The Turquoise Coast: Turkey's Riviera
Stretching over 1,000 kilometres along Turkey's southwestern shores, the Turquoise Coast (known locally as the Aegean and Mediterranean Riviera) is one of the most beautiful coastal regions in the world. Crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, pine-forested hillsides, and charming towns — this coastline has everything.
Antalya — Gateway to the Coast
Antalya is the natural starting point for any Turquoise Coast journey. The old city of Kaleiçi, with its Roman harbour and Ottoman-era buildings, blends seamlessly with modern resort areas.
- Best Beaches: Konyaaltı and Lara beaches in the city; Kaputaş Beach nearby
- Sightseeing: Düden Waterfalls, Hadrian's Gate, Antalya Museum
- Where to Stay: Lara or Belek for all-inclusive resorts; Kaleiçi for boutique charm
Kaş & Kalkan — Hidden Gems
These twin towns are among the most charming on the coast. Kaş is a bohemian diving paradise with a Greek amphitheatre above the sea. Kalkan is known for its rooftop restaurants, calm yacht harbour, and gorgeous blue-water coves accessible only by boat.
Ölüdeniz — The Lagoon of a Thousand Colours
Ölüdeniz (Dead Sea) is one of Turkey's most photographed spots — and for good reason. The sheltered blue lagoon, backed by forested mountains, produces extraordinary shades of turquoise and green. It is also the world's most popular paragliding destination.
- Paragliding: Tandem flights from Babadağ Mountain (1,960 m) offer breathtaking coastal views
- Island Boats: Daily boat trips to Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island, and Blue Cave
Marmaris — Party Town & Natural Beauty
Marmaris combines a lively nightlife scene with stunning natural surroundings. The marina is packed with luxury yachts, while the surrounding forests and hidden bays make for wonderful day-trip exploration.
Bodrum — The Pearl of the Aegean
Bodrum is the coast's most glamorous destination — a dazzling mix of ancient history and modern chic. The Castle of St. Peter stands guard over the harbour while whitewashed villas cascade down the hillsides.
- Must See: Bodrum Castle and Museum of Underwater Archaeology
- Nightlife: The world-famous Halikarnas open-air nightclub
- Blue Voyage: Multi-day gulet (traditional wooden boat) cruises around the peninsula
Getting Around the Turquoise Coast
- Fly into Antalya, Dalaman, or Bodrum airports
- Inter-city buses connect all major towns cheaply and reliably
- Renting a car gives maximum flexibility for exploring hidden coves
- A Blue Voyage gulet cruise is the ultimate way to experience the coast
