Turkey's turquoise Aegean Coast is where you'll find the ancient ruins of Troy, hundreds of gorgeous beaches, the famed walking trail 'The Lycian Way', and the dramatic beaches and cliffs of Gallipoli. If you just need accommodation recommendations go direct to our pick of the region's hotels. If you need help deciding which town or city you want to be your base, read on to find the best places to stay on the Turkish Aegean Coast.
Bodrum
More than a million people a year visit Bodrum. Its popularity means that it has the region's best nightlife. Which means it's definitely one of the best places to stay on the Turkish Aegean Coast if you want the best clubs, bars and cafes.
However, it still retains an air of 'cultured cool'. What with its castle, Ottoman mosques, marina and restrictive urban planning laws; it hasn't lost the charm which originally attracted European artists and intelligentsia to this fishing village in the 1940s.
Bodrum is also a good choice for yachties.
Kusadasi
Kusadasi's proximity to Ephesus makes it the ideal base for those with an interest in history. It's not just a ruin, it's a gladiator graveyard.
It also has some great beaches, including Ladies Beach and Pamucak Beach, just along the coast. Kusadasi is also ideal for those looking for sunshine on a budget.
Selcuk
Similarly close to Ephesus, Selcuk also boasts a fortress, a Byzantine aqueduct and some splendid Christian ruins. So it rivals Kusadasi as one of the best places to stay on the Turkish Aegean Coast for those with an historic bent.
The main argument locals would say in Selcuk's favour is that its prices are more competitive.
Izmir
Izmir has always been a port city, and its seafront is as charming and lively as any in the world. It's also a top destination for trendsetting travellers. It's quickly garnering a reputation for being artsy and liberal.
Alaçati is well-renowned for its architecture, windmills and vineyards, as well as being a haven for windsurfers. One of the most traditional towns in Turkey (with beautiful stone houses and narrow streets), it's a wonderfully picturesque spot.
What Not To Miss
- Bodrum's Castle of St Peter is a must visit. Built in the 15th century by the Knights of St John, this historic spot boasts several impressive towers, Turkish baths, a dungeon and a chapel. Enjoy wonderful sea views from the battlements.
- Make sure to spend an afternoon at Ephesus, located just 3km away from Selcuk. This fascinating place was built in 1,000 BC and is the Mediterranean's best preserved classical city. The Temple of Artemis was one of the seven wonders of the ancient worlds and you can still marvel at the stunning architecture - complete with marble streets and wonderfully preserved buildings.
- Check out The Basilica of Saint John in Selcuk - built in the 4th-century and the burial place of Saint John the Divine. Designed in the shape of a cross and with six domes, it's a wonderful spot that's made all the better by a visit with a tour guide.
- If the kids are bored of culture-vulturing then you should spend an afternoon at either Adaland or Aqua Fantasy Waterpark. With a wide range of water slides and pools, it's a fun-filled day out!
Our pick of the best places to stay in the Turkish Aegean Coast offer something for everyone, whether you're looking for a luxurious beach resort or a low key B&B that will leave you with plenty of spending money!
