İskenderun

A Mediterranean coastal city with a strategic historical position and access to nearby beaches and natural areas along the southern Turkish coast. While more modern than Antakya, it offers seaside relaxation and serves as a gateway to exploring the Cilician coast and northern Syria's historical sites.

Things to do

• İskenderun Beach and Waterfront Promenade — Stroll along the modern seaside esplanade with cafés and swimming access, offering views of the Mediterranean and the city's port.
• Atatürk Museum (İskenderun Atatürk Evi) — Visit the restored house where Atatürk stayed during his 1937 visit, now a small museum documenting the founder's time in the city.
• Uluçınar Ancient Harbor and Ruins — Explore remnants of the Hellenistic port and fortifications that mark İskenderun's strategic maritime history near the waterfront.
• Gözlüklü Cave (Mağarası) — Hike to this limestone cave in the nearby hills offering panoramic views of the coast and Mediterranean, accessible as a day trip.
• Cilician Coast Day Trip — Drive south along the scenic Cilician coastline to visit nearby ancient ruins, fishing villages, and secluded beaches near Anamur.
• İskenderun Port Tour — Observe one of Turkey's busiest Mediterranean ports in operation, reflecting the city's modern role as a commercial and trade hub.

Food to try

• Düner and Lamb Kebab — Sample the region's perfectly grilled lamb kebab served with fresh pita, yogurt, and roasted peppers at family-run kebapçı restaurants.
• Hummus and Baba Ghanoush — Try authentic Levantine-style hummus and smoky eggplant dip, testament to the region's proximity to Syrian culinary traditions.
• Fresh Mediterranean Fish Meze — Order a mezze platter with grilled sea bream or sea bass, typically accompanied by olives, cheese, and fresh vegetables.
• Muhammara — Taste the spiced red pepper and walnut paste served as a dip with flatbread, common in Hatay's shared Levantine cuisine.
• Turkish Breakfast (Kahvaltı) — Enjoy a leisurely morning spread of cheeses, olives, honey, fresh bread, and strong Turkish tea at waterfront café tables.
• Şiş Köfte — Eat grilled minced lamb kebabs seasoned with local spices and herbs, often served with sumac-dusted onions and lemon.

Local customs & good to know

• Ramadan and Local Customs — If visiting during Ramadan, be respectful of fasting hours; restaurants close during the day and reopen after sunset with festive evening meals.
• Port City Pace and Maritime Heritage — The city has a bustling, modern commercial atmosphere tied to its port rather than tourism, so expect working-class authenticity and genuine local interactions.
• Turkish-Arab Cultural Blend — Reflect the region's position between Turkish and Levantine identities; Arabic script appears alongside Turkish, and local cuisine blends both traditions.
• Early Seaside Dining — Dinner is typically served late (8–9 PM or later), but waterfront restaurants begin filling at sunset; arrive early for better seating and cooler evening temperatures.