Unmissable Hatay experiences

Discover the allure of Hatay with its stunning landscapes, deep historical roots, and vibrant culture, providing exceptional experiences at every turn.

Explore Hatay's Best

Highlights

Iskenderun

Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Iskenderun is a vibrant city blending history with modernity. From its bustling harbor to its rich cultural heritage, visitors can explore ancient sites, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy the scenic coastal views. A gateway to Hatay's wonders, Iskenderun is perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Harbiye Şelaleleri (Daphne)

Experience the serene beauty of Harbiye Şelaleleri, also known as Daphne, where myth and nature intertwine. These cascading waterfalls offer a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery. According to legend, this was the place where Daphne transformed into a laurel tree, making it a spot rich in both natural beauty and mythological history.

Hıdırbey Musa Ağacı Efsanesi

Discover the legend of Hıdırbey Musa Ağacı, a mystical tree steeped in folklore and natural beauty.

Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Cave

Explore the engineering marvels of Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Mağara, ancient structures that showcase human ingenuity.

Samandağ Sahili

Stretching along the Mediterranean, Samandağ Beach is a pristine coastline offering tranquility and natural beauty. This beach is known for its unique sand dunes and the nesting grounds of endangered sea turtles. A perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea, surrounded by unspoiled nature.

Art&Culture

Saint Pierre Church

Visit Saint Pierre Kilisesi, a historic church known for its religious significance and architectural beauty.

Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Cave

Explore the engineering marvels of Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Mağara, ancient structures that showcase human ingenuity.

Antakya Castle and Walls

Explore the majestic Antakya Kalesi ve Surları, ancient fortifications offering panoramic views and rich history.

Seleucia Pieria

Discover the ancient port city of Seleucia Pieria, once a crucial hub of the Seleucid Empire. Located near the Orontes River, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into early Roman engineering with its impressive tunnel systems and ruins. A must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring the depths of ancient civilizations.

Nature

Harbiye Şelaleleri (Daphne)

Experience the serene beauty of Harbiye Şelaleleri, also known as Daphne, where myth and nature intertwine. These cascading waterfalls offer a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery. According to legend, this was the place where Daphne transformed into a laurel tree, making it a spot rich in both natural beauty and mythological history.

Hıdırbey Musa Ağacı Efsanesi

Discover the legend of Hıdırbey Musa Ağacı, a mystical tree steeped in folklore and natural beauty.

Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Cave

Explore the engineering marvels of Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Mağara, ancient structures that showcase human ingenuity.

Blue Experiences

Samandağ Sahili

Stretching along the Mediterranean, Samandağ Beach is a pristine coastline offering tranquility and natural beauty. This beach is known for its unique sand dunes and the nesting grounds of endangered sea turtles. A perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea, surrounded by unspoiled nature.

Eat&Drink

Kebab (Tepsi Kebabı, Belen Tava, Kağıt Kebabı)

Although it is not one of our first cities that comes to the mind when kebab is mentioned, Tepsi Kebab, Belen Tava and Kağıt Kebab are among the tastes that must be tasted in Hatay.

Oruk

Oruk is Hatay style stuffed meatballs. It is mostly prepared on special occasions and religious festivals, since its preparation is very demanding. Oruk differs from stuffed meatballs in shape, and its flavor differs with local ingredients.

Katıklı ve Pepper Bread

Baked with a special sauce prepared with spices, peppers, tomato paste and onion, biberli ekmek is a food that complements the breakfast tables of almost every house in Hatay. Katıklı ekmek made of hot pepper paste and spicy cottage cheese added to thinly spred bread dough can be consumed while warm straight out of the oven at any time of the day.

Hatay Cheese

One of the items that makes Hatay breakfasts unique is a variety of cheeses specific to Hatay. There are local cottage cheese types such as Hatay Tulum çökeleği and Antakya Zahterli Carra Çökeleği. Sürk cheese, a cottage cheese kneaded with plenty of fresh herbs and spices, takes its place on the tables after being dried under the sun. Other cheese types unique to Hatay: Antakya Yayladağ taze peyniri İskenderun Künefe peyniri Hatay Ezme peyniri Hatay Yayladağ Keçi peyniri Hatay Sünme peyniri Hatay Sıkma peyniri

Pomegranate Syrup

This syrup is obtained by boiling pomegranates collected from high mountainous areas in August-September over a wood fire for 6 hours. Pomegranate syrup, which has a honey-like intense flavor, is an indispensable element of Hatay cuisine.

