Where to Buy a Summer Home in Turkey
Turkey has long been a tourist hotspot, with its unique destinations each offering diverse experiences. Whether it’s winter or summer, Turkey attracts millions of tourists—both domestic and international—and continues to hold its place as one of the best countries to live in and vacation. Many are even buying their second home in Turkey, drawn by the lifestyle, climate, and investment potential.
Now that summer is around the corner, you may be wondering which Turkish cities are best for holiday homes. If you're looking to buy a summer home in Turkey, you'll find the most preferred locations offer a wide range of options catering to diverse tastes—from tranquil seaside towns to vibrant resort cities.
Best Places to Buy a Summer House in Turkey
There are many places for holidaymakers to choose from for the best summers; however, when it comes to selecting the right location for buying a second home in Turkey, whether for seasonal escapes or long-term investment, it is best to focus on areas that align with your lifestyle and needs.
While there are many popular holiday destinations like Istanbul and Cappadocia, the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts of Turkey offer the most beautiful and vibrant seaside settings ideal for summer living. Summer houses in these coastal regions appeal to a wide range of buyers—from luxury seekers to budget-conscious investors—thanks to their lifestyle offerings, climate, and high rental potential.
Antalya: Mediterranean Living at Its Finest
Antalya has been consistently chosen as one of the most preferred cities in the world for both tourism and property investment. As it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and year-round sunshine, it is one of the best places to live and vacation.
As the star of the Mediterranean, Antalya boasts vibrant city life, historical sites, natural wonders, and everything from lively nightlife to tranquil seaside escapes. This seaside city with a long, picturesque coastline is perfect if you’re seeking an active, sunny lifestyle with access to both nature and culture.
From beautiful beaches to ancient ruins and bustling local markets, Antalya has a lot to offer. With its well-connected airport offering international flights to major destinations, travel is easy and the city is stunning from the moment you arrive. Public transportation is well-developed, and there are plenty of options to explore the city and nearby regions.
You can take your time and enjoy your holiday living like a local or join guided tours and cultural excursions. Buying a second home in Antalya gives you the freedom to do both—relax or explore—while investing in one of Turkey’s most desirable coastal cities.
Konyaaltı & Lara in the City
As the most preferred areas in Antalya for living and holidays, these neighborhoods are where the urban Mediterranean lifestyle truly shines. With excellent connectivity and a central position in the city, these districts are perfect if you want your summer to combine beachside relaxation with modern city living.
Beaches are stunning offering a vibrant atmosphere, and with hospitals, international schools, shopping malls, and vibrant marina life all within reach in the city. With property prices lower than those in similar coastal areas in Europe, foreign buyers find excellent value here.
As more and more international buyers invest in homes in Konyaaltı and Lara, the growing cultural diversity makes these areas even more welcoming and comfortable for foreigners looking to buy a second home in Turkey. Additionally, for investors, these neighborhoods offer strong rental income potential. With high demand from tourists and residents alike, properties in Lara and Konyaaltı are appealing for personal use and as investment properties.
Alanya – Affordable Coastal Living
Home to many natural wonders with stunning beaches, caves, highlands, and lush valleys, Alanya offers a diverse landscape that draws in both nature lovers and adventure seekers. While it has the feel of a relaxed coastal town, there are many attractions and things to do in Alanya.
Famous for its hilltop medieval castle, Alanya boasts significant historical sites, which many tourists visit year-round. There are various restaurants catering to diverse tastes, from traditional Turkish cuisine to international flavors. Additionally, while beaches are a must, there is also a scenic cable car that offers stunning panoramic views of Alanya and the coastline.
Alanya is the perfect place if you’re looking for an active holiday with sunny days and vibrant beaches, particularly without the overwhelming crowds of larger resort cities. Alanya retains a perfect balance between tourism and residential tranquility, making it ideal for both short-term escapes and long-term stays.
While Alanya is one of the most budget-friendly options to buy affordable summer houses in Turkey, many international buyers choose this coastal gem for year-round living. Its lively nightlife, sandy beaches, and active social life—especially the vibrant expat community—appeal to younger retirees and remote workers alike.
Belek – Golf and Wellness Hub
Belek is situated on the southern coast of Turkey, renowned for its golf resorts and wellness retreats. It’s ideal for golf lovers, luxury holidaymakers, and those seeking a peaceful coastal escape.
