This area comprises 600 miles of beautiful sandy beaches like Konyaalti Beach and lovely welcoming beach towns such as Kas and Kalkan. Not the most ideal situation but fine for a night or two. This coastline is primarily in the Mediterranean, with a smaller section in the Aegean coastal regions, which help provide the area with its turquoise waters. Sophie has been travelling around South America since September 2019. All three are international airports, so its best to base your chosen airport on where you plan to spend most of your trip. Couples and friend groups will enjoy visiting the White Garden Hotel as it has an adults-only policy. By the way, its pronounced cahsh. Along the Black Sea and Mediterranean coastlines, the land is lower and quite fertile. Turkey occupies an area of 783,356 sq. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Home Blog Destinations Turkey Mediterranean Turkish Riviera: Guide to Turkeys Turquoise Coast. The legal drinking age in Turkey is 18 years old, so if youre traveling with college-aged children, they are able to have a glass of wine with you. Contents 1 External boundaries 2 Regions 2.1 Black Sea Region 2.2 Marmara Region 2.3 Aegean Region 2.4 Mediterranean Region 2.5 Central Anatolia Region 2.6 Eastern Anatolia Region 2.7 Southeastern Anatolia Region 3 Geology 4 Climate 5 Land use 6 Natural hazards 7 Environment This is a huge bummer and has to do with the Turkish governments ongoing feud with the company. Approximately 10km from Fethiye sits Oludeniz and its gorgeous long beach and famous Blue Lagoon. But if you are curious about the cultural (and political) capital of Turkey Ive got some food + lodging recommendations for you. Is the Japan Rail Pass Worth It? In the western section, between the Sakarya and Kzl rivers, there are four main ridges: the Kre, Bolu, Ilgaz, and Krolu mountains. Olympos. For Cappadocia, youll want to go to the town of Greme (where the balloons are) + where youll likely stay. If this is your first taste of Turkish beaches then you are in for a treat. Antalya Shop like a local in the markets of Turkey! The area is a site of natural protection meaning there is no great development here. Along the southern coast of Turkey, and in the short stretch of coast north of Syria, the climate is still Mediterranean, though warmer than on the west coast, and even more so than on the Black Sea coast. Both Fethiye and Antalya have nearby international airports which connect to most European cities. All Rights Reserved, Photography & content cannot be used without our permission. We use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience, to analyse our traffic, and to serve personalised content and advertisements. The West Coast has an abundance of produce and natural food resources, and some of the most talented and influential chefs in the world. Datca is a lovely town filled with relaxing beaches and coves to explore. Fethiye. This is why it can be beneficial to give yourself more time in Istanbul. That and the delicious traditional Turkish food at Heira Cafe. Here are five reasons why. Again just check out my quick guide to the best food + cafes in Istanbul. Chanel West Coast stunned in a strappy dress featuring high boots and an . Ela Excellence Resort in Belek is a wonderful family-friendly option if youre looking for all-inclusive luxury accommodations on the Turkish Riviera. Thinly sliced meat laid over crispy pita croutons topped with tomato sauce + then drenched in several sticks worth of melted butter poured onto your plate tableside. Dont miss hiking up to the Eternal Flames and exploring the ancient ruins of Olympos during your stay. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Hi Jess! 12/31/2022. Of course, the Bodrum Airport will take you directly to Bodrum. Being part of a national park and a breeding ground for turtles means that the beach remains undeveloped and therefore very peaceful. And it was actually my favorite part of our 6-week visit to Turkey. I recommend booking as much as you can before you arrive in Turkey. Travel to the Turkish Riviera for a fun-filled, adventurous trip with your family. Enjoy the beach and all of the outdoor activities that Cirali has to offer. Wow seeing all of the Mediterranean would be an exciting accomplishment! This city is well-known for its breathtaking nature scenes and plentiful historic sites. Guide to Turkeys Turquoise Coast (Beautiful Places to Visit), I agree to my personal data (email) being stored and used to receive the newsletter. Over-hunting and cutting forests for farmland drove the bird close to extinction in the . The buses in Turkey are very comfortable considering. The Turkish Riviera is best visited in a relaxed manner that aligns with the vibes of the region. The Turkish Rivera looks absolutely gorgeous! The three main airport hubs that lie on the coast include the Antalya Airport, Dalaman Airport, and Bodrum