The Ultimate Turkish Riviera Resort Guide – The Best Resorts To Choose For Holidays to Turkey
From Antalya to Altinkum, Bodrum to Belek, compare beaches, nightlife and culture to find the perfect Turkish Riviera resort for you.
Holidays to Turkey continue to grow in popularity each year, especially with Irish holidaymakers. There has been a constant increase in accessibility, including the addition of new direct flights from Cork Airport to Antalya, a destination that welcomed over 19 million travellers from around the world in 2024! Antalya, along with long-time favourites Bodrum and Kusadasi, has seen visitors flocking to the Turkish Riviera, a region I have been fortunate enough to explore in depth.
I spent a month in Turkey during the summer of 2022 where I explored the vibrant city of Istanbul down to the stunning Turquoise Coast, visiting Bodrum, Altinkum, and Ölüdeniz along the way.
I absolutely love visiting Turkey and everything it has to offer holidaymakers from around the world. The hospitality is second to none, they really look after you, and you leave feeling like you made friends for life. The fact that I returned to Turkey for my summer holidays this year is testament to that.
Turkish Riviera hotels offer excellent value for money compared to similar offerings in traditional holiday hotspots of Spain, Portugal and Greece. It’s luxury hotels take things to the next level with top class amenities, service and entertainment.
Below, I’ve listed the main resorts in each region and why you should visit, but if you want to see my personal hotel recommendations, check out my top hotel picks for families, adults, luxury and value here:
Read: Top 25 Hotels in Turkey for Families, Adults, Luxury and Value
About the Turkish Riviera
The Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, is one of the most stunning holiday spots in Europe. Stretching along southwestern Turkey from İzmir on the western Aegean coast to the Antalya region on the southern Mediterranean coast, it’s all about crystal clear waters, golden beaches, dramatic mountains, and rich history.
Whether you’re after luxury resorts, thrilling water sports, or exploring historic sites, the Turkish Riviera offers a holiday that perfectly blends it all.
Turkey often receives unsolicited criticism and an undeserved reputation, but from my experience, it’s definitely worth visiting at least once. Yes, it can be a little overwhelming at times, with locals trying to make a living by encouraging you to visit their shop or restaurant, but a simple, polite “no, thank you” usually does the trick.
How to get to the Turkish Riviera
From Dublin Airport, you can fly directly to Bodrum Airport and Dalaman with Ryanair. Aer Lingus offers flights from Dublin to Izmir and Dalaman Airport, while SunExpress operates from both Dublin and Cork to Antalya and Izmir.
From Belfast, there are direct flights to Dalaman, Bodrum, and Antalya. Alternatively, you can connect via Istanbul with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus for even more destinations across Turkey.
Best time to travel to the Turkish Riviera
If you enjoy hot weather, the high season summer months from mid-June to August are ideal for you, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to highs of 38°C. However, sometimes temperatures can reach even higher levels, so it can be uncomfortable for some.
The shoulder season falls in late April, May, and October and you should expect mild pleasant weather. Personally I think, the best time to visit is June or September for comfortable sunbathing temperatures and also less crowds.
Where to stay on the Turkish Riviera – Resort Guide
To help you plan your holiday to Turkey, I have listed the top resorts by airport area below, so you can decide which part of the Turkish Riviera will suit you best.
Antalya Area
Antalya is one of Turkey’s most popular coastal resorts, blessed with some of the best weather in the country. Sheltered by the Taurus Mountains, it’s the go to beach destination on the Turkish Riviera.
It’s not just about the beaches either, Antalya is also famous for its world class golf resorts and the incredible Land of Legends theme park, making it a destination that truly has something for everyone. Fly directly from Dublin, Cork and Belfast.
Belek
Best for: Theme Parks & Luxury Resorts
Known as the Beverly Hills of the Turkish Riviera, Belek is heaven for luxury travellers and golf enthusiasts. With world class championship courses played by legends like Tiger Woods, upscale resorts, and incredible beaches, it perfectly balances relaxation with fun.
Belek offers one of Turkey’s most famous attractions, The Land of Legends theme park, a massive entertainment resort with water slides, theme park rides, shopping, and shows that the whole family will love. Nature lovers can escape to the Kursunlu Waterfalls, while the town itself tempts visitors with stylish cafés, boutique shops, and a lively Saturday bazaar.
