oppression. Here you’ll discover a maze of tunnels and rooms up to eight levels deep. 

For those who love hiking, the dramatic rock formations will add an unforgettable spin to your trek.

Pigeon Valley is one of the most popular hiking trails in Cappadocia. The trail runs between Göreme to Uchisar taking about an hour and a half to complete. En route you’ll see the fascinating pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. Pigeons were vital back in the time, providing food and fertiliser for the poor soil. 

Meanwhile, the easy, dusty trek through Love Valley is probably most famous for its phallic-shaped rock formations (hence the name), while the Devrent Valley is renown for its animal-shaped rocks. 

For a truly magical experience, book a stay in one of Cappadocia’s famous cave hotels. These boutique hotels are truly one-of-a-kind. 

Stay at: Cappadocia Cave Resort

Occupying a complex of caves and stone buildings on the steep slopes below Uchisar Castle, this small hotel has horizon-busting views from every corner. You can have a massage overlooking Cappadocia’s mystical landscapes at the award-winning cave spa. You can wake up with breakfast on a sprawling terrace overlooking the sunrise and a rosy sky studded with hot-air balloons. Or you could gaze out at the breathtaking scenery from the outdoor pool.

For history enthusiasts, Turkey is a treasure trove. 

You don’t have to go too far to discover vast open-air museums filled with awe-inspiring ruins and relics dating back to the empires of the Greeks and Romans.

Top of the list should be Ephesus. Stepping into Ephesus is like walking into the heart of a living, breathing ancient city. Located near Selçuk on the western coast of Turkey, this once-thriving Roman metropolis boasts some of the best-preserved ruins in the world. The moment you set foot on the marble-paved Curetes Street, lined with fallen columns and ornate statues, you can almost hear the echoes of merchants calling out to customers and scholars discussing philosophy.

So great was Ephesus that the Romans made it their capital of Asia. 

The site is vast, and even though only a fraction of it has been excavated, you get a really good idea of how philosophers, gladiators and emperors lived here in their luxurious houses with marble-lined halls, mosaics and beautiful frescoes. 

Strolling through the centre of Ephesus, you’ll be walking the same streets as St Paul and St John, who both lived here for several years. 

The Library of Celsus stands as the crown jewel of Ephesus. Its grand facade is adorned with Corinthian columns and intricate carvings, giving you a glimpse into the sophistication of Roman architecture. 

Nearby, the colossal Great Theatre — where St. Paul reputedly once preached — is absolutely magnificent. It’s here where 25,000 spectators once cheered gladiators and orators.

And of course, you cannot miss the Temple of Artemis, which was one of the original ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’. It’s a remarkable testament to human ingenuity and architectural prowess. Estimates suggest that there were approximately 127 columns, each towering at around 60 feet. Dedicated to Artemis, goddess of wild animals, the temple attracted pilgrims from far and wide who marvelled at its size and beauty. 

For die-hard history buffs a visit to Troy will not disappoint. Admittedly it has fewer intact ruins to explore compared to Ephesus, but the historical significance is far greater. Some nine layers of settlement reveal over 4,000 years of history, from the Bronze Age to the Roman period.

Immortalised in Homer’s Iliad, Troy is a place where myth and history intertwine. According to legend, it was here the Greek soldiers tricked the Trojans by hiding inside a wooden horse within the city walls. Believing the Greeks had fled, the Trojans were then attacked by the hidden warriors.

For those who dream of exploring ruins by the sea, then Side ticks that box. This popular holiday resort town is awash with historical sites. Dominating the resort is a huge amphitheatre that’s still used today for summer concerts. And one of the most-photographed structures is the 2,000-year-old Temple of Apollo. Photographers are always keen to zoom in on the temple’s towering columns with the turquoise sea glistening in the background.

Stay at: Korumar Ephesus Beach and Spa

Just 50 metres away from a private sandy beach and just a few miles from the ancient site of Ephesus, the all-inclusive Korumar Ephesus Beach and Spa is a real family favourite – the children particularly love the water slides into the 4,000sqm pool (the biggest in the region). The 388 rooms include swim-up rooms and honeymoon suites.

One of the best ways to really appreciate the beauty of Turkey’s stunning coastline is to see it from a completely different perspective – from the deck of a traditional sailing boat. 

The idyllic stretch of coastline, also known as the Turkish Riviera, is famed for its crystal-clear waters, secluded bays, ancient ruins and charming fishing villages.

The journey typically begins in Bodrum, Marmaris or Fethiye, where you board your gulet. From here you’ll take in the views of pine-covered hills, golden beaches and rugged cliffs plunging into turquoise waters. The experience of waking up to the gentle lapping of waves and the salty sea breeze is pure magic.