Besides the oh-so-known activities though, Belek has a lot more to offer. Family-friendly attractions and activities tailored for children are one of the reasons many international travelers and homeowners choose Belek for their holidays or second homes.
Dubbed the “Turkish Disneyland,” The Land of Legends is a standout attraction. Additionally, the fishing and pirate boat tours are some of the most popular local experiences, perfect for families and couples alike.
There are also various historical sites you can visit, like the Garden of Tolerance, just a short drive away. As a world-famous destination, Belek offers a combination of modern luxury and natural beauty. Rafting, jeep, and quad safaris are some of the thrilling outdoor adventures available nearby.
Many retirees and remote workers choose Belek as a base for peaceful living with resort-style comfort. Although the local culture is not as prominent as in other Turkish towns, Belek provides tranquility and exclusivity—particularly with the zoning laws maintaining the area’s serene, low-rise character. With its selection of upscale villas, golf-front residences, and proximity to Antalya Airport, Belek remains one of the best places to buy a summer house in Turkey for those seeking a blend of leisure and luxury.
Kaş – Exclusive Seclusion
Nestled between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean, Kaş is a low-density town with a bohemian vibe. It has preserved its small-town feel with charming streets, traditional architecture, and a slow pace of life, making it ideal for those looking for a serene atmosphere to buy summer houses in Turkey.
The dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for diving, swimming, and boat tours. As one of the best diving spots in Turkey, Kaş offers underwater adventures with shipwrecks and caves. Moreover, it is near the Kekova region, known for its sunken cities and kayaking routes, which add a unique historic charm to the coastal experience.
Additionally, Turkey’s world-famous long-distance trail, the Lycian Way, passes through Kaş, which makes it a favorite among hikers and nature lovers. Live music and jazz bars in Kaş add to its relaxed social scene, especially for those looking for a chill nightlife with atmospheric venues and no loud crowds.
The town’s car-free cobblestone streets and protected archaeological sites attract those looking for an exclusive place to buy Mediterranean property in Turkey. Buying a second home in Kaş is for those with discerning tastes looking for a quieter and more exclusive Mediterranean lifestyle with authentic Turkish charm.
Kalkan – Luxury Holiday Homes in Antalya
An elegant, cosmopolitan seaside town, Kalkan is nestled on the Lycian coast. As one of Turkey’s most upmarket coastal towns, it has become a popular place with international holidaymakers, particularly with the British, without losing its authentic charm. Its refined atmosphere and architectural integrity are protected, with newer developments blending in with the traditional whitewashed stone houses and bougainvillea-covered facades.
There are no sandy beaches since the town is built along a steep, rocky shoreline, but there are seaside platforms and private beach clubs like Palm Beach or Indigo Beach Club, where guests can relax on sun loungers and swim in turquoise waters. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and paddleboarding, and Kaputaş Beach, which is a famous turquoise bay framed by cliffs, is just a 10-minute drive away. Ancient sites like Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are also within close reach.
Famous for its rooftop restaurants with sea views, Kalkan offers a unique dining experience overlooking the bay at sunset. The stylish and sophisticated atmosphere is carried into the evenings, with cocktail bars and jazz lounges creating a vibrant yet laid-back nightlife scene.
Kalkan stands out as one of the top locations for summer houses in Turkey, ideal for those seeking luxury, tranquility, and a strong sense of place.
Kemer – Vibrant Resort Town with Natural Beauty
One of the places where local and international holidaymakers come together, Kemer is a lively seaside resort town nestled between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean. It is a well-developed tourism destination like Alanya, yet offers a more compact and nature-oriented experience. With its lush pine forests, turquoise waters, and picturesque marina, Kemer is the ideal place for those looking for a scenic yet accessible coastal escape.
There are many all-inclusive hotels, beach clubs, bars, and organized excursions, creating a festive holiday atmosphere. However, there are also serene residential areas on the outskirts, which makes it the perfect spot for summer houses in Turkey.
Kemer is a family-friendly destination with popular beaches like Moonlight Beach, which is known for its calm waters and park facilities. It is also conveniently located just a 45-minute drive from Antalya Airport, which makes travel seamless for international homeowners and visitors. While Kemer has less historical charm than Kaş, it is home to Phaselis Ancient City and Yanartaş (Chimera Flames), two of the most iconic historical and natural attractions in the region.
