Things To Do
in Harbiye

Harbiye, Turkey is a charming neighborhood located in the province of Hatay, known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Nestled in the scenic hills, it offers stunning views and a pleasant climate. The area is famous for its lush gardens and ancient ruins, making it a perfect blend of nature and history.

Visitors can experience the warm hospitality of the locals while exploring the unique blend of Turkish and Levantine cultures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Harbiye
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Harbiye Waterfall, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps have a picnic breakfast.

afternoon
:

Explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Temple and the surrounding gardens, which provide a glimpse into the area's rich history.

evening
:

Have dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll through the streets, enjoying the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Culinary Experience
morning
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some street food.

afternoon
:

Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Hatay dishes, followed by a lunch of your creations.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a café for traditional Turkish tea and desserts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee at a café$2
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$5
🍎1 kg of apples$1
🛍️Souvenir item$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious food and unique local dishes.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for those not speaking Turkish.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Yardım edebilir misiniz?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Harbiye

Visit one of these nice places.

Harbiye Waterfall

A picturesque spot perfect for capturing the beauty of nature and the sound of flowing water.

Roman Temple Ruins

Ancient ruins that offer a glimpse into the past and stunning architecture for photography.

Local Gardens

Lush gardens filled with blooming flowers, ideal for capturing vibrant colors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Harbiye

Harbiye offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing a mix of traditional Turkish flavors and unique local dishes.

Harbiye Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Künefe

A delicious dessert made of shredded pastry soaked in syrup and filled with cheese.

Must-Try!

Tepsi Kebabı

A flavorful kebab dish cooked on a tray, featuring spiced meat and vegetables.

Humus

A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, often enjoyed with pita bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Harbiye Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls.

Street Vendors

Various vendors selling local snacks like simit (sesame bread) and roasted chestnuts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Harbiye experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winters range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Rainfall is most common in winter, particularly in December and January, while spring and autumn offer mild and pleasant weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful of local customs, especially during religious ceremonies.

Dress Modestly

While Harbiye is relatively liberal, wearing modest clothing is appreciated, especially in religious sites.

Greeting Locals

A friendly handshake or a nod is a common way to greet locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Harbiye is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Ensure your belongings are secure and avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Harbiye

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants, and rounding up the fare for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for local markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and dry weather; early mornings or late evenings are best for outdoor activities.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; a good time for indoor activities and cultural exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Harbiye at Night

Harbiye has a laid-back nightlife scene with cozy cafes and bars. Most establishments offer traditional Turkish music and live performances, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The streets come alive in the evening, with locals and tourists enjoying the vibrant ambiance over a cup of tea or a meal.

Hiking in Harbiye

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kurtuluş Trail

A scenic trail that winds through the hills, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Belen Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that takes you through lush forests and offers panoramic views of the region.

Airports

How to reach Harbiye by plane.

Hatay Airport (HTY)

Located approximately 30 km from Harbiye, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Harbiye is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The streets are generally safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Locals

The majority of the population consists of Turkish locals who are known for their hospitality.

Arab Community

There is a significant Arab community in Harbiye, contributing to the area's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a favorite pastime among locals, with many clubs and leagues in the area.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling is popular and often featured in local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Harbiye is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but schedule reliability can vary. It's advisable to use taxis for convenience, especially at night.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Harbiye.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to ask about meat broths.

Halal Food

Most food in Harbiye is halal, but always confirm with the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Harbiye is accessible, with several clinics and pharmacies available. In case of emergencies, larger hospitals are located in nearby cities. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide