Where to Stay - Turkey

DISCOVERTURKEY 

where to stay

50|discoverTURKEY 

THELORYMA 

PENINSULA 

factfile 

Forbeach-lovers: Içmeler boasts the best beach 

in the area – a sweeping bay of coarse golden 

sand with a variety of watersports on offer 

Forculturevultures: Marmaris castle has been 

turned into a museum displaying local artefacts. 

A little further afield, the ruined city of Knidos, 

lies at the end of the Datça peninsula. 

Forthrills: Marmaris is a big scuba diving centre 

for those who want to explore life under the sea. 

Forkids: Içmeler is ideal for a family beach holiday. 

There are aquaparks in both Marmaris and Içmeler. 

Forbargain-hunters: The narrow streets of Marmaris’ 

old town and the bazaar are crammed full of stalls 

selling everything from T-shirts to pottery. 

Fornightowls: The establishments on Marmaris’ 

lively bar street might not look like much from the 

outside but many of them open out into huge courtyards 

where dancing continues till the early hours 

Gettingawayfromthecrowds: Turunç is a charming, laidback 

resort easily visited by boat from Marmaris or Içmeler. 

Eatingout: Marmaris has adapted so well to her foreign 

guests that it is as easy to find a Sunday roast, a Chinese 

or Indian meal as to find traditional Turkish fare. 

Greatdaysout: Marmaris harbour is the starting point 

for gulets embarking on the famous Blue Cruise. Take 

a day trip to visit Cleopatra’s Island – it is said that the 

sand was imported from Africa by Martk Antony for 

Cleopatra. Alternatively, for a change of atmosphere 

catch the hydrofoil over to the Greek island of Rhodes. 

Nearestairport: Dalaman 

Distance: Marmaris 115kms; Içmeler 125kms 

discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk 

Marmaris 

Marmaris is one of Turkey’s most popular resorts, which attracts lots 

of British holidaymakers, many of whom return year after year. It is a 

favourite with families and young couples alike. Due to its popularity, 

it has grown enormously over the years, hotels rapidly filling the space 

between the green hills and the azure seas. It is in a stunning setting, 

its geography remarkably similar to that of the fjords, with pine-clad 

hills dropping steeply to the sea, jagged inlets and tiny rocky islets 

off the coast. 

There is a wide choice of accommodation, from five star luxury to 

self-catering apartments, but the vast majority is of three star standard. 

What the buildings lack in character they make up for in offering value 

for money. Most of the accommodation is built on either side of the 

main seafront road, some is on the seafront itself, but many of the newer

imagecourtesy ofAnatolianSky 

hotels are on the hillside 

in areas such as Armutalan. 

The beach can get busy in high season, but many people prefer 

to stay by the hotel pool. Lined with palms, the seafront has a 

typical Mediterranean feel and is a great place for an evening 

promenade. Shops, bars and restaurants line the streets, vying 

with each other to secure your custom for dinner – each offering 

something more attractive than the last. There is no hassle though 

– the local authorities are strict about touts operating in the street, 

which makes for a more relaxed atmosphere. 

By day, life revolves around the narrow strip of sandy beach which 

runs the length of the resort. Each morning boats leave from the 

old harbour for day trips to visit the islands and bays around the 

coast. The area around the harbour offers a taste of the character 

of the old town, overlooked by the ancient castle, which is now a 

3Marmarismarina 

Marmaris 

3Içmelerbay 

Içmeler 

TheLorymaPeninsula 

Turunç 

museum. The Netsel marina is reached by 

a small footbridge, and is one of the largest 

and most modern in Turkey, the hangout of 

the jetset, who moor their luxury yachts here. 

The small shopping centre houses upmarket 

boutiques and intimate restaurants. The real 

bargains are to be found in the bazaar area, 

with hundreds of small shops offering the 

usual Turkish wares – clothing, leather, jewellery and handicrafts. 

There is a wide variety of goods on offer, and it definitely pays to 

look around and hone your bartering skills to get the best prices. 

Marmaris really comes to life though as the sun sets. The shops in 

the narrow streets stay open until late and the bars 

and clubs are open until the early hours of the 

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factfile wheretostay 

relaxation 

history&culture


morning. It is very easy to get around, the main 

resort area is fairly flat so shouldn’t pose too 

many problems for those pushing pushchairs or 

wheelchairs. There are shuttle services operating 

in high season between Marmaris and İçmeler, as 

well as the ubiquitous dolmuşes which run from 

all areas of both resorts and on to Turunç. There 

are also boat services between the main resorts 

and even late at night it is easy to find taxis. 

imagecourtesy ofAnatolianSky 

İçmeler 

İçmeler is a popular resort with families, and 

it is easy to see why. It is much greener than 

neighbouring Marmaris, with wide streets lined 

with trees and a relaxed ambience. It nestles in 

the shelter of dramatic pine-clad mountains with 

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a wide sweeping bay of coarse sand, where all 

kinds of watersports are available. The waters 

are shallow and calm making it relatively safe 

for children. The views from the beach are 

stunning, as it appears to be almost surrounded 

by mountains, dropping steeply into the sea. 

There is an abundance of restaurants, serving a 

full range of Turkish and international cuisine, 

plenty of lively bars and lots of shops. For those 

who want serious nightlife, Marmaris is just a 

short dolmuş or taxi ride away. There is a full 

range of hotel and self-catering accommodation 

here, including luxurious 4 and 5 star hotels 

set right on or overlooking the seafront. Boats 

head out from the bay for day-trips around 

the stunning coastline, taking in the tiny islets 

around the coast. The main resort area is flat, 

which makes getting around very easy, even 

with a pushchair or wheelchair, although some 

of the outlying areas are on slopes. 

Turunç 

Turunç is reached by a steep, winding road, 

which snakes around the mountains from 

İçmeler. As you round a sharp bend, you catch 

your first glimpse of the resort lying in front of 

you, steep mountains giving way to the small 

copyrightedimagekindly suppliedbyExclusiveEscapes 

5UnspoiltbeachontheBozburunpeninsula 

bay with its sparkling waters and sandy beach. 

Turunç is a sleepy resort, full of character. The 

accommodation here is mainly small family-run 

hotels, with some good self-catering properties. 

The main street has a good selection of 

restaurants with a few music bars, and enough 

shops to cater for your immediate holiday 

requirements. The roads which lead down to 

the resort are steep, however, so it is not ideal 

for those who have difficulty in walking. Boats 

leave from the charming quayside for daytrips 

around the surrounding bays and there are also 

water taxi services to Marmaris, approximately 

30 minutes away, for those who want to do 

some serious bargain-hunting. 

Akyaka 

Akyaka is popular with local Turkish holidaymakers, 

but accommodation here is only 

available through a handful of UK operators. It 

is less than a hour’s drive from Marmaris but in 

character is worlds away. It is perfect for those 

who want to experience the real Turkey, away 

from the crowds. Little more than a village, 

part of its charm comes from the distinctive

local architecture, with octagonal shaped 

houses with intricately carved wooden 

ceilings, balconies and window frames. 

Lying in the Azmak river valley, Akyaka 

is surrounded by fragrant eucalyptus trees. 

The river winds down through fields to the 

seafront, where there is a small sandy beach 

and a number of beachfront restaurants. A 

few miles outside the town, reached by 

road or sea is the attractive Çakalı Plajı 

or pebble beach. There are a number of 

excellent fish restaurants on the river, and 

imagecourtesy of 

ExclusiveEscapes 

a small village centre with more restaurants 

and a few shops. There is a small chemist 

but no bank and any major purchases are 

best made in Marmaris. 

Datça 

Datça is set to the end of the peninsula, 

which stretches out to the west at the point 

where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, 

facing the tiny Greek island of Simi. It is a 

popular stopping off point for the gulets on 

a Blue Cruise from Bodrum or Marmaris, 

but is relatively difficult to access by road, 

even though Marmaris is just 75 kms away, 

which means that it has remained relatively 

undeveloped. This is a blessing for the 

visitors who come here for its unspoilt 

beauty and authentic atmosphere. It is a 

charming village, its whitewashed buildings 

draped with bougainvillea, with plenty of 

shops, bars and restaurants serving mostly 

fish and traditional Turkish fare. There are 

some beautiful beaches nearby including 

the bays of Aktur and Kargı. There is a 

regular ferry service to Bodrum as well 

as to the Greek island of Simi. The ruins 

of the ancient Carian city of Knidos stand 

at the end of the peninsula, some 38 kms 

away. The city was famed for its temple of 

Aphrodite, the remains of which can still be 

seen today, and was an important centre of 

art and culture in the 4th century BC. 

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5A smallcovenearTurunç. 

6(below)Marmaris Castle 

6(bottom)Içmeler Bay 

TheLorymaPeninsula 


AnatolianSky 


relaxation 



THEBODRUM 

PENINSULA 

factfile 

Forbeach-lovers: The best sandy bay in the area is that of 

Bitez, although Gümbet too has a sandy beach and plenty 

of watersports - Bodrum doesn’t have a beach of its own. 

Forculturevultures: Visit the ancient theatre, 

overlooking the town, which is just about all that remains 

of the city of Halicarnassus. The castle too houses an 

interesting museum which displays shipwrecks and 

other items recovered by divers from the vicinity. 

Forthrills: Head for Gümbet beach where there is a range 

of watersports including parasailing and water-skiing. 

Forkids: Bitez is perfect for a relaxed family 

holiday. There are 2 Aquaparks, one on the road 

to Ortakent and the other in Bodrum itself. 

Forbargain-hunters: On Tuesdays there is a clothing 

market and on Fridays a fruit and vegetable market – a 

must for those staying in self-catering accommodation 

– which also sells a range of other goods. 

Fornightowls: Bodrum is renowned for its 

nightlife, including the famous Halikarnas open-air 

disco, which has fantastic views over the castle, 

and a spectacular laser light and floor show. 

