Skylord Cruise and Holidays
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Holiday destination

Turkey

Turkey combines beautiful beaches with remarkable history, from the Turquoise Coast resorts of Side, Fethiye and Marmaris to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Istanbul bridges Europe and Asia, while sites such as Ephesus, Troy, Gallipoli and Pamukkale reward curious travellers. It is known for warm hospitality and generous food.

Region: Europe

Trip types on sale: Beach, River, History.

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Places

Best time to go

May, June, September and October are ideal for sightseeing and beaches. July and August are very hot on the coast. Easter, the summer holidays and October half term are popular for families.

Who it suits

Families, couples, history lovers and anyone looking for good-value sunshine.

Getting there

Flights run from London and many UK regional airports to Antalya (AYT), Dalaman (DLM) and Bodrum (BJV) in about 4 hours, and to Istanbul (IST) in about 3 hours 45 minutes. Cappadocia is reached via Kayseri (ASR) or Nevşehir (NAV), usually with a connection in Istanbul.

Practical

  • Time: 3 hours ahead of the UK in winter and 2 hours ahead in summer.
  • Currency: Turkish lira
  • Language: Turkish; English is widely spoken in resorts.

Typical daytime highs

  • Coast, summer (June to August). Typical daytime highs around 31 to 35°C in the coast in summer (June to August).
  • Coast, spring and autumn. Typical daytime highs around 22 to 28°C in the coast in spring and autumn.
  • Coast, winter (December to February). Typical daytime highs around 14 to 17°C in the coast in winter (December to February).
  • Cappadocia, summer (June to August). Typical daytime highs around 27 to 30°C in Cappadocia in summer (June to August).
  • Cappadocia, winter (December to February). Typical daytime highs around 3 to 7°C in Cappadocia in winter (December to February).

These are typical ranges, not a forecast.

Things to do

  • Take a hot-air balloon flight over Cappadocia
  • See Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
  • Visit the ancient city of Ephesus
  • Walk on the white terraces of Pamukkale
  • Take a boat trip along the Turquoise Coast
  • Relax in a traditional hamam

Questions

How long is the flight to Turkey?

About 4 hours to the coast and about 3 hours 45 minutes to Istanbul.

When is the best time for Cappadocia?

Spring and autumn are most comfortable for walking and balloon flights.

Which resorts suit families?

Side, Alanya, Marmaris and Fethiye are popular with families.

UK passport holders should check the latest entry requirements on GOV.UK foreign travel advice before booking.