With its long, beautiful beaches and fragrant pine-clad hills, Turkey's Aegean coast is not just glorious to look at but offers a wealth of historic sites and agriculturally rich landscapes. Popular with tourists from all over the world, but still promising tranquil havens and traditional culture alongside its livelier more cosmopolitan resorts, the south of the region is blessed with a warm, sunny climate for most of the year and clear, warm waters. As well as visiting the harbour towns of Marmaris and buzzing, cosmopolitan Bodrum, make time to take in the tranquility and romance of Assos, a charming little village with its own ruined city and gorgeous views across to the island of Lesbos.

Equally picturesque, Cesme is also worth a visit and close to some wonderful beaches, shops and the bustling town of Izmir.

The Aegean Coast is also home to some of Turkey's most noted sites of antiquity, including Ephesus, Miletus, Priene, Pergamon, Aphrodisius and the salt platforms of Pamukkale, all easily accessible from any of the pretty coastal towns.