Gettingawayfromthecrowds: Head for one 

of the small villages on the peninsula for lunch 

in Yalıkavak or snorkelling in Gümüşlük. 

Eatingout: Bodrum is also popular with local 

Turkish tourists, so you can find everything from 

traditional fare to international cuisine. 

Greatdaysout: Take a boat trip to see the 

sights of the original Blue Cruise, exploring 

the neighbouring islands and coves. 

NearestAirport: Bodrum 

Distance: Bodrum 33 km, Milas 16 

km, Gümbet 41 km, Bitez 46km 


Bodrum 

Situated on a peninsula, Bodrum is one of the most chic and European 

resorts in Turkey, its charm residing in its blend of relaxed Mediterranean 

atmosphere, historical architecture and its proximity to a vast 

array of fantastic beaches, fishing villages and trendy nightclubs. The 

city, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, town of Herodotus, has 

grown dramatically in recent years with the opening of an international 

airport – yet its delightful charm remains intact with palm-lined streets 

and whitewashed, flat-roofed houses dotted across its terraced hillsides. 

The views of the city are exceptionally striking against the stunning 

backdrop of the Castle of St Peter, which stands formidably between 

the city’s twin bays. It is even more spectacular in the summer as 

Bodrum bursts into colour with cascades of bright pink and purple 

bougainvillea flowing from the dazzling white houses that line its 

narrow streets, winding down towards the sea.

Bodrum is also the yachting 

centre of Turkey and 

its world-class Marina is a favourite destination for yachts that 

cruise the Aegean and the Mediterranean. It is an excellent place 

from which to organise a sailing trip with a vast number of sailing 

companies who cater for all levels of sailing experience. Most will 

organise boats with or without a crew so whether you are looking 

to organise a day-trip or take a longer sailing holiday, you can 

take advantage of the crystal-clear azure seas, stunning coastline 

and myriad of rocky coves and sandy beaches nearby. October is 

also the month of the Bodrum Cup Race, attracting yachts from 

around the world. 

Another major attraction of Bodrum is its buzzing cafes, restaurants 

and shops, as well as its wealth of trendy and sophisticated 

nightlife. By day, the central bazaar is a great place for shopping 

3BodrumMarinaisapopularcentrefor 

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Gümuşluk 

Turgutrels 

Yalıkavak 

Türkbüku 

Bitez 

Gümbet Bodrum 

3Thewindmills scatteredalong 

thehillsaroundBodrum–now 

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BodrumPeninsula 

with its array of leather, clothes, carpets, and 

assorted souvenir and gift shops. Or, if you 

venture into the narrow streets of the old 

town around Meyhaneler Sokak, you will 

discover chic boutiques and souvenir shops, 

along with rustic Turkish restaurants. There 

is also a weekly market near the bus station 

if you want a colourful taste of the native 

produce, including the delicious locally grown tangerines. 

But the city really comes to life at night, with a magical atmosphere 

that doesn’t sleep until dawn. Whether you are searching 

for romantic harbour-side dinners, an evening promenade or 

sipping cocktails in the upmarket marina, there is 

something to suit everyone. Bodrum also boasts 

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relaxation 



some of the most sophisticated and trendy bars 

and clubs in Turkey, many with imported DJs, 

including the internationally famous Halikarnas 

Disco complete with stunning views of the 

bay below. 

Bodrum has accommodation to suit all tastes 

and budgets dotted in and around its pretty 

town centre, but the quietest places to stay are 

in the west of town and in the hills towards the 

east. In town, many people like to stay in the 

Kumbahçe Mahalle away from Cumhuriyet 

Caddesi, or in the Tepecik district, along or just 

off Neyzen Tevfik Caddesi. Getting around is 

also easy with the dolmuş shuttle-services and 

buses that operate frequent services from the 

Bodrum otogar to all the nearby towns and 

villages scattered around the peninsula. Taxis 

are another very common way to get around, 

and are easy to find even at night. 

Gümbet 

Named after the domed water-cisterns that 

speckle the countryside near-by, Gümbet is 

the closest beach to Bodrum – just 10 minutes 


Nasılsınız? İyiyim 

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away by car - and is very popular with British 

holidaymakers, many of whom choose to stay 

here close to the beach and venture into Bodrum 

at night. As it has grown in popularity, however, 

Gümbet has developed in its own right and 

now offers a wide choice of lively bars and 

restaurants, popular with a young crowd. Its long 

sandy beach is lined with hotels and pensions 

which attract many young people and watersports 

enthusiasts with its large windsurfing 

school and diving courses. Other beach-front 

watersports are also very popular in Gümbet, 

including parasailing, ringo and water-skiing. 

Getting to the centre of Bodrum from Gümbet is 

very easy with regular dolmuş and bus services, 

as well as a small caique (boat) service that runs 

from the beach. 

Gümüşlük 

Reached by a winding road from Gürece, 

Gümüşlük is very popular for its secluded setting. 

Ever since being designated as an archaeological 

site, no major buildings have been allowed to 

alter the landscape, making it a very pleasant 

place to stay with its unspoilt scenery, long sand 

5StPeter’s Castlehasdominatedthis 

harbour sinceit wasbuiltin1402. 

and gravel beach and a handful of excellent fish 

restaurants perched right on the sea-front. The 

site of ancient Myndos, Gümüşlük is scattered 

with remnants of its historical past: as you 

look out towards the harbour you will spot 

the fortification wall, an ancient tower and 

submerged walls. Also, if you walk towards the 

south end of the beach, you will also be able to 

swim very close to some of the ruins, making 

it the perfect spot for snorkelling. Gümüşlük 

is accessible by dolmuş from Bodrum or from 

Turgutreis. 

Turgutreis 

A sophisticated new marina adorns the waterfront 

at Turgutreis, complete with exclusive 

cafes, restaurants and boutiques, as well as a 

host of new bars and discos. Though not very 

sandy, its beach is very popular with families 

because the sea is shallow for quite a way 

out, making it safer for young children. For a 

more peaceful alternative to the main beach,

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4Bodrumisknownforitsenergeticandexcitingnightlife 

there is also a long and sandy beach near 

the lighthouse on the way towards Akyarlar. 

There is also good access to Bodrum 

from Turgutreis, with a regular dolmuş 

service that stops at the main square in 

Turgutreis. 

Yalıkavak 

Formerly the area’s main sponge-fishing 

port, the village of Yalıkavak maintains 

a relaxing atmosphere for quaint seaside 

eating. Its position in the north-western 

corner of the peninsula, 18km from Bodrum 

means it is one of the least developed spots 

in the area with fewer hotels and self-catering 

apartments, making it an enjoyable stay 

away from the crowds. As you reach the 

bay, you will notice the ruins of three old 

windmills on the hills - the hills around 

the village are also perfect for picnics and 

walks, particularly in the spring 

when they are covered with a 

colourful carpet of wild flowers bursting 

newly into bloom. 

Türkbükü 

Türkbükü is one of Bodrum’s best-kept 

secrets with its array of exclusive hotels, 

excellent sea-front restaurants situated on 

wooden piers and trendy bars that burst into 

life after sunset. By day, its beach-front 

cafes and hotels are havens for the jet-set, 

with fantastic views of the beautiful bay and 

wooden platforms dotted with sophisticated 

sun-loungers from which to swim. 

Bitez 

Bitez lies on a bay, a few kilometres west 

from Bodrum, attracting an older, more 

upmarket crowd. The gently-sloping coarsesand 

beach has wooden piers for swimming 

and is lined with whitewashed hotels and 

resort villas, whilst also host to a popular 


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windsurfing and sailing school - Its sheltered 

cove and shallow water are perfect 

for beginners. Backed by lush tangerine 

orchards, Bitez is perfect for those who 

want to escape the crowds, whilst also 

having good access to Bodrum with direct 

dolmuses to and from the city. 

Ortakent 

You can reach Ortakent from the main 

highway west of Bodrum and it is very 

popular with Turkish families. Its two-kilometre 

long beach is considered by many to 

be one of the best on the peninsula and is 

dotted with several restaurants, motels and 

some unique tower-houses. 


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THEFETHIYE 

REGION 

factfile 

Forbeach-lovers: The stunning lagoon of Ölüdeniz 

is one of the best in Turkey, or you can join the 

locals at the nearby pebble beach of Gemiler. 

Forculturevultures: Head to Fethiye Museum, and 

check out the theatre of Telmessos, built in the early 

Roman period, which was only excavated in 1994. 

Forthrills: Ölüdeniz is one of the best places 

for Paragliding in the world. The Dalaman river 

is good for white-water rafting and Fethiye 

is also a big centre for scuba diving. 

Forkids: The beaches here are gently shelving and 

great for children. Older kids will enjoy the pedalloes on 

the lagoon itself. There is also an Aquapark in Çalış. 

Forbargain-hunters: Fethiye’s Tuesday 

market is the largest in the area, and there are 

also smaller markets in Hisarönü on Mondays 

and Günlükbaşı (for Calış) on Sundays. 

Fornightowls: Hisarönü is probably the liveliest – with a 

few good dance bars which stay open till the early hours. 

Gettingawayfromthecrowds: The stone village 

of Kaya is quite literally deserted. If you set off 

early in the morning, before the sun is too high, 

it makes a pleasant walk from Hisarönü. Stop for 

lunch in one of the village restaurants nearby. 

Eatingout: A wide choice of Turkish and international 

cuisine in resorts, but a visit to the area would be 

incomplete without sampling some locally caught fresh fish. 

Greatdaysout: Visit the ancient Lycian city of Tlos 

and marvel at the ruins that overlook the breathtaking 

Xanthos Valley including an Ottoman fortress, 

Lycian tombs, a theatre and a bath complex. 


Distance: Fethiye 40 kms; Ölü Deniz 48 kms 


Ölüdeniz 

Ölüdeniz is the archetypal picture-postcard beach, backed by dramatic 

pine-clad hills, and is the view that you see on many a brochure cover. 

