Antalya vs Side vs Belek: Best Turkish Resort from UK?

Planning a holiday to Turkey from the UK but cannot decide between Antalya, Side and Belek? All three destinations are located along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast and are popular with British holidaymakers looking for sunshine, sandy beaches, family-friendly hotels and all-inclusive resorts. However, each destination offers a different holiday experience.

Antalya is ideal for travellers who want a combination of beaches, city attractions, shopping and resort hotels. Side is particularly attractive for visitors who enjoy sandy beaches, historical landmarks and exploring a traditional coastal town. Belek is best known for luxury all-inclusive resorts, championship golf courses, family facilities and relaxing beach holidays.
Choosing the right destination can make a significant difference to your holiday. A resort that suits a family with young children may not be the best choice for a couple looking for nightlife, sightseeing or a peaceful escape.
In this guide, Travels Hook compares Antalya, Side and Belek for UK travellers, covering beaches, hotels, all-inclusive packages, airport transfers, family holidays, couples' breaks, activities, costs and the best time to visit.

Quick Answer: Is Antalya, Side or Belek Better for a Holiday?

• Antalya: Best for visitors who want beaches, shopping, restaurants, city attractions and a choice of accommodation.

• Side: Best for families, couples and history lovers who want sandy beaches, ancient ruins and a traditional town atmosphere.

• Belek: Best for luxury all-inclusive holidays, golf, large family resorts, water parks and relaxing hotel-based stays.
  If you want a varied holiday with sightseeing and city life, choose Antalya. If you want a combination of beach time and historical attractions, consider Side. If your priority is a premium resort with facilities on site, Belek may be the better choice.
  1. Antalya – Best for City Life, Beaches and Variety
  Antalya is one of Turkey's most popular holiday destinations. Located on the Mediterranean coast, it offers a mixture of historic attractions, modern shopping areas, beaches, restaurants and large resort hotels.
  Unlike Side and Belek, Antalya is also a major city. This gives visitors more opportunities to experience local life alongside a traditional beach holiday.
  Best Areas to Stay in Antalya
  Lara Beach: Lara is one of the best-known coastal areas near Antalya city. It has large hotels, sandy beach areas and numerous all-inclusive resorts. It can be a convenient option for families who prefer a shorter transfer from the airport.
  Konyaaltı Beach: Konyaaltı is popular for its long coastline, mountain views, restaurants and access to Antalya city. It is a good choice for visitors who want a beach holiday with city facilities nearby. The beach is mainly pebble rather than fine sand.
  Kaleiçi Old Town: Kaleiçi is Antalya's historic centre, known for narrow streets, traditional architecture, small hotels, restaurants and harbour views. It is particularly suitable for couples and travellers interested in culture and sightseeing.
  What Can You Do in Antalya?
  Antalya offers plenty of activities beyond relaxing at the hotel:

• Visit Kaleiçi Old Town and explore its historic streets.

• Spend time at Lara or Konyaaltı Beach.

• Visit Düden Waterfalls.

• Explore Antalya Museum, subject to opening arrangements.

• Enjoy shopping in local markets and modern shopping centres.

• Take a boat trip along the Mediterranean coastline.

• Visit nearby historical attractions such as Perge and Aspendos.
  Antalya is particularly suitable for travellers who want to combine relaxation with sightseeing.
  Who Should Choose Antalya?
  Antalya is a good option for:

• Couples looking for a mixture of beaches and city experiences.

• Families who want access to attractions and entertainment.

• Visitors interested in shopping, restaurants and local culture.

• First-time visitors to Turkey.

