Hotels in Bodrum

The vibrant beach resort of Altinkum is nestled in the Bodrum region of Turkey’s southwest coast. Altinkum is a modern resort with a new harbour and three Blue Flag beaches. The destination provides all the goods for a laid-back beach holiday without travelling anywhere once you arrive. Throw in the bonus of the region’s best attractions on its doorstep, and you’ve got yourself a memorable trip for the whole family.

World-famous Ephesus is just a couple of hours’ drive from Altinkum. There’s plenty to do close to home too, including a local waterpark that kids will love. Or head into Didim, the neighbouring town, for many traditional restaurants and bars, the Temple of Apollo ruins, and an annual festival of friendship!

Things to do

A beach lover’s paradise, Altinkum has three beautiful golden shores to pick from, linked by a modern promenade and flanked by the chic, yacht-filled marina.

The beach closest to the marina is a top pick for water sports, where you can race on jet skis or snorkel in the crystal clear water. Take a stroll through the buzzing Dolphin Square markets and see what treasures you can find. Or nibble Kalamata olives and traditional stuffed vine leaves in a local restaurant, watching the world go by.

If you’re interested in taking a day trip, the whole family can enjoy the exciting water slides at Didim Aqualand. Ephesus’s ancient city is a must-see for keen historians, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Take a day trip

To discover what else this charming destination offers, you can take a day trip and have all kinds of exciting adventures. How about exploring the ancient ruins of Bafa Lake? This vast body of water is an ideal change of scenery, with a selection of cafés and restaurants overlooking the peaceful water.

Or head out to the Roman ruins of Ephesus for a day drenched in history and culture. A trip into Didim, the town next to Altinkum resort, is a must while you’re in the area. Didim is just a short drive from Altinkum and offers lots of things to see and do in a day.

For an exciting day out the whole family will love, visit Aqua Fantasy, the largest waterpark in Turkey just a short drive from Altinkum.

Beautiful beaches

If your idea of a holiday involves relaxing by the sea, Altinkum has plenty to offer. Have fun at one of three stunning beaches, whether you lounge around on the soft, sun-warmed sand or enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the calm waters. The beach closest to the harbour is best for children, with shallow, gentle surf that little ones will love to splash around in.

All of Altinkum’s beaches are served by various bars and restaurants, so you can enjoy a fruity cocktail or a bite to eat without heading back into the resort. If you like to enjoy the coast in a more adventurous way, you can find lots of water sports on offer at Altinkum beaches. Whether you want to try your hand at snorkelling, paddle boarding, or riding a jet ski, there are lots of ways to move your body when you visit Altinkum beaches.

Festivals

If you time your holiday right, you can visit the annual Didim Peace Festival hosted in the small town neighbouring Altinkum. The festival celebrates Turkey and Greece’s friendship and involves many fun traditions that visitors can enjoy. There’s a race from Apollo’s temple to Altinkum, as well as boat races and, of course, lots of dancing! The celebrations end with a music festival on the beach, known for pulling in vast crowds of revellers.

History

Didim, the town which neighbours the Altinkum resort, has been a sacred place for many centuries. It was one the centre of the Ancient Greek city Miletus, one of the largest and wealthiest before the Persian invasion in the 6th century. Ancient remnants are still scattered around today, making the town a must-visit for keen historians.

The area was associated with Zeus and Leto’s meeting place, where they had their children, the twins Artemis and Apollo. The Temple of Apollo sits just a few miles inland, making it a must-see if you’re interested in the history of your destination. The temple is mostly in ruins, but you can still get a good feel for its size and importance when you wander between the tattered columns.

Nightlife

Altinkum is a haven for tourists, so it should come as no surprise that many buzzy bars and clubs come to life when the sun goes down. If you want to sip cool drinks and dance long into the night, you won’t be disappointed. Flit between clubs that suit your musical taste or head into more chilled-out bars and enjoy a chat with your friends or family.

Nightlife in Altinkum is based around two main squares, but plenty is going on down at the beach, too! The beachfront boasts bars with live entertainment, karaoke, and dancing. Many of these spots stay open late, so there’s no need to hit the clubs if you prefer something a little more laid back.

If you’re travelling with family or in a couple and prefer something a little quieter, the nightlife in Didim could be for you. A stone’s throw from the main resort of Altinkum, Didim offers many cosy restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a drink and some traditional Turkish atmosphere.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including, including: Antalya | Bodrum | Bodrum Resort | Dalaman | Gumbet | Istanbul | Izmir | Turbuku

Want a holiday to a modern beach resort with a cosmopolitan vibe? On the Turkish Riviera, you’ll find amazing holidays to Gümbet. Once a sleepy finishing village, today it’s one of the busiest places on this stretch of coastline.

