Turkish resorts: Antalya, Kemer, Side, Belek, Alanya or Bodrum
You have decided on Turkey — now, which resort? Each suits a different traveller: one for families, one for a younger crowd, one for those seeking quiet.
Decide on the beach first
Turkish beaches come in two kinds: sand and pebble. That is the BIGGEST difference between resorts, and you cannot change it once there.
Sandy, gently sloping beaches are around Side, Belek and Alanya. Travelling with children? Look there.
Pebble beaches are Kemer and around. The water is clearer, but you need reef shoes and small children struggle.
Antalya has both, depending on the district — so “Antalya” alone is not enough. Ask your operator what the beach is like at that specific hotel.
The resorts in brief
ANTALYA — the most flights and the widest choice, with the airport close (short transfer). It is also a city: markets, an old town, malls. A safe first-time pick.
KEMER — mountains meet the sea, cooler air, striking views. Pebble beaches. For a younger crowd and nature lovers.
SIDE — a long sandy beach with ancient ruins next door. Mid-range prices, very convenient for families.
BELEK — the newest and best hotels, lawns and golf courses. Pricier, but the service level is higher, with strong kids’ clubs.
ALANYA — the most affordable. A long sandy beach and cheaper daily life, but far from the airport (transfers up to two hours).
BODRUM and KUŞADASI — the Aegean. Cooler, clearer water, livelier nights, small towns around. For those who want more than the beach.
Think about the transfer
Most people overlook this and regret it later. From Antalya airport it is 40 minutes to Belek, an hour to Side, ninety minutes to Kemer and over two hours to Alanya.
Group transfers stop at several hotels on the way, stretching the time further. With children on a night flight that is hard.
So before choosing the cheaper hotel, do the maths: two hours each way is half a day of your holiday.
Who should pick what
With small children — Side or Belek: sandy entry, kids’ clubs, short transfer.
On a budget — Alanya: a better hotel for the same money, but a longer road.
First time in Turkey — Antalya: everything close, widest choice.
Nature and mountains — Kemer.
A young group and nightlife — Bodrum or central Alanya.
Want a city as well as the sea — add Istanbul: many combine the two, and domestic flights are cheap.
Still have questions? An operator will advise you free of charge.