Turkey remains a beloved holiday destination for British travellers, with demand surging by 57 per cent according to data from On the Beach. Despite a Foreign Office warning against travel within 10km of the Syrian border due to fighting and terrorism risks, holidaymakers are flocking to the country in greater numbers.
Currency Boost Makes Turkey Cheaper
New analysis from Fast Loans UK reveals that the Turkish Lira is 51 per cent cheaper against the pound in 2026 compared to 2024. The exchange rate has shifted from 40.33 TL per £1 in 2024 to 60.69 TL per £1 in 2026, offering significant savings for visitors. This affordability boost is the highest among 38 currencies analysed.
Hidden Gems Away from the Crowds
Suluada: Turkey's Maldives
For those seeking tranquility, Suluada island off the coast of Antalya offers pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. Described as Turkey's answer to the Maldives, this uninhabited island is accessible via a 40-minute boat trip. Wildlife includes dolphins and monk seals.
Izmir: Cosmopolitan Alternative
Izmir provides a vibrant city experience without Istanbul's crowds. Highlights include the Kemeralti market for antiques and the Saat Kulesi clock tower built in 1901.
Datca Peninsula
Travel journalist Emma O'Reilly praised the Datca Peninsula for its undiscovered beaches and tiny villages, stretching 50 miles between the Aegean and Mediterranean seas.
Top 10 Attractions in Turkey
TripAdvisor's top-rated attractions offer a mix of history, culture, and fun.
- Basilica Cistern: A 6th-century underground reservoir in Istanbul with 336 columns. Visitors call it a 'mysterious underground gem'.
- The Land of Legends Theme Park: Thrilling rides and an aqua park, praised for safety and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque: Adorned with 30 million gold tiles, this historical site requires modest dress and offers guided tours.
- Topkapi Palace: A former Ottoman royal residence in Fatih district, now a museum with gardens and courtyards.
- Blue Mosque: Free entry, six minarets, and stunning blue Iznik tiles. Visitors appreciate its peaceful atmosphere.
- Ephesus Ancient City: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Roman ruins. A guide is recommended due to the site's vastness.
- Dolmabahce Palace: Built in the 1880s, featuring grand interiors and extensive Baccarat crystal.
- Grand Bazaar: Over 4,000 shops selling traditional goods. Haggling is expected.
- Kaleici: The old town district of Antalya with Ottoman houses, a picturesque harbour, and sea views.
- Pamukkale Thermal Pools: White travertine terraces with mineral pools, a UNESCO site offering a unique soaking experience.
