There are so many different sides to Turkey (Türkiye), including the city of Side itself! So it’s important to find out which part is best for you before you visit. And here at Jet2holidays, we’ve got four Turkish airports you can jet into, so you can take your pick from Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman and İzmir.
Read our handy guide to help you find the perfect Turkish getaway spot for you...
ANTALYA AREA
Where to stay: Alanya
Fly into: Antalya Airport
Transfer time: Two hours
Why stay here: You’ve got 300 days of sunshine per year to enjoy!
As far as sun-kissed stays go, they don’t get much better than Alanya. Located on the country’s stunning Mediterranean coast, this city’s an ideal destination for fun in the sun. With its beautiful beaches, historic sites and vibrant culture, it offers something for every type of holidaymaker. It boasts hot, sunny weather throughout the summer, so it’s the perfect pick for sun-lovers, beach bums and water sports enthusiasts. Swimming, sunbathing or stand-up paddleboarding? You choose!
Top things to do
Your best bet for golden grains and crystal-clear water is Cleopatra Beach. In fact, it’s one of the most famous beach spots in the region. Beyond the beaches, Alanya offers plenty of opportunities to delve into the region’s rich history and take a closer look at its unique culture.
The impressive Alanya Castle, perched on a rocky peninsula, showcases breathtaking views and a glimpse into the area's past. You can explore the Red Tower, ancient shipyard and the Damlataş Cave, known for its healing air. You’ll also be in a great spot to explore local bazaars and sample traditional Turkish cuisine.
BODRUM AREA
Where to stay: Didim
Fly into: Bodrum Airport
Transfer time: One hour 15 minutes
Why stay here: For a more authentic Turkish experience.
Didim, located in Aydin, has a laidback, friendly vibe. It’s less touristy and much quieter than some of the country’s other holiday hotspots, so you get to enjoy a more authentic experience!
Think traditional Turkish restaurants that serve up lots of delicious local dishes for you to try, buzzing markets and bazaars where you can pick up unique souvenirs to take home and seaside cafés that are packed with charm.
Top things to do
What sets Didim apart is its combination of coastal beauty and historical significance. The ancient Temple of Apollo, one of the largest and best-preserved temples in Anatolia, is a must-see if you want to learn about the area’s history and archaeology.
Despite its roll call of historical treasures, it’s also home to some amazing beaches. In fact, the surrounding area of Bodrum showcases lots of Blue Flag beaches! Didim’s Altınkum Beach is one of the most popular here, especially with families and sun-seekers. The sunshine and calm seas make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing and a variety of water sports.
DALAMAN AREA
Where to stay: Fethiye
Fly into: Dalaman Airport
Transfer time: 55 minutes
Why stay here: It’s been dubbed the ‘Turquoise Coast’ thanks to its dazzling beaches and coastlines.
Love capturing dreamy holiday snaps? Welcome to Fethiye, where postcard-worthy good looks come as standard. Fethiye, in the Muğla region, is known for its breathtaking natural scenery along its coastlines. The beaches here are some of the country’s most stunning! Turquoise waters meet bright-white sands against a backdrop of lush green mountains, so kick back, relax and soak up the views (and the sunshine!).
Top things to do
Make the most of the amazing scenery and follow one of the scenic hiking trails, such as the Lycian Way. You can also take to the water and see the coastline from a whole new angle on a boat trip. You’ll uncover hidden coves and paradise-like islands along the way. The nearby Saklıkent Gorge is a popular day trip spot, offering cool relief from the summer heat and a chance to explore dramatic canyon landscapes. Ölüdeniz’s Blue Lagoon is also only a 30-minute drive away too and is a real must-see!
İZMİR
Where to stay: Kuşadası
Fly into: İzmir Airport
Transfer time: One hour ten minutes
Why stay here: It’s fab for families, especially in Kuşadası!
Calling all families! This one’s for you. Kuşadası’s been entertaining families on their summer holidays for decades, so it knows a thing or two about amazing beaches, fun-packed attractions and fascinating historical sites.
For starters, the town has beautiful, family-friendly beaches like Ladies Beach and Long Beach with calm, shallow waters ideal for children. There’s a welcoming atmosphere, a wide range of restaurants and, best of all, really walkable streets, so it super easy to explore with the little ones.
Top things to do
Why not hop on a boat and explore the shores? Or head to a waterpark and keep cool on the slides. If you’ve got mini explorers in tow, they’ll love paying a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ephesus and the Library of Celsus.
You’ll also find lots of serene spots for picnics and evening walks, so keep your eyes peeled and see what diverse flora and fauna you can spot!
Posted: 2nd Jun 2025.