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Türkiye once again proved to be a magnet for international celebrities for the summer of 2025, drawing world-renowned actors and footballers to its sun-soaked coasts and luxury resorts.
From Bodrum to Antalya, the country’s leading holiday destinations became a playground for familiar faces from Hollywood and European football.
Bodrum, the Aegean hotspot famed for its turquoise waters and nightlife, hosted a string of football stars. Dutch international Jeremie Frimpong, who recently moved from Germany’s Bundesliga to the English Premier League, spent June exploring coves by day and enjoying the city’s vibrant venues by night.
He made headlines after paying a strikingly high restaurant bill while dining with friends.
Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo, known for playing with Barcelona, Manchester City, Bayern Munich and now Saudi club Al-Hilal, chose Bodrum in July for a family break.
He shared glimpses of his holiday with his wife Daniela Machado and their daughters on social media.
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah also arrived in June. Spotted at a seafood restaurant in Gumusluk, he drew attention with his cheerful remark to reporters: “Just here for holiday, if you don’t mind.”
Salah later continued the night with his friends at a club in Yalikavak.
England’s Ben Chilwell, Chelsea’s left-back, was seen in Bodrum in July, recovering from injury while his team toured the United States.
He opted for a more low-key stay, relaxing at a luxury hotel in Turkbuku.
French international Ousmane Dembele, fresh from Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League triumph, traveled to Bodrum in August with his wife Rima Edbouche and their daughter.
Arriving on a private jet, he checked into a high-end resort and hired a yacht to explore Cennet Bay and Turkbuku.
Türkiye’s resorts also drew acclaimed actors. Emma Corrin, best known for portraying Princess Diana in “The Crown,” enjoyed a romantic holiday with her partner in Bodrum’s Turkbuku district in July.
Australian actor Travis Fimmel, famed for his role as Ragnar in “Vikings,” visited Bodrum in August.
He stayed in Golkoy and was later spotted heading by boat to Turkbuku. Turkish comedian Hasan Can shared a photo with the actor, delighting fans.
British action star Jason Statham, who had previously spent two months filming in Antalya, returned in June with his family for a private getaway.
Posting on social media, he wrote, “Great to be back! Home from home!! We love this place!!"
Meanwhile, Anya Taylor-Joy, star of “The Queen’s Gambit,” spent July in the quieter town of Ortaca in Mugla province. Known for her friendly demeanor, she connected warmly with locals and explored the surrounding nature.
She also visited the ancient city of Lymra near Antalya’s Demre district, cooling off in the stream that runs through the ruins.
Türkiye’s sunlit coasts once again served as a crossroads for global stars, where world-famous actors and footballers blended moments of leisure, privacy, and discovery. From the lively beaches of Bodrum to the tranquil streets of Ortaca, their presence highlighted the country’s enduring appeal as a destination that offers both luxury and authenticity to its international visitors.
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