You can make the most of sun-soaked beaches with white-gold sand and lush, green countryside, before heading out for a night on the tiles. Gümbet has a reputation for top-notch nightlife, with a superb choice of beachfront bars and late-night clubs. And if that’s not enough for you, you’re just a stone’s throw from energetic Bodrum town and its famous clubs, making this a great spot not just for families and couples, but for groups of mates too. 

Things to do

Find your favourite spot on the resort’s sand-and-shingle shores and make the most of that Mediterranean sun; it’s a great way to start the day. You’ll find plenty of beach bars and cafés nearby to keep you fuelled throughout the day. The pristine waters are ideal for swimming, and water sports enthusiasts can make the most of the thrilling activities available here. Why not plan a scuba diving trip and explore the colourful marine life that lies beneath?

When the sun goes down, the top-notch nightlife takes centre stage; you’ll find dozens of bustling venues on Bar Street. And if you want to venture further afield, lively Bodrum town is just a short trip away. 

So, where is Gümbet?

Look at a Gümbet, Turkey on a map and you’ll see it’s lonightlcated on the Aegean Coast, on the Bodrum Peninsula, in the south-west of the country. It’s less than 5km from the popular beach resort of Bodrum, which means there’s always the perfect excuse for a day trip or two.

Tour the city on a Segway

Make sightseeing in Gümbet even more fun with Aegean Gingers Segway Tours. They’ll show you the ropes before guiding you around the best the city has the offer. You won’t need to stress about snapping holiday shots along the way either; your guide will do for you that free of charge.

Party all night

When the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t stop in Gümbet; in fact, it’s just getting started. There’s a lively nightlife scene here. You’ll be able to soak up the atmosphere at a local restaurant and try out some tasty Turkish food. If you want to party until the early hours of the morning, you’ll also find a handful of clubs with a warm welcome and some pumping tunes right through until the small hours.

Explore historical Bodrum

If you want to sample a slice of Turkish culture and history, you’ll find plenty of it over in Bodrum, which is only 3km away. This stunning coastal city is home to an impressive castle dating back to the 15th century; you can’t miss it towering over the spectacular harbour. Throughout the year, the streets are alive with colourful, cultural celebrations and festivals, complete with traditional folk dancing and delicious local good.

Check out the Underwater Archaeology Museum

Also in Bodrum, you can discover the Underwater Archaeology Museum, which has a unique twist. You won’t find any boring exhibits here, just lots of intriguing wrecks and artefacts that have been found over the centuries. Make sure you check out the oldest wreck ever found, which dates from Ancient Egyptian times and has been painstakingly restored to its former glory.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including, including: Altinkum | Antalya | Bodrum | Bodrum Resort | Dalaman | Istanbul | Izmir | Turbuku

Tucked away on the sun-soaked Turkish Riviera, holidays to Türkbükü will take you to the St Tropez of Turkey. This laid-back fishing village enjoys a lush coastal setting, hidden in a sheltered bay between scented citrus, olive and pine trees, making it perfect for a quiet couples’ escape. There’s an unmistakable air of sophistication about Türkbükü, from the pristine beaches to the stunning whitewashed houses.

And then there’s the stylish harbour, where you’ll discover a wealth of chic waterside bars and restaurants that are just perfect for leisurely lunches and romantic sunset dinners. With all this on offer, it’s easy to fall in love with Türkbükü. 

Things to do

If you want to sample the high life, Türkbükü holidays will be right up your street. As well as pristine beaches, you’ll love the designer clothing boutiques that run along the waterside boulevard. Then there are the upmarket restaurants serving fine Turkish cuisine. Sit down here and you can enjoy authentic octopus salad, fresh fish, and barbecued meats, complete with stunning sea views.

And if you feel like exploring further afield, you could always take a daytrip over to historic Bodrum town. It’s only a 30-minute drive away, and it’s packed full of historic sites. 

Dine at waterside restaurants

It’s easy to fall in love with Turbuku. It has many fine dining restaurants along the beautiful marina. You can savour the excellent local cuisine with a beautiful sea view and a dash of local charm. Watch the sun go down while sipping a delicious cocktail and enjoy quality time with your partner.

Explore the local beaches

Soak up the sunshine and get a great sun tan on one of Bodrum’s best beaches. Camel Bay is especially popular for its picturesque scenery and natural swim spots. Camel Bay is a great choice for a fun family day out.

