Itineraries — Med Coast

The Turkish Mediterranean Coast is the country's major beach destination — 500 km of beaches, coves and seaside resorts, dotted with exceptional ancient ruins and backed by the Taurus range. The region attracts nearly 15 million foreign tourists every year, of which 70% in July-August, making it Turkey's most touristified zone after Istanbul. This tourist pressure has two consequences: cutting-edge hotel infrastructure (all-inclusive resorts among the world's best) and a certain standardisation of the experience in the main resorts (Antalya, Side, Kemer).

For a pure beach stay (5-7 days), choose a base: Antalya (urban and cultural), Side (chic and historic), Kemer (mountain and pine forest), Olympos (nature and hippie). Enjoy beaches, pools, water sports and nightlife. Day excursions possible: Aspendos, Termessos, Düden Waterfalls, Kekova cruise.

For a mixed beach and cultural stay (10-14 days), organise a mini road trip from west to east or vice versa. Suggested itinerary: Antalya (3 days, old town + beaches + Düden) → Olympos/Çıralı (2 days, beach + Chimera + Phaselis) → Kaş (2 days, diving + Kekova cruise) → Kalkan (1 day, gastronomy + Patara beach) → Ölüdeniz/Fethiye (2 days, Blue Lagoon + Saklıkent + Lycian Way) → Dalaman (return flight). Rental car essential.

For a hiking stay (7-15 days), walk a section of the Lycian Way. Recommended sections for a first discovery: Olympos-Adrasan (3 days, moderate, beaches and villages), Patara-Kalkan (4 days, easy, Lycian ruins), Faralya-Kaş (5-6 days, demanding, spectacular cliffs of the Lycian Coast). Accommodation in pansiyon (€15-30/night half-board). Ideal season: April-May and September-November.