Antalya is ideally situated for those looking to combine some of Turkey's ancient highlights with the white-sand beaches of the aptly names Turquoise Coast. Holding a prime location at the heart of the Turkish Riviera, this is also the country's largest resort and possibly the most picturesque.

Antalya's luxury hotel complexes offer you a taste of elegance and a hint of the exotic every bit as enticing as the region's ancient sites. The nearby theatre of Aspendos still puts on open-air performances today, despite its age, while the ruins of Perge dating from 1000 BC; offer a crumbling but nonetheless atmospheric alternative.

However, you don't need to leave the city, or even your resort in search of entertainment. Relaxing by the pool is given a whole new meaning here with views of Mount Beydağları on one side and the Mediterranean sea falling away on the other. Out and about there is the charming old town (Kaleiç) to explore before heading onto the modern harbour for a spot of people watching.