Top Five Destinations For Holidays in Turkey

There are a number of reasons why Turkey is emerging into the twenty first century as the best place to go on holiday. Turkey has, over recent years, evolved into a reasonably peaceful, stable and commercially viable link between east and west. These factors have meant that Turkey's amazing holiday possibilities have been opened up. We count down the top five destinations you could visit on a Turkish holiday.

5. Gulet Cruising on the coast

A Gulet is a traditional wooden sailing ship, specific in design to parts of Turkey. Holidays to the region are made special by travelling on these unique ships. The rolling Mediterranean beneath the keel; skimming across beautifully clear blue water; these are memories that will stay with you during colder winter months. Holidays in Turkey are enhanced dramatically by either a short trip or an entire cruise on a Gulet, which allow you to experience the Turkish coastline in comfort and relaxation.

4. Akyaka

Akyaka is tucked away in the south of Turkey, a secluded beach resort in the province of Mugla. If you're looking for Holidays to Turkey with long sandy beaches and safe and shallow waters for the kids, look no further than Akyaka. The area has many opportunities for relaxation for the grown ups along-side the fun for children, and both will enjoy the views, the sea and the friendly attitude towards tourists of the local fishermen. Further, a Turkish holiday in Akyaka is incomplete without trying the great scuba diving in the area, including coral, vibrant fish life and interesting wrecks to explore.

3. Loryma Peninsula

The Loryma Peninsula seems more like a Norwegian fjord in summer than a part of a Mediterranean country. The stunning beauty of the area - with its many inlets, cliffs and outcrops - is enhanced by its balmy heat and warm waters. Loryma Peninsula is also home to the village of Kumlubük, which will really make any holiday in Turkey. An oasis of peace and quiet, the village offers a market - with authentic and rustic Turkish goods - restaurants with excellent local cuisine, and an award winning beach within walking distance.

2. Kalkan

Kalkan offers a compromise as far as Holidays in Turkey go; some urban build up, culture and bustle in the busy harbour, melded with local tranquillity and amazing beaches. The town is on the south coast of the country, with a mix of Greek and Turkish influences in architecture and cuisine. The town is also historically and commercially interesting, and visitors should not miss out on fishing trips from the harbour. The town also averages about 200 days of sunshine a year, so you won't miss out on a tan while on your Turkish holiday, even if not sunbathing.

1. Istanbul

Istanbul is the last word in Holidays to Turkey. Perfectly placed in the strait between the Black and Aegean seas, Istanbul is the capital of Turkish culture, commerce and government. The city is a riot of colour and spectacle, and is the perfect destination for city break holidays in Turkey. The city had and still has huge historical, religious and military significance, and would create just as significant a memory from any holiday in turkey.