Reasons To Choose Turkey For Your Summer Holidays
When comparing summer holiday destinations, many travelers instinctively think of Spain or France. Traditionally, both countries have attracted millions of visitors each year—especially from the UK. However, as global travel has returned to a more regular rhythm, Turkey is rapidly reclaiming its place as one of the world’s top summer destinations.
According to United Nations Tourism Organisation rankings, France and Spain continue to lead global arrivals, but Turkey consistently ranks among the world’s top tourism countries, outperforming many destinations in value, diversity, and overall experience. Beyond matching Spain and France, Turkey delivers more—in abundance.
Below are the key reasons why Turkey should be your top choice for summer holidays.
1. Safety First
One of the most misunderstood aspects of Turkey is safety. Some government advisories mention restrictions near the Syrian border, leading uninformed readers to assume the entire country is affected. In reality, Turkey is vast, and popular holiday destinations are located along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, hundreds of miles away.
For example, driving from Bodrum to the Syrian border would take nearly two days. Turkey has not experienced major terrorist incidents in tourist regions for years, and proactive authorities ensure public safety—reflected in the 50+ million visitors who travel to Turkey annually.
2. A Muslim Country—But Secular
Turkey is a secular republic. While the majority of the population is Muslim, religion and politics are separate, and daily life—especially in tourist areas—is liberal and relaxed.
In western resorts and cities like Istanbul, nightlife thrives, alcohol is widely available, and visitors can enjoy their holiday freely. Aside from hearing the call to prayer, religion rarely affects the tourist experience.
3. Exceptional Value for Money
With the Turkish Lira offering favorable exchange rates, Turkey is one of Europe’s best-value summer destinations.
Compared to Spain and France:
Restaurant prices are significantly lower
Local drinks and beer are much cheaper
Families enjoy greater affordability
This makes Turkey ideal for budget-conscious travelers without compromising quality.
4. World-Class Luxury Hotels
Turkey excels in luxury travel. Unlike Spain or France, Turkey regularly ranks among the world’s top luxury hotel destinations.
From iconic resorts in Antalya to elite boutique hotels in Bodrum and Istanbul, Turkish hospitality combines scale, style, and service excellence. Many professionals in tourism are formally trained, ensuring high service standards.
5. Long Coastline & Stunning Beaches
Turkey boasts a coastline of over 8,300 km, surpassing Spain and France.
This means:
More beach destinations
Greater variety of resorts
Leadership in beach package holidays
Top destinations include Antalya, Fethiye, Marmaris, and the Bodrum Peninsula.
6. Idyllic Sailing & the Turkish Riviera
Often compared to the French Riviera, the Turkish Riviera offers even more value and beauty.
From daily boat trips to private gulet cruises, visitors can explore:
Hidden coves
Ancient ruins
Charming fishing villages
Sailing holidays suit every budget—from shared cabins to private yachts.
7. Historical Sites & Museums
Turkey’s history spans multiple civilizations, including Persians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.
Highlights include:
Ephesus
Istanbul’s Old City (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace)
Ancient Lycian, Roman, and Ottoman heritage sites
Cruise ships regularly dock at Kuşadası for Ephesus excursions.
8. Incredible Diversity of Activities
Turkey offers far more than sun and sea:
Cultural & culinary tours
Photography and art holidays
Adventure sports and hiking
Nature lovers can explore the Kaçkar Mountains, while golfers enjoy world-class courses in Belek. Winter visitors can even ski in Turkey’s mountain resorts.
9. Delicious Food & Drink
Turkish cuisine is one of the world’s richest, shaped by centuries of cultural influence.
Beyond kebabs, expect:
Regional mezes
Olive-oil dishes
Unique soups and desserts
Turkish wine, rakı, and fresh juices
Food in Turkey is not just a meal—it’s a cultural experience.
10. Genuine Hospitality
Hospitality is deeply rooted in Turkish culture. Visitors frequently return year after year due to the warmth of local people—from hotel staff and waiters to guides and shopkeepers.
This welcoming nature is also why many foreigners choose to buy homes and live in Turkey permanently.
11. Exceptional Natural Beauty
Turkey’s landscapes are breathtaking and diverse:
Cappadocia with its fairy chimneys
Pamukkale
Saklıkent Gorge, Butterfly Valley, and Düden Waterfalls
You’ll need plenty of phone storage for photos.
12. Architectural Richness
From Ottoman palaces in Istanbul to stone houses in Alaçatı and wooden homes in the Black Sea region, Turkey is a living architectural museum, reflecting centuries of preservation and diversity.
13. Award-Winning Airports
Turkey has invested heavily in aviation infrastructure.
Antalya, Bodrum, and Dalaman airports serve millions of tourists
Istanbul Airport is among the world’s most advanced, featuring the largest duty-free area globally
14. Historic Churches & Christian Heritage
Despite being a Muslim-majority country, Turkey is vital to early Christianity.
Key sites include:
The Seven Churches of Revelation in western Turkey
St. Peter’s Church in Antakya
The House of the Virgin Mary near Selçuk
Final Thoughts: Why Turkey?
Turkey combines safety, value, luxury, history, beaches, cuisine, and hospitality—all in one destination. Few countries offer such variety at such competitive prices.
If you’re planning your next summer holiday, Turkey deserves serious consideration.
About Turkey
Our blog explores more about Turkey’s food, culture, traditions, and must-visit destinations—helping you plan an unforgettable journey.