Literally translated as ‘dead sea’, the stunning lagoon is a protected area, 

ensuring that its natural beauty is preserved. There is a small entrance 

charge to use the lagoon beach and only non-motorised watersports 

are allowed on the lagoon itself. The main resort beach, which is free 

entry, is the long stretch of coarse sand and shingle, known as Belceğiz 

beach. Most of the accommodation, built in the traditional local Muğla 

style, is set back from the beachfront and in the streets behind. There 

is a strip alongside the seafront promenade with a number of relaxed 

bars, restaurants serving local and international cuisine and shops, 

which stay open well into the night. It is a perfect family resort, great 

for a laid-back beach holiday, with plenty of facilities but not too much 

development. Boats leave from the bay for trips around the surrounding

coast and paragliding is a 

big draw with the descent 

from the Babadağ mountains to land on Belceğiz beach, rating as 

one of the best in the world. 

Hisarönü 

Fifteen years ago there were only a few houses here but now it is 

a lively resort in its own right. Due to the planning restrictions and 

lack of space to expand in Ölüdeniz itself, many holidaymakers now 

stay in this lively village. It is in a stunning location, surrounded 

by stunning pine-clad mountains, and hotels are all built in the 

local style, low rise, mostly with rooms set in villa-style blocks 

and decorative wooden balconies. The beach of Ölüdeniz is just 

a short dolmuş ride away (approx. 15 minutes), and the town of 

Fethiye is also easily reached, approximately the same distance 

3Paraglidingover thestunninglagoonofÖlüdeniz. 



Göcek 

Ölüdeniz 

TheFethiyeRegion 

Fethiye 

Hisarönü 

3TheeeriedesertedhousesofKayaköy 

away in the opposite direction. You can, 

however, easily spend your time in Hisarönü 

itself, lazing by the pool, and venturing out 

at night to sample international or local fare 

in one of the many restaurants, and visit its lively bars playing 

music well into the early hours. There are plenty of shops here 

too, with a wider range on offer than in Ölüdeniz itself. 

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Ovacık 

Just a short distance from Hisarönü, is the newer 

resort area of Ovacık, which is essentially a 

collection of hotels and apartment buildings, 

blending in with the stunning mountain scenery. 

It is more peaceful than its neighbour, and all 

facilities are in the centre of Hisarönü just a 

short walk or dolmuş ride away. Ovacık makes 

a good base for those who want to walk in the 

surrounding countryside. 

Fethiye 

Fethiye is a traditional market town set around 

a beautiful natural harbour. It is a big centre for 

scuba diving and boats leave from here for day 

trips around the stunning coastline. The most 

popular is the 12 islands boat trip, a relaxing 

way to spend the day, touring the beautiful 

coves and islands of the Gulf of Fethiye, with 

breaks for lunch and swimming. Life here 

continues all year round, and recently, many 

British nationals have chosen to make this 

relaxed area their home. There are a number of 

hotels in the town itself, which mostly attract 

older couples, who enjoy the traditional lifestyle 

and also like the fact that it is flat and easy to 

get around. There is a greater variety of shops 


En yakın plaj nerede? 

Where is the nearest beach? 

in the narrow streets of the bazaar area, Paspatur, 

offering more competitive prices than those 

in any of the resorts. In the evenings head for 

this lively area for live music and Turkish bars. 

There is no beach in Fethiye itself although 

there are hotels which have access to the sea 

for swimming. Once the site of the ancient city 

of Telmessos, all that remains are the Lycian 

rock tombs, which overlook the modern town, 

a couple of Lycian sarcophagi and a small 

Roman theatre. 

3The spectacular and unforgettable 

SaklıkentGorge 

Çalış Beach 

The nearest beach to Fethiye is Çalış beach, a 

pebble and coarse sand beach in a beautiful 

setting, which can be reached by boat or dolmuş 

from the town centre. The seafront promenade 

with its hotels and restaurants is closed to traffic 

during the summer, making it safe for children. 

The resort has expanded around the beach, and 

has a relaxed feel popular with families and 

older couples. 

Kayaköy 

One of the highlights of a stay in this area 

is a visit to the eerie ghost town of Kayaköy, 

literally ‘stone village’. Once the Greek town 

of Karmylassos, it was abandoned in the 1920’s. 

It has recently been the subject of renewed 

interest as it features as the setting for Louis de 

Bernières novel, ‘Birds without Wings’which 

provides a fascinating insight into life here and 

the period of dramatic social change which took 

place in the time leading up to the foundation 

of the Republic of Turkey. There are around 

400 houses here together with churches and 

other public buildings. It can be visited by 

dolmuş, on foot from Hisarönü or even on 

horse-back. 

Göcek 

Göcek is popular with yachting types who come 

here for its excellent marina. It is a charming 

resort with a range of sophisticated hotels and 

upmarket restaurants and boutiques. 

Saklıkent Gorge 

Known in Turkish as the ‘hidden city’, 

Saklıkent is a stunning mountain gorge some 

44 kms from Fethiye, a narrow opening stretching 

an incredible 18 kms into the rockface of 

Mount Akdağ. A wooden walkway has been 

constructed above the icy cold waters of the 

mountain springs of Gökçesu and Ulupınar. If 

you are feeling particularly brave you can take 

a dip here, but otherwise the waterside cafes 

provide a relaxing break and a chance to enjoy 

the spectacular setting.

5TheviewoverÖlüdenizlagoon 

TheFethiyeRegion 



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THETURKISH 

RIVIERA 

factfile 

Forbeach-lovers: Side has a long stretch of 

golden sand, known appropriately as Kumköy 

or ‘sand village’, with many of its newer, more 

luxurious hotels leading right on to the beach. 

Forculturevultures: You really don’t have to go 

far afield. Side’s Temple of Apollo makes a romantic 

spot at sunset, and the ancient theatre and charming 

museum are well worth exploring, but set off early in 

the morning so that you will miss the sun at its height, 

Forthrills: Head up into the hills for a jeep 

safari to explore the beautiful mountain 

scenery and discover traditional villages. 

Forkids: The beach is ideal for kids, and there 

is a big Aquapark in Antalya, nearby 

Forbargain-hunters: Side is full of shops, its narrow 

streets packed with stalls selling everything imaginable. 

Fornightowls: Side has good night life. The old town 

has a few bars, mostly with an authentic atmosphere, 

some with views over the old peninsula and the ruins. 

There are some large night clubs just outside the town, 

some of which operate shuttle services from the centre. 

Gettingawayfromthecrowds: Take a boat trip on 

the stunning Manavgat River, where you can swim 

in the cool waters, relax and enjoy the scenery. 

Eatingout: There are plenty of restaurants in Side, 

serving a range of local food and Turkish specialities. 

Greatdaysout: Visit Antalya, the main city of this region 

to see its charming old town, Kaleiçi, or play a round 

of golf at one of the superb courses at nearby Belek. 

Nearestairport: Antalya 

Distance: Side 50 kms, Kemer 60 kms, 

Alanya 125 kms, Belek 25 kms 


The Turkish Riviera is the most stunning part of Turkey’s Mediterranean 

coast. A relatively recent discovery for British and Irish holidaymakers, 

it is growing rapidly in popularity. 

Side 

The old town of Side is set on a peninsula with sandy beaches to either 

side, surrounded still by the ancient city walls. It boasts an impressive 

ancient Hellenistic theatre, the largest in the area, with seating for 17,000, 

overlooking the sea; a charming museum and the stunning Temple of 

Apollo, a romantic spot at sunset. The old town is limited by the walls 

and the sea, which has been a bonus, meaning that the accommodation 

here is mostly pensions and small hotels. The long stretch of sandy 

beach a few kilometres outside the old town, known with good reason as 

‘kumköy’ or ‘sand village’, has become the centre of tourism development 

in the town and is now home to large four and five star hotels and

good quality self-catering 

accommodation. Side has 

something for everyone: great beaches, history, an abundance of 

shops, lively nightlife and a good choice of restaurants. 

Antalya 

Antalya, the ancient city of Attaleia, is the largest on the Mediterranean. 

It is typical of Turkey, a thriving modern city, with a historic 

heart in the centre of Kaleiçi, within the old city walls. This area 

has seen something of a renaissance in recent years, with many of 

the wooden Ottoman mansions being restored and turned into 

boutique hotels. No cars are allowed in the narrow streets of the 

old town so it is a good place to soak up the atmosphere around 

the charming harbour. The symbol of Antalya is the fluted minaret 

or Yivli Minare built by the Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the 

3AntalyaHarbour 

Antalya 

Kemer 

Belek 

3KurşunluFalls 

Side 

TheTurkishRiviera 

13th century. Culture vultures will find plenty 

of interest in the Archaeological Museum 

which has artefacts from the Paleolithic Age 

right through to Ottoman times. Antalya has a 

backdrop of stunning mountain scenery, and 

the city is set high on cliffs, with many of its 

grandest hotels overlooking the sea on the 

outskirts of the town. The beach area of Lara, 

approximately 12 kms to the east is home to the best beach in the 

area, known for its golden sand, which is rapidly becoming a resort 

in its own right. To the west, the long pebble beach of Konyaaltı 

is also popular. Heading up into the mountains, you can make the 

most of the beautiful scenery by visiting the spectacular Düden or 

Kurşunlu Waterfalls to see a completely different 

side to the Turkish landscape. At Saklıkent, just 

didyouknow? 

Aesop–famousforhisfablesand 

parables–wasborninAnatolia. 

Alanya 


relaxation 



50 kms away you can even visit a ski resort, 

where they usually have snow on the pistes 

until early April. 

The Altlın Portakal, ‘Golden Orange’ film 

festival is held in the Autumn. Antalya has a 

large number of 5 star hotels, many of which 

have meetings facilities, and this, together with 

the Pyramid Congress Centre which can hold 

up to 3000 delegates make it a popular venue 

for conferences. 