Arts and Culture

Zeki Muren is one of the most famous names of Turkey. He was a great classical Turkish music performer and important cultural figure. Bodrum was his choice of home due to its peaceful and tranquil nature and the home he once lived in is now a museum showcasing his life’s work. Check it out to experience the popular culture of Turkey.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including, including: Altinkum | Antalya | Bodrum | Bodrum Resort | Dalaman | Gumbet | Istanbul | Izmir 

Bodrum town is a sophisticated seaside escape and the jewel on Turkey’s stunning Aegean Coast. Boasting a blend of traditional charm and a cosmopolitan vibe, Bodrum holidays have won admirers from all over the world (including the rich and famous). There’s something for everyone to enjoy here, from the ancient castle to the glittering marina. And you won’t be far from one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World either. To top it all off, Gumbet’s non-stop nightlife and a host of stunning beaches are also within easy reach. 

Things to do

Bodrum Resort’s sun-kissed waterfront is a hive of activity, with its cosmopolitan marina and the magnificent Bodrum Castle. If you want to take it easy, why not book a leisurely sail along the peninsula? While you’re staying in this historic town, a little sightseeing is in order, and the landmark castle and magnificent Roman theatre are well worth exploring. The town’s popular water park is a brilliant place to cool off, especially if you’re here with the little ones. Dozens of winding waterslides and swimming pools galore will keep kids and grown-ups happy. When evening comes around, the harbour is the place to be. But if you want to go all out, you’ll find late-night bars and clubs down on Bar Street.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including, including: Altinkum | Antalya | Bodrum | Dalaman | Gumbet | Istanbul | Izmir | Turbuku

Antalya holidays put you at the heart of the stunning Turkish Riviera - also known as the Turquoise Coast. And that makes this gorgeous destination one of the leading sunspots in Turkey (now officially called Türkiye). 

With 400 miles of Mediterranean coast, the Antalya area is a magnet for sun-seekers. But it's not just about blissful beaches (although they are pretty impressive) - Antalya is also surrounded by lush mountains that provide a stunning backdrop to the city. Plus, with must-visit hotspots such as Hadrian’s Gate and the Ancient City of Perge at your fingertips, there’s plenty to explore too.  

Find out more with our top tips for holidays to Antalya below. 

Antalya holiday highlights: 

• Home to the Old City of Kaleici brimming with bazaars 
• Backed by the breathtaking Taurus Mountains 
• Impressive archaeology sites including Perge, Side and Olympos 
• 213 Blue Flag-awarded beaches 
   

Where are the best areas to stay in Antalya? 

Best for beaches: For sun-drenched sands and gentle waves, Lara Beach holidays are the answer! Not only is this stretch award-winning, but it’s lined with glitzy All Inclusive hotels and sunset-facing restaurants. And you’ve got your pick of adrenaline-pumping watersports too (we see you, daredevils)! 

Best for family fun: Horse riding? Yes! Paddle-friendly beaches? Yes! Waterparks? Yes! We can only be talking about all-singing, all-dancing Alanya. Here days are made up of picnics by the Dim River and ice creams along Cleopatra Beach. That’s when you’re not climbing to the top of Alanya Castle with your mini prince or princess, of course. 

Best for couples: When you want to combine luxury with relaxation, holidays to Belek are worth shouting about. Think awe-inspiring nature reserves,  including the Köprülü Canyon National Park, ancient marvels such as the Aspendos Theatre and colourful coves. Pair this with a swanky adult-only stay and you’re onto a winner. 

Best for party-goers: Wanting to dance from dusk till dawn? Antalya’s city centre, Kaleici, is filled with karaoke bars and clubs including Tudors Pub. Aura in Kemer has quite the reputation for its DJs and light shows. While, Alanya’s Cello Cafe is just the place for a cheeky cocktail (or two). 

What are the best beaches in Antalya?

Jet-ski rides, sunbathing stints, palm-lined promenades - now that’s what beach holidays are made of! And luckily for you, Antalya has no shortage of jaw-dropping coastal delights. 

• Lara Beach: Taking the crown as one of the most popular stretches in Antalya (and rightly so), this crystal-clear bay is eight kilometres of powder-white sands. 
• Konyaalti Beach: From its Instagram-worthy mountainous backdrop to its pebbled shore and lavish beach clubs, it’s the ultimate sand, sea and sunbathing spot just 3km from the city centre!  
• Olympos Beach: Head off the beaten track to find this Mediterranean gem next door to the ruins of ancient Olympos. Not only can you spend hours topping up your tan on its secluded sun-soaked sands, but there’s rock climbing and hiking opportunities too. 
• Cleopatra Beach: Situated in the charming town of Alanya, this iconic cove is named after the Egyptian queen. Kick back and watch the sun set behind the waves at one of the Turkish eateries lining its shore or take in the views of Alanya Castle while parasailing. 
   

