AP6380

It looks like I will have 13 nights in Turkey in June. Even in Europe when surrounded by amazing sites, I find myself needing beach time. Any suggestions for don't-miss beaches?

My itinerary so far looks like:

2 nights Istanbul
3rd night train to Ankara for Cappadocia (3 nights there)
Overnight train to Konya? Or closer to the coast if possible.
3 nights Kalkan or Kas
3 nights Kusadasi area
Last night Istanbul

Thanks for any thoughts.

Maria_H

I would heartily recommend staying in Kalkan, we spent a wonderful 2 week holiday there a couple of years ago. The town does have a lovely atmosphere and more than it's fair share of good restaurants. There are some beautiful beaches nearby, Patara and my favourite Kaputas. There are plenty of ruins to explore and don't miss the boat trip to the underwater ruins at Kekova.

You can find more information at:

www.kalkanturkey.com
www.lycianturkey.com

AP6380

Topping

Steve_James

AP - I second Maria. Definitely stay in Kalkan in preference to Kas.

You can do an inexpensive day cruise round the bay from Kalkan, with great swimming off the boat at several stops.

Patara is about 30 mins from Kalkan by bus. I believe it's the longest beach in Turkey ...

Hope this helps ...

Steve

Steve_James

... And if you're anywhere near Fethiye you might want to check out the beach at Olu Deniz.

Although it's being spoilt by the tourism, it'll be quiet in June - and the setting is lovely.

http://www.mountainvalley.co.uk/Olu%20Deniz%20Beach.jpg

http://www.olivetreevilla.com/4704.h...ession*id*val*

Steve

Edward2005

The beaches near Ephesus are not as good as the ones on the Mediterranean, but at least they are beaches. Plus, you'll have at your feet some of the best ruins to explore anywhere in the world. I can't remember the name of the town right next to the ruins of Ephesus (is it Selchuk?), but that's where I stayed and had a great time.

AP6380

So, I have changed my mind about my itinerary:

2 nights Istanbul

Fly to Dalaman, pick up rental car, drive to Kalkan. 3 nights here.

3 nights Bodrum.

3 nights Selcuk. Fly Izmir to Istanbul.

2 nights Istanbul.

I really wanted to focus on the ruins along the coast. I know a major omission is Cappodacia, Turkey sounds so great that I know I'll go back.

Is Selcuk a better option than Kusadasi which sounds very, very touristy?