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The most beautiful places in Turkey to escape from the cold and the snow in the winter!

Turkey is beautiful all year round. The Mediterranean and Aegean regions are particularly spectacular during the winter. Enjoy your holiday in the warmest parts of Turkey brimming with scenic views, nature, history, and peace. It’s not too cold! We have compiled a list of the most suitable places for a pleasant getaway away from the cold and snow, where you can just slip on a light coat and head out.

1. Natural and historical beauties in Antalya!

This should come as no surprise. Antalya is home to temperate weather all year round, so the first choice for a winter getaway. There are lots of things to do in the city, but we think that the best part of a winter holiday in Antalya is that you can both surf and swim. If you wish, you can explore ancient cities like Aspendos, Perge, Myra, Letoon, Kas, Kalkan, Olympus and immerse yourself in nature. Discover waterfalls while visiting the city and go on a rafting adventure in Köprülü Canyon. While you are in Antalya, don't forget to try the local delicacies piyaz (dry bean salad), Turkish pumpkin dessert with tahini and burnt ice cream. Check our Antalya city guide for more information.

2. Delicious food in Hatay and Adana!

Hatay and Adana are pleasant places to go in winter in Turkey, with a warm winter climate and glorious cuisine no matter the season. The Habib-i Neccar mosque in Hatay has been selected as a city of peace by UNESCO. You can also explore historical wonders such as Saint Pierre Church, Saint Simeon Monastery, the Cradle Cave, and try the unique flavors of local delicacies such as künefe (dessert), hummus, kâğıt kebab (paper kebab), tepsi kebab (tray kebab). There is so much to explore in Hatay other than the exquisite cuisine, find out more in our guide.

Adana is another must-see location. Start your city discovery at Kazancılar Bazaar, famous for its vibrant city life, and taste the local delicacies, like kebab and liver, in the unique restaurants that line the streets. Take the first step to your trip by booking a flight to Adana.

3. A different Bodrum experience!

By winter, Bodrum becomes free of the bustling summer crowds and turns into a quiet haven. Winter is an ideal time to visit Bodrum, unless of course, you want to go swimming in the sea, with weather temperatures ranging between 11-14 degrees. Yet there are plenty of things to see and do in the city. Start by walking the secluded and quiet streets and explore the city's historical sites, such as Bodrum Castle or Bodrum Antique Theatre. When you visit the marina, make sure to eat fish in restaurants that are usually packed in summer. You can additionally rent a yacht at the marina and discover all the bays of Bodrum. Contrary to popular belief Bodrum is peaceful during the winter, to get some calm book a flight to Milas-Bodrum.

4. A funfilled winter holiday in Mersin!

Mersin, home to lustrous mountains, rivers, and valleys, is the perfect spot for a warmer winter climate. Many sports lovers, mountaineers and climbers in particular flock to Demirkazık, Bolkarlar, Aladağlar in Mersin to advantage from the beautiful winter weather. Mersin is also popular for its thermal spas during the winter. The Saparca Springs, Güney Yolu İçmesi, Hocanti Hot Springs and Tarsus İçmesi are ideal places to shake off stress. Head to the rest Balandız, Soğucak, Gülek, and Gözne highlands to make the most of the weather, and rest. If you want to explore the nature Mersin has to offer with a historical twist, visit the Cennet ve Cehennem Cave (Heaven and Hell Caves) or Kızkalesi. For a winter day packed with adventure, book a flight to Adana or rent a car and drive to Mersin. On this journey, you can stop by Tarsus, the Cleopatra Gate or the Saint Paul Church.

5. Izmir and surrounding areas, beautiful every season!

Izmir, the Pearl of the Aegean, is a summer favorite due to its beach and sea tourism. However, Izmir is also a good winter choice with its historical treasures and scenic beauty. Having been home to many civilizations, Izmir has a rich cultural heritage, which you can explore by visiting the Clock Tower, Konak Square, Kızlarağası Inn, Konak Pier, and Kemeraltı Bazaar. How are discovering places surrounding Izmir? Alaçatı, Urla, Çeşme, Seferihisar are other picturesque places that will welcome you in the winter. If you want to go a little further, Kuşadası and Şirince may be a good alternative. No matter where you are in Izmir, make sure to try the most delicious flavors of the Aegean, especially kumru and boyoz. For a winter getaway in Izmir, one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey, book a flight to Izmir.

6. Europe is seeking aid on economic, political, and climate issues!

Although it is a little rainy in winter, Çanakkale is a lovely city to visit in the wintertime. Çannakale is steeped in history and has an abundance of historical places such as Babakale, Kale-I Sultaniye, Çimenlik Castle. You can also discover the ancient city of Troy, and explore other places surrounding the city. Discover Assos, Bozcaada or Gökçeada, free from the summer crowds. If you feel like immersing yourself in nature, visit Mount Ida, which is beautiful in winter; Go on hikes and camp at Mount Ida. Book a flight to Çanakkale for a winter holiday filled with history and nature.