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About Turkey

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.

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.

Where to stay?

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.

What not to Miss

  • Historic Turkey is all around you, but this is especially apparent in Istanbul. The centre is littered with ancient relics. Fom Roman catacombs to Byzantine battlements to Ottoman palaces (many of which have been converted to hotels) and the graceful domes of mosques and Orthodox churches.
  • The world famous Blue Mosque is a great starting point for exploring this rich heritage. The Hagia Sophia is an incredible museum that is a must for anyone interested in the city's history. And if you only see one or two of Istanbul’s palaces it should be Topkapi and/or Dolmabahçe.
  • The labyrinthine Grand Bazaar encapsulates Istanbul's manic market life. Also look out for the wondrous Spice Bazaar.
  • The Basilica of Saint John in Selcuk, close to Epheses, was built in the 4th-century and is the burial place of Saint John the Divine. Designed in the shape of a cross with six domes, it's a wonderful spot that's made all the better by a visit with a tour guide.
  • If you're looking for opportunities to explore the interior, Saklikent Gorge is a great hiking spot close to Fethiye which is also the start of the Lycian Way.
  • Fethiye is probably the only town in the world where you'll find sarcophagus in the streets that are beautifully lit up at night. These Lycian relics, like the wonderful tombs cut into the cliffs above the town, give Fethiye a totally unique look and feel.
  • The Dalayan Delta also has some incredible rock tombs and it’s a day trip out of Dalaman. As is the sunken city of Simena at Kekova.
  • Take to the air over Ölüdeniz, and maybe over Cappadocia too? Cappadocia’s landscape is even more breathtaking from the air, when you're looking down on the 'fairy chimneys' - eroding volcanic pillars rising out of the land - and peach coloured gorges. The colours at sunset are really something special.
  • Göreme ’s Open Air Museum is also deserving of your attention.

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.

The best places to stay in Turkey

In Istanbul

  • The Hotel Les Ottomans is a must for those who love over the top luxury. The pool terrace is lavish and the rooms make you feel like a Sultan or Sultana.
  • In the heart of the historic Sultanahmet District, Sari Konak offers elegant and great value rooms, including triple suites for groups or families. Plus a roof terrace with fabulous views.
  • The Seven Hills Hotel boasts eighteen rooms and suites decorated in Ottoman style. The main draw is the incredible roof top restaurant with breathtaking views and great seafood.
  • The Georges Hotel Galata focuses on elegant simplicity. Mixing high-quality design with laidback glamour, this hotel is a magnificent place to relax. Enjoy fantastic French cuisine and stunning views out over the city.
  • Offering stylish self-contained rooms with kitchenettes, Ansen Suites is a great city centre option. Parquet floors, inventive modern design features and standalone baths all come together to create a edgy modern hotel.

On the Aegean Coastline

  • Caresse is a 5* beachfront resort located right on the Aegean Sea outside Bodrum. With plush contemporary suites, a wonderful spa and two excellent restaurants, it's a top-notch spot. Wonderfully romantic.
  • The sleek Doria Hotel offers whitewashed rooms with parquet floors, the odd splash of colour, private balconies and stunning sea views. Located in Bitez, a few miles west of Bodrum, this seaside stay also has a luxurious spa to help you fully unwind.
  • Naz Han is the one to book if you want to be near to Ephesus. It's also right in the heart of Selcuk and has an excellent restaurant.

In Cappadocia

  • The Fairy Chimney Inn is one of the best places to stay in Cappadocia if you're looking for a traditional Turkish cave hotel experience. Rooms are decoratively sparse with wonderful rugs and local textiles. There are impressively carved fireplaces and many nooks and crannies. Some rooms sleep up to six, so this is also ideal for families.
  • Kayakapi Premium Caves is a stunning and unique hotel comprising of restored historical caves carved into the soft stone cliffs of Kayakapi neighbourhood in Göreme National Park.
  • The charming Gamirasu Cave set within a system of caves in the rural Turkish village of Ayvali. The elegant rooms are full of character with antique furnishings and exposed vaulted ceilings.
  • If you don't like the idea of sleeping below ground but you still want a cave hotel experience, the Sultan Cave Suites are an excellent compromise. This regal house is cut into the side of a cliff, so while some of the 30 rooms are cut into the rock they're not below the earth - the impressive views of Göreme are a bonus as well.
  • If you're looking for a high end hotel experience book the Cappadocia Cave Resort. This is a big hotel - there are 79 rooms - built into the hillside with stunning views of the valleys below. As well as the theatrical setting this resort has several fabulous restaurants, cavernous rooms and suites and an impressive spa.

