Where to go in Turkey: Must-Visit Holiday Destinations

Turkey is a beautiful country, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches, it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Wondering where to go in Turkey? I will discuss a few of my favourite options for those seeking sun and sea. Jet2holidays do some fantastic value packages to the below destinations, you can have a browse of some of their packages here. If you prefer a DIY holiday use our search feature to search for Antalya, Dalaman or Marmaris (or all three!). Personally we always compare DIY prices with package prices, to make sure we are getting the best possible value for money.

Located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, Antalya is a true gem that combines pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and a vibrant modern city. Explore the historic quarter of Kaleici with its narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and charming shops. Visit the impressive Antalya Museum to dive deep into Turkey’s rich archaeological heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax on the famous Konyaalti and Lara beaches, or take a boat trip and admire the stunning Duden Waterfalls.

The Antalya coastline comprises a variety of resort towns and offers a diverse range of beach experiences, from bustling and vibrant stretches filled with water sports and beach clubs to secluded coves and hidden bays perfect for a more peaceful escape. With some great value all inclusive resorts, it is a popular choice for many repeat visitors. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Whether you want a relaxing retreat or an active beach holiday, the Antalya coastline has something for everyone. Make note of the distance of your resort from Antalya airport. The resort town of Alanya tends to offer the cheapest All Inclusive hotels, however it is almost a two hours drive from the airport. Jet2holidays include transfers in their package price, if booking DIY you will need to factor in the cost of a shared shuttle or taxi.

 

Famous for its vibrant nightlife and luxurious resorts, Bodrum is a haven for those seeking a mix of entertainment, relaxation, and cultural exploration. This picturesque coastal town boasts an impressive medieval castle overlooking the harbour, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Stroll along the marina, where luxury yachts and traditional wooden boats known as “gulets” bob in the turquoise waters. Bodrum’s lively atmosphere extends to its nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs catering to every taste. If you’re looking for a more peaceful retreat, nearby Bodrum Peninsula offers more serene beaches, hidden coves, and charming fishing villages. Bodrum airport is just 36 km from Bodrum town, so a short transfer time of around 35 minutes if driving or in a taxi.

Marmaris, located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, is a vibrant and lively resort town that offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Surrounded by pine-clad hills and turquoise waters, Marmaris boasts beautiful beaches that are perfect for those looking to sunbathe or swim. The town’s picturesque marina is a hub of activity, with luxury yachts and small fishing boats lining the harbour. Marmaris is a fantastic destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for sailing, jet skiing, parasailing, and more.

You will fly in to Dalaman airport which is 95km to Marmaris, so expect a transfer time of around an hour and a half if driving.

 

Just a short distance from Bodrum, Gumbet is a lively beach resort known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful sandy beaches. Gumbets bar street is a centre of intense nightlife with bars and nightclubs open until dawn throughout the summer. During the day you can relax in the sun on the long stretch of shoreline or enjoy water sports such as jet skiing and windsurfing. While Gumbet primarily caters to younger crowds seeking a lively party scene, it also offers a range of family-friendly activities and all-inclusive resorts. You will fly into Bodrum airport, which is around 40km from Gumbet, the drive time is between 45 – 60 minutes.

If you are fascinated by ancient history, you will love Side. This small resort town on the Antalya coastline is home to well-preserved Roman ruins, including the famous Temple of Apollo, some impressive city walls and Roman baths. Mooch through the atmospheric streets of the old town, where Roman structures blend effortlessly with modern shops and traditional restaurants. Side is also famous for its beautiful beaches which stretch along both sides of the peninsula. You will fly into Antalya airport which is around 65km to Side, the drive time is around one hour.

Kusadasi is a popular destination for cruise ships, it is most famous for its proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has well-preserved Roman ruins, including the stunning Library of Celsus and the Grand Theatre.

Overall, Turkey is a great value holiday destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just want to relax on a beautiful beach, there are so many great value destinations to help you get away and live your best life. If you were wondering where in Turkey to visit, I hope this post has given you some inspiration as to the best destination for you!