Things To Do
in Anamur
Anamur is a sun-kissed Mediterranean town in Mersin Province, where Taurus mountains meet a long coast. It combines a laid-back, small-town vibe with a deep history evident in its harbors and ancient ruins. The area is famous for its bananas and citrus groves, which give the town a distinctive agricultural character.
The nearby Mamure Castle and the ancient city of Anemurium add a sense of timeless maritime heritage to a relaxing coastal escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Anamur's historic center, soaking in the beautiful architecture that dates back to the Roman era. Stop by the Anamur Museum to learn about the rich history of the region, featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, complete with fresh bread, olives, and cheeses.
In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Anemurium, where you can explore the well-preserved ruins, including a Roman amphitheater and baths. Take a leisurely walk along the coastline to enjoy the stunning sea views and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks. Afterward, indulge in a delicious lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling local seafood specialties.
As the sun sets, head to the beach for a relaxing evening by the sea, where you can take a refreshing swim or simply unwind on the sandy shore. Later, dine at a local restaurant that offers traditional dishes accompanied by a stunning view of the Mediterranean. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the promenade, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Anamur at night.
Kick off your morning at the beautiful Anamur Beach, where the soft sands and crystal-clear waters beckon you to unwind. Rent a sunbed and soak up the sun while enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves. For the adventurous, consider taking a short introductory lesson in paddleboarding or kayaking to explore the coastline.
After a morning of relaxation, enjoy a beachside lunch at a local café, where you can savor fresh fish dishes and refreshing drinks. Spend your afternoon engaging in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing, experiencing the adrenaline rush while taking in the breathtaking views from above. Don’t forget to take breaks to sunbathe and enjoy the beach's lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a beach bar to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sky turn vibrant shades of orange and pink. Sample some local mezes and seafood dishes as you relax and take in the picturesque scenery. End your evening with a stroll along the beach, where the sound of the waves creates a soothing backdrop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Markets/fresh produce | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, uncrowded coastline and beaches
- Rich history with Mamure Castle and Anemurium ruins
- Excellent local fruit, especially Anamur bananas
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some services concentrated in the tourist season
- Roads can be winding in the mountains and on the coast
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede...?" - Where is...?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Anamur
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic medieval fortress perched above turquoise waters, offering sweeping coastal views and atmospheric walls for moody photography.
Harbor scenes at dawn or dusk with fishing boats, salt air, and colorful nets for authentic coastal photography.
Rows of banana plants provide lush, green textures and a unique agricultural backdrop for landscape and travel photography.
Ruins expose ancient architecture set against the sea, perfect for archaeology-inspired photography and wide seascapes.
Food in Anamur
Anamur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp served with lemon, herbs, and olive oil at harborfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Desserts and smoothies featuring the local Anamur banana, a regional specialty you’ll find in cafes and markets.
Vegetables cooked in olive oil, often served as meze or as a light main course.
Turkish flatbread with cheese or toppings, accompanied by assorted meze such as hummus, ezme, and stuffed grape leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where locals buy produce, olives, herbs, and freshly baked goods; a great place to taste seasonal fruit and bite-sized snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is common; dress modestly when visiting religious sites and observe local norms around photography in such places.
Turkish tea culture values hospitality and social time; expect conversations to unfold over tea in cafes or markets.
Polite, patient behavior is appreciated; avoid loud displays in quieter residential areas and respect prayer times at mosques.
Safety
Tipping in Anamur
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good. Concierge or hotel staff may appreciate a small tip for assistance.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; many larger establishments also take credit cards. ATMs are common in town, and mobile payments are becoming more available in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor walks, hikes, and early-season market visits.
Hot days with high sun; expect crowded beaches and long evenings by the harbor; stay hydrated and seek shade mid-day.
Pleasant weather with cooler evenings; good for coastal treks and exploring ruins without peak-season crowds.
Milder winters with occasional rain; coastal strolls and museum visits are comfortable, though some outdoor activities may be limited.
Anamur at Night
Hiking in Anamur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged trails along the coastline and into the surrounding Taurus mountains, offering sea views and forested routes for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Anamur by plane.
Major international and domestic hub approximately 150-200 km away; frequent connections, with road or bus links to Anamur.
Smaller regional airport roughly 180-220 km away; options include rental car or shuttle services.
Large international hub about 250-300 km away; many daily flight options and convenient ground transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish residents with strong agricultural and fishing traditions; seasonal workers and fruit traders contribute to the economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and casual games in parks and fields.
Swimming, snorkeling, and boating along the Mediterranean coast; boat tours and seaside recreation are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anamur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on meze plates, olive oil-based vegetable dishes, and fruit; many seafood-focused spots also offer meat-free options. Communicate clearly with staff about avoiding meat and fish if necessary.