Turkey is much more than sun and sand: the borders of this vast country surround Europe, the old Soviet Union, the Middle East and the Caucasus, and the influences of all of them can be found in different places. The most visited region is the west coasts, but you can also find dramatic landscapes and cooler climates along the Black Sea, rich cuisine and culture to the south and east, and largely undiscovered wonders on the vast, empty Anatolian plateau. These days, excellent hotels can be found everywhere, from well-known international chains to quaint, family-run hotels.
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1. Hillside Beach Club, Fethiye
Over two-thirds of visitors to the Hillside Beach Club on Fethiye's Turquoise Coast are regular bookers, and it's easy to see why. The beehive-shaped rooms, all 330 of them, cling to the side of a hill that faces the show's star: Kalemya Bay, where the Egyptian blue waters of the Aegean Sea are smeared with turquoise ink and a handful of million-dollar yachts come to covet it from afar . Twenty-five daily physical activities keep visitors occupied if they so wish, though most prefer to sunbathe on one of three beaches: Serenity Beach, accessed by a nature trail, Silent Beach, a sleepy cove where children, talking, and cell phones are banned , and Main Beach, where waiters deliver freshly-shaken cocktails at the touch of a button. There's a traditional hammam - perfect for a pre-sun scrub - and a Balinese spa tucked away on a pine-scented hillside. Standards don't drop when it comes to food (most guests choose full board); The main restaurant rivals Borough Market, with a selection of stalls filled with local honey, olives and everything in between, and DJs line up the decks at the all-white Pasha by the Bay, sipping iced mojitos as the sun dips down.
The best things to do in Fethiye
Main photo: Avalon Hotel, Kabak Bay, see number 8 below (all photos courtesy of Expedia)
2. Macakizi, Bodrum
This hotel is actually a collection of villas on one of the most beautiful peninsulas of Bodrum and was opened in the 1970s as a meeting place for writers and artists. Times have changed, sameBodrum— today Macakizi's patrons include supermodel Kate Moss and countless sheikhs and oligarchs who moor their yachts in the nearby marina. But the laid back atmosphere remains, enhanced by lush gardens, a private beach and elegantly designed interiors. The hotel has its own speedboat which can be rented for the day and taken to other parts of this charming area.
3. Historic Mardius residence, Mardin
If you have time, head to Mardin, a magical sandstone town built into a cliff to the eastTurkey, stay in the best place in town. This 700-year-old building is one of the grandest in Mardin, and its palatial stone-walled rooms feature wrought-iron beds, antique furniture and silk rugs. Sip a glass of the famous local red wine on the terrace as the sun sets over the Mesopotamian plain, and dine at an award-winning restaurant. Weekend breaks don't get more romantic or unusual than this.
4. Asteria Kreml Palace, Antalya
Let's start with a caveat: this place is ridiculous. A replica of Moscow's Red Square, but with a swimming pool sandwiched between the Kremlin and St. Basil's Cathedral, thisall-inclusive resortaimed, as might be expected, at Russian tourists. But if you're sick of the feisty chill, there are worse places to spend two weeks in the sun, especially if you have kids who will love the surreal fun of water slides with onion domes in the background. It also has a private beach and is a short distance from the airport.
5. Rixos Premium Belek, Antalya
Expansive five-star resort with golf club, eight restaurants, private beach and spa. If you want to relax without having to leave the hotel, you will find everything you need here. The Belek district is a central destination for holiday packages, so there's not much to see in the immediate area if you're feeling more energetic, butCenter of Antalyais close. Children are also well catered for, with a children's club and football academy offering training by professional players from the age of 6 to 14.
21 best things to do in Antalya
6. Hotel Hal-Tur, Denizli
The city of Denizli in the Aegean Sea has been famous since antiquity for its thermal springs, as evidenced by the nearby ruins of ancient Hierapolis. There are dozens of health resorts, but this one wins with the strength of its facilities: there are five thermal pools, indoor and outdoor, a regular swimming pool, as well as Turkish baths and a spa with medical and aesthetic medicine treatments. The decor is a little dated but the rooms are large, well appointed and comfortable.
The best hotels in Turkey with water parks
7. Sumahan on the Water, Istanbul
To see a different, more laid-back sideIstanbul, consider staying at this boutique hotel. Housed in a stylishly restored Ottoman brewery, it is located in Cengelkoy, a charming district of cobbled streets and wooden houses on the Asian side of the city where few tourists reach. Its location on the Bosphorus side provides expansive views of the famous skyline of the historic peninsula, as well as the iconic suspension bridge, and there is an on-site lighthouse. The terrace restaurant serves Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine by the water, and inside there is a cozy library with a fireplace.
