Whether
you’re looking for bustling cities, breathtaking scenery, or pristine beaches,
you’ll find it all in Turkey. Book your trip to Turkey from Dubai with DW
Travel, and make sure you discover our favourite places below – and you can
even turn it into a longer trip, with a holiday to Georgia easily reachable, and Azerbaijan not far, either.
1. Istanbul
Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul’s a feast for the eyes, and well worth a visit if you plan to travel to Turkey from Dubai. This is a city that never sleeps, with a distinct buzz about it day and night. Sultanahmet (the Old City) is home to the world-famous Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar, with the New City a shopper’s paradise, with boutiques sitting alongside a range of top-quality restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world.
2. Cappadocia
Google ‘Turkey’ and you’ll likely see those iconic images of blazing hot air balloons sailing over the sunlit skies. That’s Cappadocia. Embark on your own hot air balloon journey on one of our Turkey packages from Dubai, and explore the rest of what beautiful Cappadocia has to offer, which includes the awe-inspiring hiking routes of Pigeon and Love Valley, and Göreme Open Air Museum, where you can discover churches carved out of rock that date all the way back to the 10th century.
3. Antalya
If you’re after a beach break as part of your Turkish vacation, then why not consider Antalya? For calm, family-friendly waters, head to Moonlight Beach or Mermerli Beach, the latter of which’s cove is tucked away right in the city centre. Alternatively, for watersports, Konyaaltı Beach is good for surfing; whereas Kemer and Kaş are cited to be amongst the top diving spots in the country.
4. Bodrum
A 5.5-hour drive from Antalya, Bodrum offers an alternative beach break on one of our Turkey package holidays, with several of its own diving spots that are suitable for all the way from beginners, to advanced. Once you’ve had your fill of beaches, spend your time in Turkey relaxing in Bodrum’s Karaada hot springs, enjoy a sunset cruise down the Dalyan River, or even tick another country off your list, with a hop over to the nearby Greek islands of Kos and Rhodes.
5. Trabzon
Set along the lush Black Sea coast, Trabzon is a refreshing addition to any Turkey holiday from Dubai. Known for its cool climate, green landscapes and rich history, it’s the perfect escape for travellers seeking nature and culture in one place. Visit the iconic Sumela Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside, explore the lively Trabzon Bazaar, or unwind by the serene Uzungöl Lake - a favourite for scenic walks, cosy cafés and unforgettable mountain views.6. Rize City
Just east of Trabzon, Rize is Turkey’s tea capital and a must-visit for anyone who loves stunning landscapes and authentic experiences. With rolling tea plantations covering its hillsides, visitors can tour local tea gardens, enjoy tastings, and learn about the region’s centuries-old tea-making traditions. Nature lovers can explore the Ayder Plateau, famous for its hot springs and forested valleys, or take in the sweeping coastal views that make Rize one of the country’s most underrated yet rewarding destinations.