Airport. Any questions about planning your Turkish itinerary? Kabak is a nesting ground for turtles so you cant camp on the beach, but there are plenty of campsites just behind it, as well as hotels and guesthouses. [Read full bio]. Great pide (like a Turkish version of Pizza) for lunch. All Rights Reserved. Spending time in any of the lovely areas of the Turkish Riviera is a treat. The Lycian Rock tombs on are quite a site to see. & the town is incredibly small. The pros of living on the Turquoise Coast. Western Turkey Tours & Trips Find the right Turkey package for you through Western Turkey. Its also close to the marine and the market in Marmaris. In the 1200 square meter living area, there are 5 bedrooms with a perfectly designed private room on an area of 88 square meters, and two lounge . If you have an extra day or two, you can take a road trip to one of the smaller beach towns. Were an American Turkish couple whove worked in the tourism industry and traveled extensively in Turkey. the turkey of the west coast sometimes. Depending on the town or community youre visiting, you can expect to find trails that lead along mountains, waterfalls, caves, and many beaches. Its also home to Hangar Bar, the best bar in town. Deals of The Week:Europe awaits! Its one of the great long-distance hiking trails in the world, but at an estimated 29 days to complete the trek, you may not have the time nor the energy for the whole thing. This length will allow you to try the various restaurants, explore the area, see the historic sites, and take part in a blue cruise. This 5-star hotel also has a wellness center with four pools and a spa. Most villas have infinity pools, luxury amenities and options for a professional chef and tours. However, head slightly east and youll find Turkeys aptly nicknamed turquoise coast. Steep slopes are common throughout the country, and flat or gently sloping land makes up barely one-sixth of the total area. The town of Oludeniz and the top of Butterfly Valley are both reachable via small local buses. Your email address will not be published. It takes either 15 or 25 minutes depending on the end destination. Kalkan, a fishing town, has many offerings regarding food and rooftop restaurants that allow you to see the pristine beaches and water while enjoying a meal. Koprulugu National Park is a top spot for those interested in rafting. The latter sits amongst an almost 600-hectare natural park so is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The guide has everything you need to know for your first trip to Turkey. Almost all travelers who linger here are planning to embark on the Lycian Way. Few hostels, guesthouses, and even fewer typical tourist attractions indicate that the city is not a common stopover for foreign tourists. Im really excited to visit now that I know there are so many things to see other than the beautiful beaches. Turkmen tribes invaded Anatolia in the 11th century ce, founding the Seljuq empire; during the 14th century the Ottoman Empire began a long expansion, reaching its peak during the 17th century. But Evan is a history nerd and wouldnt let us leave without seeing Ephesus firsthand. There are so many options of things to do on the Turkish Riviera! We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. They only offer a handful of dishes (despite the bulky menu they give you) but thats fine because what you want is the Iskender. Or the Southwest coast aka Turkey's Turquoise Coast. While children can participate in this activity, its generally not safe (or allowed) for those under 12. Thank you for your support. Enjoy a continental breakfast before your daily excursions here. In fact, this is the only way to get to the beach at Butterfly Valley, as the walk down the cliff from the nearby town of Faralya has now been cordoned off for being too dangerous. We may get a referral fee at no cost to you if you click on our links and make a purchase. This pension has stunning Kaleii-style architecture, a pool, a rooftop terrace, and epic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains. The modern Turkish republic, founded in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, is a nationalist, secular, parliamentary democracy. The lovely rooftop restaurant offers organic seafood dishes and locally sourced wine. We've got 127 adventures going to Western Turkey, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. I found it to be a lovely relaxing stopover (with again, some great local eats) with a beautiful seaside boardwalk for strolling + a European vibe you dont find in most other places in Turkey. If you like being outside and exploring, this area can't be beaten. Love your posts! Despite the odd name, this little restaurant is unassumingly inside an old house right across from the site of the Temple of Artemis. Up to 50% OFF. The real reason we ended up in Ankara was the Iranian Embassy. They even have some