Salted Yoğurt

Salty yoğurt is another flavor unique to Hatay. Salty yoğurt is used in meals, soups and pastry making, and with its sour and intense taste, it adds flavor to every meal in Antakya. Salty yoğurt, which is also indispensable for breakfast, is mixed with olive oil and chili peppers and consumed on bread.

Zahter Salad

Fresh zahter (a blend of powdered thyme) grown wild in the mountains of Hatay and grown in thyme fields has an important role in the local cuisine. Zahter salad, which is consumed both for breakfast and as an appetizer, blended with parsley, onion, pomegranate syrup, olive oil and various spices, is a taste that every visitor to Hatay must taste.

Your list of 20 must-do activities in Hatay

Antakya Castle and Walls

Explore the majestic Antakya Kalesi ve Surları, ancient fortifications offering panoramic views and rich history.

Harbiye Şelaleleri (Daphne)

Experience the serene beauty of Harbiye Şelaleleri, also known as Daphne, where myth and nature intertwine. These cascading waterfalls offer a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery. According to legend, this was the place where Daphne transformed into a laurel tree, making it a spot rich in both natural beauty and mythological history.

Hıdırbey Musa Ağacı Efsanesi

Discover the legend of Hıdırbey Musa Ağacı, a mystical tree steeped in folklore and natural beauty.

Saint Pierre Church

Visit Saint Pierre Kilisesi, a historic church known for its religious significance and architectural beauty.

Samandağ Sahili

Stretching along the Mediterranean, Samandağ Beach is a pristine coastline offering tranquility and natural beauty. This beach is known for its unique sand dunes and the nesting grounds of endangered sea turtles. A perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea, surrounded by unspoiled nature.

Seleucia Pieria

Discover the ancient port city of Seleucia Pieria, once a crucial hub of the Seleucid Empire. Located near the Orontes River, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into early Roman engineering with its impressive tunnel systems and ruins. A must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring the depths of ancient civilizations.

Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Cave

Explore the engineering marvels of Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Mağara, ancient structures that showcase human ingenuity.

The gastronomic landscape of Hatay

Enjoy the flavors of Hatay, where rich spices, diverse kebabs, and Middle Eastern specialties come together in a deliciously diverse food culture.

Hatay Cheese

One of the items that makes Hatay breakfasts unique is a variety of cheeses specific to Hatay. There are local cottage cheese types such as Hatay Tulum çökeleği and Antakya Zahterli Carra Çökeleği. Sürk cheese, a cottage cheese kneaded with plenty of fresh herbs and spices, takes its place on the tables after being dried under the sun. Other cheese types unique to Hatay: Antakya Yayladağ taze peyniri İskenderun Künefe peyniri Hatay Ezme peyniri Hatay Yayladağ Keçi peyniri Hatay Sünme peyniri Hatay Sıkma peyniri

Haytalı

Although künefe is one of the first flavors that comes to mind when you think of Hatay, Haytalı is also one of the desserts that must be tasted. This dessert, which consists of a combination of pudding, rose water and ice cream, appeals to the eyes with its color.

Katıklı ve Pepper Bread

Baked with a special sauce prepared with spices, peppers, tomato paste and onion, biberli ekmek is a food that complements the breakfast tables of almost every house in Hatay. Katıklı ekmek made of hot pepper paste and spicy cottage cheese added to thinly spred bread dough can be consumed while warm straight out of the oven at any time of the day.

Kebab (Tepsi Kebabı, Belen Tava, Kağıt Kebabı)

Although it is not one of our first cities that comes to the mind when kebab is mentioned, Tepsi Kebab, Belen Tava and Kağıt Kebab are among the tastes that must be tasted in Hatay.

Künefe

Künefe is an oven baked dessert made of a mixture of special salt-free cheese and a pastry called kadayıf.