The best hotels in Istanbul
8. Hotel Avalon, Fethiye
Founded and run by a British couple, this hotel - actually a cluster of 11 luxury bungalows - is perched high on a cliff above Kabak Bay and offers unparalleled views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a 20 minute walk to the beach and a long way back but even if you choose to stay at the hotel and lounge byinfinity poolyou won't feel like you wasted your day. The area is famous for paragliding and snorkeling, which the staff can arrange for you.
10. Olympos Mountain Lodge, Antalya
Set in a huge garden and olive grove, 900m on Mount Olympos, this hotel offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is situated in the middle of the famous Lycian Way hiking trail. Her ethos is sustainability - still a fairly new concept in Turkey - and her restaurant, run by London-trained chef Cordon bleu, uses local ingredients and strives for as little waste as possible. One of the owners is a professional yoga teacher and offers private lessons in a quiet setting.
12. Gamirasu Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
From the outside, it looks like something out of a Disney movie, but once inside, it's easy to forget that this luxury hotel is actually a cave. This one was a monastery in Byzantine times and has retained some original features, including sumptuous frescoes. The more expensive rooms have hot tubs and fireplaces, while the basic ones are more rustic and possibly offer a more authentic cave experience. There are regular shuttle buses to Cappadocia National Park, where you can hike among the "fairy chimneys", strange natural rock formations.
13. Hotel Bey Evi, Alacati
The northern Aegean coast is where wealthy Turks go on holiday, and this old stone hotel - actually two Greek houses that have been joined together - is a great place to spend a few days living like the locals. As only children over the age of 12 are allowed, the atmosphere is grown-up and chic, with stone walls, parquet flooring and mismatched furniture. For evening outings, go to the nearby city center, a lively and charming place with lots of street bars and cafes. The surrounding beaches are pristine but very crowded in high season.
14. Terraced houses, Sirince
A row of four traditional stone cottages in the picturesque Aegean village of Sirince, famous for its winding streets and fruit wines, offers the perfect balance between the privacy of self-catering accommodation and the convenience of a hotel. The complex has a café serving free breakfast, light meals throughout the day and candlelit dinners when the sun goes down. Sirince is full of small shops selling local organic produce and the beach and ruins of Ephesus are only a short drive away.
15. Ayder Avusor Boutique Hotel, Rize
The green, mountainous Black Sea region is the center of Turkish ecotourism, but most accommodation is in self-catering cottages. This site among the dramatic peaks near the Ayder Hot Springs is a rare exception. The simple and family-friendly rooms are very basic, but the included breakfast is full of local delicacies, which can be enjoyed on the terrace in nice weather. The setting, deep in the woods and by the river, is gorgeous and makes it a great base for trekking to the nearby waterfalls.
16. Hotel Museum, Antakya
As the name suggests, this newly opened hotel includes the city's refurbished archaeological museum, which features a stunning collection of mosaics and other ancient artifacts. It's cleverly built around an excavation site and the remains of walls dating back to 300 BC, and you enter via a walkway that leads through the world's largest mosaic floor. Tourists have avoided Antakya, the ancient Antioch, over the past decade thanks to its proximity to the Syrian border. However, it's worth taking the (extremely low) risk to see its dramatic geography and historical treasures, as well as sample its famous cuisine.
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Inspired to visit Turkey but haven't booked your trip yet? Here are the bestTUI1,000 free places for children on selected holidays in summer 2023 from May 1, 2023 to October 31, 2023 (T&C apply) IBritish Airways breaks.
FAQs
Which is the best area to stay in Turkey? ›
- Istanbul – The Overall Best Place to Stay in Turkey.
- Izmir & the North Aegean – Best Place to Stay in Turkey for Families.
- Cappadocia – Where to Stay in Turkey for Couples.
- Istanbul – The Coolest Place to Stay in Turkey.
- Bodrum – Where to Stay in Turkey on a Budget.
Mardan Palace is a luxury hotel in Lara, Antalya, Turkey, built by Azerbaijani businessman Telman Ismailov.
