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Home > Turkey
Your holiday in Turkey
Every stretch of Turkey’s coastline is simply dazzling. Its magnificent landscape of olive groves and rocky crags is edged with pristine beaches, secret coves and sparkling blue waters. Idyllic fishing harbours, holiday villages, colourful bazaars and the remains of ancient civilisations sit side-by-side to create a unique mix of modern and traditional culture. Popular for its peaceful and relaxed pace of life, Turkey’s beautiful peninsula is the ideal villa holiday destination for lively days and leisurely nights – or vice versa.
Our resorts and villas
Local cuisine
From chic candlelit bistros to waterfront eateries with far-reaching sea views, dining out in Turkey is a rich experience. Villa holidays here are popular for the regional food on offer - a unique mixture of Mediterranean and Far Eastern influences. The cuisine varies from fresh seafood to meatballs and the internationally-renowned kebab. You can feast on a delicious assortment of meze dishes native to Turkey, from grilled meats to sticky sweet pastries – accompanied by traditional music and belly dancing. Why not pick up the catch of the day to grill in the seclusion of your own private holiday villa.
Hints of history
Along Turkey’s Bodrum peninsula coastline is where the ancient Greeks founded civilization; Alexander the Great and his legions paused to plunder rich cities and Julius Caesar gathered his fleet. The Bodrum peninsula is home to a wealth of major archaeological sites and historical attractions. Among them are a medieval castle, the famous Myndus Gate and the Mausoleum. The Turquoise Coast is also crammed with sites of ancient civilisations to visit, such as the city of Xanthos and its Roman theatre and Acropolis, the Letoon theatre, the rock tombs and theatre of Antiphellos. Kekora is also particularly noteworthy. Many centuries ago, the city was devasted by an earthquake and left submerged, but partly visible beneath the sea.
Wherever you are on the coastline, a short drive inland will take you through Turkey’s traditional villages untroubled by the modern world.
Retail therapy
Shopping in Turkey is a delight. Local bazaars are laden with vibrant, bohemian handmade goods - from traditional woven carpets and rugs, to everything from beads and bangles, wind chimes and wooden crafts. Leather, fabric and jewellery shops line the narrow streets, and colourful weekly markets are the place to buy edible souvenirs like spices or nuts. The latest fashions, expertly reproduced, are available in Bodrum’s many boutiques. Late-night shopping is also popular with the holiday makers.
On the beach
Turkey is famed for its kilometres of magnificent coast, golden shoreline and year-round sunshine. Its beaches vary from huge sweeping bays of sensational powdery sand, to stunning natural coves secluded by pine trees. Boat trips will carry you from the bustle of the towns to hidden bays untouched by tourism. Whether you plan to spend lazy days parked under a parasol or indulge in the numerous watersports on offer, Turkey’s many Blue Flag beaches provide endless opportunities for relaxation - and a great setting for a family holiday.
James recommends
- Ephesus, once the capital of Roman Asia, is now one of the best preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Visit the ruins, from ancient temples to libraries and public baths – all brimming with atmosphere.
- Take a boat trip – choose from a lazy day of snorkelling and swimming or a day trip to a neighbouring Greek Island (just don’t forget your passport).
- Go shopping in a typical Turkish market or ‘bazaar’ - there are daily markets in and around Bodrum.
- The terraced pools of glittering white salt and warm spring waters of Pamukkale make a good days’ sightseeing visit.
- Indulge in the ultimate de-stress of a Hamam or genuine Turkish bath.
- Visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology in the Castle of St Peter in Bodrum.
Marvel at one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World at Halicarnassus, the tomb (or mausoleum) of its ruler, Mausolus – you can also find parts of this exhibit nearer home in the British Museum.
Temperature chart for the Turkey holiday season
