One ancient European town full of golden beaches, historical landmarks and world-class food reaches highs of 23C on average next month. Direct flights take just four hours, and it gets just 5mm of rain on average in April, making it an ideal long weekend trip to escape the showers.
You could even take a dip in the sea, which runs at a refreshing 18C – a little chilly but definitely warmer than Blackpool. A backbone of the Turkish Riviera, The Express has pulled together some of the best things to do in the beachside town of Bodrum. To soak up the town’s culture, the ancient amphitheatre from the 4th century BC transports you back in time to when up to 10,000 spectators would watch Gladiator fights, theatre performances and ceremonies.
Officially known as Theatre at Halicarnassus, the Bodrum Ancient Theatre sits on the hillside overlooking the town, and it is free to enter – but just bear in mind it is a bit of a walk.
The ancient Greco-Roman city of Ephesus is also approximately three hours away. April is the perfect time to go because during peak season, it hosts thousands of visitors a day.
Turkey is renowned for its food, whether that’s a succulent lamb kebab – nothing like the ones at the end of the night in the UK – or sweet baclava. You can try them at one of the buzzing restaurants between Bodrum beach and Bodrum Castle.
To get a more local experience, head to the Bodrum Grand Bazaar which snakes its way through Old Town, where you can pick up local delicacies like Turkish delight, the famous strong coffee, or barter over fine rugs and tapestries.
You are spoilt for choice when it comes to day trips on the crystal blue waters. The Greek island of Kos is just 20 minutes away by catamaran, or island hop tours run around places like Aquarium Bay and Black Island, where you can visit hot springs.
One of the most fascinating sites is the 15th century Bodrum Castle built by the Knights Hospitaller because of what it hides inside.
The imposing military fortification on a small peninsula on the coastline hides a Museum of Underwater Archaeology within, where you can explore shipwrecks left at sea.
Take a look at the Uluburun Shipwreck, one of the oldest Bronze Age shipwrecks ever found, or the glass wreck from the Byzantine period.
Bodrum airport is one hour’s drive from the town centre.