One of the highlights of sailing the Turquoise Coast is visiting hidden bays that are only accessible by boat. You might drop anchor in one of the quiet bays around the Göcek Islands, where the water is so clear you can see fish darting beneath the surface. The famous Butterfly Valley, nestled between towering cliffs, is another must-see, with its lush greenery and waterfalls.
History lovers will be spoilt along the way with many stops to take in the remnants of Lycian and Roman civilisations. In Kekova, the ruins of a whole centuries-old city sit submerged beneath the waters, making snorkelling particularly memorable.

Kumlubük Bay is a secluded paradise with one of the most beautiful beaches on the Turquoise Coast. From here, a short hike takes you to the ancient ruins of Amos, a lesser-known but stunning archaeological site. The amphitheatre, city walls and temple ruins offer breathtaking views over the coast.

Ekincik Bay is a peaceful paradise with pristine waters and a gateway to the ancient city of Kaunos. Here, you can take a small riverboat up the Dalyan River, winding past spectacular Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs. Ekincik is also a great spot for swimming, with its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches.

Meanwhile, many gulet cruises stop at Hamam Bay, also known as Cleopatra’s Bath. It’s believed to be the site of an ancient Roman bathhouse, now partially submerged beneath the sea. Legend has it that Cleopatra herself bathed here, and the warm, mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties. Snorkelling among the ruins and exploring the sunken stone walls is an unforgettable experience.

Just off the coast is a small chain of uninhabited islets, known as the Yassica Islands. Here you’ll find some of the best swimming and snorkelling spots in the region. The shallow, clear waters make it ideal for jumping off the boat, floating lazily or kayaking between islands.

On board, you’ll have just as much fun with your crew taking care of all the catering and the handling of the boat. Your days will be spent swimming in hidden coves, enjoying fresh seafood feasts, sunbathing on deck or sipping wine as the sun sets over the horizon. Evenings bring starlit skies, music and laughter with fellow travellers. And, with every new bay, island and ancient ruin, you’ll fall more in love with this magical coastline.

Stay at: on board a traditional gulet

A traditional wooden gulet will be your home for eight days and seven nights. You’ll glide along Turkey’s glorious Riviera setting out from Marmaris. This round trip will see you dive below the surface of the turquoise waters at Ekincik Bay, before moving on to see Cleopatra’s Sunken Bath. 

You’ll spend time in the popular resort of Fethiye and you’ll go further out to sea to enjoy Yassica and Göcek Islands. And history buffs will enjoy the stopover in Kumlubük Bay, from where you can explore the ancient city of Amos. All your meals are provided on board. 

If you’ve read this far and you’re torn as to which area to choose or type of holiday in Turkey to plump for, then why not combine them all into one single holiday. How about a tour of Turkey, taking in all the highlights. combining history and beaches, man-made wonders and natural phenomena, as well as a vibrant and welcoming culture.

Most tours start in Istanbul where you explore the palaces and mosques, bazaars and Bosporus. 

Your itinerary will start from here and obviously, the longer your tour the more you can squeeze in. 

Cappadocia is a must and you’ll have the option to take to the skies in a hot air balloon. 

The geological phenomenon of Pamukkale is next up. Translated to mean Cotten Castle, Pamukkale is eternally famous for the gleaming white salt terraces overrunning with warm, mineral-rich waters. 

Just above the terraces lies the ruins of Hierapolis, once a Roman and Byzantine spa city. Today you can walk through its colonnaded streets, temples, bath houses, necropolis and theatre. You can even bathe, as the Romans once did, in a picturesque pool filled with warm (around 36C), mineral rich waters and swim among submerged columns of great antiquity.

Antalya, the largest city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is a usual stop with time to admire its Roman-Ottoman architecture, world-class museums and ancient ruins. The city’s most well-known formal attraction is the Antalya Museum, which houses some of Turkey’s finest archaeological finds.

Ephesus is on pretty much every tour and is a guaranteed highlight. And for real history buffs Troy takes some beating. 

History of a different kind can be explored at Gallipoli – the cove where Australians landed in April 1915 in the first major amphibious operation in modern warfare.

The short journey from here back to Istanbul completes the circular tour

Tour: Absolute Turkey

This 15-day tour starts in Istanbul and takes in 12 stops in a grand circular tour around the country. You’ll be escorted by an expert guide and you’ll stay in the homes of local families and traditional hotels. Breakfast is included every day and three meals. Plus, your entrance fees, tours and boat trips, are included with lots of optional add-ons. 

With such a kaleidoscope of experiences on offer in this enchanting country, we can design your perfect holiday to Turkey. We can create you an itinerary to be whatever, however and wherever you wish it to be.

Whether it’s a beach holiday, a history tour, a city break, a gulet cruise or an adventure rolling it all into one – we can organise it for you. 

With our expert contacts, we can create your dream trip. Just give us a call and we'll do all the planning for you. And the great thing: we don’t charge you a penny for our service. So what’ve you got to lose? 

The treasures of Turkey await.