With this heat, most of us on this side of the Sahara can’t wait for summer to be over, but that doesn’t mean we’re done with our short summer getaways. For my next getaway, I would opt for a destination that is not too hot or too cold. What about you? Which of these sounds like your perfect summer getaway? Endless days of lounging at the beach and luxuriating in the sun, or indulging your senses in the comforts of a lavish resort, or maybe you’re looking for a dash of thrill, some adventure, a host of new experiences, or perhaps you’re after a chance to take in some history, some art, and some culture. Or are you after a mixed bag, a desire to unwind and discover, explore and relax? In that case, a little bird whispered to me that a Turkish summer holiday could just be what you need.

Turkish Summer Holiday Destinations

Bursa: the green city

A few years ago, Bursa was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for being the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire, and modern Bursa is built around historic sites from its incarnation as the first Ottoman capital. But there are countless other points of interest to the metropolis beyond its imperial mosques and stunning architecture: the soaring peaks and parks of Uludağ, thermal mineral-rich hot springs and hamams, a centuries-old bazaar specializing in the highest quality of silk, and signature dishes such as the famous Iskandar kebab. Bursa has also earned itself the nickname of ‘green city’ — an allusion to the parks and gardens scattered along its urban fabric.

Antalya: the cradle of civilization

It’s not a Turkish summer holiday if you don’t set foot on the Turkish Riviera. As the jewel of the Mediterranean, history-rich Antalya has been home to an incredible spectrum of cultures: the Lycians, Pamphylians, Pergamons, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans have all lived here. The city serves up an impressive blend of 300 days of sunshine, ancient ruins, pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, scenic resort towns and holiday villages, and traditional cuisine that’s a cut above the rest. You could also take in the city’s famed sand festival and watch artists build mammoth sculptures.

Cappadocia: The land of ‘fairy chimneys’

A few reasons why Cappadocia should be on your radar: it is a geological anomaly dotted with towering honeycombed rock pinnacles dubbed ‘fairy chimneys’, it is home to an extensive network of underground cities and mysterious subterranean chambers, and its eroded volcanic terrain lends it a dreamy, lunar landscape. Whether you’re drawn in by the hiking potential of the place, by its troglodyte lifestyle or by its historic and cultural significance, Cappadocia serves up a one-of-a-kind experience. But it’s also home to luxurious hotels and resorts, set into cave-like structures, making it suited not just to thrill-seekers but also those after some relaxation.

Trabzon: an unexplored gem

Turkey’s green and lively Black Sea city, Trabzon makes for an ideal shore-side Turkish summer holiday, away from the bustle of tourist hotspots. It draws more attention by the day thanks to its rich cultural and historical heritage, highlands painted in tones of green and varied cuisine. Most people come to Trabzon to visit the Hanging Monastery of Sumela — hewn into a rock face, it is one of Turkey’s most powerful sights — and the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon.

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Izmir: the pearl of the Aegean

Garlanding the azure-blue Bay of Izmir, the coastal city is peppered with beach resorts, some of which are known to offer unrivaled windsurfing experiences. Izmir also makes for an ideal base from which to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Pergamum, as well as the calcium-terraced pools of Pamukkale. The city is of particular interest to repeat visitors to Turkey, looking to get away from popular tourist destinations but still enjoy a taste of Turkish shopping, cuisine, and culture.

Bodrum

Stretching along a peninsula lapped by the Aegean Sea, Bodrum is Turkey’s answer to the French Riviera. From buzzing beach clubs to remote coves, the Bodrum coastline provides a variety of activities on unspoiled beaches that stretch into the turquoise sea. Top-notch shopping and dining, a sophisticated nightlife, thrilling water sports, and iconic landmarks — Bodrum is a fascinating city that combines the old and the new with dramatic flair. The city offers the perfect Turkish summer holiday experience for anyone who wants to explore both cultural and outdoor attractions in Turkey.