The Seas of Turkey - Top Oceanside Attractions

The coast of Turkey has long been the holiday playground of Europe with no less than 8,000 kms of coast line dotted with charming towns and ports. Here are our suggested destinations to visit when on a coastal adventure in Turkey. 

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The Four Seas of Turkey 

There are four seas along the coast with the Black Sea in the north, the Sea of Marmara embracing Asia and Europe, the Aegean Sea on the west coast and the Mediterranean in the south-west.  

This is a lot of coast to choose from. To make things simpler, the Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, is the most popular choice for first time visitors and encompasses no less than 1,000 kms of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Not only is this coast blessed with excellent beaches but also predictably sunny weather throughout the long summers. The coast is also home to the popular gulet schooner cruises that take advantage of the many protected ports and bays for moorings during a seven day cruise.  

The abundance of historic sites and natural wonders within close proximity of the coast add to the holiday experience of a Turkey Mediterranean Sea holiday. Why not chill out on the beach and also catch up on the culture and ancient history of this beautiful land.  

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Take Time in Istanbul 

When planning your Turkey sea holiday you will most likely travel via Istanbul and this is a not to be missed opportunity to visit one of the great cities of the world. Previously known as Constantinople, this metropolis is the meeting place of Europe and Asia and was once the capital of the Roman Empire and later the Ottoman Empire. Rediscover ancient history in magnificent mosques and palaces, shop in bustling markets or view the busy Bosphorus from a coffee shop. 

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The Best Turkish Beaches 

Now it is time to move on to your beach holiday. There are many towns and resorts to choose from – here are a few of the most popular to help you make up your mind. 

  • Bodrum is one of the best known seaside villages with a mixture of superb beaches and Roman ruins in the old town. Bodrum Castle overlooks the harbour and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus dates back to 350 BC. Take time to visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This is an excellent scuba diving site and day tours to the island of Kos will give you a taste of Greece. 
  • Alanya is home to the famous Cleopatra Beach which according to legend was given to the Egyptian queen by Mark Antony, after bathing there and falling in love with the area. Take a tour of Alanya Castle which overlooks the town from its hilltop viewpoint. 
  • Belek is situated inland from the very popular beach area which is dotted with resorts and hotels with beach bars and a vibrant atmosphere both by day and night. There are a number of excellent golf courses close by. 
  • Marmaris, once a fishing village, is now a bustling tourist destination and has not lost its old world charm, including Marmaris Castle and the Grand Market. Be sure to visit the world famous Pamukkale outdoor thermal baths less than three hours away. This is a spectacular sight not to be missed. 
  • Oludeniz is situated on a secluded bay with a long peninsula which is home to the most photographed and beautiful sandy beaches in Turkey. Here you can enjoy many water sports including paragliding and scuba diving.  
  • Fethiye is set on a natural harbour and has long sandy beaches. Explore local museums, ancient ruins, aquaparks and baths and spas. There are day cruises and tours to local places of interest as well. 

There are many more places to choose from along this magnificent coast with aquamarine beaches. Call Thompsons Holidays, your Turkey specialists, for more information on holiday destinations on the irresistible Turkish coast.  

Destinations

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