11 Reasons why Turkey deserves your heart this summer

Drenched in breath-taking views, history and crystal blue waters, Turkey has it all. According to new research from Saxo, Turkey is also the cheapest holiday destination this summer. Double win!

We explore 11 reasons why Turkey deserves your heart this summer:

 1. This ‘Cotton Castle’ will melt the coldest of hearts.

The Turkish hot springs are one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. Cotton Castle translated to Turkish is Pamukkale – the charming little town where the natural hot springs are located. Cotton Castle is also an UNESCO world heritage site, situated just in front of the magnificent ancient Roman city of Hierpolis Discovered by the Romans, the dozen crystal clear pools, are believed to have healing properties. It is claimed that even Cleopatra herself had visited the calcium pools.

 2. Get lost in the clouds of Cappadocia

An enchanting sea of honeycombed gills and towering boulders, Cappadocia is one not to be missed! The soft stone countryside is scattered with captivating cavern architecture, with Goreme, Derinkuyu and Kaymalki showcasing the underground cities in all their glory. Float above the Sinewy Valleys in a hot air balloon and take Cappadocia in from the sky. Don’t forget to discover the phenomenon ‘Dark Church’ with some of the best examples of frescoes. Due to the lack of light entering, the multi-coloured angels look just as fresh and vivid as they did the day they were created.

3. The Turkish Riviera will steal your heart

The Turkish Riviera also known as the Turquoise Coast, offers spectacular back drops from the Beym, Akdag and Babadag mountains. Visit the Datca Peninsular for luxury, upmarket tourist spots. Expect to see windmills, ancient ruins and century-old houses. Head to Camlihemsin in the Firtina Valley for some breath-taking hiking spots. If you’re a keen diver, Kas offers up submerged ruins and shipwrecks for you to explore. One not to miss is the Lycian rock tombs in the ancient city of Myra. These house-like tombs were built so angels could reach the dead.

4. Get smitten with Ephesus

Situated near the modern village of Selcuk in western Turkey, Ephesus is an ancient port city and was once considered to be the most important trade part in the Mediterranean. The ruins will leave any visitor speechless as it offers up breath-taking views. Make sure you soak up the Grand Theatre, Celsius Library, The Virgin Mary’s House and Artemis Temple.

5. Be left captivated by Oludeniz Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon stretches over 12km and is one of the most photographed gems on Turkey’s Southern coast – it isn’t hard to see why. The varying shades of tropical blue sea and super soft sand, makes it a firm favourite. The lagoon is separated from the main beach by a sand bar and offers up shallow, calm waters. You could easily spend a day, relaxing or taking part in a number of activities available from snorkelling to paddle boarding.

 6. A match made in Bodrum heaven

Located on the southwest coast Bodrum is simply stunning, with its quaint cobbled streets, brightly coloured flowers and dazzling doorways. Its unique architectural styles have brought visitors from around the world from those on a budget to those looking for luxury. Whether you want to explore the fabulous marina, sandy beaches and shopping malls or make the most of the beach bars, restaurants and lively nightlife, Bodrum caters to all. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Bodrum Old Town and its bustling streets for those last-minute gifts!

 7. Be spell bound in the Grand Bazaar, Marmaris

Turkey is well-known for its shopping. But the most infamous Grand Bazaar resides in Marmaris; with its intricate shops housing modern fashion and nik naks to traditional clothing and delicious treats. Before you visit, it is worthwhile to practice your negotiation skills, as it is the place to haggle for a bargain.  

 8. Get swept off your feet at Antalya’s Waterfalls (not literally)

 Explore nature whilst taking in some of the best and most unique waterfalls Antalya has to offer. Two of the most popular waterfalls are Duden and Kursunlu. Duden are split into lower and upper, lower Duden waterfall cascades down over the cliff facing the sea. Upper Duden offers up magnificent natural beauty, with lush greens and caves, allowing you to pass under where the waterfall flows. Goynuk Canyon is the perfect spot for adventure lovers, with various activities from rafting, canyoning safari tours, paintball and guided tours, to partake in. Other waterfalls worthy of a visit are: Manavgat, Sapadere, Degirmendere, Ucansu and Gombe Ucarsu.

9. Fall head over heels at Butterfly Valley

 Time has stood still in the captivating Butterfly Valley, home to approximately 100 different butterfly species. The valley was named as a preservation area in 1987 and spans over a spectacular 86,000sqm, only accessible via water. The butterfly’s natural habitat is watered by a cascading waterfall from back canyon and is one of the more sacred and secluded spots Turkey has to offer.

10. Be Turtley in love at Iztuzu

Turtle Beach is home to Caretta Caretta or Loggerhead Sea Turtles. The long narrow beach of Iztuzu near Dalyan, is one of the few remaining locations in the Mediterranean Sea that has the right conditions for the turtles to reproduce. The beach is open to the public during the day but night-time visits are strictly prohibited between May-Sept.

11. Lose yourself in Hammams (aka Turkish Baths)

 Hammams are a major part of Turkish culture, and date back thousands of years with the Ottoman Turks inheriting the Roman bath concept. This was then adapted to become known as Hammams, you can expect a spa like experience of both cleansing and relaxing. Hammams can be found all across Turkey, however some of the oldest and best can be found in Istanbul. The most popular are Ayasofya, Hurrem Sultan Bath, Cagaloglu, Cemberlitas and Suleymaniye. The tradition of female and males bathing separately still exists however, Suleymaniye and Galatasaray do accept mixed groups of men and women.

 If you’re going to take part in any activities, make sure that your Travel Insurance covers you. You can read more on Travel Insurance for Turkey over on our Destination Centre along with some top tips!