Things To Do
in İskenderun
İskenderun is a lively Mediterranean port city in Hatay Province with a layered history from ancient civilizations to modern industry. It sits along a sheltered bay, backed by the Amanos mountains, offering a long seafront promenade and a busy harbor. The city is a gateway to Hatay's rich culinary scene, blending Levantine flavors with fresh seafood.
Visitors use İskenderun as a base to explore nearby Antakya, Samandağ, and the region's ancient ruins.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic İskenderun Castle, where you can explore the ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city and sea. Afterward, stroll through the bustling streets of the old town, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant local life. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Turkish breakfast at a cozy café, featuring fresh bread, olives, and local cheeses.
In the afternoon, visit the Atatürk Museum, which offers insights into Turkey's history and culture through various exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, stopping to appreciate local art installations and street performances. Treat yourself to lunch at a seafood restaurant, where you can savor the catch of the day with a view of the Mediterranean.
As the sun sets, head to the famous İskenderun Marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll among yachts and fishing boats. Choose a waterfront restaurant for dinner, sampling the local specialty, İskender kebab, paired with a glass of Turkish tea. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local café for dessert, indulging in baklava while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Begin your day by heading to the beautiful Duvacik Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and relax on the soft sands. Once settled, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters and take in the stunning coastal views. Don't miss the chance to swim in the refreshing sea before the crowds arrive.
After a morning of water sports, grab lunch at a beachside café, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local salads. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or participating in beach volleyball with locals. For those looking for adventure, sign up for a jet ski ride for an adrenaline rush on the waves.
As evening approaches, enjoy a picturesque sunset from the beach, where the sky transforms into vibrant shades of orange and pink. Head to a nearby beach bar for a casual dinner, sampling mezes and sipping on cocktails as the evening unfolds. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport/day pass | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich seafood and Hatay culinary traditions
- Coastal scenery and a convenient base for day trips in Hatay
- Limited English in some areas and during off-peak hours
- Hot summers and busy port traffic can be crowded in peak season
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the toilet?
- "İsminiz nedir?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in İskenderun
Visit one of these nice places.
A dynamic waterfront scene with boats, cranes, and a historic lighthouse during blue hour.
A long, wide walkway along the water with palm trees and promenading locals; ideal for sunset photography.
Narrow lanes and colorful façades offer atmospheric street photography opportunities.
Food in İskenderun
İskenderun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warm cheese pastry drenched in sweet syrup, typically enjoyed fresh at dessert cafés.
Must-Try!
Lamb kebab served on smoky yogurt and roasted pepper sauce, commonly found in Hatay restaurants.
Assorted fresh seafood laid out with olive oil, lemon, and herbs from the Mediterranean.
A spicy walnut and red pepper dip that pairs perfectly with fresh bread in markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling fish market by the harbor where you can sample grilled fresh catches and seafood sandwiches.
Sidewalk stalls offering simit, borek, mantı, fresh fruit, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common; a warm greeting in Turkish is appreciated. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove hats if required.
Show politeness to elders and local hosts; hospitality is valued and often extended to visitors with tea or coffee.
Modest, comfortable clothing is appropriate in most areas; swimwear is generally reserved for beaches and pool areas.
Safety
Tipping in İskenderun
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is common if service is good. Rounding up the bill is appreciated in casual spots. In cafes and markets, tipping is optional and discretionary.
Cash Turkish Lira is widely accepted; major credit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Some smaller vendors may be cash-only; carry some small notes and coins.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry; expect very warm daytime highs. Best for beach outings, early morning strolls, and sunset photography along the coast.
Mild temperatures with comfortable humidity; great for outdoor exploring and city photography without peak-summer crowds.
Mild but wetter and more humid; rain is possible and sea breezes can be brisk. Indoor cultural activities and markets are pleasant options.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hikes in the Amanos foothills and outdoor dining.
İskenderun at Night
Hiking in İskenderun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic and scenic ridge trails with forested terrain and expansive views; suitable for day hikes.
Accessible hikes and nature walks in the Amanos range near Samandağ and Antakya, offering cooler air and lush scenery.
Airports
How to reach İskenderun by plane.
Antakya-based airport serving domestic flights; roughly 60-100 km from İskenderun depending on route and road conditions.
Regional international airport with frequent flights; located about 150-200 km away by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with strong hospitality culture.
Hatay Province has a notable Arab heritage and linguistic presence in daily life.
Includes small Armenian and other minority groups contributing to regional diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and casual street play.
Common in schools and community centers; local leagues and pickup games occur year-round.
Swimming, snorkeling, and boating along the Mediterranean coast are popular in warm months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting İskenderun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many eateries, including lentil soups, stuffed grape leaves, grilled vegetables, and hummus-based dishes. Inquire about olive oil, tahini, and dairy sauces to avoid non-vegetarian broth.