If theme parks are not for you and you prefer a little luxury, consider the five star Regnum The Crown Hotel. It opened in July 2025 with a live performance by Jennifer Lopez and aims to offer an exceptional stay. Some of the first guests have included Stacey Solomon and Molly Mae.
Belek blends luxury, adventure, and a touch of fun, making it one of the Turkish Riviera’s most vibrant destinations.
Top tip: If you plan to visit Land of Legends theme park or water park more than once, consider staying on site or in a hotel that offers free entrance in the hotel price.
Read: Top 25 Hotels in Turkey for Families, Adults, Luxury and Value
Side
Best for: History & Beachfront Hotels
Side is a dream destination for history lovers, where ancient ruins sit alongside all-inclusive hotels. Compared with its lively neighbour Belek, it has a more relaxed vibe, with a beautiful promenade running along Turkey’s second-longest sandy beach.
Visitors can explore impressive Roman sites such as the Temple of Apollo and the grand amphitheatre, set against golden sands. For those who enjoy more active days, there are plenty of water sports on offer, including jet-skiing, parasailing and paddle boarding.
Side is ideal for combining cultural sightseeing with easy-going days by the sea, whether you stay in luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or family-friendly accommodations.
Lara Beach
Best for: Short transfer time & Novelty Hotels
Choose the closest holiday resort to Antalya Airport if you don’t want a long transfer after your flight, Lara Beach is known as the Las Vegas of Turkey, It is lined with luxury, all inclusive resorts that resemble castles, palaces, and even cruise ships. The long stretch of sandy beach, crystal clear waters, and lively entertainment make it ideal for families and couples seeking a glamorous getaway.
You can enjoy water sports, beachside dining, and evening shows, or simply relax under the sun with stunning views of the Taurus Mountains in the distance.
Alanya
Best for: Value for money
Around 2.5 hours from Antalya Airport, Alanya has the longer transfer time but offers great value for money with accommodation, a lively atmosphere, and plenty to see and do. Set beneath a medieval castle, the resort boasts two Blue Flag beaches, famous Cleopatra Beach with its golden sands and dramatic views, and the quieter Eastern Beach, ideal for swimming, scuba diving and snorkelling.
The town itself is buzzing with markets, bars, and a nightlife scene that’s among the best in Turkey, from harbour clubs to late night super clubs. For day trips, the Roman ruins at Side and the waterfalls of Manavgat are within easy reach, adding culture and natural beauty to your holiday in Alanya.
Dalaman Area
Fly direct from Dublin, Cork or Belfast to Dalaman and see what’s on offer in southwest Turkey. This region boasts some of the country’s most energetic nightlife in the resort towns of Marmaris and Ölüdeniz.
The area is also known for its amazing nature. The Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz or butterfly valley in Fethiye is just two of the amazing things to explore in the Dalaman region.
Marmaris
Best for: Nightlife & Shopping
One of Turkey’s liveliest resorts, Marmaris combines a charming old town with an Ottoman castle, a modern marina, and a buzzing nightlife scene. Its palm tree lined promenade stretches along the beach filled with cafés, bars, and water sports, and links to Long Beach in the nearby town of Icmeler.
Beyond the beaches and nightlife you can shop till you drop, unwind in a traditional Turkish bath or take a catamaran to Rhodes Town in under an hour for a dose of Greek history and culture.
Top tip: For cheaper shopping Icmeler is known to have more reasonable prices than central Marmaris
Fethiye
Best for: Exploring & Relaxing
Fethiye is a stunning coastal town surrounded by turquoise waters, mountains, and ancient ruins. Explore the rock tombs, sail to nearby islands, or relax at the famous Ölüdeniz lagoon.
Calis Beach in Fethiye offers a long sandy stretch with plenty of bars and restaurants, while the old quarter charms with cobbled streets and whitewashed mosques. Don’t miss Butterfly Valley’s dramatic cliffs and Kayakoy, the haunting ghost town just a short ride away.
Ölüdeniz
Best for: Adventure sports & Stunning beaches
One of my favourite resorts, Ölüdeniz is home to one of the best beaches in Europe, the famous Blue Lagoon Beach. It is a fantastic resort choice for a holiday in Turkey. I visited in 2022 and was so impressed by the soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and the charm of the surrounding area.
There’s plenty to see and do from paragliding over the iconic lagoon, to taking the cable car up the Babadağ mountain for a breathtaking view, or simply relaxing on the beach all day. The nightlife is great too, with bars offering shows, karaoke, and dancing well into the evening.
