Antalya

Located on the southern coast of Turkey, Antalya is a great destination for those seeking a tan, but it also caters for lovers of culture, food and history. With a past that stretches back millennia, there are rich archaeological remains around the area. A visit to the Greek and Roman ruins at Termessos and Hierapolis is particularly rewarding, as is a daytrip to the sprawling site at Perge, while in Antalya itself there's a great historical museum. Aside from history, Antalya boasts a fine golf course, the stunning Duden waterfalls and the harbour area, where great seafood restaurants abound and tourists can arrange fishing trips with local captains. For the kids, Antalya offers attractions like the Mini City - with models of Turkish landmarks, as well as the thrills and spills of the enormous Dedyma water park. For adults, the countryside around Antalya also offers many thrills, with white water rafting in the Koprulu Canyon National Park and beautiful hiking country along the Lycian Way. For those travelling in winter (and the sunshine can still be very warm), there are even peaks near Antalya such as Sakilikent which offer skiing for intrepid visitors.

Recent years has seen the tourist market really expand in Antalya, and there are more and more hotels each year, making it important to pick the right one. There is also great variety. Traditional resort hotel complexes like Barut Lara offer seafront locations, pools, gym and spa facility, and the Royal Wings resort has a strong reputation for service, being popular with visiting families. Then again, visitors can stay at a city centre hotel, like the White Garden hotel, near to the marina and the city's cultural highlights. For others, a self-catering apartment in Antalya or a resort nearby would make sense. There are some superb apartment properties in the resort town of Kalkan, with hillside sea views to savour, while an apartment in Antalya itself provides access to all of the sights.

Antalya offers a rich blend of a large city, historical sites and all of the fun of the beach. The coast around Antalya is wonderful for sunseekers, with superb beaches near resort hotels like Konyaalti or Lara. Cleopatra beach is a particular favourite with water sports fans, although activities can be found along the coast. For a family holiday combining great food, accommodation and activities, it is hard to better a hotel stay or apartment in Antalya.