• Travellers who prefer a choice of accommodation across different budgets.
  If you want to spend the entire holiday inside a luxury all-inclusive resort, Belek may be a better match. However, if you want more variety outside your hotel, Antalya is worth considering.
  2. Side – Best for Sandy Beaches, History and Family Holidays
  Side is a coastal resort town in Antalya Province, located east of Antalya city. It is particularly popular with visitors who want a beach holiday combined with historical attractions and opportunities to explore outside their hotel.
  One of Side's biggest advantages is its ancient town. The area contains important Roman-era remains, including an ancient theatre, historic streets and the famous Temple of Apollo overlooking the Mediterranean.
  Side offers a different atmosphere from Belek. While Belek is mainly known for its large resort hotels, Side combines established holiday areas with a historic town centre where visitors can walk around, enjoy restaurants and explore local attractions.
  Best Areas to Stay in Side
  Side Old Town: A good choice for visitors who want restaurants, shops, harbour views and historical attractions within walking distance. Accommodation here can include smaller hotels and boutique-style properties.
  West Beach: The western side of Side has popular sandy beach areas, hotels and family-friendly facilities. It can suit visitors looking for a traditional beach holiday.
  East Beach: The eastern beach area offers another option for visitors who want to stay close to the coastline and explore the wider Side area.
  Sorgun: Sorgun is known for its green surroundings, pine trees and larger resort hotels. It can be a good option for families and couples who prefer a more relaxed setting.
  Çolaklı: Located west of Side, Çolaklı has a range of beach resorts and hotels. It is worth comparing for families looking for all-inclusive accommodation.
  What Can You Do in Side?
  Side offers a combination of beach activities, history and local experiences:

• Visit the Temple of Apollo.

• Explore the ancient Roman theatre.

• Walk through the historic streets of Side Old Town.

• Enjoy the harbour and seaside restaurants.

• Relax on the sandy beaches.

• Take boat trips along the coast.

• Visit the nearby Manavgat Waterfall.

• Explore the ancient city of Aspendos.
  Side is particularly appealing if you do not want to spend every evening inside your hotel. You can enjoy resort facilities during the day and explore the historic town later.
  Who Should Choose Side?
  Side is a strong choice for:

• Families looking for sandy beaches and resort facilities.

• Couples interested in history and coastal restaurants.

• Travellers who want to explore beyond their hotel.

• Visitors looking for a balance between resort relaxation and local experiences.

• Holidaymakers comparing mid-range and upscale all-inclusive hotels.
  If you enjoy ancient architecture, beach walks and exploring a traditional Mediterranean town, Side may be the best destination for your holiday.
  3. Belek – Best for Luxury All-Inclusive Holidays and Golf
  Belek is a well-known resort destination on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, east of Antalya city. It is particularly famous for its large luxury hotels, golf courses, sandy beaches and high-quality resort facilities.
  Many hotels in Belek are designed to provide a complete holiday experience, with swimming pools, restaurants, entertainment, children's facilities, private beach areas and sports activities.
  This makes Belek especially attractive to families and couples who want to relax without needing to travel far from their accommodation every day.
  Best Areas and Attractions in Belek
  Belek Resort Area: This is the main holiday zone, with large hotels, beach access, restaurants and leisure facilities.
  Kadriye: Kadriye is close to Belek and offers access to resorts, golf facilities and local attractions. It is also a convenient base for visitors interested in family entertainment.
  Golf Resort Areas: Belek is particularly recognised for its concentration of golf courses and hotels that cater to golfers. Visitors can compare accommodation with course access and golf packages.
  What Can You Do in Belek?
  Belek is not only about relaxing beside a swimming pool. Visitors can enjoy several activities:

• Play golf at championship golf courses.

• Spend time on sandy beaches.

• Enjoy swimming pools and water parks at selected hotels.

• Visit The Land of Legends theme park and entertainment complex.

• Explore nearby historical sites such as Aspendos and Perge.

• Enjoy spa treatments and wellness facilities.

• Take boat trips and coastal excursions.
  The Land of Legends is a popular attraction for families, although admission, transport and access to individual facilities should be checked before visiting.
  Who Should Choose Belek?
  Belek is particularly suitable for:

• Families looking for large all-inclusive resorts.

• Couples planning a luxury holiday.

• Golf enthusiasts.

• Visitors who prefer hotel-based entertainment.

• Travellers who want swimming pools, restaurants and leisure facilities in one place.
  If your idea of a holiday is relaxing in a high-quality hotel, enjoying different restaurants and spending time by the beach or pool, Belek could be the best choice.
  