Perge 

Just 18 kms from Antalya, Perge was an important 

city in Pamphylia and was visited by St. 

Paul during his missionary journeys. Today, 

the city gate flanked by lofty towers, theatre 

and baths are of interest, 

Aspendos 

Just 50 kms east of Antalya, Aspendos was 

an important centre of trade during Roman 

times. Today, the most impressive aspect of 

Aspendos is her stunning theatre, which was 

built in approx. 162 AD. It seats 15,000 and has 

been beautifully preserved. Each year it hosts 


Çok teşekkür ederim 

Thankyou verymuch 

the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival which 

takes place in June and July and gives you the 

opportunity to see performances of classics 

in a magnificent setting. The aqueduct, which 

supplied water to the city is also still relatively 

intact and is an impressive sight. 

Belek 

Belek is Turkey’s premier golf resort (see page 

40 for details), but don’t let that put you off as 

it also has plenty to attract the non-golfer too. 

The setting is spectacular with long, golden 

sandy beaches, and a backdrop of mountains. 

Belek has won awards for environmentally 

friendly development and there are many rare 

3Towersflankingthecity 

gateofancientPerge 

species of plant and wildlife indigenous to 

the area. Accommodation is mostly of the 5 

star variety with all facilities laid on including 

sporting and other activities, spa treatments 

and entertainment. Many of the hotels are also 

set up to cater for children with kids clubs and 

other facilities. 

Alanya 

Once a pirate stronghold, Alanya is now a 

modern resort, famed for its beautiful sandy 

beaches. Its harbour is dominated by the 

Kızılküle or Red Tower, which protected the 

dockyards in Seljuk times, the remains of 

which can still be seen in the waters. High on 

a promontory is the old fortress or kale.with 

its well preserved walls, towers and Byzantine 

church. It takes about an hour to walk up (or 

you can catch a bus) but it is well worth it for 

the views alone. Alanya itself has no less than 

three blue flag beaches and has a full range 

of accommodation with plenty of good shops 

and restaurants, together with lively nightlife. 

An unusual sight is the Damlataş Cave with 

its strange rock formations, which is said to 

relieve those who suffer from asthma. A boat 

trip will take you to the Fosforlu Mağara with 

its phosphorescent rocks, Kızlar Mağarası, 

where pirates imprisoned their female captives 

and the lovers’caves or Aşıklar Mağarası. Just 

15 kms to the east is the idyllic scenery of the 

Dim Çayı river. 

Kemer 

Kemer was one of Turkey’s first purposebuilt 

resorts, carefully planned to blend in 

with the surrounding scenery. At its heart is 

the attractive marina, a stopping-off point 

for gulets on the blue cruise. Around it are 

sophisticated shops, bars and restaurants cater-

5TheunspoiltbeachatOlympos. 

4ThenaturalwonderoftheChimaeraor ‘burningstone’. 

ing for the resort’s well-heeled clientele. 

Kemer Beach is a clean pebble beach, but 

the main resort areas are on the beaches 

located a little further out, namely Kızıltepe, 

Göynük, Beldibi, Çamyuva and Tekirova. 

Surrounded by pine forests, they offer a 

range of accommodation including five 

star hotels, all designed to blend in to the 

natural environment. 

Phaselis 

The three harbours of this Lycian port city 

were once a major commercial centre. In 

the shelter of Mount Tahtalı, it is a popular 

stopping off point for yachts, and its clear 

waters and sandy beaches are popular 

with sun-seekers. The remains are mostly 

Roman and include a theatre, baths, aqueducts, 

Hadrian’s Gate, an agora and an 

acropolis. 

Olympos 

andYanartaş 

(Chimaera) 

The ancient city, which 

was prominent in Lycian 

times, is set on the southern 

side of Mount Tahtalı, 

surrounded by oleander and laurel bushes. 

It is in a charming spot set on a 3 mile long 

beach amidst unspoilt nature, and the ruins 

include baths, a temple, Roman theatre and 

necropolis. To the north of Olympos, past 

the attractive beachfront hamlet of Çiralı, 

high on the hillside is the legendary burning 

flame of Yanartaş, literally ‘burning stone’. 

Caused by natural gas escaping from the 

rocks, it is immortalised in the legend of 

the Lycian hero Bellerophon, mounted 

on his winged horse, Pegasus, slew the 

fire-breathing monster, the Chimaera. In 

Byzantine times it was a religious site, and 


TheTurksintroducedcoffeetoEuropewhentheretreating 

Ottomanarmyabandonedsacksofitat thegatesofVienna. 

TheTurkishRiviera 

there are remains of a temple here probably 

dedicated to Vulcan. 

Demre 

Also known as Kale, the ancient city of 

Myra, is mostly famous for its connection 

with St. Nicholas, who was bishop here 

in the 4th century. His church is the focus 

of the annual ceremony which takes place 

to commemorate him on or around his 

feast day of 6th December. It is well worth 

seeing the Roman theatre which remains 

here, overlooked by spectacular rock tombs, 

dating from the 4th century BC. 


relaxation 



THEKALKAN 

REGION 

factfile 

Forbeach-lovers: Head to the beautiful 22 km 

long golden, sandy beach of Patara, where you 

will have plenty of space to spread out. 

Forculturevultures: Thereissomuchtosee 

in the area including the ancient cities of Patara, 

Xanthos and Myra, which are all nearby. 

Forthrills: Kaş has become a centre for adventure 

sports offering sea kayaking, mountain biking 

and canyoning as well as scuba diving. 

Forkids: On the whole, the resorts in this area do not 

have facilities specifically catering for children but 

the tiny hamlet of Çiralı is great for a relaxed beach 

holiday to experience the authentic Turkish lifestyle. 

Forbargain-hunters: Visit the Thursday market 

in Kalkan to practise your bartering skills. 

Fornightowls: Nightlife is low-key. There are jazz 

bars, other live-music bars and several popular small 

dancing bars with comfortable seating for non-dancers. 

Gettingawayfromthecrowds: Head to Olympos and 

make the trek up into the hills to see the breath-taking 

natural wonder of the Chimaera or Yanartaş, burning stone. 

Eatingout: Kalkan is ideal for romantic candlelit 

dinners to sample the local fish or traditional 

Turkish cuisine in roof-top restaurants offering 

atmospheric, moonlit dining, with stunning views. 

Greatdaysout: Don’t miss a boat trip to take 

in the haunting sunken city of Kekova and 

the charming castle of Simena, with time for 

snorkelling and swimming in the clear waters. 


Distance: Kalkan 143 kms; Kaş 114 kms 


Sophisticated resorts providing an authentic experience, in the midst 

of history and stunning nature 

Kalkan 

In recent years, Kalkan has become an in spot for upmarket couples 

seeking a taste of authentic Turkey. It is a pretty village of stone-built 

houses set on a hillside around the attractive harbour. Narrow lanes 

lead down to the seafront, packed with shops, sophisticated bars and 

restaurants, mostly serving traditional Turkish fare, with some excellent 

seafood and fish restaurants on the harbour-front. The roads are steep so 

you need to be relatively fit to get around, but the hotels and villas set 

higher up on the hillside, benefit from stunning views down over the 

pretty bay. Due to the landscape there is simply no room for large-scale 

development so most of the hotels are small and intimate. The resort 

has expanded rapidly in recent years, however, and the buildings have

copyrightedimage 

kindly suppliedby 


extended beyond Kalkan 

itself to the bays on either 

side, such as Kalamar bay 

to the west – a long walk or 

a short taxi ride away from the centre. Most of the hotels on the 

seafront in this area and the ‘beaches’ have access to the sea via 

platforms or ladders, straight into deep water. Kalkan does have 

a small pebble town beach, but serious beach-lovers head out by 

the regular dolmuş service to stunning Kaputaş, approximately 

6 kms away, a fine pebble and shingle beach which has clear, 

impossibly turquoise water. It is reached by a long flight of steps 

with no facilities and no shade, so you need to come prepared. 

Others prefer the long stretch of sandy beach at Patara, which 

is reached by a regular dolmuş service. Boats leave from the 

harbour here and from nearby Kaş, approx. 26 kms away, for 

trips around the bays and to the surrounding islands. Kalkan has 

3ThecharmingharbourofKalkan. 

Patara 

Kalkan 

Kaş 

KekovaIsland 

3A typicaltombat thesite 

ofancientXanthos. 

TheKalkanRegion 

a unique ambience and is one of the most 

sophisticated of Turkey’s resorts, but is not 

recommended for those with difficulty in 

walking or for those with small children. 

The ancient sites of Xanthos and Letoon are within easy reach of 

Kalkan. For further details see page 32. 

didyouknow? 

Homer wasborninIzmironthe 

westcoastofTurkeyandhe 

depictedTroy,whichisnorthof 

Izmir,inhisEpictheIliad. 


relaxation 



Kaş 

Kaş is a relaxed harbour town, which until 

recently was relatively untouched by tourism. 

It is now becoming a firm favourite with older 

couples, who love its laid-back atmosphere. 

Recently, it has also become a magnet for 

those seeking a taste of adventure, as it is a 

big centre for scuba diving and also offers 

activities such as trekking, canoeing, canyoning 

and horse riding. The name Kaş means 

‘eyebrow’, describing the curved shape of the 

pretty harbour, with its traditional tea garden and 


tiny, whitewashed mosque. Wooden Ottoman 

houses, their balconies bright with bougainvillea, 

overhang the narrow streets, home to shops, 

bars and restaurants. As you wander, you may 

come across the ancient sarcophagus, which 

is a remnant of the ancient city of Antiphellos, 

whose well-preserved theatre has also survived 

to the present day. Overlooked by Lycian rock 

tombs, Kaş is in a picturesque spot looking out 

on the Greek island of Kastellorizo known as 

Meis in Turkish, a short boat trip away. There are 

a number of pebble beaches in the surrounding 

bays, easily reached by the boats which leave 

from the harbour and Kaputaş is approximately 

20 kms to the west. The stunning Çukurbağ 

peninsula, just outside the town, has recently 

become home to a number of sophisticated 

boutique hotels. 

