Last year, the BBC reported a surprising travel insight: two of the world’s four most-visited cities are in Turkey—namely, Istanbul and Antalya. While this statistic is largely due to the recent lifting of visa requirements and an overall increase in commercial travel routes, Turkey’s focused efforts to attract private flyers through the luxury tourism sector have also played a significant role.
In the business aviation sector, Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport has experienced the highest growth in Europe this year, handling 4,170 private jets in the first half alone—a 20% increase in volume. While the summer months are traditionally the most popular time to visit Turkey, we believe that September and October offer the best experience, with fewer crowds and pleasantly cooler evenings.
Travelling to Turkey via private jet:
If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, the Praetor 600 emerges as the super-midsize aircraft of choice. With a typical configuration of 6 single seats and a double seater sofa this is a great option for families travelling with children who can comfortably lie down and catch some sleep. The flat floor as opposed to a sunken aisle also provides plenty of room for pets of all sizes.
The Praetor 600 first appeared in the charter market in the latter half of 2019, which means almost every model is guaranteed to have a modern and impressive interior. It’s high-definition touchscreen system, which is designed to bring intuitive cabin management to your fingertips, is also guaranteed to enhance your overall in-flight experience.
Where to go and how to get there:
Cappadocia:
Airport: Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (LTAZ)
The Cappadocia region in central Turkey boasts one of the most unique landscapes in the world, shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions and centuries of erosion. Its rolling, rose-hued valleys are dotted with towering tufa formations known as “fairy chimneys.” The same soft rock that nature sculpted has been carved by human hands into thousands of cave dwellings, churches, monasteries, and even entire underground cities.
Now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cappadocia’s rich cultural and political history is a major draw. However, what attracts most tourists today is the opportunity to experience the region from a hot air balloon. Group flights with companies like Hot Air Ballooning Cappadocia start at around $250 per person, while private flights can exceed $6,650.
If you’d rather take in the vista from ‘terra firma’, we recommend heading to Göreme’s Sunrise and Sunset Point early in the morning for a breathtaking view of the balloons rising with the sun.
Bodrum:
Airport: Bodrum, Milas Bodrum International (BJV)
Rivalling Ibiza in allure, the ‘Bodrum Boom’ has fueled a surge of interest in this vibrant destination across social media. Situated on the Turquoise Coast, where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean at the tips of sweeping evergreen peninsulas, Bodrum has been a magnet for travellers since ancient times. According to legend, Antony built an island off this coast as a gift for Cleopatra. Over the centuries, the region has continued to attract rockstars and royalty alike—from Mick Jagger and Princess Margaret partying at the iconic Halikarnas Discotheque in the 1970s, to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visiting Bodrum before their 2017 wedding.
If you’re flying with Victor, consider our Alto Partner, StayOne, which offers a selection of exclusive properties in the region. Opting for a villa on a picturesque hill overlooking the Greek Islands allows you to avoid the crowds while basking in tranquillity. From there, take a scenic drive to Yalikavak Marina, where you can indulge in shopping, fine dining, and some of the area’s best beaches. For a lively day out, visit the popular Morena Beach Club.
Istanbul:
Airport: Istanbul Ataturk (ISL)
Our list would of course be incomplete without mentioning Istanbul, the world’s most visited city in 2023. This vibrant metropolis saw a 26% year-on-year growth in international arrivals, outpacing London (up 17%) and Dubai (up 18%), securing its place at the top.
For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul offers an unparalleled experience. This former Ottoman imperial palace, now a five-star hotel, sits majestically on the Bosphorus, providing a resort-like ambiance in the heart of the city. With 317 opulent rooms and suites, the palace exudes the grandeur of its royal heritage. For those with a taste for adventure, the hotel even features a dedicated helipad, making it an ideal base for exploring more of Turkey in style.
We would also recommend embarking on a private yacht cruise along the Bosphorus at sunset. As the city’s skyline is bathed in golden light, you can enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by a personal chef onboard while sipping champagne. The mild autumn weather makes this the perfect time to explore Istanbul’s waterways in luxury, with stops at hidden coves and historic waterfront mansions along the way.
For more information contact: Sales@flyvictor.com