Things To Do
in İskenderun
İskenderun is a vibrant coastal city located in southern Turkey, known for its rich history and mixing of cultures. It boasts a beautiful Mediterranean coastline and serves as a gateway to the nearby Hatay region, famed for its diverse culinary offerings. The city has a blend of modern amenities while retaining its traditional charm, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from ancient ruins to lively markets and stunning seascapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the İskenderun Museum, showcasing the region's archaeological treasures and artifacts.
Stroll along the picturesque marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront café while watching the boats.
Conclude your day with a visit to the historical İskenderun Castle, taking in the sunset views over the Mediterranean.
Visit the local bazaar to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life and shop for traditional crafts and spices.
Take a guided tour to the nearby ancient city of Antioch, exploring its ruins and learning about its historical significance.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Hatay cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk along the beach promenade.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🍕Pizza | $8 |
| 🚌Public transportation ticket | $0.50 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and diverse culinary scene.
- Beautiful coastal scenery with plenty of outdoor activities.
- Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
- Summer heat can be intense for some travelers.
- Limited English proficiency among some locals.
- Traffic congestion in urban areas can be challenging.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in İskenderun
Visit one of these nice places.
With its stunning waterfront views, the marina is perfect for capturing sunset photos with boats in the foreground.
This historic castle offers panoramic views of the city and the sea, making it a great backdrop for photography.
The museum's impressive collection of artifacts provides a unique opportunity to capture the region's rich history.
Food in İskenderun
İskenderun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
İskenderun is famous for its delicious kebabs, particularly the Adana kebab, which is made from spicy minced meat.
Must-Try!
This creamy chickpea dip is a staple in the region, often served with warm pita bread.
A traditional dessert made from thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese, topped with pistachios.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where fresh seafood is sold, and you can sample grilled fish right from the stalls.
Throughout the city, you'll find street vendors selling simit (sesame bread) and roasted chestnuts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Showing respect to elders is important in Turkish culture; greeting them first is considered polite.
While İskenderun is relatively liberal, dressing modestly when visiting religious sites is appreciated.
Turkish people are known for their hospitality; if offered food or drink, it's polite to accept.
Safety
Tipping in İskenderun
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.
Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer can be hot and humid, perfect for beach activities but be prepared for the heat.
Autumn features cooler temperatures and is a great time for exploring the city's cultural sites and enjoying local festivals.
Winter is mild compared to many other regions in Turkey, with occasional rain; it's a quieter time for tourists.
İskenderun at Night
Hiking in İskenderun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike leading to the ancient Kızlar Kalesi (Girls' Castle), offering stunning views of the coastline.
This trail features various routes through the Amanos Mountains, showcasing diverse flora and fauna along the way.
Airports
How to reach İskenderun by plane.
Located about 30 km from İskenderun, Hatay Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, providing easy access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of İskenderun's population consists of Turkish citizens, who contribute to the city's diverse culture and traditions.
İskenderun has a significant population of Syrian refugees, who have integrated into the community and influenced the local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in İskenderun, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.
Basketball has a growing following, with local clubs and schools fostering young talent in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting İskenderun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including lentil soups and salads.
The majority of food in İskenderun is halal, but it's always good to ask if you're unsure.