Nar Ekşisi

This syrup is obtained by boiling pomegranates collected from high mountainous areas in August-September over a wood fire for 6 hours. Pomegranate syrup, which has a honey-like intense flavor, is an indispensable element of Hatay cuisine.

Oruk

Oruk is Hatay style stuffed meatballs. It is mostly prepared on special occasions and religious festivals, since its preparation is very demanding. Oruk differs from stuffed meatballs in shape, and its flavor differs with local ingredients.

Pomegranate Syrup

This syrup is obtained by boiling pomegranates collected from high mountainous areas in August-September over a wood fire for 6 hours. Pomegranate syrup, which has a honey-like intense flavor, is an indispensable element of Hatay cuisine.

Salted Yoğurt

Salty yoğurt is another flavor unique to Hatay. Salty yoğurt is used in meals, soups and pastry making, and with its sour and intense taste, it adds flavor to every meal in Antakya. Salty yoğurt, which is also indispensable for breakfast, is mixed with olive oil and chili peppers and consumed on bread.

Zahter Salad

Fresh zahter (a blend of powdered thyme) grown wild in the mountains of Hatay and grown in thyme fields has an important role in the local cuisine. Zahter salad, which is consumed both for breakfast and as an appetizer, blended with parsley, onion, pomegranate syrup, olive oil and various spices, is a taste that every visitor to Hatay must taste.

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Street foods of Hatay

Experience the diverse street food scene of Hatay, where local delicacies showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Oruk

Oruk is Hatay style stuffed meatballs. It is mostly prepared on special occasions and religious festivals, since its preparation is very demanding. Oruk differs from stuffed meatballs in shape, and its flavor differs with local ingredients.

Kebab (Tepsi Kebabı, Belen Tava, Kağıt Kebabı)

Although it is not one of our first cities that comes to the mind when kebab is mentioned, Tepsi Kebab, Belen Tava and Kağıt Kebab are among the tastes that must be tasted in Hatay.

Hatay's shopping areas and local stores.

Explore Hatay’s vibrant shopping areas, where traditional bazaars and modern stores offer everything from local crafts to fashion.

Iskenderun

Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Iskenderun is a vibrant city blending history with modernity. From its bustling harbor to its rich cultural heritage, visitors can explore ancient sites, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy the scenic coastal views. A gateway to Hatay's wonders, Iskenderun is perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Before you go: take with you

Don’t leave Hatay without taking home a taste of its rich culture and distinctive flavors.

Antakya Castle and Walls

Explore the majestic Antakya Kalesi ve Surları, ancient fortifications offering panoramic views and rich history.

Harbiye Şelaleleri (Daphne)

Experience the serene beauty of Harbiye Şelaleleri, also known as Daphne, where myth and nature intertwine. These cascading waterfalls offer a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery. According to legend, this was the place where Daphne transformed into a laurel tree, making it a spot rich in both natural beauty and mythological history.

Saint Pierre Church

Visit Saint Pierre Kilisesi, a historic church known for its religious significance and architectural beauty.

Seleucia Pieria

Discover the ancient port city of Seleucia Pieria, once a crucial hub of the Seleucid Empire. Located near the Orontes River, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into early Roman engineering with its impressive tunnel systems and ruins. A must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring the depths of ancient civilizations.

Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Cave

Explore the engineering marvels of Titus Tüneli ve Beşikli Mağara, ancient structures that showcase human ingenuity.

Gastronomic Treasures of Hatay

Discover the flavors of Hatay, where rich spices, traditional Middle Eastern dishes, and local specialties come together to create a vibrant culinary experience.

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Hatay's Museums and Historical Sites

Explore Hatay’s rich history through its museums and historic sites, where ancient traditions and diverse cultural influences come together.

Seleucia Pieria

Discover the ancient port city of Seleucia Pieria, once a crucial hub of the Seleucid Empire. Located near the Orontes River, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into early Roman engineering with its impressive tunnel systems and ruins. A must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring the depths of ancient civilizations.

Discover the allure of Hatay

Delve into Hatay’s rich history, natural wonders, and vibrant culture. Be inspired by the unique experiences that this Middle Eastern gem has to offer.