As the UK grapples with unpredictable spring weather, many people may seek refuge in foreign destinations that offer consistent sunny skies and family fun. With that in mind, TUI’s family travel experts analysed over 150 European destinations and weather data from years past to find the best spots for sunny holidays. One place in particular stood out.
Dalaman Tops the List
Dalaman, in Turkey, boasts average temperatures of 27°C, gentle breezes, and minimal rainfall. The city scored highest among all cities and towns surveyed, with average highs of 28°C, light winds, and barely any rain during the peak months.
To get to Dalaman, head to Dalaman Airport on one of the direct flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow, and more. Flight times average 4-4.5 hours, and if you book in advance, round-trip fares can be as low as £60–£150.
What to Explore
Once you get there, there is plenty to explore. Bask in the picture-perfect nearby coastline, starting with Sarsala Koyu, a horseshoe bay surrounded by pine forests and by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Then comes Iztuzu Beach, fondly nicknamed Turtle Beach in honour of the endangered loggerhead turtles that call it home. There, you can expect soft sands and shallow waters, perfect for kids to play in.
When you're done soaking in the water or the sun, take a boat trip along the Dalyan River to discover the ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into cliffs, followed by a dip in the region’s legendary thermal mud baths. For adventure seekers, there is paragliding from Babadag Mountain, and nature lovers will enjoy a boat trip to Butterfly Valley, full of cascading waterfalls and hundreds of butterfly species.
Back in the city, you'll get to explore both Turkish and international cuisine for people of all ages - especially fresh seafood and delicacies from local markets. Dalaman is also the perfect starting point for a trip around the area: the 12 Islands of Göcek, where you'll see everything from popular translucent bays to untouched islands like Hamam Koyu and Tersane.
Ancient Ruins and Accommodation
Right outside Dalaman, you can find spectacular ancient ruins, most notably the 9th-century BC Kaunos City and its famous Lycian rock tombs, in the neighboring town of Dalyan. These include a 1st-century BC theater, Roman baths, and a Byzantine basilica, often visited via scenic river boat tours. Accommodation in Dalaman ranges from all-inclusive beach resorts with kids’ clubs and waterparks, to boutique hotels and self-catering apartments.
Best Time to Visit
For an unbeatable holiday, try to book flights for May - when Dalaman offers sunny days with highs between 24°C and 27°C, cooler evenings, and just a handful of light rain days - or June - with average highs of 29-30°C, very rare rainfall, and evenings no colder than 23°C.