Top tip: Head for the cable car for sunset for the best views and cooler temperatures in the summer season.
Kas & Kalkan
Best for: Laidback charm
Kaş and Kalkan are two neighbouring towns that perfectly balance charm and culture on the Riviera. Kaş has a cute laidback atmosphere with cobbled streets, boutique shops, and some of the best diving in Turkey.
Just a short drive away from Kaş is Kalkan which offers a more upscale feel, with hillside villas overlooking the sea, beach clubs, chic rooftop restaurants, and boat tour to hidden bays. Together, they make an ideal choice for couples or travellers seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
Sarigerme
Best for: All Inclusive family friendly resorts
The village of Sarigerme is home to high end five-star hotels with fantastic amenities. Located on Turkey’s southwest coast, it sits on the site of the ancient city of Pisilis. Today, Sarigerme takes life at a slower pace, with a relaxed main village centre and a handful of bars and restaurants. Down by the sandy beach, the pace picks up slightly especially along the long stretch that’s popular with kiteboarders.
Izmir Area
Holidays to Izmir put you right in the heart of Turkey’s Aegean coast, where the beaches are a major draw. Kusadası is one of the most popular spots, with a long sandy stretch backed by hotels, markets, and lively bars along the promenade.
Visit the Ephesus Archaeological Site, the House of the Virgin Mary, or shop till you drop at the local markets and ‘fakes’ shops. Plus, you can fly direct to Izmir from Dublin or Cork, making it an easy escape for sun, sea, and relaxation
Kuşadası
Best for: Historic sights & Shopping
A firm favourite with Irish holidaymakers, Kuşadası has been a popular holiday resort for many years. This lively resort is known for its bustling bazaars, sandy beaches, and the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. With cruise ships frequently docking here, the charming town buzzes with energy and offers plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife options.
Ladies Beach is one of the most popular spots in Kuşadası, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and relaxed beachside cafés, perfect for a swim or a sunset drink. Nearby, the House of the Virgin Mary is a peaceful pilgrimage site said to be where Mary spent her final years.
For a day trip with a difference, visit the Greek island of Samos, a much quieter and more laid back escape just a short ferry ride away.
Note: You can fly to both Bodrum Airport and Izmir Airport for visiting Kuşadası.
Ozdere
Best for: Quiet & Peaceful escapes
Around 30km from Kuşadası, the laid back coastal town of Özdere is all about sea views and slow days. The beach is the main attraction here, with calm stretches of sand and small hidden coves perfect for a peaceful swim. If you are lucky, you might even spot some dolphins.
If you fancy a day trip, Ephesus is about a 40-minute drive, where you can explore one of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological sites and step back into ancient Greek and Roman history.
Food is a highlight in Özdere, with plenty of restaurants and cafés serving classic Turkish dishes and freshly caught seafood. Shopping here is relaxed too, with little boutiques and local markets selling jewellery, crafts, and traditional clothing.
Bodrum Area
I absolutely love the Bodrum area! It is a vibrant port town best known for its impressive castle overlooking the harbour. The city is well worth exploring for its historic sights, lively marina, and beautiful beaches, but the wider Bodrum Peninsula has plenty more to offer.
If you’re planning a trip, don’t miss the up and coming resort of Yalıkavak. Its stunning marina is lined with luxury shops and high-end restaurants that are sure to impress. Getting there is easy too, whether by public transport or rental car.
Note: You can fly into both Bodrum Airport and Izmir Airport for these resorts.
Bodrum Old Town
Best for: Exploring & Nightlife
Bodrum has a beautiful old town right on the water with great beachfront bars and restaurants overlooking the castle. It is a great place to relax in the day but comes to life at night time with fantastic bars and clubs playing the latest music. It is definitely more expensive than anywhere else I’ve been in Turkey so make sure to shop around for the best prices.
Top tip: Enjoy a refreshing drink at Yula Bar, located right on the beach with amazing views of the castle, or stay on for a dance after dark.
Gumbet
Best for: Nightlife
Just a short drive from Bodrum Old Town, Gümbet is known for its lively nightlife and bustling beach scene. Packed with bars, clubs, and watersports, it’s a favourite with younger travellers and party goers, while still offering easy access to Bodrum’s cultural highlights.
Once a quiet fishing village, Gümbet has grown into one of Turkey’s top holiday hotspots, where vibrant beaches meet a buzzing maze of bars and discos.
