The incredible city in Europe everyone always skips for popular resort three hours away

Turkey has fast become a firm favourite for Brits to take their holidays. Popular resorts such as Marmaris, Bodrum or even Fethiye often see the droves of tourists each season. 

But Antalya is also a popular city too - with its bustling airport seeing planes full of holidaymakers arriving each day. Branded a resort-city, it has a picturesque yacht-filled harbour and is surrounded by large beachside hotels.

It is also gateway to Turkey's southernmost regions - which is why some tourists can simply fly in and be transported back out as their transfer whisks them away to other coastal retreats.

One of the big draws of Antalya is it is one of the closest resorts to a major attraction. The Pumukkale, around 3.5 hours inland, stands as a serene haven for travellers seeking natural beauty and tranquility without the usual tourist crowds. 

This hidden gem, in western Turkey, whose name translates to Cotton Castle, is renowned for its breathtaking terraces of mineral-rich thermal waters and historical significance.

While the likes of Antalya and Marmaris are among the closest resorts, this hidden gem in the middle of nowhere is allows for an intimate and immersive experience. 

Pamukkale is easily accessible by road, with nearly all the closest holidayspots offering coach tours to see the cascading white terraces. The draw, alongside its beauty, is the way in which the miniature pools have formed.

They have derrived from calcium deposits from the area's hot springs, creating natural pools that glisten in the sunlight and containing thermal waters have been revered for their therapeutic properties since ancient times, attracting visitors seeking wellness and relaxation.

Adjacent to the terraces lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 2nd century BC, Hierapolis boasts a wealth of historical treasures, including a well-preserved theater, Roman baths, and an extensive necropolis. 

The ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, blending the beauty of nature with the grandeur of history.

Summer can be quite hot, but the thermal pools offer a refreshing respite from the heat. Winter, although quieter, still provides a unique charm, especially when the terraces are less crowded.

Beyond the terraces and ruins, Pamukkale offers various activities for visitors.  The nearby Cleopatra’s Pool, said to have been a gift from Marc Antony to Cleopatra, allows visitors to swim among ancient columns in warm, mineral-rich waters. 

For those seeking adventure, paragliding over Pamukkale provides an exhilarating view of the terraces from above. Efforts have been made to preserve Pamukkale’s natural beauty and historical significance. 

Strict regulations limit the number of visitors on the terraces at any given time, ensuring the delicate formations are protected. Visitors are encouraged to follow guidelines to help maintain this pristine environment for future generations.

But what does Antalya have to offer?

Apart from its convenience of being home to a major Turkish airport, Antalya has just recorded a four million visitor number during its Eid holiday period. Its optimum temperatures also make it a great place to visit in summer and winter.

On the Beach's annual Big Winter Sun Report said that 11.9% of holidaymakers travelled to Antalya this winter season. Day trips to the ancient cities of Aspendos, Perge, and Termessos are among the top things to do in Antalya.

With flights being just over four hours, and a short transfer time, the resort remains popular with families.