Top hotels in Antalya

There are so many fantastic hotels in Antalya it can be hard to know where to start, so here are some of our faves:

• Aska Lara Resort & Spa: A top choice for an All Inclusive holiday to Antalya, this 5 star stay has all the bells and whistles. From a trendy beach bar to waterpark access with log flumes and a splash zone for water babies. Plus, a relaxation pool and a whopping nine restaurants. 
• Limak Atlantis Deluxe Resort: Inspired by the Lost City of Atlantis, you’ll find this Belek hotel nestled between a golf course and a long sandy stretch. Flaunting five pools and five a la cartes, the choices are endless. 
• Delphin Imperial: Looking for stylish decor, fine dining restaurants and a set-up on a private sand spot in Lara Beach? Then look no further than this 5 star base with its four pools and action-packed water rides! 
• Selene Beach & Spa Hotel: Who can resist a bit of adult-only luxury? Especially when it features a rooftop pool and spa! No brainer, right? And it’s only a 15-minute walk from Avsallar’s dining scene. 
• Long Beach Resort Hotel & Spa Deluxe: Luring you in with its swim-up rooms, jaw-dropping Med vistas and thrilling waterslides - this stay in Alanya pulls out all the stops. 
• Crystal Sunset Luxury Resort & Spa: If you want to go big, this hotel should be your go-to. You’ve got an impressive line-up of 12 bars (yes, you read that right, 12!!) alongside seven flavour-filled restaurants and a slide-packed waterpark to boot. 
   

More travel guides

Sounds good, right? Find out more about our Antalya holidays with these guides: Alanya | Beldibi | Belek | Goynuk | Kemer | Konakli | Lara Beach | Side

Located at the heart of the Turkish ‘Turquoise Coast’, the Dalaman region is home to some of Turkey's most popular sights and attractions. You’ll find some stunning sun-kissed beaches all the way along the coast, and if you want some peace and tranquillity, there’s hidden caves and secluded bays to discover. The town has its own beautiful beach, which is famous for attracting Loggerhead Turtles and bright blue crabs.

Inland, you’ll find lots of places to explore on your holiday: soak up the splendour of the Butterfly Valley, wander around the 16th century Marmaris Castle, or dive into the local history with a visit to the ancient Lycian rock tombs. With so much to see and do, you can make your holidays to Dalaman exactly what you want them to be!

Places to stay

Dalaman lies right in the middle of the Turquoise Coast. A short ride east, friendly Fethiye sits in an idyllic harbour where you can enjoy a relaxed beach holiday. You’re also near Ölüdeniz lagoon – a magnet for once-in-a-lifetime paragliding onto one of Turkey’s most stunning beaches.

For a Dalaman holiday that's buzzing with nightlife, stay in Marmaris where the party is centred on Bar Street. Choose a hotel in the pretty riverbank town of Dalyan to see the dramatic Lycian tombs on the cliff face, and have fun splashing around in the therapeutic mud baths – the kids will have a whale of a time!

Enjoy the view at Kalkan

When you start to feel a bit hungry, you should head over to the charming fishing village of Kalkan and experience one of the many restaurants there. During the day you can pass the time on the golden beach and try one of the many water sports and at night, you can feast in one of the pop-up roof top restaurants for a great view of the moonlit bay.

Explore the underwater town of Simena

The nearby town of Kerkova has a whole town that has been underwater since ancient times. You can either take a guided boat tour and learn out about how it disappeared as the result of an earthquake, or hire a kayak and explore the market squares and rooftops yourself.

Chill out in a mud bath

For something a little different, there’s nothing quite like a relaxing mud bath to get you into a chilled-out holiday mood. The Dalaman River has its very own healing mud bath, so take a dip and let the mud rejuvenate your skin before washing it off in the shower. Afterwards you can splash around in the lake to make sure the mud has all gone, before taking a trip to Turtle Beach where loggerhead turtles go to lay their precious eggs.

Where is Dalaman?