Bitez
Best for: Relaxing
Quieter than nearby Gümbet, Bitez is ideal for families or anyone seeking a relaxed beach holiday. Its long sandy beach and calm, shallow waters are perfect for swimming, windsurfing, or just soaking up the sun.
Lined with cafés, restaurants, and tavernas, the bay offers fresh seafood and stunning sunsets, while a palm tree lined promenade and nearby olive groves give it a peaceful, natural feel, all just a short drive from Bodrum’s shops, nightlife, and historic sites.
Yalikavak
Best for: High end luxury restaurants, Shopping and Nightlife
Yalikavak is a super trendy, upscale harbour resort in the Bodrum area. I visited on a day trip from Bodrum Old Town, which takes roughly 40 minutes by bus. It’s a high-end, luxurious destination with five-star resorts, restaurants and chic beach clubs that come with exclusive price tags, but it’s absolutely stunning.
You can stroll along the stylish marina lined with designer stores like Dior and Louis Vuitton, enjoy a cocktail overlooking the yachts, or spend the afternoon at a gorgeous beach club such as Zuma. As the sun sets, the harbour comes alive with a sophisticated yet laid back vibe, making it the perfect spot to soak up the Riviera-style glamour of the Turkish coast.
Live it up like a celeb and stay at the Bodrum Hotel Yalikavak MGallery Collection, where Vogue Williams celebrated her 40th birthday with her family this summer.
Top tip: Skip the expensive taxi from Bodrum and take the local bus, it is cheap and effective.
Altinkum / Didim
Best for: Value for money & Shopping
Altinkum is an up and coming main beach resort area in the Didim area, particularly popular with English and German holidaymakers. Altinkum is the area I’ve visited twice and have really enjoyed the laidback vibe it offers. Sunbathing on the floating pontoon at Sultan and Kings all day is so relaxing.
With new developments in Didim, the resort is set to grow even more popular in the coming years. The name Altinkum means ‘Golden Sand,’ and it truly lives up to it, with three stunning beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and a range of water sports.
The resort has a relaxed, welcoming vibe that appeals to both families and couples, and it’s just a short trip from the ancient Temple of Apollo, making it easy to mix history with holiday fun.
One of my favourite ways to spend an evening here is heading to Mavişehir for a sunset dinner, watching the sky turn bright orange over the coastline. Afterwards, I love wandering through the lively night markets, picking up some great fashion bargains and souvenirs while soaking up the vibrant, friendly atmosphere.
Top tip: For great night time entertainment, head to Shooting Star Bar, where you can enjoy daily shows including drag performances, bingo, and karaoke. For the after party head to the lively bars of Dolphin Square.
Note: You can fly to both Bodrum Airport and Izmir Airport for visiting Altinkum.
Sail Turkey
Best for: Adventure & Fun
Do you want to see alot of the Turkish Riviera in a short space of time? Then check out Sail Turkey which is one of the best ways to do it. Perfect for backpackers that want to explore the Turkish Riviera with like minded travellers, a sailing trip in Turkey offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Imagine cruising along crystal clear waters on a traditional wooden boat stopping at hidden bays, ancient ruins, and charming coastal towns. By day, you can swim, snorkel, or relax on deck under the Mediterranean sun, and by night enjoy local inspired meals, stargazing, and vibrant evenings in seaside villages.
Top Tips for your holiday to the Turkish Riviera
- Cash is still widely used! The currency is Turkish Lira you will need to change your money and often you will receive the best rates with cash.
- Support the locals – whether that’s market stalls or coffee shops skip the branded stores and Starbucks and support the local Turkish people.
- Buy an Esim or local sim to save on your phone bill, as its outside the EU you will get charged high roaming fees.
- Take some light, breathable clothes and scarf or shawl if you plan on visiting mosques.
- Try the traditional dishes like kebabs, mezes, fresh seafood, and local wines. Don’t miss Turkish tea and baklava.
- Don’t forget your sun cream! The Turkish sun is strong, especially in summer. Pack plenty of sun cream and a hat.
- Tipping 5–10% is customary in restaurants. Small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are appreciated.
- Bargaining is part of the culture in bazaars. Do it with a smile and you’ll usually get a better price.
- The Dolmuş minibuses (local buses) and ferries are cheap and a great way to get around like a local.
- Stick to bottled water for drinking, though tap water is usually fine for brushing teeth.
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I hope this travel guide helps you choose the best beach resorts on the Turkish Riviera to suit you. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, prices and experiences are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional charge to you.