For a Beach Break

  • The gorgeous Kempinski Barbaros Bay outside Bodrum, has its own private sandy beach and marina. The private deck views are spectacular and it has seven restaurants and bars, plus a sybaritic spa.
  • Book Villa Konak if you want an inexpensive, friendly, sunny base. There's a lovely high walled garden, a library of holiday left-behinds and the owners love a chat. About anything. It's only a few minutes from the harbour at Kusadasi.
  • D Hotel enjoys a terrific location set amidst pine forests, volcanic mountains and right on the waterfront of the beautiful Datcha peninsula. Boasting chic and upmarket accommodation, this stylish spot offers access to no less than 5 private beaches! Plus, there are 6 restaurants to try as well as a spa to help you fully rejuvenate.

To Relax

  • Markiz Konaklari is a traditional Turkish country house located in Sirince, 8km outside Selcuk. This rustic property offers traditional accommodation complete with four poster beds, stone walls and wooden beams. Relax in the lovely garden and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

For Honeymooners

  • The Museum Hotel in Cappadocia is an especially warm and magical cave hotel - probably because these are some of the most opulent caves you'll have ever see. With charming antiques, subtle lighting, large warm spaces and hot tubs. The Museum Hotel also has one of Cappadocia's best restaurants.
  • If you’re looking for something a bit quirky, book the Villa Gokbel, where every bedroom is different. Some have spectacular views over the Dalyan delta and all are full of character.
  • The Deniz Feneri Lighthouse enjoys a wonderful location atop a peninsula overlooking the sea. Boasting incredibly chic private villas oozing understated class - complete with hot tubs and private pools - you can also tuck into first-rate cuisine from the restaurant. A lovely retreat close to Kalkan.
  • Also in Kalkan, the Likya Gardens are perfect for a honeymoon. This luxurious boutique hotel right on the seafront offers guests private balconies with private pools, all the mod. cons. you might need and stylish white decor. What's more, you even have your own butler!

For Walkers

  • The Villa Mandarin, perched on the cliffs with spectacular beach views over Fethiye, is perfect for walkers. It's an eight room country house with plenty of charm, sea views from private balconies and gourmet Turkish food. If you plan to explore the Lycian Way they have special weeks with guided walks during April, May and October.
  • Argos in Cappadocia is a collection of beautiful stone houses and suites set into a hillside. There are 53 luxurious rooms with stone walls and sumptuous furnishings - some of the rooms have hot tubs and terraces with spectacular views over the surrounding landscape.
  • The Kamarca House Hotel is a woodland hideaway owned by a chef, located just outside the resort of Dalaman. Inside antiques and contemporary furniture complement each other and whirlpool baths have been fitted as standard, outside there’s a lovely pool and terrace restaurant.
  • The Golden Key Bordubet outside Marmaris, is surrounded by wetlands and forests which are home to many birds. There are 22 light, modern, country-style rooms with balconies overlooking the river or the forest. There’s a restaurant on site, plus a bar, pool, tennis courts and a spa.

For an Apartment or Villa

If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Istanbul’s Atatürk International Airport is Turkey’s main point of entry, but you can also fly to Ankara Esenboğa Airport, which might be useful to you if you’re heading to one of the Mediterranean resorts. Some charter and low-cost airlines use Sabiha Gökçen Airport, which is about 50kms east of Istanbul. Unfortunately you can’t arrive in Istanbul on the Orient Express anymore, but you can still arrive by train if that’s your preference, with the most obvious option being the TransBalkan from Budapest via Bucharest.
  • If you wish to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
  • To say that Turkey’s climate is varied is an understatement. The Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines have a typically Mediterranean climate, with hot, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. The Black Sea region is protected by the Caucasus Mountains and is the rainiest part of the country, but also very warm and humid. Around Istanbul the climate is something in between with warm summers where showers last for short periods, and winters are cold.