How much does a hotel cost per night in Turkey? ›| Average hotel price in Turkey is: | 1,336 TRY | 63 USD |
|---|---|---|
| Price of 2 star hotel in Turkey is around: | 1,753 TRY | 82 USD |
| Price of 3 star hotel in Turkey is around: | 2,000 TRY | 94 USD |
| Price of 4 star hotel in Turkey is around: | 3,213 TRY | 151 USD |
| Price of 5 star hotel in Turkey is around: | 3,474 TRY | 163 USD |
- Bursa, Turkey.
- Cappadocia, Turkey.
- Ephesus Ancient city, Izmir.
- Duden coast waterfalls, Antalya.
- Istanbul, Turkey.
- Bodrum, Turkey.
- Xanthos, the ancient Lycian city in Patara.
- Cappadocia.
- Istanbul.
- Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz.
- Bodrum.
- Pamukkale.
- Butterfly Valley.
- Alanya.
- Antalya.
Antalya, one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey, is also the hub of the Turkish Riviera and is the largest settlement on the country's Mediterranean coast. This is an urban metropolis much like Istanbul but with the kind of laid-back charm only a city with world-renowned sandy beaches can offer.
Which is the most luxurious area of Turkey? ›Yeniköy, Bebek, Kuruçeşme, and Tarabya (in European Istanbul), Beykoz and Kandili, Vaniköy, Anadoluhisarı and Kanlıca (in the Asian/Anatolian Istanbul) are the most prestigious neighborhoods.
What is a special category hotel in Turkey? ›Recognizing that some unique hotels did not fit its standard star classification system, Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism created 'S' (Special) Class to designate hotels and inns that may not meet all the technical requirements for a certain star rating, such as number of guest rooms or restaurant seats, but ...
Does anyone live in Burj Al Babas? ›Burj Al Babas is an abandoned residential development located near Mudurnu, Turkey with 732 nearly identical houses, each designed to resemble a miniature chateau.
How much do you tip a Turkey hotel? ›If you're staying in a hotel in Turkey it's standard practise to tip between 10-20%.
Does Turkey have a 7 star hotel? ›
Seven Stars Exclusive Hotel, Antalya, Antalya Region, Turkey.
Do hotels in Turkey serve alcohol? ›Alcoholic beverages are still widely available, however, especially in the big cities of western Turkey and all resort areas.
Which month is the best to visit Turkey? ›The best time to visit Turkey is between June and September.
Turkey has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 35 C and an average low of 25 C.
No shorts, sleeveless tops (tank tops) or revealing clothing should be worn by women or men. Shoes don't matter as you will be removing them before entering the mosque (so slip-ons make it easier). At the most-visited mosques, skirts, scarves, and sometimes robes are provided to make sure you are dressed appropriately.
What time of year is best to visit Turkey? ›April, May, September and October are pleasantly warm, with temperatures of 68°F to 86°F, so are typically the best times to visit Turkey's grand array of ancient sites. The summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast.
Do you need a visa for turkey? ›Ordinary and service/official passport holders are required to have visa to enter Türkiye. Holders of such passports may get their 90-day multiple-entry visas from Turkish missions abroad or obtain their 30-day single-entry e-visas via the website www.evisa.gov.tr.
What is the best way to travel around turkey? ›Traveling by bus is the primary mode of ground transportation in Turkey, for both long hauls and short hops. There are several categories of bus travel: municipal buses, the local dolmus, long-distance buses, and short-distance minibuses.
Is Bodrum or Antalya better? ›When deciding on which place is better for food, it really depends on what flavors and dishes you like. If you're looking for more traditional Turkish food, then Bodrum is better, if you enjoy sweet treats, then Antalya is better. Winner: Both destinations offer world-class cuisine and plenty of excellent restaurants.
What is the safest tourist city in Turkey? ›- Adana.
- Istanbul.
- Antalya.
- Fethiye.
- Dalaman.
- Eskisehir.
- Bodrum.
- Ankara.
Some of the safest places include the cities of Istanbul and Ankara, as well as the coastal resort towns of Bodrum and Marmaris. These areas have relatively low crime rates and are typically quite stable politically.
What is the most popular tourist destination in Turkey Why? ›
Istanbul is one of the most important tourist spots not only in Turkey but also in the world. There are thousands of hotels and other tourist-oriented industries in the city.
Where do rich people hang out in Turkey? ›Besiktas is one of the most important affluent neighborhoods in Istanbul and is the most distinguished after Taksim.
Where do most celebrities live in Turkey? ›If you are only a little familiar with Istanbul and Turkey, you must have heard the name of this region. Beşiktaş is the flagship of Istanbul and the residence of the city's nobility, nobility and celebrities.
