Holidays in Turkey combine dramatically diverse landscapes, modern tourist resorts, and historical and archaeological riches. The country offers a beautifully diverse landscape, with coastline on three sides, 300 natural lakes, snow-capped mountains, lush hillsides and winding rivers. Turkey, 'the cradle of civilization' boasts a long history dating back to the Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Greeks and Ottomans. Ancient cities, shrines, ruins and monuments scatter the landscape - legacies from these ancient times.
Turkey's dramatic landscapes secure its year-round popularity. The sultry Turkish summers stretch between April and October and attract sun-worshippers, while the winter months are popular with skiers who head to the Anatolian and Taurus mountains. Holidays in Turkey centre round the spectacular 5000-mile coastline, which draws thousands of visitors to its golden sandy beaches, turquoise seas, picturesque harbours, traditional villages and modern tourist resorts. Turkey's modern tourist infrastructure offers a good choice of accommodation to suit all budgets, restaurants, bars and evening entertainment. Active tourists can try their hand at water sports, cycling, climbing and even white-water rafting.
Beach holidays in Turkey are often set on either: the Aegean Coast, the Turkish Riviera or Western Turkey. The Aegean Coast offers beautiful sandy beaches and palm-lined promenades juxtaposed against archaeological sites, including the hilltop city of Pergamum, the temples of Ephesus, and the 3000-year-old ruins of Troy. The Turkish Riviera, the 'Turquoise Coast', features more than 600 miles of golden coastline sprinkled with pretty harbours and ancient villages. On the western side of Turkey, lies Dalaman - renowned for its outstanding natural beauty. Here visitors will find lush landscapes, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wealth of wildlife.