Still not sure?

See all » 50 hôtels in Turkish Aegean Coast

  • Otel Antikhan Izmir (MezarlikbasiIzmir) 30 rooms from $38

    Local exploring  -  Well placed in the city centre, perfect for exploring the rabbit warren streets of this ancient city.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Roman ruins of Ephesus, a must for any visitor to this area.
    Local markets  -  Haggle for goods at Kemeraltı Market, just steps from the hotel.
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Characterful property in a central location. Pretty central courtyard filled with bougainvillea. Simple, traditional rooms - some with three beds makes this, along with the very reasonable rates, an ideal choice for families. See More

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  • Amazon Petite Palace No:33 Selcuk 10 rooms from $48

    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of Selcuk and ancient Ephesus with many of the sights within walking distance
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Ephesus ruins, which includes the remains of a temple which was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world
    Restaurant  -  Serving traditional Turkish cuisine
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolParkingNo pets

    A charming traditional property set in the heart of historic Selcuk. Characterful rooms feature wooden floors, beamed ceilings and exposed brickwork. Set around a courtyard that houses a small pool (ideal for a post sightseeing dip) this is a friendly and well-priced base for exploring the area. See More

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See all » 38 hôtels in Istanbul

  • Ansen Suites Istanbul (Meşrutiyet Cd No:70) 10 rooms from $61

    City Style
    Sights nearby  -  Many sites accessible on foot including the Istanbul Modern Art Museum
    Local markets  -  A short walk from the Fish Market
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Air conditioningRestaurant
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A sophisticated collection of apartments with kitchenettes in a bustling area of Istanbul. Chic contemporary suites have parquet floors, quirky interior design, all the mod cons and stand alone bath tubs. A stylish spot for couples and families. See More

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  • Portus House Istanbul Istanbul (Mumhane Cd No:31) 10 rooms from $66

    Value chic
    Sights nearby  -  Within walking distance of both Sultanahmet and Taksim
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    ViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A small simple guesthouse close to the Bosphorus. Charming contemporary rooms have white walls, exposed brickwork and splashes of colour. A great location and excellent value. See More

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See all » 20 hôtels in Bodrum

  • Su Hotel & Cottages Bodrum 25 rooms from $67

    Families  -  This reasonably priced and chic reosrt is ideal for families with lovely gardens and and close proximity to the beach.
    Sailing  -  Take a day trip round the Aegean on a wooden Gulet, perfect for a family activity or a romantic trip.
    Sights nearby  -  Close to the Antique Theatre and the Crusader Castle.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor Pool.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Designer style and comfort at an affordable price. A small peaceful oasis in a quiet cul-de-sac. The bright white walls of the 'cubist' complex of rooms, suites with kitchenettes, and two-bedroom apartments surround a lovely swimming pool. A secluded choice for families and groups. See More

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  • Sah Hotel Bodrum 12 rooms from $78

    Value chic
    Sea Views  -  Located on the seafront
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
    Diving  -  Good diving nearby.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGarden

    A contemporary seaside hotel just outside Bodrum. Spacious rooms simply decorated. Lovely garden and pool. Walking distance to beaches and restaurants. A great value spot for a no frills beach holiday. See More

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See all » 14 hôtels in Alaçatı

  • Ev Bharat Alaçatı (Çeşme) 10 rooms from $72

    Total relaxation  -  With a pool, restaurant and massage treatments available on-site, this hotel offers guests the opportunity to completely relax
    Beach Life  -  Located close to the beautiful Alaçatı coastline, this hotel makes a great base for a beach holiday
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love this hotel's cosy guestrooms and the outdoor pool
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre in Çeşme, located close to the hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    This boutique hotel is located in Cesme, Alacatı. Rooms are bright and simply dressed, with natural accents bringing the coast inside; the best suites have exposed stone walls and a private terrace. Unwind by the crystalline outdoor pool or in the verdant hotel gardens. A chic home away from home. See More

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  • IncirliEv Alaçatı (Çeşme İzmir) 8 rooms from $89

    Full of character
    Value chic
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Air conditioningGarden
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A charming boutique hotel. Traditional elements combined with contemporary chic. Lovely white washed rooms with four poster beds and parquet floors. A quaint inner courtyard garden and breakfast room. Easy access to beaches, and good value. See More

