Turkey
Weather
Local Information
Plug Socket Type
Type C/F (European two-pin). Irish visitors need a travel adapter.
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY). Euros widely accepted in resorts. Excellent exchange rate means outstanding value for Irish visitors.
Time Zones
GMT+3 (3 hours ahead of Ireland in winter, 2 hours in summer).
Local Emergency Contact
112 (general emergency). 155 (police). Irish Embassy Ankara: +90 312 459 1000.
Travel Information
Flight Time
Approximately 4.5 hours from Dublin to Antalya (AYT) or Dalaman (DLM). Seasonal flights May-October.
Distance from Beach
All Turkish Riviera resorts are beachfront or very close to beaches.
Do I need a Visa?
Irish citizens can get an e-Visa online before travel (approximately €30). Apply at evisa.gov.tr. Valid passport required with at least 6 months remaining.
3 Things to do in Turkey
Pamukkale
–Stunning white travertine terraces and ancient Roman city of Hierapolis — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ephesus
–One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, with the Library of Celsus and Great Theatre.
Boat Trips
–Turkish Riviera is famous for blue cruises along the turquoise coast, visiting hidden bays and islands.
Description
Welcome to the Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, where ancient history meets dazzling Mediterranean waters. Explore sunken cities, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in vibrant bazaars for an exotic and unforgettable holiday.
Turkey's Mediterranean and Aegean coastline offers Irish holidaymakers one of the best-value sun holiday experiences available, combining stunning natural beauty with rich ancient history, warm hospitality and outstanding all-inclusive resorts. The Turkish Riviera stretches from the Aegean shores of Bodrum and Marmaris around to the Mediterranean coast of Antalya, Alanya and beyond, encompassing dramatic mountain-backed bays, turquoise waters and fascinating archaeological sites at every turn. Turkey's all-inclusive hotel culture means many Irish visitors enjoy exceptional value — high-quality resorts with multiple restaurants, pools, entertainment and drinks packages at prices that compare very favourably with equivalent holidays in Spain or Greece. Beyond the resorts, Turkey offers unique experiences: the ancient Lycian rock tombs at Dalyan, the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the ruins of Ephesus, and the spectacular Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz. Turkish cuisine is a highlight in itself — fresh kebabs, meze platters, Turkish breakfast spreads and baklava that tastes nothing like the supermarket version. Direct flights from Dublin reach the Turkish coast in around four hours, and the combination of value, variety and genuine Turkish welcome makes it an increasingly popular choice for Irish families and couples.
Culture and Experiences
What's Nearby?
Antalya Old Town (Kaleici)
– Beautiful walled old town with Ottoman houses, Roman harbour, shops and restaurants.
Cappadocia
– Fairy chimneys, cave hotels and hot air balloon rides — internal flights available for an unforgettable 2-day trip.
Greek Islands
– Ferry services to Rhodes from Marmaris and to Kos from Bodrum — easy day trips.
History
Ancient Civilisations
– The Turkish coast was home to Lycian, Greek and Roman civilisations. Ancient ruins are scattered along the entire coastline.
Ottoman Empire
– The Ottoman legacy is visible in architecture, cuisine and culture. Turkish baths (hamams) are still a living tradition.
Gallipoli
– The WWI Gallipoli campaign is of deep significance. While north of the Riviera, many Irish visitors combine a Riviera holiday with a Gallipoli visit.
Local Markets
Grand Bazaar Culture
– Every Turkish town has a weekly market. Antalya, Alanya and Fethiye markets are particularly good for spices, leather, textiles and counterfeit goods (buyer beware).
Spice Markets
– Dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delight, saffron and exotic spices at excellent prices.
Events and Festivals
Ramadan & Eid
– Dates vary annually. During Ramadan, some restaurants may have reduced hours. Eid celebrations are lively and welcoming.
Antalya Film Festival (October)
– International film festival bringing culture to the coast.
Oil Wrestling (June)
– Traditional Turkish oil wrestling festivals held in various locations — a unique cultural experience.
Local Etiquette
Mosque Visits
– Remove shoes, cover shoulders and legs. Women should cover their hair. Free scarves usually provided.
Bargaining
– Expected in bazaars and markets. Not appropriate in restaurants or modern shops.
Tipping
– 10% in restaurants is standard. Small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers appreciated.
Dining and Night Life
Local Cuisine
Kebabs
– Far beyond the takeaway version — Turkish kebabs include dozens of regional varieties. Adana and iskender are particularly good.
Meze
– Shared starter platters of dips, salads and small dishes — hummus, cacik, ezme, dolma and more.
Turkish Breakfast
– Elaborate spread of cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumber, eggs, honey, bread and tea. A highlight of any Turkish holiday.
Baklava & Turkish Delight
– Sweet pastries and confections that are genuinely better in Turkey than anywhere else.
Night Life
Alanya
– Castle-area rooftop bars and harbour clubs with a lively international atmosphere.
Marmaris Bar Street
– Famous party strip with dozens of bars and clubs catering to international visitors.
Fethiye
– More relaxed harbour-side bars and restaurants in the old town fish market area.
