If you enjoy the finer things in life, a Belek holiday is sure to tick all the right boxes. You’ll find this ritzy resort on the sun-soaked Turkish Riviera, complete with one of the region’s most spectacular beaches, pristine championship golf courses, and superb scenery at every turn. Belek is an ideal destination if your idea of a perfect holiday involves plenty of down-time and lots of glitz and glamour.
There are many exciting attractions nearby, too! The resort is just a stone’s throw from some of Antalya’s most famous historic sites, including the ancient city of Perga (or Perge). Visitors looking to get their culture and sightseeing fix can travel to nearby Antalya city centre in no time. It's one of the Turkish towns and cities close to Belek offering traditional food and an authentic urban atmosphere. So you can get a taste of local life before heading back to your beautiful resort for some peace and tranquillity.
Things to do
Sit back and relax at one of Belek’s beautiful beaches. The long stretch of golden sand is ideal for sunbathing, while a swim in the tranquil water is sure to cool you down. To discover this Turkish town’s history, plan a day or two of sightseeing during your Belek holiday. Head for the Roman ruins of Antalya, including the ancient Greek/Roman city of Perge and the vast Aspendos amphitheatre.
Golfing
If you’re a golfer, why not hit the fairways of one of Belek’s impressive clubs? Six tremendous championship golf courses are dotted around the area. Enjoy a backdrop of scenic green hills and picturesque forests while you play on a green that Tiger Woods has also enjoyed.
That's not all – there are actually around 20 golf courses dotted around the pine forest landscape of Belek, whose warm, dry climate makes for perfect conditions all year round. World-class golf courses are open to beginners and pros, with lessons or independent golfing available to suit you. Belek’s luxurious clubhouses are always fully-stocked, so you can enjoy a relaxing day working on your swing and never need to worry about a thing.
Excellent beaches
Belek’s long stretch of golden sand shelves gently into the warm, shallow waters of the Mediterranean, making it a great paddling spot for little ones. Recline on a sunlounger and soak up some rays, or shade beneath a parasol and unwind with a good book. Looking for more adventure? Why not hire a jet ski from Belek beach? And if you have other watersports in mind, there are plenty more activities available here.
Many of the best hotels in Belek boast their own area of the beach. If that sounds like a dream come true, it really is that lovely – you’ll be able to enjoy a clean, quiet spot to relax. Fancy a drink? You won’t need to move a muscle when you pick a luxury resort with a bar and snack service straight to your sunbed.
Our top pick of Belek’s fantastic beach hotels? That’s a tough one! But for a brilliant all-rounder, you can’t go wrong with Limak Arcadia Sport Resort Hotel. Walk straight out onto the sand from the gorgeous gardens – utter bliss!
History
Belek has unique ancient surroundings, making it an excellent destination if your dream holiday includes history and sightseeing. Some of Turkey’s most famous archaeological sites are a stone’s throw from Belek, so book a day trip or head out on your own to discover the area.
The Roman Theatre of Aspendos dates back to 180 AD. It’s just 20 minutes’ drive from Belek, making it easy to see during your holiday. The ruins have held a fair amount of their original structure, ready and waiting for you to explore. One of the best-preserved Ancient Roman theatres in the world, Aspendos would once have seated an audience of over 7,000! Make your way up the stairs and marvel at the arena in all its glory. On the other side of the theatre’s hand-carved archways, views of the landscape are similarly impressive.
If you’re interested in discovering even more history, visit the Ancient City of Perge, a half-hour drive out of Belek. These Lycian, Greek and Roman ruins date back to 1300 BC and feature an even bigger amphitheatre built for an audience of around 14,000. Take a guided tour and learn fascinating stories and facts from times gone by, a memorable way to spend a day on your Belek holiday.
Culture
Belek is a purpose-built resort, founded in the 1980s for luxurious golfing holidays. But while there isn't much local culture to discover in the town itself, there's plenty in the surrounding area. Make sure you pay a visit to Manavgat Market, just a short drive from Belek. This traditional Turkish shopping spot boasts a variety of goods, from fragrant herbs to fresh local produce, so you’re sure to find lots of treasures that suit your taste. Browse glistening glass lampshades and handwoven textiles to take a little piece of Turkey back home.
Nightlife
Belek boasts many luxury hotels with sleek bars and restaurants, perfect for relaxing nights on holiday. Head out to dine then kick back and sip a cocktail or two. The swanky resort settings and live music are ideal for holidaymakers looking to unwind. Total night owl? Granada Luxury Belek should be number one on your list, with three bars serving till the strike of midnight, and a disco where you can strut your stuff into the early hours.
Belek itself is a quiet town with very low-key nightlife, so if you’re looking for a big blow-out, you might need to travel a little further. For a buzzy atmosphere and dancing into the night, head to nearby Antalya, 40 minutes’ drive from Belek. The city is home to all sorts of restaurants, bars, and clubs, so it’s popular with people looking for fun in the sun. Well worth visiting for an exciting night out on your Belek holiday!
More travel guides
We also have travel guides for lots more destinations in Turkey, including: Alanya | Antalya | Beldibi | Bodrum | Dalaman | Goynuk | Istanbul | Izmir | Kemer | Konakli | Lara Beach | Side
