ENJOY – SUMMER ISN’T OVER YET

According to the latest report by the European Travel Commission (ETC), titled “Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel,” as many as 77% of Europeans intend to travel between June and November this year. September remains one of the most popular months for vacations, with 22% of respondents planning trips during this period. The Mediterranean region has emerged as the top destination due to its extended summer season.

PHOTO: Pixabay

In this context, the enchanting Turkish coast stands out as an especially appealing choice, enjoying plenty of sunshine well into late November. It offers the perfect escape from everyday life, providing peace and relaxation. With its sun-soaked Aegean shores and sparkling Mediterranean waters, Turkey is an irresistible option for Europeans looking to prolong summer and enjoy the warm, sunny days of September and October (with the season lasting through mid-October).

For those seeking to extend summer in a quieter atmosphere and at attractive prices, the Turkish coastline promises unforgettable moments — thanks to just one direct flight from nearly every part of Europe. Below, we bring you some travel inspiration and great ideas.

STILL WARM, STILL WAITING FOR YOU

Your first stop on the path to endless summer in the Aegean part of Turkey is Izmir — a city known for its high quality of life and laid-back spirit typical of the region. Thanks to its unique location, Izmir is surrounded by charming seaside towns lined up one after another. But true paradise awaits on the Çeşme Peninsula, where you can experience the irresistible trio — Çeşme, Urla, and Alaçatı.

Çeşme captivates with a variety of accommodations and restaurants serving delicious Aegean cuisine, along with sandy beaches — from the famous Blue Flag-winning Ilıca Beach to Şifne, a hidden gem loved by locals. Urla is especially recognized as a gastronomic haven, with wine routes and farm-to-table restaurants, some of which have even been awarded Michelin stars.

After landing at Bodrum-Milas or Dalaman airport, your next adventure is just around the corner — the sparkling Muğla coast awaits. Here, golden beaches and hidden coves intertwine with towns, each boasting its own unique charm.

Bodrum, synonymous with luxury, remains the most popular destination in the region. It promises an idyllic vacation with exclusive resorts, golden sands, diving, and historical gems such as Bodrum Castle. Other towns shine as well, with their Blue Flag beaches — like Içmeler in Marmaris, Iztuzu Beach in Dalyan, a sanctuary for Caretta caretta turtles, and Palamutbükü in Datça. The real star of the region, without a doubt, is Ölüdeniz near Fethiye — often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world thanks to its iconic Blue Lagoon. Ölüdeniz is also world-famous for paragliding from the nearby Babadağ Mountain.

Wherever you go along the Muğla coast — this true slice of paradise — you’ll be welcomed by seafront restaurants, some of which are even recognized by the Michelin Guide, offering the finest daily catch, authentic Turkish meze, and flavors from around the world.

SUMMER STILL SHINES IN ANTALYA

Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera, proudly boasts breathtaking landscapes, a rich history of the ancient regions of Lycia, Pamphylia, and Pisidia, and endless sunshine — all coming together to form the ultimate travel haven. With 300 sunny days per year, Antalya also holds the record for the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the world, with an impressive total of 233.

From the expansive sands of Patara, through city favorites Konyaaltı and Lara, to the bohemian charm of Olympos, Antalya’s coastline offers a string of irresistible beach destinations. Yet one beach stands out as the epitome of the Mediterranean — Kaputaş. Frequently listed among the world’s most beautiful beaches, it is known for its dramatic location at the mouth of a canyon.

For those seeking more peaceful corners, Antalya hides gems like Sazak Bay and Porto Ceneviz. An extended summer here is also ideal for exploring ancient sites — from Perge to Aspendos, every part of this region tells the stories of long-gone civilizations, making you feel as if you’re standing at the heart of world history. All of this is beautifully complemented by Mediterranean cuisine — from fresh seafood to refreshing local white wines — for a full Riviera experience.