Vacation in Turkey: Top Destinations and Hotels

Turkey, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and ancient cultural monuments, draws visitors annually. Beyond these attractions, Turkey offers access to the sea, surrounded by several seas. This has been effectively used to develop infrastructure in popular resorts, and relatively affordable prices draw millions of vacationers each year. Planning a vacation in Turkey and need tips on where to stay? Read on for more.

Top destinations include coastal spots on the Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea, along with historical Turkish cities and intriguing inland regions that also draw tourists. 

>>> Torn between Greece and Turkey? Our guide to the Greek islands can help you decide.

Istanbul

Istanbul, spanning two continents, serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia. Historically, it has been pivotal in both political and religious spheres. Today, it's the largest city in Turkey, home to many preserved cultural and historical sites.

Must-see places in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the former sultans' residence, the Topkapi Palace. Don't miss the Grand Bazaar, where you can experience Turkey through spices and bring a piece of your trip home. Notable hotels in Istanbul are Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, and Ritz-Carlton Istanbul.

Antalya

Antalya, a well-known coastal city in southern Turkey, attracts vacationers with its beautiful beaches and clear azure waters. Popular beaches in the Antalya area include Konyaalti and Lara Beach. 

Antalya boasts many luxury hotels offering top-notch services and comfort in a stunning setting. These include: 

Fame Residence Lara & SPA

This hotel is favored by families. Fame Residence Lara & SPA is located right on the beach, about 16 km from the center and 14 km from the nearest airport. The hotel features luxurious furnishings, outdoor and private pools, and a fitness center. Kids will love the slides, children's corner, and animation program. The hotel is in a quiet location, ensuring relaxation and comfort.

Adalya Elite

This hotel offers luxury accommodations on a private hotel beach. Kids can enjoy the children's pool, mini club, or game room (for a fee), while parents appreciate five restaurants and a café. The hotel also provides sports and fitness facilities, available seasonally and weather permitting.

IC Hotels Residence

IC Hotels Residence epitomizes luxury and elegance. Guests enjoy beautiful accommodations, extensive pools, top-notch restaurants, and a wide range of entertainment. Cleanliness is guaranteed, with numerous positive reviews from satisfied guests.

Titanic Mardan Palace

This luxury hotel is known for attentive service, cleanliness, and ubiquitous luxury. It's a popular choice in Antalya, offering exclusive beaches just steps from the rooms, a wellness center, and stylish accommodations.

Belek

For those planning a vacation in Turkey, Belek is a favored resort, especially in summer. It features amazing beaches with fine sand and clear turquoise waters. Known for its golf courses, this area is a paradise for golf enthusiasts. Turkish cuisine is rich in flavor, and a visit to Belek allows you to savor many local dishes. Popular hotels here include:

Hotel Cullinan Belek

This 5-star hotel sits on a private sandy beach near Kadriye and Belek. Luxury and top-notch services await, with 14 restaurants, 20 bars, several pools including a water park, wellness and sports offerings, and an animation program for all ages. The price of accommodation includes gym access, bio sauna, and steam sauna. For those seeking activity, there's a football field, beach volleyball, and table tennis.

Rixos Premium Belek

Rixos Premium Belek, on the Mediterranean coast, is known for first-class services and luxurious facilities. Guests enjoy golf courses, wellness centers, and a wide selection of restaurants offering international and local cuisines.

Crystal Tat Beach Belek

This hotel combines quality accommodation with a variety of activities. It offers sea access, sports fields, a wellness center, top-notch restaurants, lounges, and relaxation areas. The hotel is suitable for families with children, with activities for all ages.

Kaya Palazzo Golf Resort

This luxurious golf resort in Belek offers top-notch accommodation, exclusive beaches, and a packed activity program. Though Belek is small, its location has allowed for golf courses, including at this resort. The hotel also features a modern golf course and a wellness center for relaxation. 

Alanya

Alanya, a coastal resort with many monuments, is perfect for sun lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking real parties that last all night. Its popularity among European visitors has grown, leading to modern infrastructure and a wide range of accommodations, including guesthouses, apartments, and elegant historic hotels. Whether you're dreaming of sun-soaked family days on the beach, exploring ancient sites, or enjoying delicious Turkish dishes with friends, Alanya has it all.

Alanya also hosts many hotel resorts, though unlike Belek, it lacks extensive golf courses. Instead, enjoy water parks or various water sports. Top hotels include:

Pegasos Club

Pegasos Club is one of the most famous and popular hotels in the area. It comprises three hotels – Pegasos Royal, Pegasos Resort, and Pegasos Club. Located on a beautiful sandy beach in Incekum Bay, about 2 km from Avsallar's center and 25 km from Alanya, this resort offers a rich range of services, outdoor pools, an animation program, activities for children, and a beautiful private beach with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach towels, just steps from your room.

Rubi Platinum SPA Resort & Suites 5*

This hotel, ideal for couples and families, is right by a beautiful private beach with sea views. It offers a main restaurant, 2 à la carte restaurants, 5 bars, a patisserie, and a bistro. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Relax in the sauna, 2 outdoor pools, an indoor pool, or the water park. End your day in a mini-cinema or enjoy live performances and programs.

Hotel Villa Turka

Traditional culture enthusiasts will love Hotel Villa Turka, near the center and the beach. Couples and history buffs will enjoy its location in an old castle, offering views of the bay and surroundings. 

Anjeliq House Boutique Hotel

With direct access to the sea and beach, and a short distance to the center, Anjeliq House Boutique Hotel offers more affordable prices than luxury hotels, yet maintains modern amenities. 

Side

Side is a favored tourist spot known for its ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Depending on your preferences and budget, accommodations range from budget options to luxury resorts. Here are four popular hotels in Side for those planning a vacation in Turkey:

Trendy Verbena Beach

This modern hotel is in the sought-after Evrenseki resort, by a beautiful sandy beach with a gradual sea entry. Foodies will enjoy its 5 à la carte restaurants, bars, and patisserie, while relaxation seekers can indulge in the SPA center, 2 outdoor pools, a pool with slides, and a shopping arcade. Numerous water and sports activities are available for all ages.

Barut Hemera

This five-star all-inclusive resort offers luxurious accommodations, several pools, a spa, various restaurants, and direct beach access. The hotel is set in picturesque gardens, blending modern amenities with classic design elements.

Crystal Sunrise Queen Luxury Resort & Spa

A luxury resort located by the beach, offering spacious rooms, many pools including slides, and a spa. The selection of international cuisine and activities for all ages is extensive. Guests will appreciate the attentive staff and quality amenities.

Voyage Sorgun

Family-friendly resort, perfect for families with children of all ages. The hotel features a location by a beautiful sandy beach, several pools, a water park, tennis courts, and a wellness center. A variety of entertainment programs and activities for children make it an ideal choice for families.

Conclusion

Turkey's rise in popularity over the last decade is reflected in its modern hotels, services, and leisure activities. Every traveler will find something to enjoy here. We hope our tips help you decide where to visit if a vacation in Turkey is on your agenda.