Things To Do
in Hatay
Hatay is a culturally rich region in southern Turkey that sits at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and Levantine histories. Its capital, Antakya, is famous for its ancient churches, mosques, and a vibrant bazaar along the Orontes River. The area blends Turkish, Arab, and Mediterranean influences, especially evident in its food, crafts, and everyday life.
The climate varies with the seasons, delivering hot summers, mild winters, and lush landscapes along the coast and river valleys.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the heart of Antakya, where the ancient streets are lined with charming cafes and shops. Visit the Hatay Archaeological Museum to marvel at the stunning mosaics and artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine eras. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local eatery, savoring fresh bread, olives, and honey.
After lunch, stroll through the narrow alleys of the old town, taking in the unique architecture influenced by various cultures. Stop by the Church of St. Peter, one of the oldest Christian churches, and learn about its historical significance. Continue your exploration at the Habib-i Neccar Mosque, the oldest mosque in Antakya, which reflects the city's rich religious heritage.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant along the Orontes River to enjoy the local specialty, künefe, a sweet cheese pastry. Engage with locals and other travelers over dinner, sharing stories and experiences. Wind down your evening with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the cool breeze and beautiful views.
Begin your culinary adventure with a visit to the local market, where vibrant colors and enticing aromas greet you. Sample fresh produce, spices, and traditional breads while chatting with friendly vendors. Join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Hatay's famous dishes, such as hummus and kebab.
After mastering some cooking techniques, enjoy the fruits of your labor during a communal lunch with your classmates. Post-lunch, visit a local bakery to see how traditional bread is made, and perhaps even try your hand at shaping the dough. Discover the rich history of Hatay's diverse cuisine, influenced by various cultures through a food tour.
As evening approaches, head to a local meyhane (tavern) to experience authentic Turkish music and lively atmosphere. Indulge in meze platters filled with local specialties and sip on rakı, the anise-flavored spirit. Enjoy the vibrant energy of the night as locals gather to celebrate over good food and music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🥙Street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (within town) | $4-8 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and a remarkable culinary scene
- Warm hospitality and walkable historic center
- Hot summers can be intense for outdoor plans
- Border area proximity requires staying informed about safety advisories
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Hatay
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful, tile-adorned structures with narrow streets and a backdrop of mountains; ideal for street photography and sunset shots over Antakya.
Scenic riverside scenes with antique bridges, riverfront cafes, and reflections of old town houses in the water.
Historic religious sites and world-class mosaics provide dramatic interior and exterior photography opportunities.
Ancient engineering works and rugged coastlines offer moody, dramatic light for landscape photography.
Textured walls, wooden doors, and colorful market life provide vibrant documentary photography chances.
Golden light over the Mediterranean with cliff backdrops and quiet beaches for wide-angle seascapes.
Food in Hatay
Hatay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A cheese-filled kadaifi pastry dessert cooked until crisp and served warm with syrup and pistachio; widely available in Antakya.
Must-Try!
Smoked eggplant purée served with tender meat kebabs and rich sauce.
Crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced meat alongside a spread of meze herbs, olives, and dips.
Creamy chickpea dip finished with tahini, olive oil, and a bright lemon note.
Stuffed grape leaves with olive oil, often served cold as part of a meze spread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market lanes offering spices, olives, herbs, sesame, and fresh produce; great for sampling street bites and buying regional sweets.
Seasonal stalls around the old town selling locally pressed olive oil, bottled citrus, and small snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; use polite language; dress modestly when visiting religious sites and in more conservative areas.
Bargaining is common in markets; approach bargaining with a friendly demeanor. Remove shoes when entering some homes and mosques, and follow local signage at religious sites.
Respect fasting practices during Ramadan; avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours in residential areas, and be mindful of prayer times.
Safety
Tipping in Hatay
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if no service charge is included. In cafes and bars, leaving loose change or rounding up is common. Taxis typically do not expect tips, but rounding up to the next lira is nice.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops; carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments. ATMs are common in Antakya and tourist areas; some rural spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot and often humid days with coastal breezes. Hydration and sun protection are essential; mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor sightseeing, while indoor or shaded venues are comfortable during peak heat.
Milder temperatures and diminishing heat invite longer outdoor explorations. Light rainfall is possible; great for photography and city walks.
Mild to cool temperatures; rain is more frequent, especially along the coast. Night progresses are cooler, so bring a warm layer for evenings.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming citrus and flowers. A popular time for outdoor hikes, markets, and photography around the old town and along the coast.
Hatay at Night
Hiking in Hatay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate forest hike with cascading waterfalls and viewpoints near Antakya.
Moderate to challenging mountain hike offering expansive views over the Mediterranean and surrounding countryside.
Scenic coastal hikes with cliffs, beaches, and birdlife along the Levantine coast.
Airports
How to reach Hatay by plane.
Domestic flights and seasonal international connections; convenient for entering the region.
Major hub with domestic and international flights; about 2-3 hours drive to Antakya, depending on traffic.
Regional airport with connections to several Turkish cities; longer drive to Hatay but options exist.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hatay is home to Turkish and Arab communities, along with Armenians and Kurds; Christians and Muslims live in close proximity, contributing to a tolerant, blended culture. Syrian refugees also contribute to the social fabric and local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport; local clubs and a passionate fan base attend matches in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hatay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Hatay dishes can be adjusted—opt for hummus, lentil soups, stuffed grape leaves, vegetable meze, and salads; clearly communicate dairy or egg exclusions to cooks; many places are happy to accommodate with simple vegetable plates.