Things To Do
in Silifke
Silifke sits along the Göksu River with a deep history dating back to ancient Seleucia on the Calycadnus. The town blends Mediterranean coastlines, leafy terraces, and hillside ruins that hint at civilizations past. It serves as a gateway to nearby historic sites like the Seleucia ruins and the Kızkalesi coastal fortress.
Visitors experience a relaxed Aegean-Turkish vibe with warm hospitality and scenic day trips nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Adana Airport early and enjoy the scenic drive along the Göksu River toward Silifke. Settle into a riverside guesthouse where friendly hosts greet you with chilled ayran. Sip traditional Turkish tea on the balcony as mountain air mingles with the river breeze.
Stroll through the town center to get your bearings among whitewashed houses and narrow lanes. Browse stalls at the local bazaar, sampling freshly made gözleme and dried figs. Capture the warm light dancing on the Göksu as fishermen cast their lines on the old stone bridge.
Watch a pastel sunset from a shaded riverside table as lanterns flicker on. Feast on mezes and grilled sea bream at a family-run fish restaurant, letting the laughter of neighbors wash over you. End the night with a quiet stroll under a canopy of stars along the water’s edge.
Hike up to the ruins of ancient Seleucia Piera on a gentle slope covered in pine and wild thyme. Marvel at crumbling columns and the outlines of monumental gate structures that linger against the sky. Feel the warm stone under your fingertips as echoes of Roman legions drift through the air.
Descend to the archaeological site’s museum to study intricate mosaics and statues discovered nearby. Enjoy a picnic of olives, cheese, and fresh-baked pide in the shade of cypress trees. Let your guide recount legends of kings and battles in soft, engaging detail.
Head back into town for café culture at a pedestrian plaza lit by fairy lights. Try künefe, a cheese-filled pastry drenched in honey, and sip thick Turkish coffee slowly. Listen to local musicians strumming bağlama as laughter spills from open windows.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚍Local transport (short city ride) | $2-6 |
| 🏖️Beach access | $0-5 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and ancient ruins
- Beautiful coastal delta and beaches
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Good value for Mediterranean travel
- Nightlife is quieter than larger cities
- Some sights require car rental or longer drives
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredesin?" - Where is...?
- "Bakar mısınız?" - Excuse me / May I have your attention?
Places to Visit in Silifke
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient ruins along the river with columns, amphitheater remnants, and scenic olive groves—great for wide-angled landscape shots.
Hilltop fortress offering sweeping views of the town, river, and coast; ideal at golden hour.
Marshes, reed beds, and distant water reflections—perfect for wildlife and panoramic photography.
Dramatic sea views with the castle perched on a rock; stunning at sunset and during blue hour.
Food in Silifke
Silifke Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Mersin specialty: minced beef wrapped in a warm flatbread with herbs and spices, best enjoyed from a seaside kebab stand.
Must-Try!
Crispy bulgur shell with a savory meat and pine nut filling; often served with yogurt or lemon.
Vine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and olive oil; light, refreshing, and mezze-friendly.
Freshly caught fish prepared simply with olive oil, lemon, and herbs; great near coastal towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering fresh produce, olives, citrus, herbs, nuts, and regional snacks.
Along the riverfront you’ll find stalls with quick bites like grilled corn, simit (sesame rings), and midye dolması (stuffed mussels).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting is customary; offering tea is a sign of hospitality and welcome.
Dress modestly, especially in religious sites; remove shoes if required and follow local guidelines.
Ask permission before photographing people; be respectful at religious sites and private homes.
Safety
Tipping in Silifke
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service is not included. In cafes and taxis, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are common in larger establishments and hotels; ATMs are readily available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming citrus and wildflowers; ideal for city walks and archaeological sites.
Hot and dry; hydrate, seek shade, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant and breezy; comfortable for coastal hikes and exploring ruins without the peak crowds.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; some attractions may have reduced hours, but museum visits are comfortable.
Silifke at Night
Hiking in Silifke
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside route with scenic canyon views, shaded sections, and wildlife opportunities.
Accessible routes in the Taurus Mountains offering pine forests and panoramic overlooks within a short drive.
Coastal paths with dramatic sea views and sunset photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Silifke by plane.
Major international airport within roughly 100-120 km driving distance; good for international and domestic connections.
Large international hub about 180-200 km away; convenient for broader international routes.
Smaller airport about 180-200 km away; useful for some seasonal flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish families with an aging population in town centers; strong sense of community and hospitality.
A modest but growing presence in summer, with visitors drawn to ancient sites and the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and informal matches are common in town and surrounding areas.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games occur in evenings.
Swimming, snorkeling, and boating along the coast are popular in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Silifke.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful in mezze selections, salads, olives, and grilled vegetables; ask for dishes without meat or fish.