Patara 

Patara has the honour of being the longest 

beach in Turkey – 22 kms of beautiful white 

sand, backed by dunes and mimosa bushes. It 

was once the most important harbour in Lycia, 

famous for its oracle of Apollo, until it silted 

up in the Middle Ages. It was the birthplace of 

St. Nicholas and it is known that St. Paul and St. 

Luke visited. The site is fascinating, the remains 

part buried in the sands, evocative and intrigu- 


5thespectacular sanddunesofPatara 

4apartially submergedtombin 

thesunkencityofKekova 

ing. They include an acropolis, temple, agora, 

theatre, baths and the magnificent triumphal 

arch. The beach is a nesting place for the rare 

caretta caretta turtles and access is not permitted 

after dark. 

Kekova 

Usually reached by boat from Üçağız, the area 

of Kekova, named after its largest island, is a 

group of islands and bays, home to a number 

of ancient Lycian settlements, some of which 

are now submerged in the sea. This beautiful 

spot is easily visited on a day’s boat trip 

from Kalkan or Kaş. The most atmospheric 

spot is the ‘sunken city’ or batık şehir, where 

ancient houses, stairs and pavements can be 

seen submerged in the clear waters. It is now 

forbidden to swim here. A boat trip usually 

takes in a visit to nearby Kaleköy or Simena 

Castle, a charming port overlooked by the ruins 

of a Crusader castle, which offers stunning 

views of the surrounding scenery.

TheKalkanRegion 


relaxation 



THENORTH 

AEGEAN 

factfile 

Forbeach-lovers: Head out of town to Long Beach, a 6km 

stretch of sand, approx. 20 minutes away to the south by 

dolmuş or the sandy beach of Kuştur 5 kms to the north. 

Forculturevultures: Ephesus, the bestknown 

of Turkey’s ancient cities is right on 

your doorstep just 30 minutes drive away. 

Forthrills: Take a jeep safari to explore the stunning 

mountain scenery in the surrounding area. 

Forkids: The beaches are perfect for children 

and Kuşadası has two of Europe’s biggest 

aquaparks – Adaland and Aquafantasy, both have 

free shuttle services from the resort centre. 

Forbargain-hunters: The food market takes place on 

Fridays, and for clothes bargains try the Wednesday market. 

Fornightowls: For the liveliest bars head 

for Bar street or for something a little more 

sophisticated try the area of Kaleiçi. 

Gettingawayfromthecrowds: The stunning National 

Park on the Dilek Peninsula is well worth a visit as is the 

village of Sirince, in the eastern mountains of Selçuk, 15 

kms away. An old Greek village, it is famous for its local 

wine and olive oil. Try the traditional gözleme pancakes. 

Eatingout: Kuşadası has adapted so well to her foreign 

guests that it is as easy to find a Sunday roast, a Chinese 

or Mexican meal as to find traditional Turkish fare. 

Greatdaysout: Don’t miss Ephesus, and Kuşadası 

is also the nearest beach resort to the stunning ‘cotton 

castle’ of Pamukkale. It is easy to arrange an excursion 

for the 4-hour drive inland to see this unique natural 

wonder, together with the ancient city of Hierapolis. 

Nearestairport: Adanan Menderes Airport, Izmir 

Distance: Kusadasi 80 kms 


Kuşadası 

Kuşadası is one of Turkey’s largest and most cosmopolitan resorts 

and a stopping off point for the big cruise-liners. It is a good all round 

resort, offering great beaches, excellent shopping and some serious 

nightlife. Kuşadası literally means ‘Bird Island’ and takes its name 

from the tiny islet known as Güvercin Adası or Pigeon Island, which 

is attached to the mainland by a causeway and boasts a 14th century 

Genoese fort. There are a number of sandy beaches in the area. Kadınlar 

Plajı or ‘Ladies Beach’ is central but can get crowded so it is wiser in 

high season to head a little further out of the centre where the beaches 

are just as sandy but offer more space. Kaleiçi is the old centre of the 

town and is a popular shopping and entertainment area. The Ottoman 

Kervansaray or traveller’s inn is now in private hands but is an impressive 

building and a landmark in the town centre. Today’s travellers can

find comfort in a full 

range of accommodation 

in all categories and 

of all sizes. 

Kuşadası’s setting also makes it a good base for those wanting 

to visit Ephesus which is only approximately 30 minutes’ drive 

away. 

It is also surrounded by some of Turkey’s most beautiful national 

park including the Kalamaki National Park, which lies on the 

Dilek Peninsula, approx. 30 kms to the south. Dense pine trees 

cover the mountains which plunge dramatically down to beaches 

and crystal-clear sea. Some of Turkey’s rarest wild animals can 

be found here including the Anatolian cheetah and wild horses. 

Sundays are often busy with local visitors. Another stunning spot 

3Diningwithviews over thebay ofKuşadasıtowards 

PigeonIslandfrom whichtheresort takesits name 

6TheLibrary ofCelsusatEphesus 

Çeşme 

Izmir 

NorthAegean 

in the vicinity is Lake Bafa which is approx. 80 

kms south east of Kuşadası. 

Ephesus 

Troy 

Ephesus 

Kuşadası 

Pergamum 

Ephesus is the most famous of Turkey’s ancient cities. It was the 

site of the Temple of Artemis, to whom the city was dedicated, 

which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient 

World. During Roman times it was the most 

didyouknow 

Thesmallpox vaccination was 

introducedtoEnglandandEurope 

fromTurkeybyLadyMontaguin the 

early 19thcentury (afterTurkish 

physicians savedher son’slife). 


relaxation 



important port on the Aegean and a commercial 

centre, which also played a significant role in 

the spread of Christianity. It has been well 

excavated and gives the visitor a real sense 

of the scale of the city and of what life may 

have been like in Roman times. As well as the 

grand public buildings such as the impressive 

Library of Celsus, the theatre and the Temple 

of Hadrian, the remains include streets, private 

houses, public toilets and even a brothel. Most 

of the remains date from the 4th century BC, 

although there was probably a city on this site 

as far back as 1000 BC. 

The Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her 

last days in Ephesus, which was one of the 

Seven Churches of the Apocalypse mentioned in 

Revelations. The other churches too are around 

this area of Turkey. For further information 

see page 44. 

Nearby in Selçuk is the Basilica of St. John, 

dating from the 6th century and a Byzantine 

citadel. 

Pergamum 

Pergamum, modern-day Bergama, is another 

of the Seven Churches. It is one of Turkey’s 

most impressive sites, the ruins of the ancient 


city set high on a 

hillside dramatically 

overlooking the modern 

town. It was a great 

centre of culture with 

a famous library and the renowned Asclepion, 

dedicated to the god of health. The theatre is 

well-preserved and set into a steep hillside and 

the other remains include the monumental altar 

of Zeus, a gymnasium and the agora. 

İzmir 

Hesap lütfen 

CanIhavethebillplease 

İzmir is the third largest of Turkey’s cities and 

the second largest port after İstanbul. Known in 

ancient times as Smyrna, it has had a long and 

illustrious past, and today, has a reputation as a 

relaxed, cosmopolitan city and cultural centre. 

It has no beach but it certainly merits a day-trip 

from any of the resorts nearby. It is good for 

shopping and there is plenty of cultural and 

historic interest including the superb Archaeological 

Museum, the Fine Arts Museum and 

the Ethnography Museum. Some of the best 

views of the city are to be enjoyed from the 

vantage point of the Kadifekale (translated as 

‘velvet castle’), the ruined castle which stands 

high above the city and was built during the 

reign of Alexander the Great. The Agora or 

marketplace is a remnant of the Roman city, 

and there are a number of significant Ottoman 

3ThestunningsiteofancientPergamum 

buildings including: the Konak Clock Tower 

(saat kulesi) which has become a symbol of 

the city; the Kızlarağası Han, a restored travellers’ 

inn, which is now a craft market; and the 

Asansör, a working elevator. 

Çeşme 

Çeşme is a charming, sleepy resort town, 

dominated by the 14th century castle of St. 

Peter. It has two main streets, where shops, 

restaurants and a couple 

of bars are situated. Most 

of the hotels are set on the 

beaches outside the centre. 

Ilıca is one of the most 

impressive, with its fine, 

white sand, and Altınkum 

(golden sand) beach 

is also renowned. The 

peninsula has excellent 

conditions for windsurfing 

and Alaçati beach is one 

of the best spots for this. 

Çeşme means ‘spring’, 

named after the natural 

springs found in the area. Ilıca is still a popular 

centre for thermal treatments. For further details 

see page 46. Ferries run between ports in Italy 

and Çeşme as well as between Çeşme and 

the Greek island of Chios. See the factfile 

for details. 

Ayvalık 

Ayvalık is an attractive port, surrounded by 

pine forests, with charming stone houses and 

cobbled streets. It is popular with local Turkish 

holidaymakers and a great place for those who 

want to escape the crowds and soak up the 

authentic atmosphere. There are good sandy 

beaches approx. 6 kms south of the town in 

the area of Sarmısaklı. 

Altınkum 

Altınkum literally means ‘golden sand’ an apt 

description of the beautiful beach in this relaxed 

resort. Popular with families it has a range 

of accommodation and plenty of restaurants 

and bars for entertainment. There are lots of 

shops and an attractive street market in the

4Theunforgettablewhite 

terraces ofPamukkale 

centre. It is popular with both Turkish and 

international holidaymakers. It is also a 

good base from which to visit the nearby 

sites of Priene, with its superb stadium, 

theatre and Ionic Temple of Athena; Miletus 

with its 15,000-seater theatre and Baths of 

Faustina; and Didyma. The impressive site 

of the temple of Apollo at Didim, ancient 

Didyma, is well worth a visit. It was one of 

the ancient world’s most sacred places, one 

of the fore-most oracles of the Greek world. 

