Belek holidays

Good to Know Before Your Holiday to Belek

Planning your holiday to Belek promises a delightful mix of sun, sea, and rich cultural experiences. Located on Turkey's beautiful Mediterranean coast, Belek is a haven for beach lovers, golf enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. If you're considering a broader exploration, you might also be interested in discovering the wonders of holidays to Antalya, another stunning destination nearby. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your Belek holiday.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Belek boasts a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination. However, for the best experience:

• Spring (April to June): Mild temperatures, perfect for exploring and golfing.

• Summer (July to September): Hot and sunny, ideal for beach lovers and water activities.

• Autumn (October to November): Warm and pleasant, great for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

• Winter (December to March): Cooler but still enjoyable, quieter tourist spots.

Currency and Payment

• Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY).

• Payments: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for small purchases is advisable.

Language and Communication

• Language: Turkish is the official language.

• English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

• Tips: Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance your experience.

Transportation

• Airport: Antalya Airport (AYT) is the nearest international airport, approximately 30 km from Belek.

• Local Transport: Taxis, dolmuş (shared minibuses), and car rentals are popular options for getting around.

Accommodation Options

Belek offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget:

• Luxury Resorts: High-end amenities, private beaches, and golf courses.

• Boutique Hotels: Charming, smaller establishments with personalized service.

• Budget-Friendly: Hostels and guesthouses for affordable stays.

Activities and Attractions

• Golfing: Belek is renowned for its world-class golf courses.

• Beaches: Sandy shores with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports.

• Historical Sites: Explore the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos Theatre.

• Nature: Visit Kurşunlu Waterfall or take a jeep safari in the Taurus Mountains.

Dining and Cuisine

• Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, mezes, and baklava.

• Restaurants: A mix of local eateries and international dining options.

• Tips: Don’t miss out on the local markets for fresh produce and Turkish delights.

Practical Information

• Pack Accordingly: Light, breathable clothing for summer; layers for cooler months.

• Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sunny days.

Enjoy your holiday to Belek, where rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture await!

Best things to do in Belek

During your holidays to Belek you can experience a delightful mix of luxury resorts, pristine beaches and fascinating historical sites.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Belek Beach: Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Belek Beach offers a breathtaking panorama of the Mediterranean coast. Take a stroll along the shoreline or enjoy the view from one of the beachside cafés.

Historical monuments

• Aspendos Archaeological Site: Just 20 minutes from Belek, you’ll be awestruck by the Aspendos Archaeological Site, which is especially notable for its Roman theatre and aqueducts. Still used to stage the annual Opera and Ballet Festival, the theatre in Aspendos is among the best preserved in Asia Minor.

• Perge: A half an hour’s drive from Belek, Perge is an unusually well-preserved ancient city. Explore the ruins of Perge’s grand stadium, baths and the main colonnaded street, which give a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.

• Antalya Museum: The one must-see attraction in Antalya, some 30km from Belek, well worth a few hours of your time, is the Antalya Archaeological Museum, which ranks among the top five archaeological collections in the country.

Day trips in the area

• Köprülü Kanyon: A short drive from Belek, this canyon is known for its crystal-clear river and rugged landscape. Lush greenery and steep cliffs create a stunning natural setting, ideal for spotting wildlife, hiking or canyoning. The park’s rafting tours are suitable for all ages, adding a bit of excitement to the day.

• Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi): If you’re a history buff, be sure to head to Antalya’s Old Town, Kaleiçi, with its Ottoman houses and bustling markets. When you’re done with sightseeing, sit down at one of the lovely cafés to enjoy local delicacies and watch people walk by.

• Pamukkale: Although a bit further afield, a day trip to Pamukkale is worth the journey. Known for its terraces of white mineral-rich pools, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a surreal landscape that’s unlike anything else.

Activities for families in Belek

Belek is a family-friendly destination, with a wide variety of activities to keep kids entertained.

• Aquariums and zoos: Antalya Aquarium has the world’s biggest tunnel aquarium (an impressive 131m long) and forty themed areas. The complex is also home to a 4D cinema, the Wildpark (devoted to insects and reptiles) and an indoor snow park. So if you have kids in tow, the aquarium is a must!

• Adventure parks: The Land of Legends Theme Park in Antalya offers water slides, pools and a lazy river, as well as zip lines and climbing walls, making it an ideal spot for a full day out with the kids.

• Water sports: Belek’s calm waters make it a great spot for family-friendly water activities. Try paddleboarding, snorkelling or banana boat rides at Belek Beach.

• Beach activities: Belek’s wide sandy beaches offer plenty of space for building sandcastles and playing beach games. There are also sun loungers available for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the little ones.

Free things to do in Belek

There are plenty of free activities that showcase the area’s natural beauty and cultural appeal.

• Free events: Throughout the year, Belek hosts open-air festivals, concerts, traditional dance shows and markets that are free to attend. Just have your eyes peeled for such events!

• Nature walks: Beachside areas in Belek are just perfect for leisurely strolls. There are trails along the coast and through pine forests, which offer free access to the beautiful local scenery. The clear, blue waters and soft sands create an ideal environment for unwinding by the sea.

• Hadrian’s Gate: A visit to nearby Antalya offers a chance to see the impressive triple-arched Hadrian’s Gate, commemorating a visit by that emperor in 130 AD. And the good news is there’s no admission fee.