  Antalya vs Side vs Belek: Which Has the Best Beaches?

  All three destinations offer access to the Mediterranean coastline, but the beach experience is not identical.
  Antalya Beaches
  Lara Beach is known for its sandy coastline and large nearby hotels. Konyaaltı Beach offers impressive mountain views and a long coastal setting, although its surface is mainly pebbles.
  Side Beaches
  Side is particularly attractive for sandy beach holidays. Its western and eastern beach areas provide different settings, with resort facilities, beach restaurants and places to relax.
  Belek Beaches
  Belek is known for wide sandy beach areas, often associated with large beachfront hotels. Many resorts provide sun loungers, beach facilities and seasonal water activities for guests.
  Which Beach Is Best?
  Choose Antalya if you want a choice of beach settings and city facilities. Choose Side if you prefer sandy beaches combined with a historic town. Choose Belek if you want a relaxed beach experience close to a large resort.
  Beach conditions, access arrangements and available facilities can vary by hotel and season, so check the specific property before booking.
  

  Antalya vs Side vs Belek: Which Is Best for All-Inclusive Holidays?

  Turkey is a popular destination for all-inclusive holidays, and all three locations offer hotels with different board arrangements.
  However, Belek is particularly well known for large premium all-inclusive resorts. These properties often provide multiple restaurants, swimming pools, entertainment programmes, children's facilities and sports activities.
  Side also has a wide choice of all-inclusive accommodation, including family-friendly resorts and hotels close to the historic town.
  Antalya offers all-inclusive hotels around Lara and other coastal areas, alongside city hotels and smaller accommodation options.
  

  What Should You Check Before Booking an All-Inclusive Hotel?

  Do not assume every all-inclusive package provides the same services. Check:

• Whether breakfast, lunch and dinner are included.

• Whether local and international drinks are included.

• Whether restaurants require advance reservations.

• Whether à la carte dining has additional charges.

• Whether snacks are available between meals.

• Whether water parks and other activities are included.

• Whether children's clubs have age restrictions.

• Whether beach facilities are included.

• Whether airport transfers are part of your package.
  A hotel with a higher advertised price may offer better overall value if it includes facilities you would otherwise pay for separately.
  

  Which Destination Is Cheapest: Antalya, Side or Belek?

  There is no fixed answer because hotel prices change according to travel dates, room type, flight availability, meal plans and demand.
  However, the type of accommodation you choose can influence the total cost.
  Antalya offers a broad range of city hotels, apartments, beach hotels and all-inclusive resorts. This variety can make it easier to compare different budgets.
  Side has a mixture of smaller hotels, family resorts and larger all-inclusive properties. It is worth comparing different areas rather than searching only for hotels in Side Old Town.
  Belek is strongly associated with premium resorts and golf hotels, so some properties may cost more than comparable accommodation in other areas. However, special offers and package deals can make selected Belek resorts competitive.
  

  How to Find Better-Value Antalya, Side and Belek Holidays

• Compare different UK departure airports.

• Travel outside peak school holiday dates where possible.

• Compare five-, seven- and ten-night stays.

• Check package holidays against separate flight and hotel bookings.

• Compare different hotel locations within each destination.

• Check baggage and airport transfer costs.

• Review the actual all-inclusive benefits.

• Consider whether you need a five-star hotel or whether a well-reviewed four-star property meets your requirements.

