The Turquoise Coast: Kaş and Kalkan
Forget the crowded resorts of Antalya and head further west to the charming seaside towns of Kaş and Kalkan. Nestled on the Mediterranean, this is the heart of the Turquoise Coast, where the sea is a dazzling shade of blue. Kaş maintains a laid-back,
bohemian atmosphere, making it a perfect base for exploration. It’s renowned as one of Turkey's best diving spots, with underwater ruins and vibrant marine life. Nearby Kalkan offers a touch more luxury, with beautiful villas cascading down the hillside. From either town, you can take a boat trip to the sunken city of Kekova, explore ancient Lycian tombs carved into cliffs, or simply relax on stunning beaches like Kaputaş, a golden cove tucked between dramatic cliffs.
The Culinary Capital: Gaziantep
If you travel for food, Gaziantep is your paradise. Located in southeastern Anatolia, this city is widely considered the culinary capital of Turkey and was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. The star of the show is baklava; the city has around 180 pastry shops, each perfecting this sweet, nutty treat. But it doesn't stop there. The local cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavours, from spicy kebabs to dozens of unique yogurt and aubergine dishes. Beyond the food, Gaziantep is home to the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses one of the world's most impressive collections of Roman mosaics, rescued from the ancient city of Zeugma. Wander through the atmospheric Coppersmith Bazaar and explore the ancient Gaziantep Castle for a taste of the city's deep history.
The City of Golden Stone: Mardin
Perched on a strategic hilltop overlooking the Mesopotamian plains, Mardin is a city that feels like a fairy tale. Located in southeastern Turkey, its defining feature is its stunning architecture—honey-coloured stone houses, mosques, and ancient monasteries that tumble down the hillside. A UNESCO World Heritage tentative site, the Old City is an open-air museum where you can get lost in a labyrinth of narrow streets. Here, ancient mosques like the Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque) coexist with historic Christian monasteries such as Deyrulzafaran. The city is a cultural crossroads where you can hear multiple languages spoken and feel the layers of history from the Artuqid, Seljuk, and Ottoman empires. For an unforgettable view, climb to the rooftop of the Zinciriye Madrasa at sunset.
The Lush North: The Black Sea Coast
For a complete change of scenery, head to Turkey's Black Sea coast. This region defies the typical sun-drenched image of the country with its relentlessly green landscapes, misty mountains, and a much cooler, damper climate. Stretching from near Istanbul to the Georgian border, this coast offers a slower pace of life. Base yourself in Trabzon to explore the incredible Sumela Monastery, a historic structure clinging dramatically to a sheer cliff face within Altındere National Park. Drive through the Fırtına Valley near Rize, famous for its lush tea plantations and traditional highland villages. The region's cuisine is also distinct, with a focus on local dairy, hazelnuts, and the beloved Black Sea anchovy, known as 'hamsi'.