Nature and outdoor activities in Belek

Belek’s natural surroundings offer a plethora of outdoor activities for thrill-seekers, from golfing to water sports.

• Golfing: Turkey’s southern coastal region is fast gaining acclaim on the international golf scene and Belek is the main hub of the sport, and home to five golf courses. The eighteen-hole championship course at the impressive National Golf Club is the most coveted, designed by Ryder Cup player David Feherty and host of the 2012 World Golf Final.

• Water sports: Belek’s coast is perfect for water-based activities like jet skiing, parasailing and paddleboarding. If you’re into snorkelling, use the opportunity to discover marine life near the shore.

• Horse riding: Local outfitters offer horse riding excursions along the beach and through scenic trails, whether you’re an experienced rider or trying the sport for the first time.

Discover the best beaches on your Belek holiday

When planning your Belek holiday, the pristine beaches are undoubtedly one of the main attractions. Here’s everything you need to know about the best beaches in Belek to make your holiday unforgettable.

Belek public beach

• Description: This beach offers a Blue Flag status with crystal-clear waters and fine golden sand. It's well-maintained and suitable for all ages.

• Facilities: Showers, toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers, and umbrellas are available. There are also nearby cafes and restaurants for refreshments.

• Activities: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly activities.

Kadriye beach

• Description: Located near the Kadriye village, this beach is known for its serene environment and family-friendly atmosphere.

• Facilities: Clean showers, toilets, changing rooms, and a variety of water sports facilities.

• Activities: Enjoy jet-skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball.

Taşlıburun beach

• Description: A hidden gem in Belek, Taşlıburun Beach offers a more tranquil and secluded experience. It's perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

• Facilities: Basic amenities including sun loungers and umbrellas.

• Activities: Relaxing, swimming, and snorkelling.

Boğazkent public beach

• Description: This beach is located in a quieter area of Belek, providing a peaceful retreat with beautiful natural surroundings.

• Facilities: Limited facilities which contribute to its untouched charm.

• Activities: Bird watching, especially for the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles, and long walks along the shore.

Beach activities for your Belek holiday

Water sports

• Popular Choices: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and banana boat rides.

• Tip: Many beaches offer rental equipment and professional instructors.

Relaxation and wellness

• Options: Beachfront yoga sessions and wellness spas offering traditional Turkish hammams.

• Tip: Book in advance during peak season to secure a spot.

Family fun

• Activities: Building sandcastles, beach games, and safe swimming areas for children.

• Tip: Kadriye Beach and Belek Public Beach are particularly family-friendly with ample facilities.

Essential beach tips for your Belek holiday

• Sun Protection: Always use high-SPF sunscreen and wear hats and sunglasses.

• Hydration: Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.

• Respect Nature: Be mindful of the local wildlife and follow guidelines to protect the environment, particularly in turtle nesting areas.

Beach etiquette

• Cleanliness: Dispose of litter responsibly and use designated bins.

• Noise Levels: Be considerate of other beachgoers, particularly in quieter areas.

• Local Customs: Respect local customs and dress modestly when leaving the beach area.

With its stunning coastline, Belek offers a beach experience for every type of traveller. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or family fun, the beaches in Belek provide the perfect setting for a memorable holiday. Plan your Belek holiday now and soak up the sun on these beautiful beaches!

Local dishes in Belek

One of the great delights of Belek holidays is sampling the local Turkish cuisine, which is a flavourful blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.

Some typical dishes

• Pide: Pide, the boat-shaped Turkish pizza, is a delicious concoction topped with meats, vegetables, eggs or cheese. It’s ideal for sharing or as a quick meal on the go.

• Meze: A classic Turkish experience, meze is a selection of small appetisers like hummus, baba ganoush and cacık (yoghurt with cucumber and garlic). It’s a great idea for sampling different local flavours.

Meat dishes

• Adana Kebab: This spicy, grilled kebab made from minced lamb and spices hails from Turkey’s southern regions. It’s typically served with rice or flatbread and grilled vegetables.

• İskender Kebab: This staple Turkish dish is composed of slices of lamb served on a cube of flatbread, and topped with tomato sauce and yoghurt.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled Sea Bream: Freshly caught from the Mediterranean, sea bream is grilled to perfection and served with a simple garnish of lemon and herbs. Ideal dish for seafood aficionados!

• Calamari: Belek’s coastal location means plenty of fresh calamari on the menu. Lightly battered and fried, with a side of garlic sauce or a squeeze of lemon, it makes a perfect starter.

Sweets and desserts

• Baklava: One of Turkey’s most distinguished desserts, baklava features phyllo pastry with honey or syrup and nuts, creating a rich, sticky treat. So just hit a local café and enjoy!

• Künefe: Worth the extra calories, this ubiquitous Turkish dessert is made from shredded pastry layered with melted cheese, cooked until golden, and soaked in sweet syrup. Yummy!

Local drinks

• Rakı: The Turkish national aperitif is rakı, not unlike Greek ouzo but stronger (45–48 percent alcohol), usually drunk over ice and topped up with bottled water.

• Ayran: When in Turkey, do like the Turks do and drink this refreshing yoghurt-based drink. It’s served with many meals, especially in warmer months.