incredible wild camp spots marked for travelers. Thanks for your support. Kas is another charming town in the Antalya province that features lively nightlife options and many restaurants to visit. Theres a lovely garden where you can enjoy meals or a drink in the shade of the grapevines. Unlike every other blogger in the world it seems, when I first arrived in Istanbul I hated it. Its not on the menu but its their specialty. Although it is home to another beautiful beach, it doesnt feel like a seaside town. What it lacks in stuff to do + see, it makes up for with great food. Theres tons of history in the area but its up to you how deep you want to dive into ruins + biblical caves. From Oludeniz, follow the Lycian Way to Faralya, the village sitting above Butterfly Valley, and either book into a hotel or camp overlooking the valley. This hotel features various restaurants and bars with cuisine ranging from authentic Turkish to global dishes. Si Woo Kim pulls off some late heroics, the PGA Tour kicks off the West Coast swing, LIV Golf readies for more disruption and more in this week's edition of the Monday Scramble: We stayed at Boomerang Hostel + Guesthouse. Here is our full guide to the best eats in Antalya. Nearby, Knidos, an ancient Hellenic city, is waiting to be traversed. The cafe is actually reservation only after COVID. These provinces are further subdivided into 937 districts and smaller subdivisions. We're in our 30s and are keen to experience a mixture of relaxation, nature, history and city sights. Greece, Iraq, Georgia, Syria, Bulgaria, Iran, Armenia, Azerbaijan. Images and other credits What is your recommended itinerary in early April along the coast to please both adults and kids? Kas is filled with jewel-colored waters, sunken cities, and is very popular with wealthy resort tourists. If you are at all a fan of the outdoors or hiking you have to at least hike the route for a day or two. Antalya. This itinerary is just enough to give you a taste of Turkey. Olympos to Kas: Catch a dolmus (around 9 AM) in Olympos to the top of the hill and wait for a bus to Kas. Diving is another excellent way to explore the Turkish Riviera. This mid-budget villa in Kas offers guests minimalistic rooms with lovely Sea views. Turkey is located in the Northern and Eastern Hemispheres of the Earth. Best locations for short getaways in Turkey: 1. Visit at night to see this unique attraction in its full glory. alis Market Best form of transport while in Turkey: 1. Kas. Since there are many towns and cities on the Turkish Riviera, there are quite a few accommodation options that range from luxury 5-star hotels to budget stays and villas. The west coast of Turkey is full off must-go-to towns. This 10 day Turkey Itinerary covers some of the must-do locations just like the Iceland itinerary covered the best of the South coast. Find something that suits your pocket or adventure type, and check in weekly for fresh new deals. Turkey is number four in the world for top producers of wine grapes. Whats In My Backpack: The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Packing List, 30 Useful Gifts to Give Backpackers & Travel Lovers. You can also take a tour to see the eternal flames of Chimera. There's more than 600 miles of this spectacular shoreline, extending from the province of Antalya in the south to the Cesme peninsula in the north. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. We will be traveling by boat and are flexible, just starting to explore the area. This fruit is one of the most exported Turkish fruits. Each room comes with a balcony for a panoramic view of the area. Huge rocky karsts (popular with rock climbers) jut from the green mountains and this small community set on a river sits between them. 1. Patara, on the other hand, is home to 12km of pure sandy beach making it one of the best beaches to visit in Turkey. Make a reservation as soon as you arrive to ensure they can accommodate you for dinner. Sometimes called Iskender Kebap. Ill share the route from Istanbul as your starting point since that will be most helpful for the majority of people. A car rental is also ideal if you plan any road trips or day trips while visiting the Turkey Turquoise Coast. Ephesus was once the capital of Roman Asia Minor. Only a short walk from the centre of town, these impressive tombs were built by the ancient Lycians in 4th Century BC. But then a marked drop to 27C for Wednesday. In the southeast the Uludoruk Peak reaches 15,563 feet (4,744 metres); though further west, the Demirkazk Peak (12,320 feet [3,755 metres]) and Mount Aydos (11,414 feet [3,479 metres]) are also significant peaks. Well, all of this can be found on Turkeys southern coast. Whilst all of the beaches along the Turquoise Coast are beautiful, most are made up of small pebbles or a mixture of pebbles and sand. It only departs twice per day, however. Patara. This hotel is in the center of Bodrum