Nightlife is lively with beach bars, music venues, and events throughout the summer, while the marina and harbor provide the perfect setting for evening strolls or dining by the water. The town life is vibrant yet not overwhelming, striking a balance between energy and ease.
Kemer is great for those looking to buy a vacation home in Turkey, with apartments and villas priced lower than those in Kaş and Kalkan, offering great value without compromising on natural beauty or coastal access.
Muğla: Where Aegean Elegance Meets Mediterranean Charm
Lying on a high plain surrounded by mountains, lush forests, and turquoise bays, Muğla is where azure coastlines and verdant valleys meet to create one of the most enchanting landscapes in Turkey. Known for its laid-back lifestyle, rich history, and vibrant culture, Muğla is one of the best places to buy a holiday home in Turkey.
From world-famous Bodrum to the hidden gem Seydikemer, the province offers a variety of destinations catering to different tastes and lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking luxury villas, a beachfront property in Turkey, or tranquil countryside retreats, Muğla has something for everyone.
The Muğla city center is close to the best beaches without the tourist congestion, offering a more peaceful and authentic experience for holiday homeowners. While its districts suit different budgets and lifestyles, they all offer a close connection to nature, year-round appeal, and strong investment potential. Buying a holiday home in Muğla means enjoying the best of both the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
Bodrum – Mediterranean Glamour in Muğla
Known as the St. Tropez of Turkey, Bodrum is the most iconic and upscale destination in Muğla. It’s where Mediterranean glamour shines through. With many faces made up of unique towns and bays, Bodrum is undoubtedly one of the top places to buy a holiday home in Turkey.
Home to the ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the imposing Bodrum Castle, it is deeply rooted in history. However, what makes Bodrum truly exceptional is not only its historical heritage but also its cultural vibrancy — a lively nightlife, an emerging art scene, boutique beaches, yachting culture, and high-end gastronomy. The vibrant lifestyle and diverse property options make Bodrum an ideal place for buying a summer house in Turkey.
Although the local population swells dramatically in summer, there are still many coastal neighborhoods and quieter villages where you can enjoy serenity and exclusivity year-round.
Gümüşlük and Turgutreis are some of the more laid-back areas in Bodrum, ideal for those seeking peaceful surroundings and authentic village charm.
On the other hand, Yalıkavak and Türkbükü are the celebrity hotspots of Bodrum where luxury villas, beach clubs, and high-profile events define the lifestyle.
Bodrum appeals to a wide range of lifestyles — from artists and digital nomads to yacht owners and retirees. While Bodrum may be the most expensive market when buying holiday homes in Muğla, it rivals other Mediterranean resorts like Nice and Ibiza. This international flair, combined with a world-renowned nightlife and cultural scene, sets Bodrum apart from quieter locations like Kalkan or Kaş, making it especially attractive to those who seek both luxury and excitement.
Fethiye – Nature, Charm, and Affordable Coastal Living
One of the most beloved spots for holidaymakers and property buyers in the Turkish Riviera, Fethiye is a stunning town on the Turquoise Coast in Muğla. Famous for its gorgeous bays, forests, and lagoons, Fethiye offers the perfect blend of traditional Turkish charm and modern conveniences, attracting both local and international homebuyers seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.
Now home to a mix of locals, retirees, expats — with British and Scandinavian communities dominating — and digital nomads, there is a well-integrated international community where locals and foreigners coexist harmoniously. There are various property options in and around Fethiye, including popular areas like Ölüdeniz catering to a wide range of lifestyles. Fethiye offers mid-range affordability and a growing number of energy-efficient homes — a niche less explored in Antalya’s real estate markets.
Renowned for its natural beauty, Fethiye is a hub for water activities and outdoor adventures. Calis Beach is ideal for families and Ölüdeniz Lagoon is a stunning blue paradise, where panoramic views can be best enjoyed while paragliding from Babadağ Mountain. The crystal-clear waters of Fethiye are ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling among reefs, caves, and vibrant marine life.
Saklıkent Gorge is a dramatic canyon perfect for hiking, river tubing, and cooling off in the summer. Nearby, Butterfly Valley — a secluded beach only accessible by boat or a steep trail — offers an unforgettable day escape into nature.
Fethiye has all the amenities needed for comfortable living, including hospitals, international schools, and shopping centers. Moreover, the affordable luxury property options for holiday homes in Muğla, combined with the area’s vibrant lifestyle and stunning scenery, make it an excellent choice for semi-permanent living or a second home in Turkey.
