Mediterranean Coast Holidays in Turkey

Turkey's Mediterranean Coast

Known as the ‘turquoise coast’ this beautiful area is the essence of Turkey.

Hugging the country’s southern coastline between the Greek island of Rhodes and neighbouring Cyprus, this is a timeless region where vibrant blue seas lap against a rocky coastline, olive groves and citrus cover the hillsides and the deep azure sky and ever-present sun shines down on a myriad of picturesque bougainvillea festooned white-washed small towns and villages. Discover ancient Greco-Roman ruins, enjoy the freshest of seafood, dine in traditional tavernas, play the ubiquitous game backgammon with a local or simply relax on one of the many beautiful beaches. This area was once the ancient kingdom of Lycia and there is plenty to see and do.

Explore Antalya’s old city and visit the ancient ruins at Perge, Aspendos and Side, then drive the spectacular coastal road west towards Fethiye. Stay in the charming harbour town of Kas with its cobbled streets and balconied homes, visit Demre, home of Saint Nicholas, hike Saklikent gorge or discover the evocative remains at Xanthos. The pristine coastline lends itself to relaxation with the white-washed houses of cosmopolitan Bodrum or less developed Datça Peninsula excellent options. Pettitts Travel have led the way in designing tailor-made holidays to Turkey and cultural tours of its Mediterranean coast for over 35 years.

Holiday Ideas for Turkey's Mediterranean Coast

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Turkey - An Olympian Odyssey

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When to visit Turkey's Mediterranean Coast

Similar to the rest of the Mediterranean region, it is possible to visit the southern coast of Turkey the year-round. Nevertheless, the vast number of visitors head here over the summer months to enjoy the settled weather, high temperatures, long days and warm seas. This is the ideal time for those looking for relaxation and guaranteed sunshine but, at the height of the summer, it may be too hot for travellers on a touring cultural holiday. Two other excellent times to visit Turkey’s southern coast, and also the best periods to explore the region’s classical sites, are the spring and autumn – particularly the last two weeks of September and the first two weeks of October. During these months temperatures are warm but not hot, chance of rainfall minimal and, in autumn, sea temperatures continue to be mild. The coolest two months of the year are January and February. At night it is not uncommon for temperatures to dip to 5°C, there can be cold winds, a higher risk of rainfall and days are regularly overcast.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

BEST TIME

GOOD TIME

LOW SEASON

OFF SEASON

This is a general overview suggesting when to travel in the country. Please note that this may not directly apply to any specific itinerary or region.

What to do on Turkey's Mediterranean Coast

Not only the premier destination in the country for those desiring a beach holiday, Turkey’s Mediterranean coast is also home to a number of well-preserved archaeological remains, some charming coastal towns and beautiful natural scenery. The historic town of Kas sits at the heart of the region, occupies a lovely position and, with its cobbled streets, wooden shuttered houses, traditional restaurants, sleepy bars and welcoming cafes, is a delightful place in which to spend a few days. From Kas it is possible to visit sleepy Kaleköy – its classical tombs, Kekova Island and the sunken city of Simena are particular highlights – the Greco-Roman remains of Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was once the capital of the ancient state of Lycia, or impressive Saklikent canyon. Further east along the coast explore Antalya, the ancient city of Perge and the ruins of Aspendos.