• Compare the total price per person rather than the headline hotel price.
  The best-value holiday is not always the cheapest one. Consider location, facilities, travel time and what is included before making a decision.
  Antalya vs Side vs Belek for Family Holidays
  Families often have different priorities from couples or solo travellers. A convenient airport transfer, children's pools, family rooms, entertainment and suitable beaches can all influence the choice.
  Antalya for Families
  Antalya can be a good family destination because it offers beaches, hotels, shopping and attractions. Lara is particularly worth considering for families who want large resorts and a relatively convenient airport journey.
  Side for Families
  Side is a strong option for families who want sandy beaches and the opportunity to explore outside the hotel. Families can enjoy the beach during the day and visit the historic town or local restaurants in the evening.
  Belek for Families
  Belek is particularly suitable for families who want a resort-focused holiday. Many large hotels offer children's pools, kids' clubs, family entertainment and water-based activities. Check the age limits and seasonal availability of facilities before booking.
  Family Holiday Verdict
  Choose Belek for large resort facilities and a convenient transfer compared with Side. Choose Side if you want a beach holiday with history and places to explore. Choose Antalya if you prefer a mixture of city attractions and coastal accommodation.
  Antalya vs Side vs Belek for Couples
  Couples may prefer a destination with attractive beaches, good restaurants, comfortable hotels and opportunities to explore.
  Antalya can suit couples who enjoy city breaks, shopping, nightlife and sightseeing. Staying in Kaleiçi offers a different experience from booking a large beachfront hotel in Lara.
  Side is suitable for couples who enjoy evening walks, historic streets, harbour restaurants and a relaxed beach atmosphere.
  Belek is a good option for couples looking for luxury accommodation, spa facilities, golf and a relaxing all-inclusive experience.
  Couples Holiday Verdict
  For a mixture of history and beach experiences, consider Side. For luxury and relaxation, consider Belek. For restaurants, shopping and city attractions, choose Antalya.
  

  Which Destination Has the Best Nightlife?

  The nightlife experience differs across the three destinations.
  Antalya offers the widest city-based choice, including bars, restaurants, entertainment venues and nightlife areas. The experience depends on where you stay.
  Side has a more relaxed evening atmosphere around the historic town, harbour and resort areas. Visitors can enjoy restaurants, cafés and selected bars.
  Belek is generally more focused on hotel entertainment, evening shows, restaurants and resort activities. It may not be the best choice if you want to explore a busy town nightlife scene every night.
  If nightlife is a major priority, compare the exact hotel location rather than relying on the destination name alone.
  Airport Transfers from Antalya Airport to Antalya, Side and Belek
  Most UK visitors travelling to these destinations arrive at Antalya Airport (AYT). The airport is an important gateway to the wider Antalya region.
  Your transfer time depends on the resort, hotel location, traffic and whether you use a private transfer, shared shuttle, taxi or rental car.
  In general:

• Antalya city and Lara are among the more convenient areas for airport access.

• Belek is usually a relatively short drive from Antalya Airport.

• Side generally requires a longer road transfer than Belek.
  The difference can be important for families travelling with young children, older passengers or visitors arriving late at night.
  

  What Transfer Options Are Available?

  Private Transfer: A private vehicle takes you directly to your hotel. This can be convenient for families and groups who prefer not to make several stops.
  Shared Shuttle: A shared shuttle may cost less per person, but passengers can be dropped at different hotels along the route.
  Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport. Confirm the fare arrangements and use official taxi facilities.
  Car Hire: Renting a car can be useful if you plan to explore several destinations, although you should consider parking, fuel and insurance costs.
  For official airport transport information, visit Antalya Airport.
  

  Can You Visit Antalya, Side and Belek During One Holiday?

  Yes. You can explore more than one destination during a holiday in the Antalya region, depending on your available time and transport arrangements.
  For example, if you stay in Belek, you can arrange a day trip to Side to explore its ancient town and coastline. Visitors staying in Side can plan excursions to Antalya city or nearby historical attractions.
  If you are staying in Antalya, you can explore the surrounding coast and visit Belek or Side as part of a day trip.
  However, moving between hotels during a short holiday may take time and add transport costs. It is usually more convenient to choose one main base and arrange selected excursions.
  Best Time to Visit Antalya, Side and Belek from the UK
  The Antalya coast has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and milder conditions during the cooler months. The best time to visit depends on your preferred weather and holiday activities.
  April and May
  Spring can be a good time for sightseeing, walking and exploring historical attractions. Temperatures are generally more comfortable than during the peak summer period, although sea and pool temperatures can vary.
  June to August
  Summer is popular with families and beach holidaymakers. Expect hot weather, strong sunshine and high demand around UK school holidays. Check whether your hotel offers suitable shade, air conditioning and family facilities.
  September and October
  These months can be attractive for couples and families who prefer warm weather without the busiest part of the summer season. Sea temperatures may remain pleasant, although conditions vary.
  November to March
  The cooler months can suit visitors interested in sightseeing, city breaks and quieter stays. Some seasonal resort facilities, outdoor pools and entertainment programmes may operate on reduced schedules or close.
  For a traditional beach and swimming holiday, many travellers prefer the warmer months. For sightseeing and exploring, spring and autumn can be more comfortable.
  

