- Holidays
- Turkey
Why Choose Turkey For Your Next Break
If you want sunshine, great food and good value, holidays to Turkey tick the lot. You can base yourself by a long sandy beach, day trip to ancient sites and still wander out at night to waterfront restaurants. Hotel resorts are set up for a easy holiday, from family splash pools to adults only spa stays, and most of the big beachfront hotels have all inclusive dining, so once you arrive, you really don't have to worry about money. Tour operators like Jet2holidays offer packages that include generous baggage (22kg with Jet2) and airport transfers so you really have it all sorted before you travel. Areas like Antalya and Dalaman have plenty of options, but quieter resorts can be perfect if you're looking for a more secluded escape. And don't forget the magical city of Istanbul if you're looking for a stunning city break.
Popular Resorts In Turkey
For a beach holiday, tou have four main coasts to consider. Antalya brings sweeping beaches, big name hotels and smart marinas, great if you want everything on site. Dalaman is for scenery lovers, with pine clad hills and bays around Olu Deniz, Icmeler and Marmaris. Bodrum mixes historic sights with a lively harbour and smaller coves, good for evenings out and relaxed beach days. Izmir suits a split of beach and culture, with Kusadasi, Cesme and day trips to Ephesus if you want something a little different. Istanbul, of course, provides the vibrant city life for a short break.
When To Go And How To Plan
For warm beach weather without the hottest heat, spring and autumn are ideal, plus you won't be paying a premium. Hotels (and flights) are usually much cheaper in April, May, June, September and October. If you want long pool days with sweltering heat, summer has the hottest temperatures and the liveliest atmosphere. Winter is milder on the coast and works for spa breaks and longer stays when you want even better value and quieter hotels, although many hotels close for the winter season. If you do go around November to February, be sure to take some warmer clothes, especially for the evenings.
All Inclusive Or Eating Out
All inclusive is very popular here because resorts bundle meals, drinks and snacks. Some even offer all inclusive plus which is 24 hour dining and premium alcoholic drinks. On-site splash parks or kids’ clubs are usually included anyway. If you prefer to graze around town, look at bed & breakfast or half board options within a short stroll of a promenade so you can try local meze, fresh fish and bakeries in the evenings. All inclusive is great if you really don't want to have to worry about spending more money while you're away. Self catering and B&B can be good if you love to experience more of the traditional cuisine at local restaurants.
Top Tip
If anyone you're travelling with loves a bit of golf, Belek near Antalya is a sweet spot with championship courses and wide sandy beaches. Book tee times early to avoid disappointment. Some of the hotels offer free shuttles to the golf courses.
Popular Places To Stay
There are so many fantastic hotels to choose from, here are a few of our favourites:
Things To Do Beyond The Sunlounger
While you might want to just chill by the pool, there's so much more to do. You could cruise along a calm bay on a lazy boat trip and swim at coves you can only reach from the water. Or maybe wander through an old town like Kaleici or Bodrum’s castle for a slice of history with a sea view. Families will love waterparks in Kusadasi and Marmaris, making it a perfect day out, and couples tend to head inland for Pamukkale or Cappadocia when they fancy a little adventure between pool days.
Family Tips
Look for resorts with splash pools, plenty of shaded areas and short transfer times so little legs stay happy. If your dates are flexible, travel outside the busiest weeks and you will find quieter pools and better room choices and lower prices. Only some holiday packages include a checked bag and airport transfers, so when you're checking prices with different tour operators and travel agents, check to see what still needs adding on.
Need To Know
The local currency is the Turkish lira and cards are widely accepted in resorts. Most UK passport holders can visit for up to 90 days without arranging a tourist visa in advance. Always check the latest entry guidance on the FCDO website before you book.
