subject: Holidays to Turkey – A Great Family Holiday [print this page] The Republic of Turkey is one of the most exciting holiday destinations in the world. On the edge of Europe and Asia, it is a fascinating combination of the two. It has ancient mystery, adventure, fantastic beaches and a vibrant night life. Some of the most interesting ancient monuments in the world are in Turkey. Throughout south-western Turkey, there are well preserved Greek and Roman ruins incredibly, more than in Greece or Italy! The ancient city of Ephesus is the largest cluster of Roman ruins in the eastern Mediterranean. With gorgeous natural wonders, ancient culture and delicious national and international cuisine, holidays to Turkey have something to please everyone.
Istanbul is the European Capital of Culture 2010. Turkey's largest city, and its cultural and financial centre, it is a top tourist destination for history, culture and entertainment. Formerly the capital of three great empiresByzantine, Eastern Roman and Ottomanthis legacy offers an abundance of historical sites such as castles, churches and mosques together with the exciting new energy of designer shops, chic bars, restaurants and international music and film festivals. Don't forget Turkish coffee. For coffee lovers it is a real treat whether plain or extra sweet. It comes in tiny cups and could possibly contain someone's destiny in the grounds at the bottom of the cup. There are fortune-tellers in Istanbul who will know.
For the beach vacation, Antalya, or the Turkish Rivera, has beautiful beaches with hotels, waterfront bars and restaurants and shopping to go with them. Beach volleyball, golf tournaments, triathlon competitions as well as tennis and skiing are some of the activities included in these holidays to Turkey. There is also Kaleici, an old quarter, that is fascinating for tourists as well as locals and there are many unique opportunities for entertainment such as the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival which is held in well preserved Roman ruins.
There are so many sites to see in Turkey that one visit may not be enough. Fortunately, the cost for holidays to Turkey is much lower than many comparable holiday destinations. Turkey is also one of the safest countries in Europe, according to Interpol, with friendly and hospitable people.