Many of Turkey's visitors come here for a relaxing, sunny break against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, the Aegean or the Black Sea. Turkey is a great sun, sea and sand package holiday destination but it's a whole lot more besides. Turkey oozes with this region's most dramatic history and is richly decorated with the treasures of Rome, the Byzantines, the Ottomans and a dozen other colonisers and visitors. Some of the ancient world's greatest sites and cities are now some of the best places to stay in Turkey. Whether you are looking for a cheap and cheerful guesthouse or an upscale luxury hotel, our recommendations are full of gems which are bound to delight!
Turkey's landscapes are also a reason to visit. The alpine crags of the north east border near Georgia and Armenia, the lush valleys of the Bosphorous, Turkey's drier south which was once Mesopotamia, and of course the magically bright turquoise coastlines with their peninsulas and rocky promontories covered in olive groves and pine outcrops. These are all spectacular settings in which to walk, ride or sail.
Istanbul is an obvious place to start. Ancient and rich with cultural and historic treasures, this is the only city in the world which straddles two continents. It is truly one of the world's greatest cities. It's not just all old treasures though, as well as the bazaars and the Bosphorus, you can also cruise the most modern of bars and clubs.
Cappadocia is another well known Turkish highlight, the wondrously lunar looking landscape with the villages of caves carved into the basalt. The rich volcanic soil was much competed over and the Christian inhabitants burrowed around 30 cities protectively underground, cutting into the rock and hollowing out their houses and around a thousand churches. This created a landscape of ‘fairly chimney’ pillars of eroded stone and cliffs crenelated like honeycomb. Ürgüp is one of Cappadocia's largest towns and its upmarket hotels and fine restaurants have given it the reputation for being one of the best places to stay in Turkey. It is also a good spot to explore this whole region from as you're right near Ortahisar where there's a castle, a monastery and a folk museum. Or there’s Göreme, so beautiful that it really does defy description. It's not entirely unspoilt, as a destination this beautiful is bound to attract visitors, but it somehow manages to retain the feeling of being a traditional village.
Then there’s the spectacular Turkish Aegean Coastline. Gathered prettily around its harbour, Bodrum is just one popular beach town. Here the preferred method of travel is by sailboat or yacht and the most popular meals are made with the freshest bounty of the sea - served in the city’s nicest restaurants which line the coast. Bodrum gets more than a million visitors a year but retains a bougainvillea-shaded charm.
Fethiye is another beach favourite. On a broad bay dotted with pretty islands, Fethiye has one of the most beautiful natural harbours on the Turkish Mediterranean coast. It's also within a short drive of two of Turkey's most beautiful beaches - Çal Beach and Ölüdeniz.
For many people, Ephesus near Kusadasi, is the main reason to visit Turkey. This isn't just the best preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean, it's also a gladiator graveyard and home to some of the ancient world's most beautiful treasures. It is within a local bus journey of gorgeous Patara Beach, Kalkan has some gorgeous beaches of its own, including Kaputas Beach, plus it has more restaurants per square mile than anywhere else in Turkey. The area is well known and loved by divers and water sports enthusiasts. While you're down there you might want to consider strolling part of the Lycian Way, which stretches 500kms from Antalya to Fethiye.
With so many different aspects to this fascinating country there should not be a problem finding accommodation in the best places to stay in Turkey. The problem will be where to start.
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Turkish Aegean Coast (Mugla)
Tucked away in peaceful Gümüşlük, this adults-only boutique stay is just steps from the sea and local charm. Inside, expect natural tones, handmade furniture, and thoughtful touches that nod to Bodrum’s artistic flair. Some rooms come with sea-view balconies or in-room spa tubs. Truly relaxing.
Turkish Aegean Coast (Turkish Aegean Coast)
An adult-only boutique hotel perched above Selimiye. Its interiors channel a laid-back, easygoing charm, accented by simple wood furnishings and open, airy spaces. From al fresco dining with local seafood to an infinity pool on the terrace, it's a hub of activity and relaxation. A perfect escape.
Istanbul (Taksim)
An area of tranquillity in an otherwise busy part of Istanbul, this hotel offers everything needed for a break from the hectic city. Private garden, gym and traditional massage facilities offer a sense of calm, complimented by the Italian restaurant and bar. The hotel is almost emission free.
Istanbul (Grand Bazaar)
A chic contemporary hotel in the heart of the city. Architecturally impressive throughout, especially in the large central lobby. Rooms are smart and minimalist with floor to ceiling windows offering fabulous views. A sleek base to return to after a day spent exploring.
Izmir (Izmir)
Set in the heart of the city, The Key is a luxury-driven lifestyle hotel. The restaurant provides breathtaking sea views and international cuisine with Aegean flair. Bedrooms are stylish and chic, equipped with latest technology. Perfect for those seeking nightlife in a city with history.
Cappadocia (Ortahisar)
A sunny sandstone hotel in a lovely village. Rustic chic rooms and suites have creamy furnishings, light stone walls, and splashes of deep red. Wonderful terraces and views over beautiful landscapes. A chic, but understated spot to explore the region from.
Cappadocia (Kuscular Sokak No:43)
A stunning and unique hotel comprising of restored historical caves carved into soft stone cliffs of Kayakapi neighborhood, in Göreme National Park. Rooms highly luxurious with white-washed walls, antique furnishings and fireplaces. With Turkish baths, a gym, an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant.
Alaçatı (Çeşme)
This contemporary hotel is located in a traditional property in Alaçatı, Çeşme. Rooms are individually dressed using a pastel palette and with a focus on natural accents; the best suites have a pretty balcony. Relax by the hotel pool with a refreshing drink or wander the gardens; a stylish hotel.
Alaçatı (Çeşme)
This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Hacımemiş, Alaçatı. Rooms are individually styled and feature hand-selected antiques; the best offer split-level living space and a spa bath. Enjoy a delicious mezze breakfast before unwinding by the secluded courtyard pool. A chic and stylish stay.
Bodrum (Gündönümü Mevkii)
A sleek seaside hotel in contemporary chic style. White washed rooms and suites have splashes of the ocean, parquet floors, and private balconies with sea views. Excellent spa, swimming pool, and direct access to the sea. A fabulous choice for a beach holiday.
Bodrum (Turkish Aegean Coast )
Located on a hill with panoramic views of Bodrum Bay, this chic hotel blends contemporary design with artistic flair. Rooms are elegantly furnished, and the pool and terrace provide stunning sunset vistas. With a beach shuttle, spa, and gourmet dining options, it's ideal for a sophisticated getaway.
Antalya (Antalya)
This private villa enclave blends seclusion with indulgence, just off Turkey's Mediterranean coast. Think sunlit interiors, sleek kitchens, Bang & Olufsen speakers and your own seawater pool framed by lush greenery. From a private beach pavilion to an exclusive restaurant and cocktails. Idyllic.
Antalya (Antalya)
An all-inclusive opulent resort on Turkey's stunning Mediterranean coast. Interiors are chic and contemporary with undeniable style. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining, unwind at the expansive spa, or enjoy the multiple pools and bars. Everything you need for that extra-special getaway.