Why Turkey is the ‘perfect’ all-year-round destination with cheap beach holidays & city breaks under £350

FROM miles of beaches to timeless cities, Turkey is a great destination to visit all year round.

Its affordability is also a major draw for tourists, as it has been in the top three ‘best-value’ destinations for Brits for the last three years.

To top it off, easyJet holidays’ new sale has up to £300 off holiday packages.

The breaks can also be booked with £60pp deposits.

Here’s what you can expect from Turkey’s most famous hotspots; Istanbul, Marmaris and Antalya.

Marmaris

Coming in at number two in last year’s ‘Holiday Money Report‘, Marmaris is one of Turkey’s most visited spots.

Here, holidaymakers can enjoy a beach holiday without breaking the bank, with the average cost of an evening meal with a bottle of wine costing around £20pp.

Bottles of beer cost around £2.85, while coffee is only £1.45.

With its clean beaches and watersports opportunities, Marmaris is a paradise for those who love the ocean.

Away from the shore, the marina in the town is a hive of activity, with boat rides, excursions and tours.

For instance, you could explore the Marmaris Castle or the Old Town during the day.

At night=time, the streets along the beach come alive with bars and clubs, so there’s something for everyone.

Marmaris is considered a year-round resort thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate.

Beach lovers will love the hot, dry summers, while those looking for a peaceful seaside getaway will enjoy the shoulder seasons.

Here are some of the best deals we’ve spotted:

• 7 nights self-catering at Grand Villa Sol Apart in Marmaris, Dalaman, Turkey – from £244pp
• 7 nights self-catering at Sun Apartments Marmaris in Marmaris, Dalaman, Turkey – from £264pp
• 7 nights self-catering at Club Amaris in Marmaris, Dalaman, Turkey – from £303pp
• 7 nights b&b at Sunway Hotel in Marmaris, Dalaman, Turkey – from £325pp

Istanbul

Istanbul has a varied climate that makes it an appealing destination during every season.

Thanks to its unusual location spanning Europe and Asia, spring and summer in the city are ideal for it’s and lively culture but also taking a road trip to the beach.

That said, those looking for a quiet city break will prefer winter, as there are fewer tourists and famous sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia may be seen in a calmer setting.

Activities range from strolls along the Bosphorus, browsing the vibrant Grand Bazaar or exploring the ancient Topkapi Palace.

Taksim Square’s colourful street scene is also a must-see, and a holiday to Istanbul isn’t complete without a traditional Turkish bath.

Although most visitors spend their time exploring and taking tours, the nightlife scene also contributes to the city’s appeal.

There are fewer holiday packages to Istanbul, and prices vary a lot according to your departure airport, so you can browse them all here.

Antalya

Home to many waterparks and child-friendly resorts, Antalya is the most visited place for Brits heading to Turkey.

With its Mediterranean climate and prime location along the Turkish Riviera, Antalya might take the top spot for the year-round destination.

Antalya boasts more than 300 sunny days a year, along with pleasant summers and moderate winters.

The resort town has hundreds of hotels, so there is something for every budget, from luxurious five-stars to self-catered accommodations.

Many hotels in Antalya offer budget-friendly all-inclusive holidays, so they’re perfect to keep your spending in check.

Although the destination is known for its waterparks and sports, there is much more to explore.

Historical attractions in Antalya include the Aspendos Theatre and the ancient city of Perge.

Close by, the Termessos National Park has pretty cliffs and the ‘breathtaking’ Düden Waterfalls, which drop off rocky cliffs right into the Mediterranean.

These are a few of the cheapest deals we’ve found:

• 7 nights half-board at Alaiye Kleopatra Hotel in Alanya, Antalya, Turkey – from £285pp
• 7 nights b&b at Eftalia DownTown in Alanya, Antalya, Turkey – from £299pp
• 7 nights room-only at Aspen Hotel in Antalya, Antalya, Turkey = from £300pp
• 7 nights b&b at Hotel Kaptan in Alanya, Antalya, Turkey – from £305pp
• 7 nights at b&b at Cook’s Club Alanya in Alanya, Antalya, Turkey – from £328pp

We’ve also revealed the budget Portuguese alternative to the Amalfi Coast has £35 flights and holidays under £400pp.

And the islands similar to Hawaii but with no jet lag and 44 Blue Flag beaches.

This year, you could also swap Tenerife for its less popular neighbouring island, with warmer temperatures, fewer crowds and cheaper deals.

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