Turkey –
Sea and History.

Why Turkey?

Sun, Sea and 3,000 Years of History.

The Turkish Riviera around Antalya and Alanya is one of Europe's most popular package holiday regions – and with good reason. Long sandy beaches, warm water from May to October, excellent all-inclusive resorts and reliable sunshine make this an almost risk-free choice for a beach holiday at a price that consistently undercuts comparable destinations in Spain or Greece.

The Aegean coast around Bodrum, Fethiye and Çeşme has a different character: smaller bays, white-and-blue harbour towns, boutique hotels and a more relaxed pace. Those who value independence hire a gulet – a traditional wooden sailing boat – and explore the coast from the water. The combination of archaeology, swimming and excellent food makes the Aegean one of Europe's great slow-travel destinations.

Inland, Turkey holds some of the world's best-preserved ancient sites. Ephesus, with its two-kilometre colonnaded street, is one of the most impressive Roman cities ever excavated. Cappadocia, with its fairy chimneys and cave hotels, is a landscape from another world. The travertine terraces and thermal pools of Pamukkale are genuinely breathtaking – and often combined with a visit to the ancient city of Hierapolis above them.

Istanbul straddles two continents and deserves more than a stopover. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia stand within minutes of each other; the Bosphorus ferry costs a few liras and provides one of the world's great urban views; the Grand Bazaar is one of the world's great marketplaces. Allow at least three days – preferably five.

Tips for Your Turkey Trip

• 01Best season: May to June and September to October – lower heat, fewer tourists, better prices.
• 02Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting mosques. Scarves are available at entrances.
• 03Çay culture: Accept the glass of tea when it's offered. Refusing is impolite; accepting opens conversations.
• 04Bazaars: In markets, negotiation is expected and part of the experience. The first quoted price is rarely the final one.