City, so the Bodrum Castle, beach, and Bodrum Airport are only a short distance from this accommodation. At sunset, climb to the top of the sand dunes for beautiful views over the coastline as the sun sets in the distance. Cirali is the perfect beach getaway with you family to wind down and take it slow. Especially if you plan on flying in one of the hot air balloons. This voyage is not meant to be a port hopping experience. Pat dry with paper towels. Night Two: Kabak (hike out + back to Paradise Beach). It was one of the only cheap options we could find in the city. Ararat which peaks at 16,948 ft. (5,166m). Along the coast of Turkey resides the picturesque Turkish Riviera. hello this is a test. Privacy Policy Change Settings These include cookies that affect the functionality of the site, such as for our shop to work, your consent to be logged through the privacy centre, security through Cloudflare, as well as non-personalised advertisements and website analytics. They make a handful of mezze dishes each night and a few local specialties. Patara, on the other hand, is home to 12km of pure sandy beach making it one of the best beaches to visit in Turkey. These cruises are ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and friend groups. But you can spend a week or two beach-hopping and hiking along Turkeys Turquoise Coast with this 2-week itinerary on a budget quite easily. Im excited to help you plan the best trip possible, and share all of my favorite travel resources! West of Antalya a complex series of ridges with a north-south trend reaches 6,500 to 8,200 feet (2,000 to 2,500 metres), but the most prominent feature is the massive Taurus (Toros) mountain system, running parallel to the Mediterranean coast and extending along the southern border. multiparty republic with one legislative house (Grand National Assembly of Turkey [600, Mustafa Kemal and the Turkish War of Independence, 191923, The Fundamental Law and abolition of the sultanate, World War II and the postwar era, 193850, Military intervention and coalition governments, AKP challenges Kemalist, military entrenchment, An emboldened Erdoan and the AKP face resistance, AKP under pressure: failed coup attempt, crackdown on dissidents, and economic crisis, Early Cold War: Western-oriented policy and membership in NATO and CTO, Late Cold War: 1974 Cyprus crisis and balancing relations with the West and the Soviet Union, Post-Cold War: Neoliberalism, attempt to join the European Union, and the zero problems doctrine, Erdoan era: Clash and cooperation with Russia in regional affairs, Turkish involvement in the Arab Spring and the Syrian Civil War, Turkish intervention in the Libyan Civil War, Central Intelligence Agency - The World Factbook - Turkey, Turkey - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11), Turkey - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up), The Ottoman Empire at its greatest extent. We may get a fee at no cost to you if you book something. Structurally, the country lies within the geologically young folded-mountain zone of Eurasia, which in Turkey trends predominantly east to west. Whatever you dont skip Paradise Beach. Super cheap, tasty, and you get unlimited tea with your meal. Learn how your comment data is processed. & then either rent a tent or rely on guesthouses in each of the stops mentioned above. Hoteliers in Antalya, which has received serious immigration from two countries since the start of the war in Ukraine, have proposed that the invoices and accommodation documents to be given to the tourists staying in small and medium-sized hotels be accepted as lease contracts. Rafting is another adventurous activity that visitors try while in Antalya. Oranges are considered a winter fruit on the Turquoise Coast. In high season, Olympos is filled with trekkers (from the Lycian Way) and party backpackers. One advantage of Turkey is its long summer, with temperatures staying warm enough for the beach from April all the way through to mid-November. We've arrived in Bodrum, one of the two cities --. The southern folded zone occupies the southern third of the country, from the Aegean to the Gulf of Iskenderun, from which it extends to the northeast and east around the northern side of the Arabian platform. If you spot a mistake please let us know. Throughout its history it has acted as both a barrier and a bridge between the two continents. They are great paragliding spots for viewing stunning nature scenes and the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout its history it has acted as both a barrier and a bridge between the two continents. You can hop on a train (or bus) to the port cities of Bursa or Bandirma. Every country seems to have one remote town that the hippy community takes over. Once a thriving community, the town was abandoned in 1923 and now the homes and churches stand empty. 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