Seydikemer – Rustic Charm and Untapped Potential
A charming rural district located inland from Fethiye, Seydikemer offers a quieter, more authentic Turkish charm surrounded by rivers, mountains, and fertile plains. It has been increasingly sought-after by those looking for a serene environment, affordability, and a slower pace of life, emerging as one of the best alternatives for holiday homes in Muğla.
Seydikemer is made up of small villages and hamlets nestled in a scenic setting dotted with fields of olives, pomegranates, and citrus trees. It is far less commercialized than coastal towns like Fethiye and Bodrum, offering a genuine rural lifestyle. This unspoiled character is making it popular with Turkish families and increasingly attractive to foreign retirees and lifestyle-focused property buyers looking for authenticity and value.
Tlos Ancient City, one of the oldest settlements in the region, lies nearby, perched dramatically on a hillside with panoramic views. Additionally, Yakapark Nature Park and Gizlikent Waterfall are must-visit nature spots where you can cool off and enjoy the outdoors. Yakapark is known for its natural springs, trout farms, and shaded garden restaurants, while Gizlikent is a hidden cascade accessed by a short riverside trail.
Seydikemer is ideal for those craving an off-the-beaten-path lifestyle. Here, you can enjoy traditional weekly markets filled with Turkish produce, hike or cycle through riverside trails and forested hills, and visit eco-farms or family-run orchards. It appeals especially to nature lovers, retirees, and homebuyers seeking a tranquil place to buy property in Turkey without the coastal crowds.
Mersin: An Emerging Mediterranean Gem
A vibrant port city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, Mersin is quickly emerging as a promising destination for property buyers seeking value and lifestyle combined. When it comes to summer houses, Turkey’s Mersin coastline is ideal for those looking for untapped potential and affordable real estate investment opportunities without the crowds of more established markets.
As a lesser-known alternative to Antalya or Bodrum, Mersin offers affordability without sacrificing sun, sea, cultural vibrancy, or serenity.
Mersin boasts the longest seashore in Turkey and the Eastern Mediterranean, with uninterrupted sandy beaches and an expansive coastline perfect for second-home seekers. It is a dynamic coastal city that combines cultural richness, natural beauty, and modern urban convenience. Mersin has been a rising star for investment in Mediterranean property in Turkey, thanks to ongoing infrastructure development and increasing interest from both domestic and international buyers.
Additionally, the region’s elevation and sea breeze make Mersin a great place for those looking for cooler summers compared to more humid southern resorts, offering greater comfort and livability.
Erdemli – Affordable Coastal Comfort with Local Charm
A growing coastal town, Erdemli is known for its long sandy beaches, citrus orchards, and calm, authentic local life. It offers a peaceful and more budget-friendly alternative to crowded tourist resorts, making it an increasingly attractive option for summer houses in Turkey.
Erdemli is particularly popular with local Turkish holidaymakers and retirees, but foreign interest is steadily growing, drawn by affordable property prices, easy lifestyle, and natural surroundings. While it is a quieter town, there are modern amenities and healthcare services, and it is still close to Mersin city center, with good transport links and infrastructure.
Kızkalesi Beach is the most famous local attraction, with the iconic Maiden Castle floating on a small island just offshore. This medieval fortress is accessible by boat or by swimming, offering a unique historical experience.
There are also quiet and family-friendly beaches ideal for swimming and picnicking, such as Ayaş Beach and Limonlu Beach, which are less crowded and popular among families. Elaissusa Sebaste, the ancient Roman city ruins near Ayaş, adds a cultural touch to the coastal scenery.
Erdemli also boasts a strong highland (yayla) culture, offering cooler summer retreats in the surrounding hills. These nearby highlands are ideal for those looking for a dual-season property that provides both coastal relaxation and mountain escape.
Buying summer homes in Erdemli is great for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle and long-term investment potential in a developing region of Mersin, Turkey.
Among many locations, the Tömük neighborhood stands out as one of the best places to buy a summer house in Turkey, Mersin. It is a neighborhood filled with summer-style properties, often located within residential complexes that offer pools and security features. Tömük is popular among seasonal residents, Turkish retirees, and young families looking for affordable comfort near the sea.
