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    HomeDestinationsTürkiye travel guideThe most beautiful places for a balmy winter holiday in Türkiye

    The most beautiful places for a balmy winter holiday in Türkiye

    Offering beauty and recreation throughout the year, Türkiye’s Mediterranean and Aegean regions are particularly welcome in winter. These hot spots present the perfect antidote to the winter doldrums. Leave your winter coat at home and head for one of these balmy getaway destinations.

    Turkish Airlines Blog
    Turkish Airlines Blog
    With this account, managed by our writer team, we welcome all who love travel and exploration to enjoy these blog posts. And we gently remind our readers of the delight to be found in 'hitting the road'. As Tolstoy said: “All great literature is one of two stories; a man goes on a journey or a stranger comes to town.”

    1. Antalya for historical and natural beauty!

    As one of the world’s premier tourism destinations, Antalya’s year-round mild climate is particularly delightful in winter. While there’s quite a lot to see in this area, we are especially pleased that, in winter, visitors can swim in warm water or ski a snow-covered mountain – on the same day! The region is home to ancient cities such as Aspendos, Perge, Myra, Letoon, and secluded natural areas like Kaş, Kalkan and Olympos, as well as the gorgeous Köprülü Canyon with its waterfalls and rafting activities. While you’re in Antalya, sample local specialties such as piyaz (bean salad), and the pumpkin dessert with tahini and burnt ice cream. Check out the Antalya city guide for more information.


    2. Hatay and Adana for delicious food!

    Warm throughout the year, Hatay and Adana feature historical beauties. Named a Creative City by UNESCO, Hatay and the surrounding area offer sites such as the Habib-i Neccar Mosque, the Church of Saint Peter, the Monastery of St. Simeon, and Beşikli Cave. Hatay is also notable for its gastronomy, including local dishes like künefe, hummus, paper kebab (kağıt kebabı), and tray kebab (tepsi kebabı). For more information on eating and sightseeing, check out our guide.  Adana is one of the most beautiful spots for a winter holiday in Türkiye. It stands out with its vibrant urban texture: starting from the Kazancılar Bazaar, you can wander the city enjoying both the sights and the local food, especially kebabs and liver. Take the first step of a balmy holiday and book a ticket to Adana.


    3. A completely different Bodrum!

    Bodrum is highly popular in summer, but winter is also a delightful time to visit. There is much to do and see in the city, which has average temperatures of between 11-14 degrees Celsius during the winter months. Start with a stroll along the city’s quiet streets and explore Bodrum Castle or the Bodrum Antique Theatre. Enjoy a seaside seafood dinner in one of the usually crowded restaurants. Maybe even rent a yacht at the marina and visit all the bays of Bodrum!  For the most tranquil version of Bodrum, simply book a winter flight to Milas-Bodrum.


    4. Mersin for a full winter holiday!

    Mountains, rivers and valleys…Mersin is a warm destination during the winter months, as visitors take advantage of the area’s year-round mild climate to enjoy mountaineering and climbing in Demirkazık, Bolkarlar, Aladağlar, and Güveller. Another reason to visit Mersin: thermal springs. Saparca Hot Springs, Güney Yolu Spring, and the thermal waters of Hocantı and Tarsus Spring offer a relaxing respite. Other peaceful locales are the Balandız, Soğucak, Gülek and Gözne highland plateaus. To see nature merged with history, you can head to the Heaven and Hell Cave (Cennet Cehennem Mağarası) or the Maiden’s Castle (Kızkalesi). For a thoroughly enjoyable holiday, in one of the most beautiful places for a winter holiday in Türkiye, book a flight to Adanarent a car and drive to Mersin. Along the way, you can stop in Tarsus and explore the city’s architecture in structures such as the Cleopatra Gate and St. Paul’s Church.


    5. Beautiful in every season – İzmir and its surroundings!

    İzmir, the pearl of the Aegean, stands out in summer as a tourism destination but it is just as appealing in the winter, with its history and natural beauty. Home to civilizations throughout millennia, İzmir’s cultural heritage includes structures such as the Clock Tower, Konak Square Konak Pier, the Kızlarağası Inn, and Kemeraltı Bazaar. Just outside İzmir are Alaçatı, Urla, Çeşme and Seferihisar – charming villages that are even more welcoming in the winter months. If you want to venture further, Kuşadası and Şirince await. Wherever you choose to explore, do make sure to sample the local food, renowned for its Aegean flavors – along with fare like kumru (a hearty sandwich), and boyoz (a traditional flaky pastry). For a short winter getaway in one of the most beautiful spots for a winter holiday in Türkiye. Book a flight to İzmir, one of Türkiye’s most beautiful cities. 


    6. Tranquility in Çanakkale!

    Winter weather in Çanakkale is cooler and rainier than the other warm weather destinations we’ve listed but it is still on the mild side. With its deep-rooted history, Çanakkale is home to the Ancient City of Troy and the fifteenth-century Çimenlik Castle. It is also the site of the Kale-i Sultaniye Treaty, the Treaty of the Dardanelles, an agreement signed between the Ottoman Empire and England on January 5, 1809, ending the Anglo-Turkish War. The village of Babakale, renowned for knife making, is nearby, as are Assos, Bozcaada and Gökçeada, tranquil locales for winter getaways. For an even more secluded holiday in one of the most beautiful places for a winter holiday in Türkiye, the Ida Mountains are beautiful in winter for hiking and camping. Simply book a flight to Çanakkale and get ready for a relaxing winter vacation.

    *The date of this blog post may have been updated due to additional content. Please be aware that information on fees and transportation is subject to change. The content of this post reflects the author's opinion and views.

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