If you’re wondering ‘where in Turkey is Dalaman?’ you’ll find it as part of the stretch of golden sands and sapphire seas, known as the ‘Turquoise Coast’. Famous for its beautiful, unspoilt beaches, Dalaman is perfect for sun-worshippers who want nothing better to do than laze on a beach and catch some rays. However, if you like things a little more up-tempo, you’ll find an exciting array of water sports on offer and some astounding natural attractions, such as a chance to see the rare Loggerhead turtles on Iztuzu Beach.

Butterflies and buttresses

Beyond the beaches, you’ll find other places to explore such as the beautiful Butterfly Valley, a nature reserve full of glittering waterfalls and the home of the Tiger butterfly. If history’s more your thing, the imposing Marmaris Castle offers an exciting insight into 16th Century life, and the eerie Lycian rock tombs give you an atmospheric peek into Dalaman’s ancient past.

Familiar food and local cuisine

Foodies will be in their element in Dalaman, with a stunning range of food on offer. While there’s plenty of pizzerias and burger outlets selling food that’s familiar for fussier palates, don’t pass up the chance to try some of the local cuisine that’s on offer in traditional tavernas and rustic restaurants.

For upmarket eating, head to the high-end harbourside restaurants in Marmaris or dine on simple but delicious dishes at one of the family-friendly beach cafés. Fethiye and Dalyan are both excellent for chilled-out bars where you can sip on chilled local beer or nurse a cocktail, as the sun slips over the horizon.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Dalyan | Fethiye | Hisaronu | Icmeler | Kalkan | Marmaris | Olu Deniz | Ovacik | Turunc

The lively port city of Izmir is situated on Turkey’s spectacular western coastline. It’s the third biggest settlement in the country, and has been a significant port on the Aegean Sea since ancient times. Today, Izmir holidays will take you to a cosmopolitan place, complete with a buzzy harbour, modern boutiques and a glorious pier built by none other than Monsieur Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame).

But you’ll still get a feel for tradition when you head for the bustling bazaars and explore the ancient landmarks. You’ll also find plenty of white-and-gold beaches in the area when you’re ready to relax. 

Things to do

During holidays to Izmir, you’ll want to make sure you see every inch of the city. There’s a blend of old and new here, from the buzzing bazaars to the chic marina restaurants. And if you’re going in search of beaches, you’ll find a superb selection of sandy shores and quiet coves a short way away. If you’ve always fancied hanging ten then grab your board and paddle out to the line-up, as some of the beaches are great surfing spots. You won’t want to leave this region without seeing some of the region’s most famous historical sites, including the Ancient City of Ephesus. 

Fantastic beaches

There are several beautiful beaches near Izmir where you can spend your afternoons lounging on the soft, golden sand and paddling in the clear waters. Recline on a sun lounger whilst you enjoy the view of the water glistening in the sunlight. The beaches in Çeşme, Foca and Dikili are easily accessible via public transport from the city centre. Ilica Beach in Cesme is popular for its great amenities and cove of soft sand that gently shelves into warm shallow waters.

Great nightlife

There’s a great choice of nightlife in Izmir from traditional dining to cocktail and wine bars. Spend your evenings in the wide range of bars and pubs and enjoy the lively atmosphere. There’s plenty of opportunity to dance the night away in one of the nightclubs if you fancy it, the majority of which can be found in the Kordon and Alsancak areas.

History to be explored

Izmir was once the ancient city of Smyrna, but is now a developed tourist destination surrounded by lush green mountains and set by a tranquil bay. The historical hub has a range of ancient buildings, castles and museums to visit. One thing that should be at the top of your to do list is the Birgi Cakiraga Mansion, as this unique building is crammed full of hand crafted artwork and has a brilliant view of the city.

Visit the area’s most famous archaeological site; the Ancient City of Ephesus, in the small town of Selcuk. It was once the Mediterranean’s thriving commercial centre and is significant for early Christianity. Visit the 4th century AD House of Virgin Mary, which is said to be where Mary lived after the death of Jesus. See the small church and bedrooms and drink from the fountain; its water is said to have curative properties. The impressive archaeological site has the remaining foundations of this once great city and carved columns from the Hellenistic Age. The area is also home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, The Temple of Artemis, and the Basilica of St John.

Places to stay

Located on the sparkling Aegean Coast, Kusadasi is one of the most idyllic spots in the region. The resort is loved for being the picture-perfect beach destination, with beautifully smooth white sand lapped by the azure ocean. Kusadasi is also the gateway to the region’s ancient sites and has a busy old town filled with authentic bazaars. Its modern centre is also something to shout about, with a top clubbing scene and plenty of bars and restaurants to pick from. The resort is within easy reach of Izmir city and Ozdere.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Cesme | Kusadasi | Ozdere