Silifke – Undiscovered Coastal Beauty with Historical Depth
A charming town where historical heritage meets the sea, Silifke is one of the most authentic and scenic destinations on Turkey’s southern coast. Known for its riverfront cafés, unspoiled beaches, and ancient ruins, Silifke appeals to those looking for a peaceful, nature-rich lifestyle with a strong local identity—similar to Kaş, but less commercialized and far more affordable.
Silifke lies along the Göksu River, making it popular with domestic tourists and retirees, and is now beginning to attract foreign buyers seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path places to buy a vacation home in Turkey.
As one of the few towns in Turkey offering sea, mountains, rivers, and ancient ruins all in one place, Silifke truly stands out. Susanoğlu Beach is a beloved local destination known for its shallow waters, family-friendly atmosphere, and waterfront restaurants.
Another gem is Narlıkuyu, a tranquil fishing cove with crystal-clear waters and cozy seafood restaurants. Just inland from Narlıkuyu are the Heaven & Hell sinkholes, dramatic natural formations steeped in mythology. For water sports lovers, Boğsak Bay is a hidden treasure offering ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving in serene surroundings.
The Tisan Peninsula is one of the most sought-after areas in Silifke, a secluded paradise with a crescent-shaped bay and turquoise waters, perfect for those who appreciate exclusivity and raw beauty. Meanwhile, the mountain village of Uzuncaburç enchants visitors with its cool summer air, dramatic scenery, and ancient Hellenistic ruins, providing a refreshing contrast to coastal living.
With its diverse landscapes, slower pace of life, and affordable investment properties in Mersin Silifke real estate market is gaining quiet momentum. It is ideal for those looking for rich cultural experiences, hidden beaches, and local flavors when buying a second home in Turkey.
Moreover, Silifke remains largely under the international radar, making it one of the most promising and untapped locations for summer houses in Turkey—especially for buyers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and long-term value.
İzmir: Bohemian Chic by the Aegean
İzmir is one of Turkey’s most sophisticated coastal cities, blending Aegean charm, modern comforts, and a laid-back lifestyle. Especially along the Aegean coast, İzmir offers a unique mix of Turkish tradition and European elegance, ideal for those seeking a refined yet relaxed summer destination.
When looking to buy real estate in İzmir, Çeşme stands out as the crown jewel for summer houses in Turkey.
Çeşme – Stylish Living on the Aegean
Synonymous with windsurfing, boutique vineyards, and upscale living, Çeşme is a premier beach resort town offering prestige and exclusivity. Often compared to Bodrum, Çeşme leans more into its Aegean roots, exuding a bohemian-chic atmosphere that attracts artists, celebrities, and members of the Turkish diaspora.
Buying a summer house in Çeşme means investing in one of Turkey’s most popular destinations and stylish destinations, where traditional stone houses meet luxury villas, and strong demand for quality property ensures long-term value.
Set on a sun-drenched peninsula, Çeşme is famed for its crystal-clear beaches, thermal springs, and yachting lifestyle. Visitors can enjoy everything from world-class windsurfing to Aegean wine tastings. While summer brings vibrancy and festivals, spring and autumn offer milder weather and peaceful getaways.
Day trips to nearby Greek islands like Chios are easy, and the region is dotted with secluded bays, local markets, and gourmet seafood restaurants. Culinary highlights include fresh Aegean seafood, olive oil dishes, and local delicacies found in fine dining spots and meze taverns.
Just inland from Çeşme lies Alaçatı, a postcard-perfect village famous for its stone houses, windmills, and flower-filled alleys lined with boutique cafés. The Alaçatı Port and surf beaches rank among the world’s top destinations for windsurfing and kitesurfing, drawing a global crowd each season. The iconic Alaçatı Windmills, now home to quaint shops and cafés, add to the area’s timeless charm.
Investing in real estate in İzmir, especially in Çeşme and Alaçatı, is perfect for those seeking a second home with character, lifestyle appeal, and lasting value on Turkey’s Aegean coast.
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of Antalya, the exclusive charm of Kaş, or the cosmopolitan allure of Bodrum, here are the best Turkish cities for holiday homes to consider along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts—each offering its own blend of lifestyle, scenery, and investment potential. Explore these destinations and decide on the perfect summer house in Turkey that truly matches your dreams, lifestyle, and budget. The perfect getaway is waiting for you on Turkey’s sun-drenched shores!