Aegean Coast
The Aegean Coast has the highest concentration of ancient sites in Turkey.
A classic in its own right. Turkey’s cities pour with history, its coastlines dazzle under the sun and its culture always shines proudly – it epitomises everything that is right about a great destination.
The ease with which one can reach Turkey is remarkable, with daily flights to and from almost every UK airport into all the main towns of Turkey.
In Istanbul, at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, the familiar and the exotic sit comfortably side by side; but travel further east and the culture and atmosphere become more obviously Central Asian.
Choose from our collection of curated experiences that will help us to create a bespoke and memorable journey for you.
Turkey is a vast and diverse country with vibrant cities, historical sites, mile upon mile of pretty coastline, incredible scenery and magical landscapes, like those found at Cappadocia. Delicious food, warm, welcoming people and an efficient infrastructure which makes travelling around Turkey effortless are all waiting.
There are two distinct sides to Turkey. There is the southern coastline crammed with cheap hotels catering to mass package tours and cheap flights, and then there is the rest of the country. We can help you choose the south coast-based hotels with care. Admittedly, there are points where the two meet, but for the most part, it is possible to travel around Turkey without encountering crowds of foreigners.
Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.
Temperatures can be as low as -9.C in some regions of Turkey, with snowfall likely. During the months of January and February, the country can be less crowded, although visiting the cities is a more popular option than coastal regions.
February will be marginally warmer than January, with the climate varying according to the region, due to the country’s sheer size. Some regions of Turkey will experience temperatures as low as 3.C, whereas other areas can see temperatures averaging 14.C.
Certain regions of Turkey will experience many days of rainfall, particularly on the south west coast. During springtime in Turkey, temperatures will be ideal for sightseeing in the big cities and with less crowds than in the months to come.
Springtime is an excellent month to travel to Turkey with temperatures in their low 20s on the south coast and longer days of sunshine, however it should be noted that in northern regions during April, they may experience more rainfall and cooler temperatures.
As spring draws to a close and the signs of summer begin, temperatures will continue to rise and yet be quieter than July and August, when many choose to visit on their summer holidays both to coastal destinations and the country’s top cities, including Istanbul.
On the Mediterranean coast, June will experience higher levels of humidity with warmer, temperatures and long days of sunshine. It will start to get busier at coastal resorts as the temperatures start to rise.
During the summer months, temperatures are high and most of Turkey’s regions will experience long, dry days of very little rain. The cities, including Istanbul, will be quieter as the summer is a popular time to visit coastal resorts.
Like any Mediterranean destination during the summer, Turkey will experience high temperatures, ideal for a summer holiday by the coast. If sightseeing in Turkey’s cities however, it may be less comfortable for some.
The Autumn months in Turkey will experience marginally cooler temperatures than those of July and August, however, will still be in the mid to high 20s, with minimal rainfall.
Whilst during the day, temperatures will be in the mid-20s, the evenings will be much cooler. Humidity levels will be much lower than the peak summer months but as Autumn continues, rainfall will be more frequent.
With the cooler climate throughout Turkey, it means that there will be fewer tourists travelling to the country. Winter will have begun in Eastern regions, even experiencing the first signs of snow, yet some coastal destinations will still see highs of 25°C.
In certain regions of Turkey during the winter months, particularly in mountainous areas and Eastern Turkey, temperatures can fall below zero and snowfall is likely.
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Yes. Turkey is a great place to visit during Ramadan as you get a greater insight into the Muslim culture along with a shed load of local festivities. Be prepared for coming across a few difficulties getting hold of alcohol in restaurants but this should not be a problem in your hotels.
If you do not mind colder temperatures and potentially a snowy landscape, then the winter months are a great time to visit Cappadocia. Cappadocia is a must during a visit to Turkey, and hot air balloons take flight all year round. Imagine this otherworldly landscape in a winter blanket of white. Incredibly Instagramable.
Hotel standards vary greatly between Eastern and Western Turkey. Hotels in the east are clean and comfortable but simple, and usually business style. Cappadocia is an exception with boutique cave hotels in a unique setting. The coastal regions on the Aegean Sea, and the western capital of Istanbul have an impressive offering of accommodations with Bodrum and Istanbul home to the Mandarin Oriental, Kempinski Hotels and LUX, Six Senses and Four Seasons.
Yes, you will need to obtain an e-visa prior to arriving in-country. The link to use is https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/. The visa is valid for entry into Turkey within 180 days from the day you apply online. You cannot exceed a stay of 90 days. It is a multiple entry visa and the charge is USD35.
If you are a UK citizen you may still obtain a visa on arrival. You will be required to pay for this in hard cash in USD.
Please refer to the current FCO guidelines regarding travel to Turkey. There are a few restrictions still in place for the southeastern reaches of the country but by and large travel to the country is trouble-free. As a tourist destination, Turkey is safe to travel around. When visiting the bazaars and crowded places, we always recommend caution and keeping an eye on your belongings, as with any destination, and leaving valuables at home.
Being such a diverse country with a wealth of history, Turkey has lots for visitors to see and do. Highlights include a visit to the mesmerising Blue Mosque, which dominates the Istanbul skyline, and inside is an oasis of tranquillity amongst the buzzing city outside. Those wanting to leave the hubbub behind should travel to Cappadocia, where they will be met by an ethereal lunar landscape and villages carved into the rock. Here it is possible to take a balloon ride as the sun rises over the valleys and canyons of this remarkable scenery.
Alcohol is widely available in Turkey, especially in the larger cities and tourist areas. Local spirits such as ‘Raki’ are hugely popular among locals, and should be tried during a visit.
Like any country when you travel, we always suggest eating at busy places which are popular with the locals and where the food is fresh. Avoid buffets and food which is not freshly prepared.
It is compulsory for everyone in Turkey, local and tourist, to carry photo ID with them at all times. Make sure you have a photocopy of your passport before departing.
Alcohol is widely available in Turkey, especially in the larger cities and tourist areas. Local spirits such as ‘Raki’ are hugely popular among locals and should be tried during a visit.
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