  How to Choose the Right Turkish Resort for Your Holiday

  Before choosing Antalya, Side or Belek, think about the experience you actually want.
  Choose Antalya if:

• You want a combination of city and beach experiences.

• Shopping and restaurants are important.

• You enjoy sightseeing and exploring historic areas.

• You want several accommodation styles to compare.
  Choose Side if:

• You prefer sandy beaches.

• You want to visit ancient historical attractions.

• You enjoy walking around a traditional coastal town.

• You want a mixture of resort facilities and local experiences.
  Choose Belek if:

• You want a luxury all-inclusive hotel.

• Golf is part of your holiday plans.

• You prefer large resorts with facilities on site.

• You want family entertainment and hotel-based activities.
  

  What Should UK Travellers Check Before Booking Turkey Holidays?

  Before confirming your holiday, check the following:

• Passport validity and entry requirements.

• Flight times and departure airport.

• Hotel location and distance from the beach.

• Airport transfer arrangements.

• Room type and occupancy.

• Meal plan and all-inclusive inclusions.

• Children's facilities, if travelling as a family.

• Seasonal opening times for pools and activities.

• Cancellation and amendment conditions.

• Travel insurance and applicable financial protection.
  British citizens travelling on a full British citizen passport can generally visit Turkey without a visa for tourism for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Other passport types and nationalities may have different requirements.
  GOV.UK currently states that a passport must have an expiry date at least 150 days after arrival in Turkey and at least one blank page. Check the latest rules before departure, as entry requirements can change.
  Read the official GOV.UK Turkey entry requirements and Turkey travel advice before travelling.
  

  Why Book Your Turkey Holiday with Travels Hook?

  Choosing the right resort is only one part of planning a successful holiday. You also need to compare flights, accommodation, travel dates, hotel facilities and the services included in your booking.
  Travels Hook helps travellers explore holiday options and travel services for different destinations. Whether you are interested in an Antalya beach break, a family holiday in Side or a luxury all-inclusive stay in Belek, compare the available arrangements according to your budget and requirements.
  Explore Travels Hook holiday packages, check available options through Flights and browse Hotels.
  When enquiring, provide your preferred UK departure airport, travel dates, number of passengers, children's ages where applicable, preferred board basis and approximate budget. This information helps identify options that are more relevant to your holiday plans.
  

  Final Verdict: Which Turkish Resort Should You Choose?

  Antalya, Side and Belek are all excellent options for a holiday on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, but they offer different experiences.
  Antalya is the best choice if you want a mixture of beaches, city attractions, restaurants and shopping. Side is an excellent option for travellers who want sandy beaches, historical attractions and a traditional coastal atmosphere. Belek is particularly suitable for luxury all-inclusive holidays, golf enthusiasts and families who prefer large resorts with plenty of facilities.
  There is no single destination that is best for everyone. The right choice depends on your budget, travel dates, preferred hotel facilities and the type of holiday you want to enjoy.
  Before booking, compare the total package cost, flight options, transfer arrangements and hotel facilities. A little research can help you choose a resort that matches your expectations and makes your Turkish holiday more enjoyable.
  Start planning your next trip with Travels Hook and explore holiday options for Antalya, Side and Belek.
  Useful Official Travel Resources

• GOV.UK – Turkey Entry Requirements

• GOV.UK – Turkey Travel Advice

• Antalya Airport – Transportation Information

• GoTürkiye – Official Turkey Tourism Portal