Best cities on the Turkish Riviera: From Antalya to Izmir

Turkiye

The Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, has gained popularity in recent years as a paradisiacal alternative to more crowded tourist destinations. When people think of a holiday in Turkey, many automatically think of Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ankara, often overlooking a Mediterranean gem: the Turquoise Coast. Discover the best cities to visit on the Turkish Riviera with CarJet's guide.

What is the Turkish Riviera?

Located in the southwest of Turkey, the Turkish Riviera stretches from Izmir to Mersin, offering more than 620 miles of stunning coastline. Along the shores of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, you’ll find an incredible variety of beaches—from white sands and pebble shores to rugged cliffs overlooking ancient Greek ruins and neighbouring islands. But the Turquoise Coast is not only known for its beaches; this region is rich in history, nature, gastronomy, culture, and much more.

The best way to explore the Turkish Riviera is to hire a car and travel at your own pace, without rushing and with the freedom to stop wherever you like. A rental car will give you the freedom to drive along crystal-clear waters, discover hidden coves and beaches, and venture inland to explore mountainous landscapes. You can visit the main coastal cities and immerse yourself in the rich history of Anatolia, the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and more civilizations that have passed through these lands.

Which are the best cities on the Turkish Riviera?

All along the Turkish Riviera, you will find amazing towns, each with its own charm and uniqueness. Discovering them all can be a challenge due to the coastline’s size. However, here are the top 5 cities on the Turkish Rivierav that you can't miss.

Antalya

Antalya is the jewel of the Turkish Riviera and the starting point for many routes along the coast. Its stunning beaches, ruins, and nightlife attract tourists from all over the world. It is probably the best-known town on the Turquoise Coast and marks the easternmost point of the region.

Its old town, Kaleiçi, is noted for its Ottoman architecture, charming shops, and spectacular views. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a typical Turkish breakfast at Antalya Port, just a few metres from the old town. For a trip back in time, visit the Perge Ruins or the Antalya Museum, which preserves many artefacts found in the Perge Ruins and is considered one of the most important museums in the world.

Fethiye

Fethiye, 125 miles from Antalya, is a must-see destination for nature and history lovers. It is the most important city in its province, Mugla, and has achieved international fame for its paradisiacal beaches such as Küçük Samanlik, Akvaryum Bay, the Valley of the Butterflies, and the blue lagoon of Ölüdeniz, one of the most photographed places in Turkey. If you are an adventure lover, we recommend paragliding, a very popular activity in Fethiye that allows you to enjoy a unique landscape from the sky. Don't leave without visiting the famous Lycian Tombs carved into the cliffs, which date back to 400 BC.

Bodrum

Bodrum, 143 miles from Fethiye, is the ideal place to relax in a paradise of crystal-clear waters away from the crowds. With your rental car, you can discover Bodrum's best beaches and coves, from Camel Beach to Bardakci Cove and Akvaryum Koyu.

In Bodrum, there is also room for history and culture. Visit Bodrum Castle, which houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, on the seafront, as well as the ancient theatre and the ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. There is no better way to end the day than watching the sun set over the horizon from the Bodrum Windmills.

Kusadasi

Kusadasi, located 93 miles from Bodrum, is perhaps the least known of these five cities. Its major highlights include beautiful beaches, a bustling harbour, and its proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the world's most important archaeological sites. The nearby Ruins of Miletus are a well-preserved archaeological site, where you can see a theatre, the agora, and other ruins of the ancient Greek city.

In Kusadasi, the lively harbour area is the town's focal point, featuring the main attractions, restaurants, and beaches. Just across from the harbour, an islet connected by a footbridge is home to the Kusadasi Castle.

Izmir

Less than 62 miles from Kusadasi, you will find Izmir, Turkey's third-largest city and an important cultural and economic centre. Izmir combines modernity and tradition with its waterfront promenade, the city centre called Konak, and Asansör, the city's first lift, from where you'll enjoy the best views of the entire city. Izmir is one of the most modern cities in Turkey, and neighbourhoods such as Alsancak, Bostanli, and Bornova prove it.

Visitors can explore the Kemeralti Market in the heart of the city, one of the largest bazaars in the country, and indulge in the rich local cuisine. For those who prefer shopping in a modern environment, Istinye Park, one of the largest and most modern shopping centres in the country, is a must-see.

Rent a car and tour the Turkish Riviera

With a rental car, you'll have the freedom to explore every corner of the Turkish Riviera, creating your own routes and following your own itinerary. Enjoy secluded coves with crystal-clear waters, coastal towns that don’t even appear on Google Maps, and the bustling cities mentioned above. Additionally, a rental car allows you to drive away from the usual tourist routes, immersing yourself in Turkish culture and experiencing an authentic adventure.

The Turkish Riviera is huge, and having a car will enable you to travel from one destination to another without hassle. Among all the benefits of renting a car, one stands out: you won’t have to rely on public transport, fixed timetables, or taxis. Maximise your time and enjoy your holiday without transportation worries. The true magic of the Turquoise Coast lies in its hidden gems—discover it with a rental car.

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