An unspoilt stretch of the Mediterranean offers beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, unique gastronomy and postcard-worthy landscapes. The Turkish Riviera has it all, but with so much to explore, where do you start? We've teamed up with Go Türkiye to help you plan your ultimate Mediterranean escape...
For laidback vibes
The Turkish Riviera embodies a leisurely way of life, and its breathtaking beaches with powdery sands and sapphire waters are perfect for unwinding. Head to Antalya, where palm-lined boulevards lead to a charming marina, itself surrounded by Kaleiçi, the city's historic quarter, brimming with timeless charm. Alternatively, Kaş offers quaint cafés, boutiques, and pottery shops nestled among cobbled streets. Meanwhile, the tranquil bays near Kekova Island and Kaleköy hide unspoiled coves you can admire on boat excursions.
For style
From boutique hotels carved into cliffs and yachts moored in serene bays, to stylish beach clubs that are perfect for sampling local rosé at sunset, the Turkish Riviera is the epitome of style. Head to Kalkan for whitewashed villas with infinity pools on sun-drenched terraces, while Kemer's top-tier resorts offer world-class comfort right between the rugged Taurus Mountains and Mediterranean waters. For avid golfers, Belek's five-star resorts boast championship courses designed by legendary names of the sport.
For gastronomy
Fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced is the essence of the food here. Think olive oil-drenched mezes, grilled fish fresh from the ocean, and farm-to-table produce, all served up by passionate and friendly locals. In Antalya, you'll find bustling markets and seaside restaurants, all serving up a host of Turkish classics. Tuck into traditional serpme kahvaltı breakfast, replenish at lunch with piyaz salads, or settle into one of the harbour-front meyhanes for a crisp glass of wine from the vineyards of Elmalı. Don't forget the yanık dondurma, a distinct smoky-flavoured ice cream found only in Antalya.
For intrepid explorers
A natural haven, the Turkish Riviera is packed with outdoor experiences. Hikers won't want to miss the Lycian Way, a famous 500km trail from Fethiye to Konyaaltı Beach. It attracts thousands of trekkers every year thanks to its pristine beaches, soaring hills and ancient Lycian ruins. For those who prefer to explore underwater, Kaş is a firm favourite with divers thanks to its ancient shipwrecks and colourful reefs. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers will love Köprülü Canyon, which is carved by the Köprüçay River and home to Türkiye's longest rafting course.
For ancient history
Türkiye's coastline is full of echoes of the Ancient World, be it Roman theatres, Lycian tombs or Eastern Roman (Byzantine) remains. Highlights include the Lycian city of Myra with its monumental rock-cut tombs, the Church of St. Nicholas dedicated to the 4th-century bishop who inspired Santa Claus, and the seaside Temple of Apollo in Side.
5 Beautiful historic spots not to miss
- The Lycian Way is a 500km-long tail starting at Fethiye through to Antalya
- Konyaaltı Beach, offering heaps of charming villages, ancient ruins and beautiful views along the way
- The sunken ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Simena are a must-visit
- Patara was home to the world's first parliament building, but also happens to boast an 11-mile stretch of golden sand - a pristine and untouched paradise
- The Museum of Lycian Civilisations brings Lycian history to life amid the ruins of the ancient port city of Andriake
For an authentic slice of Turkish life
For a slower pace of life, head to Finike, where locals enjoy weekly markets and sip tea by the sea. while Adrasan (Çavuşköy) offers a sleepy fishing village vibe. Alternatively, head into the Taurus Mountains and discover Ormana, previously named one of the world's best Tourism Villages by the UN thanks to its traditional "button houses" and rich culture.
Escape to the Turkish Riviera with inspiration from goturkiye.com.