Top all-year round destinations to visit in Turkey

As the days get colder and the nights get longer, you might be dreaming about some place a little warmer and sunnier. And if you’re looking for a sunny getaway that’s not too far away from home, Turkey is perfect for all-year round sun. 

Home to beautiful sunshine and a stunning coastline to match, there’s no wonder Turkey continues to be at the top of travellers’ lists. Its Turquoise Coast, also known as the Turkish Riviera is dotted with fantastic resorts and cities steeped in history. So, let’s take a look at Turkey’s best all-year round destinations. 

Antalya

When it comes to Turkey holidays, Antalya is ever-popular. When it comes to Turkish winter sun holidays, Antalya’s popularity really does shine through. The Antalya region flaunts 400 miles of sun-kissed beaches and intimate coves. But the coast isn’t all that’s on offer here, as it is complemented by a backdrop of olive groves and the Taurus Mountains. 

Antalya is home to resorts like Side which boasts an upmarket yacht marina and unique boutiques. As well as Belek, known for its beachfront golf courses, and Lara Beach and Kemer which offer luxury hotels. Then there’s Alanya which has a great blend of beaches, bars and shopping.

For all the glitz and glamour Antalya offers, it’s also the perfect place to experience Turkey’s traditional side. Antalya town is full of life thanks to buzzing bazaars, historical Ottoman architecture and authentic restaurants serving tasty Turkish cuisine. Side has its fair share of history too, from Roman baths and the Byzantine basilica to the Temple of Apollo. 

Fethiye, Turkey

Fethiye

Fethiye is a great all-year round destination as it reaches highs of 18C in December. It’s a great spot if you’re looking to mix gorgeous beaches with traditional markets, a vibrant old town and lovely bars and restaurants. The nearest beach is at Calis which can easily be reached by a bus or water taxi. This stretch of beach is lined with bars and restaurants, so there are plenty of lunch spots to enjoy after you’ve taken a dip. 

Fethiye’s town was rebuilt after it was hit by an earthquake in 1958 so it is mostly modern. However, the old quarter offers up dainty cobbled streets lined with gift shops and cosy cafes – perfect for an authentic Turkish coffee. 

If you’re looking for a daytrip from Fethiye, head to Butterfly Valley which is just a boat away. It’s great for nature lovers as it has stunning scenery of cliffs, white sands and butterflies!

Bodrum

Bodrum is another of Turkey’s most popular summer hotspots, but it’s also a fantastic winter sun destination too. The city sits on the Bodrum Peninsula which stretches from Turkey’s southwest coast into the Aegean Sea.

Also situated on Turkey’s southern coastline, Bodrum is of course a hit for its sunny beaches. Many of Bodrum’s resorts, like Bodrum Town, Bitez, Gumbet and Turgutreis offer a mixture of beach, vibrant nightlife, delicious restaurants and shopping. For fewer crowds, try Torba or Turkbaku for beaches, ancient charm and luxury. 

Bodrum is full of fascinating historical sights both around the city and nearby. You can take a daytrip to Ephesus which is one of the best preserved classical cities to explore. If you choose to stay in Altinkum you’ll be just a 10-minute drive from the ancient Ionian site of Didyma. 

Izmir

Izmir is another city situated along Turkey’s Aegean Coast and is another hit as a winter sun destination. Whether you fancy a bit of rest and relaxation or an adrenaline-fuelled windsurfing session, Izmir’s beaches offer up plenty of fun activities. 

In terms of Izmir’s resorts, Kusadasi is perhaps the most popular and it won’t disappoint for a winter sun break. It’s a brilliant resort for families, thanks to the bright sandy beaches and shallow waters. Aside from the beaches, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink, thanks to tons of restaurants to suit your budget. And if you’re looking for a traditional experience in Kusadasi, head to the Grand Bazaar and haggle your way through to get your hands on anything from flavoursome spices and hand-made rugs to Turkish prints and stained glass lamps. 

On the other hand, Izmir Town has a stunning waterfront and is actually Turkey’s third-largest city. The harbour is full of amazing views, tasty restaurants and eateries showcasing those before-mentioned epic views and a pier lined with tropical palms. For your dose of history, you can also head to Ephesus which is just a 20-minute drive from Kusadasi. As one of the best preserved Roman sites in the world, you’ll be taken back in time as you walk amongst libraries, gymnasiums and an amphitheatre, still intact.

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There you have the top all-year round destinations in Turkey! Why not let an ABTA member travel company take care of your winter sun plans for you? Find your local ABTA member and travel with confidence.