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See all » 13 hôtels in Cappadocia

  • Fairy Chimney Inn Goreme (Aydinli Mahallesi) 14 rooms from $61

    Groups  -  Some rooms sleep up to 6.
    Value chic
    Families
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    RestaurantViews

    A rustic hotel that offers a traditional Turkish experience. Rooms (some sleep up to 6) are sparse in decoration with stone walls, killim rugs, and fireplaces. Fantastic authentic Turkish cuisine and cooking lessons. A great value choice for groups of friends and families exploring the area. See More

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  • Sultan Cave Suites Goreme 30 rooms from $89

    Views  -  Wonderful views over the surrounding countryside from the stone terraces
    Great walks  -  Fantastic walking and hiking in the area
    Restaurant  -  Serving traditional Antaolian dishes
    Sights nearby  -  Cappadocia Cultural Centre on site
    RestaurantGardenViewsParking

    A wonderfully traditional Sultanesque house with huge cavernous rooms. Bedrooms and suites are sparsely decorated but elegant with stone walls, attractive beds, and killim rugs. Lovely open-air restaurant and lots to do in the hills around. See More

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See all » 7 hôtels in Selcuk

  • Amazon Petite Palace No:33 Selcuk 10 rooms from $48

    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of Selcuk and ancient Ephesus with many of the sights within walking distance
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Ephesus ruins, which includes the remains of a temple which was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world
    Restaurant  -  Serving traditional Turkish cuisine
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolParkingNo pets

    A charming traditional property set in the heart of historic Selcuk. Characterful rooms feature wooden floors, beamed ceilings and exposed brickwork. Set around a courtyard that houses a small pool (ideal for a post sightseeing dip) this is a friendly and well-priced base for exploring the area. See More

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  • Naz Han Selcuk (1044 Sokak) 12 rooms from $78

    Local exploring  -  Relaxed and well located, just steps away from St. John's Basilica in Selçuk with a shuttle service to the famed Ephesus.
    Sights nearby  -  Explore Ephesus the trade centre of the ancient world.
    Restaurant  -  Home style cooking.
    Traditional
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    Quaint small hotel with roof terrace and leafy courtyard in the heart of Selcuk's old quarter. Traditional fabrics and artefacts bring colour to white washed rooms with exposed stone. Home cooked food served in the courtyard. A well priced property to explore the local area. See More

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See all » 6 hôtels in Uçhisar

  • Taskonaklar Rocky Palace Uçhisar 18 rooms from $100

    Value chic
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Private Hot Tub  -  Some suites come with private outdoor hot tub
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    RestaurantGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    An excellent value boutique hotel with stunning views. Traditional rooms and suites combine history and romance. Stone walls, killim rugs, fireplaces and stepped terraces. An excellent choice for a couple or family, plenty to explore in the immediate surrounds. See More

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  • Kale Konak Uçhisar (Nevsehir) 14 rooms from $133

    Views  -  Breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside and Argeus Mountain
    Sights nearby  -  Situated right next door to Uchisar Castle
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Traditional
    ViewsParking

    A traditional Turkish building at the highest point of Uchisar. More medieval rustic than rustic chic. Large traditional rooms and suites with no frills attached. Stunning views and easy access to restaurants and outdoor pursuits. A great value choice for a family. See More

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See all » Other hôtels in Turkey

  • LuCe Design Hotel Alacati, Turkey 10 rooms from $110

    Local exploring  -  The hotel is nestled in the heart of Alacati, just a few minutes walk from all the main restaurants and pretty streets
    Foodies  -  The hotel uses local produce from neighbouring villages, such as baked goods, jams and olive oils
    Hideaway  -  Escape the bustle of Alacati and spend your days relaxing in the garden or by the pool
    Local markets  -  Markets in Alacati and the neighbouring villages sell local produce
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenNo pets

    Enjoy the rustic charm and comfort of LuCe hotel, just a 3-minute walk from the heart of Alacati. This hotel offers a modern take on traditional wood decor. After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, relax by the outdoor pool or explore town. Each room and villa has its own unique, eclectic style. See More

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