It was originally built in the 7th century BC 

and then restored by Alexander the Great. 

The early Christians converted it to a church. 

It has been well preserved and the head of 

Medusa is of particular interest. 

Foça 

The resort of Foça is popular with Turkish 

holidaymakers living in nearby İzmir. Its 

historic sites include a Genoese castle and a 

small ancient theatre. The resort is split into 

two bays with beaches in each. Yenifoça 

or ‘new Foça’ is just 23 kms away by boat 

and has even better, and more secluded 

beaches. 

Gallipoli 

The Gelibolu peninsula, which forms the 

western border of the narrow straits known 

as the Dardanelles, was the scene of one of 

the bloodiest campaigns of the First World 

War. In 1915 the Allied forces (British, 

Australian, New Zealand, French and 

Indian) tried to seize the straits, but were 

fought off by the Turkish army, inspired 

by the young officer, Mustafa Kemal, later 

to become Atatürk, who defended the area. 

500,000 soldiers lost their lives during the 

9 month battle with its bitter trench warfare. 

The Gelibolu (Gallipoli) National Historic 

Park is dedicated to those who died and it 

3 amemorialto thesoldiers who 

lost theirlivesatGallipoli 

NorthAegean 

includes a number of cemeteries, memorials 

and museums. Most visitors stay in the 

attractive town of Çanakkale nearby. 

Troy 

For further information on the ancient site 

of the legendary city of Troy see page 32. 

Pamukkale 


Part ofTurkey’s southwestern shorewasaweddinggiftfromMarkAntony to Cleopatra. 

The stunning white terraces of Pamukkale 

and the neighbouring site of Hierapolis 

are situated inland, close to the town of 

Denizli. They can be reached from most of 

the coastal resorts on a one or two day trip 

but Kuşadası is the closest – approximately 

4 hours drive away. For further information 

on Pamukkale see page 32. 


relaxation 



DALYAN 

factfile 

Forbeach-lovers: The beautiful spit of sand which 

is the İztuzu Beach is completely undeveloped, and 

is reached by a pleasant boat trip from Dalyan. 

Forculturevultures: Visit the ruined city of ancient 

Caunos, with its impressive theatre and Temple of Apollo. 

Forthrills: Dalyan is such a sleepy town that you 

will have to head further afield for paragliding at 

Ölüdeniz or scuba diving in Fethiye or Marmaris. 

Forkids: Dalyan is perfect for a relaxed family holiday 

but there are no specific facilities for children. They are 

sure to enjoy the mud baths at nearby Ilıca and Sultaniye 

– a good excuse to get as muddy as possible and really 

wallow. They will also enjoy going on an early morning 

boat trip to try and spot the graceful river turtles. 

Forbargain-hunters: Visit the market in nearby 

Köyceğiz, or buy souvenirs in the small shops in 

Dalyan – they do a great line in all types of turtle! 

Fornightowls: the nightlife is very laid back but there 

are some nice bars here, which are open until late. 

Gettingawayfromthecrowds: Take a trip to the 

stunning Lake Köyceğiz, and visit the waterfalls where 

the locals go to cool off and have a refreshing swim. 

Eatingout: There are some charming restaurants on 

the riverfront, as well as a good selection in the town 

itself, serving mostly fish and traditional Turkish cuisine. 

The tastiest way to eat, though, is to stop for a barbecue 

lunch on board, of freshly-caught fish or crab. 


Distance: Dalyan 27 kms 


Dalyan is just 30 minutes from Dalaman airport, and was destined to 

become a centre for large-scale tourism development. Plans changed, 

however, in the mid 80’swhen it was discovered that the beautiful 

spit of sandy beach is a nesting ground for the rare Caretta caretta 

or loggerhead turtles which lay their eggs here in the clean fine sand. 

Dalyan, has remained, therefore, a sleepy haven its unspoilt nature 

protected by strict regulations which mean that the beach is not 

accessible after dark. 

Dalyan is on a river delta, its narrow waterways, surrounded by reed 

beds. The small town is set to a backdrop of stunning mountains, the 

river overlooked by ancient Lycian-style tombs carved high into the rock 

face. There are some good restaurants on the riverfront and the main 

street is home to a selection of restaurants and shops and a few bars. 

The town itself is flat and easy to get around. Boats depart regularly 

from the riverfront for the short trip to İztuzu beach, approximately 40

minutes away. It is a beautiful 

bar of fine, golden sand 

gently shelving into the sea. Since there is no development, here, 

however, there is little in the way of facilities so it is best to come 

prepared. The beach can also be reached by dolmuş. 

Those who stay in Dalyan have a choice of self-catering and hotel 

accommodation, from 4 star hotels to simple pensions. Most 

are built in traditional style to fit in with the natural setting, and 

many are set on the beautiful riverfront. Many people, however, 

visit Dalyan on a day-trip by boat from nearby resorts such as 

Marmaris and Fethiye. 

The ruins of the ancient city of Caunos are close by and can 

by reached by boat or on foot. It was originally on the sea, but 

its harbour gradually silted up and felt into disuse. It has only 

Dalyan 

Dalyan 

3Theancient rocktombs overlookingthereedbeds ofDalyan 

5TheunspoiltbeachofIztuzu 

3Mudbathsin thevicinity ofDalyan 

been partially excavated but the remains are 

extensive and include a theatre dating from 

the 2nd century BC, Roman baths, temple 

of Apollo and agora or marketplace. 

Close to Dalyan are the thermal springs and mudbaths of Ilıca and 

Sultaniye, which are reputed to have many health-giving powers 

and are a fun and relaxing way to unwind. 

Recently, there have been a number of developments at the nearby 

bay of Sarıgerme, with its beautiful sandy beach, 

surrounded by pine forests. 

didyouknow? 

ThefamousTrojanWars tookplace 

in westernTurkey,aroundthesite 

whereawooden statueoftheTrojan 

Horsehasbeenerectedtoday. 


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ISTANBUL 

highlights 

Foropulence: Visit Topkapı Palace – there is so much to 

see here that you need at least 1⁄2 a day. Book a tour of 

the Harem when you arrive and don’t miss the stunning 

emeralds and other jewels. See also pages 10-15. 

Foratmosphere: Explore the world under the 

pavements, in the Yerebatan cisterns, which stored 

water for the Byzantine city, with their hundreds of 

columns, artfully lit to a soundtrack of classical music. 

Forbeauty: Marvel at the stunning mosaics which still 

decorate the walls of Haghia Sophia (Aya Sofya). 

Forculture: If you only have time to visit one mosque 

make it the Blue Mosque – if you are in İstanbul for longer, 

take in the Süleymaniye too. See also pages 10-15 

Forshopping: Visit the Grand Bazaar, where you 

will find yourself buying things you never knew 

you needed. Take a trip to Ortaköy to shop at the 

Sunday market on the shores of the Bosphorus. 

Forpanoramicviews: Take a boat trip on the 

Bosphorus for the best views of the city. 


İstanbul is truly a world city, a city which everyone should visit at least 

once in their lifetime. It is an enchanting blend of Eastern and Western 

culture, a vibrant, modern city, with an unique identity, its rich past 

coexisting alongside its youthful exuberance. Although no longer the 

capital of Turkey – Atatürk created Ankara as the capital at the heart 

of his new Turkish Republic, as a symbolic break from the Ottoman 

Empire – it remains the country’s cultural and business centre. 

It is a city of contrasts, bustling with the cacophony of 21st century life, 

and yet achingly beautiful. It is set in a stunning location, surrounded 

by water – the narrow strait of the Bosphorus and the serene Sea of 

Marmara separating Europe from Asia. İstanbul has a foot in each, 

celebrating the best of both heritages. As Byzantium, Constantinople and 

finally, İstanbul, it has been the capital of three Empires, each leaving 

their mark in the form of stunning palaces, castles, mosques, churches

and monuments. The legacy 

of its chequered past can be 

seen in every turn of the modern city. 

Orientation&Where toStay 

The layout of İstanbul can seem confusing at first. The Bosphorus 

or Boğaz divides the city into the European and Asian sides, linked 

by two magnificent bridges, spanning the continents, the first of 

which was opened in 1973 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of 

the Republic. Most visitors to the city, staying for a few days, will 

have little reason to visit the Asian side, except for as part of a 

Bosphorus tour, on a boat which zigzags from side to side, to 

take in the best of each. 

3İstanbul’sfamous skylineofturretsandminarets. 

Istanbul 

5Bosphorus Bridgelinking 

EuropeandAsia 

Istanbul 

3DetailofamosaicfromHaghiaSophia 

The European side, however, is also divided 

in two by the Golden Horn or Haliç, which 

roughly divides the historic part of Old 

İstanbul, encompassing the areas of Sultanahmet 

and Laleli, from the modern city. It 

is crossed by a number of bridges, the most 

famous of which is the pontoon, the Galata 

Bridge. Most visitors on short city breaks stay in the old town as 

the vast majority of the sites which they will be visiting are in this 

area. İstanbul’s most famous sites – the Blue Mosque or Sultan 

Ahmet Cami, Aya Sofya (Haghia Sophia), Topkapı Sarayı (Palace) 

and the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşi) – are all within a 30 minute 

walk of each other. It is easy to get around on foot 

or by making use of the tram, which provides a 

didyouknow? 

FlorenceNightingalepractisedher 

nursingskillsinahospitalin what 

was thenScutariandis nowknown 

asÜsküdar,asuburbofIstanbul 


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regular service on the pedestrianised main street. 

