The Turquoise Coast

Thanks to never-ending blue-green waves, this aptly named ‘Turquoise Coast’ is the prettiest part of Turkey’s Mediterranean shoreline. And nowhere is this more so than at the Blue Lagoon in Olu Deniz. Surrounded by emerald forests and ribbons of soft white sand, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is pure paradise. Over at Iztuzu Beach, loggerhead turtles choose this idyllic spot to nest.

Unique experiences

Where else can you see ghost towns, cliffside crypts and a valley bursting with butterflies? Adventure’s always calling here. Head to Dalyan to sail by the 4th-century Lycian Tombs carved into the riverside rocks, and don’t forget a dip in the skin-enriching mud baths nearby. In Kayaköy, get ready for an eerie deserted town turned open-air museum.

Good times

If you’re looking for a big night out, Marmaris delivers. Head to Bar Street to find over 100 clubs and bars, or hit the Grand Bazaar for an evening of street eats and bargain bagging. For family-friendly restaurants and all-ages entertainment, you can’t beat Icmeler. When it comes to water sports, snorkelling is popular, but rafting down Dalaman River’s rapids has adventure written all over it.