Where do celebrities go in Turkey? ›In general, Çırağan Palace Kempinski is a popular place to go among celebrities, and Tuğra Restaurant is one of the most popular restaurants there. The restaurant offers a different Bosphorus view which is a reason for celebrities to chose this restaurant. Additionally, the restaurant is known for its nightlife.
What does a 3 star hotel mean? ›Three star: A broad range of amenities are available, exceeding above-average accommodation needs. Service and design are of good quality. Four star: With a wide range of facilities, superior design qualities and excellent service, these hotels offer a deluxe guest experience.
What does all inclusive mean in Turkey hotels? ›All-inclusive means that almost all meals and drinks are included in the prepaid holiday price. this includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. In Turkey, all-inclusive usually means paying extra for special à la carte restaurants and imported alcoholic drinks.
Who owns Burj Al Babas? ›Sarot Group, which is headed by brothers Mezher and Mehmet Yerdelen together with business partner Bulent Yilmaz, wasted no time putting together a killer brochure to woo their target market: wealthy Gulf tourists.
What happened with Burj Al Babas? ›Well, Burj Al Babas was initially a luxury real estate project. Construction began in 2014 but was soon halted by complaints from conservationists and environmentalists, while the company that was responsible for it got burdened with loads of debt and went bankrupt.
Which Disney Princess lives in a castle? ›Snow White's Castle
Snow White grew up in a castle, briefly lived in a cottage with seven dwarfs, and then she went back to the castle life. Hers could be described as traditional, as it is tall and white.
Tipping is expected in Turkey and leaving a 10-15% tip on your bill in a restaurant is generally an acceptable amount.
Is 20 lira a good tip? ›
Tipping is a personal"thing". I always put my tip in the tip box for alacarte and buffet restaurants. Tip the waiters bar staff early during the holiday. 20 lira is a good tip and you won't feel the need to tip so often.
Do you tip housekeeping in Turkey? ›In Turkey, it is not expected but it is customary to tip your housekeeper.
What is the Disney looking hotel in Turkey? ›The Land of Legends Kingdom Hotel isn't just a luxury hotel – it's also got a splash-worthy waterpark, and you'll find an all-singing, all-dancing theme park here, too.
What is the hotel tax for Turkey? ›Turkey implements Accommodation Tax. Turkey has introduced a 2% Accommodation Tax, effective 1 January 2023. The tax applies to overnight services provided in accommodation facilities and related services. Accommodation operators will collect the tax either from their guests or from travel agencies.
What is the difference between 3 5 and 7 star hotels? ›A 5-star hotel is generally chosen for business stays and leisure stays. While a 7-star hotel is mostly chosen for leisure stays. A 5-star hotel gives you a luxurious treatment while a 7-star hotel gives you a royal treatment. A 5-star hotel is could be frequented by people from all walks of life.
What time do Turkish eat dinner? ›Regarding "prime" dinner hour in Istanbul, I'd say it's between 9-10 PM. Although along the coast, people seemed to start dinner later than that! Ofcourse this timing issue depends on the time of the year. Generally speaking 19;30 to 21:30 hours.
Can you drink tap water in Turkey hotel? ›Officially, Turkish tap water is safe to drink. However, heavy chlorination used to purify the water often makes the taste unpalatable. The tap water in Turkey often has a chemical, chlorine taste which can be off-putting. Therefore, many tourists and locals opt for bottled water instead.
What alcohol is Turkey famous for? ›Raki -- otherwise known as Lion's Milk -- is the Turkish national drink. Made of twice-distilled grapes and aniseed, raki is the go-to spirit for a celebration.
How many days are enough in Turkey? ›Turkey is a huge country and it would take months to see all of its highlights. I would say an ideal amount of time for a first trip would be 10 to 14 days. This will give you plenty of time to get a taste of Turkey and see some of the country's most famous cities, historical attractions, and beaches.
What time of year is cheapest in Turkey? ›For Lowest Prices & Fewer Crowds
When it comes to affordable prices and fewer tourists, the shoulder season, between April and May and September and October, is a great time to visit Turkey. For even more affordable rates on flights and accommodations, visit November during the low season.
Is it safe to go to Turkey right now? ›
Terrorism. There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye. Most terrorist attacks have taken place in the southeast of the country, Ankara or Istanbul. On 13 November 2022, an explosion in Istiklal caddesi, central Istanbul, killed 6 people and injured many more.