In terms of accommodation, there are now a 

number of characterful boutique hotels in the 

area of Sultanahmet, many of which are restored 

Ottoman wooden mansions. These are ideal for 

those who really want to savour the authentic 

atmosphere of the Old Town. Those on a budget, 

may want to consider the more modern, and 

competitively priced hotels of the Laleli district, 

although this area is much busier. 

Although it is convenient, the disadvantage of 

staying in the Old Town, is that, since it is not 

a residential area, you don’t really benefit from 

the ambience of the modern city of İstanbul, 

with its excellent restaurants, lively bars and 

cosmopolitan feel. Some of İstanbul’s finest, 

most luxurious hotels are located on the Bosphorus 

with stunning views over the straits, or in 

the modern business districts. There are also 

some historic establishments in the area known 

as Pera, which blossomed at the turn of the last 

century. The heart of modern İstanbul, is Taksim 

Square and the streets around. The advantage 

of staying here is that in the evenings you have 

a wealth of restaurants and relaxed bars within 

an easy walk of your hotel. 

Wherever you choose to stay, it doesn’t take 

much to make the most of the city, and even 

three days will give you the opportunity to see 

the highlights. It is such a large city, however, 

that even if you visit time and again, you can 

still discover something new each time. It is 

easy to get around. There are a couple of handy 

trams – one in the old town, and the other in the 

main shopping street in Pera, İstiklal Caddesi. 

Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap and there 


Turkish Memnun oldum 

English Pleasedto meet you 

are also dolmuş and bus services for those who 

really want to explore. Most tour operators can 

arrange tours to see the main sights. 

Sightseeing 

There is so much to see in İstanbul that it is 

impossible to cover everything. See the highlights 

section for those which you really should 

not miss, and go armed with a good guidebook 

to give you the lowdown and make sure that 

you get the most from your stay. See also page 

30 for more information on the historic areas 

of the city. 

The Bosphorus 

Some of İstanbul’s finest vistas are to be seen 

from the Bosphorus. If you have time it is well 

worth spending at least half a day viewing the 

sights and savouring the atmosphere. You can 

take a guided tour on a small boat, or Turkish 

3Kızkulesi,knownasLeander’sTower or 

theMaiden’sToweris nowarestaurant 

4TheBlueMosque 

Maritime Lines (TDİ) runs a good value public 

ferry service which leaves two or three times 

a day and does the full round trip as far as 

Anadolu Kavağı, the nearest village to the Black 

Sea on the Asian side, and back to Eminönü. It 

is a charming place, known for its fish restaurants, 

and the walk up to the ruined fortress 

overlooking the village, is well worth it for the 

stunning views. As you leave from Eminönü 

you can benefit from some beautiful views 

back towards the old town with its evocative 

skyline of turreted roofs and minarets. As you 

head towards the Black Sea you will pass the 

Dolmabahçe Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace and 

the 15th century fortresses built by Mehmet II, 

Rumeli Hisarı and Anadolu Hisarı. Also look 

out for the stunning wooden Ottoman mansions, 

many of which have been renovated and form 

some of the city’s most desirable residences. 

Even if you don’t have time for a Bosphorus 

trip just take one of the distinctive city ferries 

for a quick trip from Eminönü to the Asian 

shores and back – to Üsküdar for example, just 

to admire the views of the old town. 

ThePrincesIslands 

Those who are staying for a little longer in 

İstanbul, should really set aside a day to visit 

these charming islands in the Sea of Marmara, 

just off the coast of İstanbul. The picturesque 

scenery of wooded hills, charming beaches and 

authentic Ottoman mansions, combined with 

the tranquil atmosphere, make for a pleasant 

contrast to the city itself. Easily reached by 

ferry or hydrofoil, the ambience of the islands 

seems worlds away. Büyük Ada, or ‘Big’island 

is the most popular with visitors. No cars are 

allowed but you can take a trip in a horse and 

carriage to visit the Monastery of St. George. 

Beaches 

İstanbul itself does not have beaches, although 

some people do swim from the Princes Islands. 

If you are staying for longer and want a real 

resort experience, however, it is better to 

take a bus to Şile on the Black Sea Coast and 

spend a couple of days in this delightful resort 

with its vast golden sandy beach and relaxed 

atmosphere.

Istanbul 


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Shopping 

İstanbul is a great place to shop. Whatever you 

want to buy, you can find the whole range – from 

souvenirs in the Grand Bazaar to designer labels 

in exclusive malls. The same rules apply as in the 

rest of Turkey ie fixed prices in ‘normal’shops 

and bartering in and around the bazaars. 

Shopping in the Grand Bazaar, Kapalı Çarşi 

is an unique experience. Although some find 

the atmosphere overwhelming, if you get into 

the spirit of it, it is fun. The salesmen’s banter 

is lighthearted and they are experts at guessing 

nationalities from a distance and choosing their 

language accordingly. Some of the lines are sure 

to bring a smile to your face even if you are not 

interested in buying. Feel free to browse – the 

shops selling similar wares tend to be grouped 

together, which makes it easier to see what’s 

on offer before committing yourself. It is usual 

to be offered a glass of apple tea, elma çayı,to 

ease the bargaining process. The best advice is 

simply to decide how much you want to pay for 

something, start the haggling a bit lower and 

then move up to your original price. You will 

soon get an idea of prices if you ask around. 

Bir bira lütfen 

A beer please 


The Bazaar has thousands of shops, together 

with cafes, banks, a post office, police station 

and even a mosque – in fact a self-contained 

community. They sell everything here from 

cheap textiles to fine gold jewellery. Leather 

goods are excellent value as are ceramics, silver 

and, of course, carpets. It is worth a wander 

around the İç Bedesten, the oldest part of the 

Bazaar at its very centre, where they sell an 

eclectic range of antiques and bricabrac. 

The Spice Bazaar, known in Turkish as the 

Mısır Çarşi or ‘Egyptian Bazaar’ is also well 

worth visiting for dried fruit and nuts, spices, 

including saffron, Turkish delight and cotton 

goods. You can even find stalls where they will 

custom-make a perfume for you. If you have 

time, the walk between the Spice Bazaar and 

the Grand Bazaar is interesting. To keep your 

bearings, just head uphill through the maze of 

streets where street vendors sell their wares at 

rock bottom prices. 

Those who are more interested in looking 

at the other end of the scale, should head to 

the area of Nişantaşı for designer shops, the 

modern mall of Akmerkez or İstiklal Caddesi. 

If you are in İstanbul over the weekend you 

should take a trip to the area of Ortaköy, just 

under the first Bosphorus Bridge to visit the 

atmospheric Sunday market which takes place 

on the seafront. 

Eating outandEntertainment 

Nightlife in İstanbul is an unique mix – you can 

find the latest clubs, which are some of the best 

in Europe or a café with cushions on the floor, 

where you can smoke a hookah pipe or nargile. 

Wherever you choose to eat, whether you want 

a quick snack in the midst of sightseeing or a 

romantic dinner for two you are likely to find 

delicious food made from fresh ingredients, and 

can expect good value for money. If you want 

traditional street entertainers and musicians 

head to the area of Kumkapı near the Sea of 

Marmara, in the old town, famous for its fish, 

or the Flower Passage Çiçek Pasaji off İstiklal 

Caddesi. You can find excellent restaurants 

with views and many in historic buildings, 

as well as some very fashionable restaurants 

serving international cuisine. İstanbul is famous 

for its fish and seafood so you should try to 

eat fish at least once during your stay. There 

are some excellent fish restaurants along the 

Bosphorus. 

For an idea of where to go and what to do 

there are two English language publications, 

Time Out Istanbul, (www.timeout.com/travel/ 

istanbul) and The Guide Istanbul (www.theguideturkey.com/istanbul/) 

which are available in 

hotels and shops locally.

3(topleft) shoppingin theGrandBazaar 

3(left)asea-frontbarinOrtaköy 

5(main)YerebatanSarniç,the 

cisterns oftheByzantinecity 

Istanbul 


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CAPPADOCIA 

highlights 

Forbeauty: Make sure you visit some of the rock 

churches with their stunning frescoes. Those in the 

Göreme Open Air Museum are particularly impressive. 

Foratmosphere: Visit the most impressive 

of the underground cities at Derinkuyu. 

Togetawayfromthecrowds: Enjoy the fascinating 

sights of the relatively undiscovered Soğanlı Valley. 

Forhistory: Visit Hattuşaş – the site of the capital 

of the Hittite Empire is one of the most important in 

Anatolia. The temples and carvings are extremely 

impressive. For further information see page 30. 

Forromance: Take a balloon trip to watch the sun rise over 

the eerie landscapes of fairy chimneys and other-worldly 

rock formations and really appreciate the scale of the site. 

Forshopping: Buy some of the local 

distinctive red clay pottery from Avanos. 

Forlocalflavour: Sample the local wine, 

made from the grapes which have been grown 

in the fertile volcanic soil for centuries. 

Fortrekking: Allow a full day to trek through 

the spectacular unspoilt scenery of the Ihlara 

Valley following the course of the Melendiz 

Stream through this beautiful gorge. 


The region known as Cappadocia includes the centres of Ürgüp, Göreme, 

Avanos, Üçhisar, Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı and Ihlara. It is a stunning area of 

other-worldly rock formations, subterranean churches and underground 

dwellings, the scale of which is over-whelming. For background on 

the area see page 30 The area is also famous for its carpet-weaving, 

wine and the distinctive red pottery of the Avanos area. 

Cappadocia was a refuge for the early Christians, who escaped persecution 

by living and worshipping underground. There are an estimated 

3000 rock churches in this region, not all of which are open to the 

public, the existence of which was discovered by chance in 1907 by 

a French Jesuit scholar, who was travelling through the area. 

Some of the most impressive of the churches are located in the Göreme 

Open AirMuseum, which, for the most part, date from the 9th-11th 

centuries and have stunning wall paintings. You shouldn’t miss the

Karanlık ‘Dark’Church, the 

Elmalı ‘Apple’Church; the 

Yılanlı ‘Snake ‘Church with 

its paintings of St. George 

killing the dragon and the 

Tokalı ‘Buckle’ Church. 

