VISIT EAST MEDITERRANEAN TURKEY: PLACES TO SEE, THINGS TO DO

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The Eastern Mediterranean coast of Turkey—stretching from Antalya’s eastern edge to Hatay near the Syrian border—is a region where history and hospitality run deep. This is where Roman theaters, Crusader castles, and early Christian churches sit just minutes from warm beaches and citrus orchards. It’s a land of ancient port cities, dramatic coastal cliffs, spicy regional food, and a culture that blends Anatolian, Arab, and Levantine flavors like nowhere else in Turkey.

Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or simply craving a path less traveled, Eastern Mediterranean Turkey offers surprising depth, warmth, and unforgettable stories.

Alanya

A beloved coastal destination east of Antalya, Alanya offers a mix of resort-town energy and dramatic historical scenery. Towering over the town is the Alanya Castle, a vast Seljuk fortress complex with crenelated walls, towers, and sweeping views of the turquoise sea. Don’t miss the Red Tower (Kızıl Kule), which once protected the harbor, and the Seljuk-era shipyard (Tersane) nearby.

Below the fortress, you’ll find lively beaches—Kleopatra Beach being the most famous, known for its soft sand and clean, clear water. Alanya is also a great spot for boat trips, with caves like Lovers Cave, Phosphorus Cave, and Pirates Cave accessible only by sea.

At sunset, join locals for a seaside walk or a sweet treat of cezerye (carrot-based dessert with nuts) or fresh banana dondurma (ice cream) from nearby plantations.

Anamur

One of Turkey’s least spoiled coastal areas, Anamur feels like a peaceful edge of the Mediterranean. The area is known for its banana plantations and laid-back vibe, but it also hides one of the most atmospheric castles in Turkey: Mamure Castle.

This sprawling, seaside fortress has 39 towers and walls that stretch out into the waves—straight out of a fantasy novel. Nearby are the Roman ruins of Anemurium, with its necropolis, baths, and mosaics overlooking the sea.

With fewer tourists and warm waters even in late autumn, Anamur is a hidden gem for slow travelers and road trippers.

Silifke & Kızkalesi

Moving eastward, Silifke and its surroundings hold treasures of Roman and early Christian history. The star attraction is Kızkalesi—the iconic Maiden’s Castle, floating just offshore on a rocky islet. Legend says a king built it to protect his daughter from a deadly prophecy, only for fate to find its way anyway (like many Turkish folktales).

Across from it is the mainland castle, offering panoramic views over the bay. A short drive inland brings you to Heaven and Hell Sinkholes (Cennet-Cehennem)—massive natural chasms once used as cave churches, complete with stairways leading into the earth.

Nearby, the Astım Cave offers stalactites and healing myths, while the Olba-Diocaesarea ruins reveal columns and temples scattered in pine-scented valleys.

Tarsus

Tarsus, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, lies just inland from Mersin and pulses with deep spiritual and historical energy. Birthplace of Saint Paul, the city has a key place in Christian heritage. Visit St. Paul’s Well, Cleopatra’s Gate, and the Ulu Cami mosque, which reflects centuries of religious coexistence.

Tarsus is also famous for its food—especially Tarsus-style hummus, richly spiced and often served warm. Try tantuni (thin beef wraps fried in cottonseed oil), cezerye, and a cold lemon sherbet in the leafy shade of Tarsus Waterfall Park.

Adana

Known for its spicy cuisine and fiery summers, Adana is Turkey’s fifth-largest city and a proud capital of southern culture. The mighty Seyhan River runs through the city, spanned by the ancient Stone Bridge (Taşköprü)—still in use after nearly 2,000 years.

The Sabancı Merkez Mosque, with its six minarets and riverside setting, is one of the largest and most elegant in the country. Nearby, the Adana Archaeology Museum and the Ethnography Museum tell stories from Neolithic times through Ottoman rule.

But let’s be honest—most people come here to eat. Adana kebabı, served with lavaş bread, roasted peppers, and a side of bulgur, is a must. Wash it down with icy şalgam (fermented purple carrot juice) or ayran, and follow up with bicibici, a summer dessert of shaved ice, rose syrup, and starch pudding.

Hatay (Antakya)

Hatay, formerly known as Antioch, is one of the most diverse, historical, and soulful cities in Turkey. Once a leading city of the Hellenistic world and a stronghold of early Christianity, it’s home to the Church of St. Peter, one of the oldest surviving churches in the world, carved into a mountainside cave.

The Hatay Archaeology Museum holds the world’s finest collection of Roman mosaics—jaw-dropping in both scale and detail. Stroll through Old Antakya, where Ottoman-era houses, synagogues, mosques, and churches coexist within a maze of narrow lanes.

Hatay’s cuisine is legendary: a blend of Arab, Turkish, and Armenian influences. Don’t miss kağıt kebabı (meat baked in paper), muhammara, oruk (stuffed bulgur dumplings), and of course, kunefe—a rich, crunchy cheese dessert baked in syrup and topped with pistachios. Antakya is also Turkey’s first official “city of gastronomy” under UNESCO.