On the Aegean coast in Turkey, between Selçuk and Kusadasi, is found one of the principal ancient sites of Asia Minor: that of Ephesus, which still has many ancient Greek and Roman remains today. Unfortunately, of the previously grand wonder of the world, you will only be able to admire a few fragments of columns...

The ancient site of Ephesus, from one temple to another

A cosmopolitan district of Istanbul, Kadiköy is one of the most lively areas of the mega-city. An authentic atmosphere blending modern impulses with its young population thrilling the old warriors looking to merge into the crowds.

Authentic promenade in the districts of Kadiköy

Hasankeyf is in south-eastern Turkey, a very small city containing numerous natural and human wonders. Associated with a rich, ancient history, the diverse geological and archaeological particularities definitely make this village a place to visit. You must visit Hasankeyf as quickly as possible, because a dam project will soon completely cover this little gem.

Hasankeyf, ephemeral splendour.

Classed under World Heritage by Unesco for its numerous Ottoman houses, Safranbolu has conserved the charm of its old cities. Famous for its saffron, it is pleasant to wander its paved streets, to admire its aqueduct or to go and explore the caves of Bulak, nearby.

Safranbolu, the saffron city

Izmir

Bergama

Selçuk

Ephesus

A hideous seaside town in a lovely setting overflowing with western tourists in party mode  - that's my opinion of Marmaris, should you want to go there.

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Marmaris was the gateway to my trip to Turkey. I arrived by ferry from Rhodes. Before noticing the town, the smell of pines, the sonorities and the warmth of Turkish tea transported me to another continent.
I envisaged Marmaris as a stop-off town to prepare for the famous hike of the Lycian coast and was pleasantly surprised by the old port's peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. Small cafés, tiny lanes which lead to bazaar stores where you can find heaps of treasures. But it's the leisurely stroll along the sea with a magnificent view of the Marmaris bay that really touched me.
Charmed by the atmosphere, I decided to stay a day to visit the "Kale Müzesi" Fortress Museum and I skipped to Kaunos to see Lycian tombs for the very first time.

Located opposite the Rhodes Island, Marmaris remains a picturesque port for arriving in Turkey.

A seaside town that is not completely devoid of charm, with a small port that is still (a bit) traditional, and an old fortress which overlooks the town, Marmaris has suffered the same fate as a lot of towns on the Turkish Mediterranean coast - the development of massive hotel complexes to house hordes of western tourists on all inclusive holidays of swimming pools, beaches and nightclubs.

Marmaris Holidays

Marmaris: How to get there?

Marmaris: See when to go?

Marmaris: For how long?

Marmaris: What to see nearby?

Turkey: our articles for your holidays