The stunning 'riviera' with £3.50 pints you can fly to from Manchester Airport
Holidaymakers are lured by 'its affordable luxury, all-inclusive resorts and year-round sunny climate'
Deciding where to go on holiday can be tricky and there are lots of factors to consider, from your budget to what the destination offers. Yet there’s one holiday hotspot which is seeing a surge in UK visitors, thanks to its “affordable luxury”, so you don't have to compromise on either.
Antalya, a city located on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast - often dubbed the ‘Turkish Riviera’ - is among Manchester Airport’s most popular destinations. But this year it’s predicting a “record-breaking tourism season”, with visitors from the UK and Poland being the driving force.
According to early bookings for 2025, the resort is seeing an increase of eight to 12 per cent in reservations compared to last year, travel site FTN News reports. In 2024 it welcomed 17.3 million foreign visitors, with 1.57million Brits making up the third largest tourist group.
A major draw for UK tourists is Antalya’s “affordable luxury, all-inclusive resorts and year-round sunny climate”.
Meanwhile the recent tourism growth is fuelled by “competitive pricing, cultural richness, and expanding direct flight connections”, according to industry leaders.
Good weather, budget-friendly prices, excellent hotels and a rich culture - Antalya really does have it all.
The Mediterranean resort enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year and temperatures can reach highs of 33C in July and August, although it’s more comfortable to visit during the shoulder season of spring and autumn, when the mercury reaches the mid-20s.
For when you need to cool off in the heat, a refreshing pint will only set you back around £3.40, a far cry from the £5 pints we’re accustomed to here in the UK.
According to price index site Numbeo, you can expect to pay around £31 for a three course meal for two in Antalya, less than half of what you’d pay here.
Naturally Antalya is known for its many amazing beaches where you can enjoy a spot of sunbathing or have a dip in the sea. Konyaalti Beach is one of the main ones, where you’ll find a gorgeous stretch of golden sand against a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Moonlight Beach is located in a park of the same name and is a scenic, curved bay lined with lush greenery. Or head to Mermerli Beach, located in the old town of Kaleici. It’s small but has crystal-clear water perfect for snorkelling.
For those who like to immerse themselves in a bit of culture, Antalya is full of ancient ruins to discover, which hint at its days as a bustling Roman port. Visit Hadrian’s Gate, built when the Emperor came to the city, or head to the Hidirlik Tower, which dates back to the 2nd century.
When it comes to hotels, Antalya has a range to choose from, including luxurious, five star beachside retreats to family-friendly all-inclusive resorts. It really is a destination to suit all types of traveller.