Things To Do
in Samandağ
Samandağ is a coastal town in Hatay Province along the eastern Mediterranean, where ancient history meets a relaxed seaside vibe. It sits near the historic Cilician coast and serves as a gateway to nearby ruins, beaches, and nature reserves. The town blends Levantine-influenced cuisine with warm hospitality and scenic waterfronts.
Expect a laid-back atmosphere, lush olive groves, and inviting coastal views at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Antioch, where you can explore the stunning mosaics at the Hatay Archaeology Museum. Stroll through the charming streets lined with historic buildings that reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast, featuring fresh bread, olives, and local cheeses.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the St. Pierre Church, one of the oldest churches in the world, located in a picturesque setting. Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby ancient Roman ruins, where you can admire the remnants of the once-thriving metropolis. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Orontes River, soaking in the serene views.
Dinner at a local seafood restaurant will provide you with a taste of the fresh catch from the Mediterranean Sea. After your meal, engage in a cultural experience by attending a traditional Turkish music performance in the town square. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the vibrant market, where you can pick up unique handicrafts and local delicacies.
Begin your day with a refreshing swim in the clear turquoise waters of Samandağ Beach, known for its natural beauty and sandy shores. Rent a sunbed and enjoy the sun while sipping on a freshly squeezed orange juice from a nearby vendor. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the soft sand between your toes and listening to the gentle waves.
After a relaxing morning, try your hand at various water sports available at the beach, including jet skiing and paddleboarding. Join a local tour for a thrilling banana boat ride, where laughter and splashes are guaranteed. As the afternoon sun warms your skin, indulge in a beachside lunch featuring grilled fish and fresh salads.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beach bonfire with fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter under the stars. Visit a nearby beach café for a delightful dinner, savoring local specialties like meze and grilled kebabs. Spend your evening listening to the sound of the waves, creating the perfect ambiance for relaxation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 💧1.5L bottled water | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🚗Gasoline (1 liter) | $1-1.20 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or Airbnb per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich blend of history and coastline with easy day trips to Antakya and nearby ruins
- Delicious Levantine-influenced cuisine with abundant fresh seafood and olive oil
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale tourist services in the town itself
- Some areas are rural with uneven infrastructure; transportation can be slower
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Samandağ
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruin complex perched on a hillside with dramatic stonework and sweeping views of the Mediterranean coast—great for atmospheric photography at golden hour.
Long sandy shoreline with soft light, gentle waves, and fishing boats that create color and texture in morning light.
Active harbor scene with boats, nets, and locals at work—ideal for candid coastal photography.
Rugged viewpoint offering a mix of sea, canyon, and terraced olive groves; striking silhouettes at sundown.
Food in Samandağ
Samandağ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chickpea dip finished with tahini and olive oil; a staple on most meze platters in Hatay.
Must-Try!
Baked meat and vegetable dish in a clay tray, often featuring peppers and potatoes.
Smoky red pepper and walnut dip, a common accompaniment to bread and salads.
Smoked eggplant puree served with grilled meat and yogurt; rich and flavorful.
Salt-cured bonito or tuna sliced thinly and served with olive oil and lemon; a regional seafood specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market selling fresh produce, olives, herbs, spices, and ready-to-eat street foods.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering grilled fish sandwiches, simit, borek, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or light kiss on the cheek among acquaintances; modest courtesy is appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; bring a scarf or shawl for women visiting mosques and religious spaces.
Remove shoes, speak softly, and respect local customs and prayer times.
Safety
Tipping in Samandağ
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave about 5-10% if service isn’t included. For cafes and bars, rounding up the bill or small tips to servers is common.
Turkish Lira is the primary currency; cash is widely accepted in smaller venues, while many restaurants and hotels accept credit/debit cards. Card payments are common in larger establishments; minor vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming citrus groves; good for hiking and outdoor markets. Expect occasional showers but generally pleasant.
Hot and dry with strong sun; heat peaks in July and August. Plan early-morning activities or beach time, and stay hydrated.
Warm days and cooler nights; a comfortable shoulder season for coastal walks and village visits.
Mild to cool with rain possible; fewer crowds. Coastal scenery remains inviting, but some ferries or boat trips may be weather-dependent.
Samandağ at Night
Hiking in Samandağ
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hike from the village up to the monastery ruins for dramatic views and a touch of history.
Valley hike through olive groves and riverside paths within easy reach of Samandağ for a scenic day trip.
Airports
How to reach Samandağ by plane.
Antakya's regional airport with connections to Istanbul and Ankara; a common gateway for visiting Samandağ.
Major hub about a 1.5–2 hour drive; frequent domestic flights and some international routes.
Another option a few hours away by road; useful for extended travel in southeastern Turkey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group in the area, contributing to daily life, cuisine, and local traditions.
A presence in Hatay province; cultural influences appear in food and hospitality.
Historical communities with cultural heritage in the broader Antakya-Hatay region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local clubs and enthusiastic community support.
Common in schools and community centers; recreational leagues and pickup games are popular in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samandağ.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options abound in meze platters and olive-oil-based dishes; ask for sebze dolması, humus, muhammara, and zeytinyağlılar. If needed, remind staff about avoiding meat broths and stock in soups.