The Kılıçlar Vadisi also 

forms part of this vast site, which takes its name ‘Valley of the 

Swords’ from its pointed rock formations. 

The village of Göreme itself is at the heart of the area’s tourist 

industry, and many of its villagers still live in cave dwellings, 

some of which have been converted into pensions. Surrounding 

the area are the amazing rock formations known evocatively as 

Peri Bacaları or ‘Fairy Chimneys’. 

3TheareaaroundNevşehir ischaracterised 

by its strange rock formations. 

Cappadocia 

Cappadocia 

For panoramic views over the scenery of the Göreme Valley, 

visit the citadel of Üçhisar, the huge rock tower, which is the 

highest point in the area. Üçhisar and Ürgüp are two of the 

most popular places to stay in the area, where in recent years, a 

number of chic boutique hotels have opened in the old buildings 

and rock dwellings. 

Located to the west of Niğde, is the stunning IhlaraVadisi, a 

gorge which is 10 kms long and some 80 metres wide. Popular 

for trekking, about 12 of its 60 churches are open to the public 

including the impressive Eğritas Church. 

There are hundreds of undergroundcities 

in the regions. Two of the most impressive are 

Kaymaklı, which has 8 levels, and Derinkuyu, 

which reaches down to 55 metres. They were 

used by the Christians fleeing persecution in 

the 7th century, who created a self-sufficient 

environment underground including bedrooms, 

kitchens and storage rooms. 

To get away from the crowds visit the picturesque 

Soğanlı,Valley, with its many houses, 

tombs and churches, displaying excellent 

examples of Byzantine painting. More of the 

intriguing rock formations can be seen in the 

DevrentValley and the Çatalkaya area. 

3Thebest way to view the landscape 

is fromahotairballoon. 

didyouknow? 

The ChristianNicean Creedwas 

formulatedat theFirstEcumenical 

Council which was heldinIznik (Nicea). 


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THEBLACK 

SEAREGION 

highlights 

Forarchitecture: Visit Safranbolu to see the beautifully 

preserved wooden Ottoman mansions, and public buildings, 

which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and were the 

blueprint for the architecture which spread throughout the 

Ottoman Empire. See page 32 for more information. 

Fordramaticbeauty: Take a trip to Sümela 

Monastery, the stunning 14th century monastery, 

which perches dramatically on a sheer cliff face 

and is one of Turkey’s most impressive sights. 

Forthrills: Enjoy white-water rafting on the rapids of the 

fast-flowing Çoruh River. See page 48 for more information. 

Foranactiveholiday: Stay in Kartalkaya, one of Turkey’s 

premier ski resorts. See page 42 for more information. 

Fornaturalbeauty: Enjoy the stunning scenery 

of the mountain plateaux of Ayder – a great 

spot for trekking and enjoying nature. 

Forlocalflavour: The speciality of the region is hamsi 

(anchovy) and the locals cook it in over forty different 

ways, including with rice and in börek (with filo pastry) 

and they even use it to make a traditional dessert. 


The Black Sea coast is the greenest and wettest of Turkey’s regions. 

Lush meadows lie on high mountain plateaux and dramatic forested 

peaks fall away to the sea. It is at the heart of Turkey’s agriculture, 

with tea plantations, abundant crops of fruit and nuts and even tobacco 

growing here. Fishing is also important to the region, and the anchovy 

forms an important part of its unique cuisine. This is a vast region 

with much to explore both on the coast and inland. In addition to its 

unique history, its unspoilt nature and mountainous terrain have made 

it popular for trekking and it also attracts those who want to discover 

a more traditional way of life. 

Amasra is one of the highlights of the western Black Sea coast. It is a 

sleepy, picturesque town , its charming harbour retaining the remnants 

of its past glory – the ruins of a Roman bridge, and the remains of two 

4th century fortresses. A stay here can easily be combined with a visit to 

Safranbolu, one of the highlights of the area (see page 32) Continuing

along the coast to the east, 

it is wise to make a stop in 

Kastamonu to visit its Seljuk and Ottoman monuments before 

heading out to the spectacular IlgazNationalPark, where you 

can see bears, foxes and deer. Also in the area is one of the largest 

caves in Turkey the IlgariniCave, where you can descend some 

250 metres. 

Trabzon, once the medieval Empire of Trebizond, is the best 

base for a tour of the eastern Black Sea coast. It is a modern 

cosmopolitan city, the centre of trade with the ex Soviet states. 

One of its highlights is the Church of the Divine Wisdom, Aya 

Sofya, now a museum, which was built between 1238 and 1263. 

Its walls display brightly coloured frescoes depicting themes 

from the Bible. Get away from the hustle and bustle with a visit 

to Atatürk’s villa, set in beautiful gardens above the town. 

3ThestunningSümelaMonasterynearTrabzon 

3ThetraditionalOttoman 

mansions ofSafranbolu 

TheBlackSeaRegion 

Trabzon 

Probably the major attraction of the region, 

situated just 46 kms south of Trabzon is 

the 14th century Sümela Monastery. It 

perches dramatically on a sheer rock face, 

270 metres above a deep gorge. Its walls 

are painted with brilliant frescoes. 

To the south east of Trabzon is the beautiful 

alpine lake of Uzungöl, ‘Long Lake’, 

surrounded by lush meadows and stunning 

mountain scenery, where you can sample 

the delicious local trout. 

Those who want to experience the beautiful nature of this region 

at its best should head for the AyderPlateau and the Kaçkar 

Mountains to the east. The rushing rivers, the Fırtına and the Çoruh 

are ideal for canoeing and rafting, and the mountains themselves 

are popular with climbers and trekkers. 

didyouknow? 

Theword‘yoghurt’comesfrom 

Turkish,whichisappropriatesince 

theTurkseatit witheverything. 


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EASTERN 

ANATOLIA 

highlights 

Foratmosphere: Watch the sun rise or set over 

the iconic disembodied stone heads and temple 

terraces erected by King Antiochus I on Nemrut 

Dağı. See page 32 for more information. 

Togetawayfromthecrowds: Visit İshak Paşa Sarayı, the 

magnificent Ottoman Palace in Doğubeyazit, in a dramatic, 

isolated setting. See page 15 for more information. 

Forculture: Visit the Great Mosque and Hospital 

of Divriği and marvel at its vivid, intricate 

carving. See page 30 for more information. 

Forstunningviews: Mount Ararat known locally as Ağrı 

Dağı is Turkey’s highest peak, which rises dramatically 

from the plains, and is said to have been the resting place 

for Noah’s Ark. See page 38 for more information. 

Foraspiritualexperience: Visit Halil Rahman 

Mosque in Şanlı Urfa with its pool of sacred carp. 

Fornaturalbeauty: Visit Lake Van 

and enjoy the stunning scenery. 

Foranactiveholiday: Stay in Palandöken, one of Turkey’s 

premier ski resorts, situated just 30 minutes from the ancient 

town of Erzurum. See page 42 for more information. 


ŞanlıUrfa was known by the Ottomans as Urfa, and was awarded its 

prefix, ‘glorious’ for its role in resisting the French in the 1920’s. It is 

one of the most ancient areas of settlement, and is believed by some 

to be the ancient city of Ur. Today, it proudly displays the remnants of 

the many civilisations which have made it their home. One of its most 

impressive sights is the Halil Rahman Mosque with its sacred pools 

of carp. You can also see the cave where Abraham is believed to have 

been born. Both lie at the foot of a hill crowned by an ancient citadel. 

Just 48 kms to the south is the ancient city of Harran,mentioned in 

the Bible, with its beehive shaped dwellings, which were probably 

designed in the 3rd BC. It is believed to be the oldest settlement, which 

has been continuously occupied, in the world. 

Diyarbakır, on the banks of the Tigris, is renowned for its black basalt 

walls, decorated with inscriptions and bas reliefs, which surround the

old city and have 16 towers 

and 5 gates. Diyarbakır’s 

Ulu Cami or ‘Great Mosque’ 

is one of the holiest sites in 

the Islamic world. 

Lake Van is Turkey’s largest lake, and is the biggest sodium carbonate 

lake in the world. It is also one of the world’s highest, at 1,650 

metres above sea level. The water is so alkaline that the villagers 

can wash their clothes in it without using soap. It is also very 

salty. The scenery here is stunning – surrounded by snow-capped 

peaks, the highest of which, Süphan Dağı is over 4000 metres. 

There are four islands in the lake, the largest of which is Akdamar 

Island, which can be reached by boat. It is home to the church of 

the Holy Cross, built by the 10th century Armenian King, Gagik, 

3TheSacredLakeatHalilRahmanMosque,ŞanlıUrfa 

5DwellingsinHarran 

3CarvingonGreat 

MosqueofDivriği 

EasternTurkey 

one of the biggest attractions 

in the area. 

Erzurumwas located on one 

of the main caravan routes 

between Europe and India, and 

was, therefore, fought over by 

many different civilisations. 

Most that remains of interest 

today is from the Seljuk era 

including the religious seminaries, 

the Çifte Minareli Medrese 

with its twin minarets, and the 

Yakut Medrese. Also impressive is the Byzantine citadel, from 

which there are excellent views over the city. 

43 kms from Kars is the ruined city of Ani. In order to visit it 

you need to obtain permission from the tourist office in Kars, 

Known to the Turks as Ocaklı, it was founded by the Armenians 

in the 4th century BC, and reached the height of its prosperity 

under King Gagik I. Its city walls, Medieval churches and 

grand cathedral are magnificent. 


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Turkish CultureandTourismOffice 

t: 020 7629 7771 

e: info@gototurkey.co.uk 

www.gototurkey.co.uk 

opening hours:9.30-5.30Monday toFriday

Where to Stay - Turkey

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