Most people know Belek for one thing.
Golf.
And while it’s true that Belek is home to some of the best golf courses in Europe, there’s a lot more to this stretch of Antalya’s coastline than perfectly manicured fairways.
Think long sandy beaches, luxury all-inclusive resorts, ancient Roman ruins, boat trips, family attractions and enough sunshine to make you seriously consider extending your holiday.
Located just 30 minutes from Antalya Airport, Belek has become one of Turkey’s most popular holiday destinations for couples, families and anyone looking for a little bit of luxury without the eye-watering prices you often find elsewhere in Europe.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing week by the pool or want to explore the wider Antalya region, Belek makes an excellent base.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Region | Antalya Province, Turkey |
| Nearest Airport | Antalya Airport |
| Flight Time (UK) | Around 4.5 hours |
| Transfer Time | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Best For | Families, Couples, Golfers, Luxury Holidays |
| Famous For | Golf Courses, Luxury Resorts, Beaches |
| Nearby Attractions | Antalya, Side, Aspendos, Land of Legends |
Best Holiday Deals to Belek
One of the biggest attractions of Belek is the quality of the hotels.
Many resorts here are genuinely impressive, offering everything from private beaches and waterparks to gourmet restaurants and world-class spas.
For package holidays, it’s worth comparing prices with:
Booking outside of the school holidays can often unlock some excellent deals, particularly in May, June, September and October.
Tip: The weather stays warm well into autumn, making September and October fantastic months to visit.
Where to Stay in Belek
Accommodation in Belek is heavily geared towards luxury, but there are options for a variety of budgets.
The Land of Legends Kingdom Hotel – Perfect for families. Highlights include: Direct access to The Land of Legends Theme Park; Family entertainment; Water slides; Themed rooms & Evening shows. It’s basically a holiday within a holiday.
Rixos Premium Belek – One of the most well-known luxury resorts in Turkey. Expect: Private beach; Multiple restaurants; Huge swimming pools; Spa facilities & Premium all-inclusive service
Gloria Serenity Resort – Ideal for couples looking for a more peaceful escape. Known for: Excellent service; Luxury villas; Golf facilities & a Relaxed atmosphere.
Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort – Often considered one of Turkey’s finest hotels. If you’re looking to spoil yourself, this is a difficult one to beat.
About Belek
Unlike some of Turkey’s older resorts, Belek was purpose-built for tourism. The result is wide beaches, modern hotels and plenty of open space.
The coastline stretches for miles and offers:
- Soft sandy beaches
- Warm Mediterranean waters
- Luxury beach clubs
- Water sports
- Family-friendly facilities
It’s also surrounded by pine forests, helping it feel greener and less built-up than many Mediterranean resorts.
Best Things to Do in Belek
While relaxing by the pool is certainly tempting, there’s plenty to see and do beyond your hotel.
Relax on Belek Beach – The beach here is one of the biggest draws. Long, sandy and well maintained, it’s ideal for: Families; Swimming; Water sports & Long beach walks. Many hotels also have their own private sections of beach.
Visit The Land of Legends – Often described as Turkey’s answer to Disneyland. The Land of Legends combines: Waterparks; Rollercoasters; Shopping; Evening entertainment & Family attractions. Even if you’re not travelling with children, it’s worth a visit.
Take a Boat Trip – One of the most popular excursions from Belek. These full-day cruises usually include: Swimming stops; Coastal sightseeing; Lunch onboard; Entertainment. It’s a great way to see more of Antalya’s beautiful coastline while enjoying a relaxing day on the water.
Experience a Traditional Turkish Bath – No Turkish holiday feels complete without a visit to a hammam. Most experiences include: Steam rooms; Foam massages; Body scrubs & Oil massages. A great way to unwind and start your holiday properly.
Best Day Trips from Belek
One of the advantages of staying in Belek is how many incredible attractions are within easy reach.
Explore Antalya Old Town – The historic centre of Antalya is packed with: Ottoman architecture; Narrow cobbled streets; Boutique shops; Restaurants & Historic landmarks. The old harbour is particularly beautiful. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Belek and easy to see why.
Visit Aspendos Theatre – History lovers shouldn’t miss Aspendos. This remarkably preserved Roman theatre is nearly 2,000 years old and still hosts performances today. It’s widely regarded as one of the best-preserved Roman theatres anywhere in the world.
Discover Side – The ancient city of Side offers a fantastic mix of history and beaches. Highlights include: Temple of Apollo; Roman ruins; Ancient amphitheatre & Harbourfront restaurants. It’s one of the most picturesque places on the Turkish Riviera.
Explore the Green Canyon – One of the most popular excursions in the Antalya region. You’ll cruise through: Emerald-green waters; Mountain scenery & Forest landscapes. Many tours include lunch and swimming stops. It’s a completely different side of Turkey than most visitors expect.
Take a Day Trip to Pamukkale – Pamukkale remains one of Turkey’s most famous attractions. Known for its bright white terraces filled with thermal waters, it’s often described as one of the country’s natural wonders. Most tours also include a visit to the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis.
Visit Köprülü Canyon – Adventure seekers should head to Köprülü Canyon National Park. The area is famous for: White-water rafting; Ziplining; buggy safaris & Stunning scenery. Rafting tours from Belek are particularly popular during summer.
Overnight Cappadocia Tour – For those dreaming of seeing the hot air balloons flying over the fairy chimneys, this tour is a great alternative to booking a holiday to Cappadocia.
We recommend booking popular trips in advance with GetYourGuide and Viator:
Food and Restaurants in Belek
While many visitors stay all-inclusive, it’s worth exploring local restaurants too.
Popular Turkish dishes include:
- Adana kebab
- Fresh seafood
- Meze platters
- Gözleme
- Pide
- Baklava
Antalya Province is also known for excellent fresh produce, making even simple meals taste fantastic.
Nightlife in Belek
Belek isn’t a party resort like Marmaris or Bodrum.
Instead, nightlife tends to revolve around:
- Hotel entertainment
- Beach bars
- Cocktail lounges
- Live music
Most luxury resorts put on impressive evening shows and events, meaning you rarely need to leave the hotel if you don’t want to.
Top Tips for Visiting Belek
Book popular excursions in advance during summer
Visit Antalya Old Town at least once
Take advantage of the Turkish baths
Explore beyond your hotel resort
Visit Aspendos if you enjoy history
Pack comfortable shoes for sightseeing
Travel in spring or autumn for the best weather
Is Belek Worth Visiting?
100%. Belek offers something that many holiday destinations struggle to achieve.
It combines luxury, beaches, history, family attractions and natural beauty all in one place.
Whether you’re spending your days on the golf course, relaxing by the sea, exploring Roman ruins or cruising through Green Canyon, there’s enough variety here to suit almost every type of traveller.
It’s polished without feeling artificial, luxurious without being intimidating and relaxed without ever becoming boring.
The sort of destination where it’s very easy to arrive for a week and leave wondering when you can come back.
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