Can tourists wear shorts in Turkey? ›In Turkish cities, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. There is no problem wearing shorts for comfort, except when you visit mosques.
Do I need to wear a headscarf in Turkey? ›Banning of headscarves. With a constitutional principle of official secularism, the Turkish government has traditionally banned women who wear headscarves from working in the public sector. The ban applies to teachers, lawyers, parliamentarians, and others working on state premises.
Do people wear jeans in Turkey? ›Everyday attire in Turkey today
In coastal resort areas of Turkey, most people favour western-style dress, whereas inland people tend to dress a bit more conservatively. In big cities, people wear everything from jeans and t-shirts to the full Islamic burqa.
January is the coldest month with daily average highs of just 8.6°C.
Are things in Turkey expensive? ›No, Turkey is incredibly cheap, especially if you opt for budget accommodation and dine at local restaurants.
What is the best city to visit in Turkey for the first time? ›As an introduction to the country, Istanbul, Antalya and Bodrum offer excellent entry points.
What is the safest tourist area in Turkey? ›- Adana.
- Istanbul.
- Antalya.
- Fethiye.
- Dalaman.
- Eskisehir.
- Bodrum.
- Ankara.
When deciding on which place is better for food, it really depends on what flavors and dishes you like. If you're looking for more traditional Turkish food, then Bodrum is better, if you enjoy sweet treats, then Antalya is better. Winner: Both destinations offer world-class cuisine and plenty of excellent restaurants.
Which city is best to go in Turkey? ›- Ankara. Turkish capital is the second largest city in the country, as well as the major university centre. ...
- Istanbul. This urban cultural melting pot is something you must visit at least once in your lifetime. ...
- Antalya. ...
- Izmir. ...
- Göreme.
What month is best to travel Turkey? ›
April, May, September and October are pleasantly warm, with temperatures of 20°C to 30°C, so are typically the best times to visit Turkey's grand array of ancient sites. The summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast.
How many days in Turkey is enough? ›Turkey is a huge country and it would take months to see all of its highlights. I would say an ideal amount of time for a first trip would be 10 to 14 days. This will give you plenty of time to get a taste of Turkey and see some of the country's most famous cities, historical attractions, and beaches.
What is the best year to visit Turkey? ›The shoulder seasons – spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) – are widely regarded as the best times to visit Turkey. The weather begins to cool down during these months, making it ideal for exploring the country without the summer heat or the fairly cold months of winter.
Is it safe for Americans to vacation in Turkey? ›There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Türkiye. Terrorists could attack with little or no warning (see 'Safety'). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye overall due to the high threat of terrorist attack.
Is Turkey safe to visit for US citizens? ›It's okay to be cautious about visiting the Republic of Turkey, with the minor security threats, political situation, and conservative nature of the people. Nevertheless, Turkey is relatively safe to tour, but knowing what to do or expect can help you have the best experience possible during your visit.
Is Istanbul safe for American tourists? ›While Turkey may have a not-so-good reputation (especially because of its proximity to dangerous areas near the Syrian border), it is predominantly safe in Istanbul for the majority of tourists, whether it's solo travelers or family travelers.
Why is Antalya so popular? ›Antalya is known for its beautiful coastline, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The city is also famous for its historic sites, charming old town, and vibrant nightlife, making it a popular destination for holidaymakers from around the world.
Why is Antalya so famous? ›Antalya is known as the Turquoise Coast of Turkey due to its fresh blue waters that mesmerize every traveler visiting this port town. Antalya is popular for being the best Roman heritage collector of Western Turkey that sings the ballads of Roman Kings like Alexander-The Great instead of the Turkish Ottomans.
Why is Turkey Antalya so cheap? ›Utilities are typically cheaper, making operating costs for businesses lower. However, the main reason visiting Antalya is so cheap is because of the exchange rate from the British Pound to the Turkish Lira. One Pound Sterling is worth around 20 Turkish Lira.
Is it worth going to Cappadocia? ›Cappadocia is so worth it! It is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Goreme National Park, where visitors will find epic rock formations (known as fairy chimneys), historical rock-cut churches and more. The hot air balloon rides are even more worth it!
How long is the train ride from Istanbul to Cappadocia? ›
Travel time: The journey from Istanbul to the Cappadocia area is approximately 735 kilometers long; without completing stops it will take you about 9 hours to travel between the two destinations.