Mersin Travel Guide

Explore the hidden gems of Mersin, Turkey with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures, scenic views, and cultural attractions, discover everything this fascinating city has to offer.


Introduction to Mersin

Located on the southern coast of Turkey in the Mediterranean region, Mersin is a city with a rich history and stunning natural beauty that is often overlooked by tourists. From exploring the cultural attractions like museums and historical sites, to basking in the sunshine on the sandy beaches or hiking through the mountains, Mersin has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Mersin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mersin Archaeological Museum: Located in the city center, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the ancient cities of Soli-Pompeipolis, Olba, and Tarsus.
  • St. Paul’s Well: This is the oldest Christian holy site in the region and is believed to be where St. Paul the Apostle descended to the city to spread Christianity in the first century.
  • Tarsus Waterfall: Located just outside the city, this picturesque waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Natural Attractions of Mersin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cennet-Cehennem (Heaven and Hell): This famous hike in the Taurus Mountains offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Mersin.
  • Silifke Castle: This ancient castle offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline and surrounding valleys, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a romantic sunset excursion.
  • Kızkalesi (Maiden’s Castle): This iconic castle, situated on the coast of Kızkalesi, was built on a small islet and is accessible only by boat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mersin

In addition to the Cennet-Cehennem hike mentioned above, there are several other hiking and biking routes around Mersin that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the most popular include:

  • Lamos River Canyon: This picturesque canyon offers a scenic hike along the river, passing through several small canyons and waterfalls.
  • Mamure Castle to Susanoğlu: This trail follows a scenic route along the coast, passing ancient ruins and stunning beaches.
  • Kayacık Dam to Kumkuyu: This bike route runs through the beautiful countryside and along the coast, offering a perfect mix of nature and culture.

Best Things to Do in Mersin: Activities and Tours

  • Jeep Safari to Taurus Mountains: Experience an off-road adventure in the Taurus Mountains, taking in stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline and traditional Turkish villages.
  • Boat Tour to Kızkalesi: Take a boat tour to the iconic Kızkalesi castle, and enjoy a relaxing day on the sandy beaches surrounding the castle.
  • Tarsus Guided City Tour: Explore the ancient city of Tarsus, following in the footsteps of St. Paul the Apostle and learning about the rich history of this unique city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mersin

Day 1: Explore the ancient city of Tarsus and visit the St. Paul’s Well. Day 2: Take a hike in the Taurus Mountains and enjoy the stunning views from Cennet-Cehennem. Day 3: Take a boat tour to Kızkalesi, relax on the beaches, and explore the iconic castle. Day 4: Visit the Silifke Castle and enjoy a picnic while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Day 5: Explore the Mersin Archaeological Museum and learn about the ancient history of the region. Day 6: Go on a jeep safari in the Taurus Mountains, experiencing adventure and breathtaking views. Day 7: Visit the Tarsus Waterfall and enjoy the refreshing natural beauty.

Food and Drink Scene of Mersin

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tantuni: A popular Turkish street food, made with thinly sliced beef, onions, and a blend of spices served in a soft flatbread.
  • Adana Kebab: A spicy meat dish made with ground lamb and beef, seasoned with chili flakes and cumin and cooked on a skewer.
  • Beyran Soup: A traditional soup made with lamb, garlic, and spices, served with a side of fresh lemon and crispy bread.

Local Beverages

  • Sade Ayran: A refreshing drink made with plain yogurt, cold water, and a pinch of salt.
  • Şalgam Suyu: A unique beverage made with fermented turnip juice, flavored with spices like sumac and flavored syrup.

Where to Stay in Mersin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Anemon Hotel Mersin: Located in the city center, this hotel features comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city and coastline.
  • Mersin HiltonSA: Offering 5-star accommodations and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, this hotel is located on the seafront in the city center.
  • Grand Mardin-i Hotel: This charming boutique hotel is located in the historic neighborhood of Mersin and features unique rooms and a rooftop terrace with a Turkish bath and sauna.

What to Buy in Mersin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Silk Scarves: Mersin is known for its high-quality silk production, making silk scarves a popular souvenir among tourists.
  • Traditional Turkish tea sets: Tea is an important part of Turkish culture, and a traditional tea set makes for a great souvenir to take home.
  • Olive Oil: Mersin is known for its high-quality olive oil production, making it a popular souvenir for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Mersin

Mersin is a city with a rich history and unique cultural traditions. It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a mosque or someone’s home, and it is important to dress modestly in these places. When greeting someone, it is polite to shake hands and say “Merhaba” (hello).

Best Time to Visit Mersin

The best time to visit Mersin is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months can be extremely hot and humid, while the winter months can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mersin

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques or someone’s home.
  • Try the local cuisine and sample traditional Turkish tea.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places.
  • Touch people on the head (it is considered rude).
  • Interrupt or raise your voice in conversation.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mersin

Mersin is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing or theft. It is also advised to avoid political demonstrations or large crowds.

Health in Mersin

Mersin has several modern hospitals and medical facilities, but it is recommended to have health insurance that covers medical expenses in Turkey. It is also important to drink bottled water and avoid wearing sandals in urban areas to prevent cuts or injuries.

Getting to Mersin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mersin

  • Adana Şakirpaşa Airport: located approximately 70 km northeast of Mersin, this is the closest international airport with flights from major cities in Turkey and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Mersin

  • Mersin Bus Station: located in the city center, this station offers buses to major cities in Turkey and neighboring countries.

Other Options

  • Train: The Mersin Railway Station offers train service to several major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul and Ankara.
  • Car rental: Several car rental companies operate in Mersin, offering a more flexible travel option for visitors.

How to Get Around in Mersin

Mersin has a well-established public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and dolmuş (shared taxis). Biking and walking are also popular options for exploring the city.

Where to Go Next from Mersin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Adana: located only 62 km northeast of Mersin, Adana is a bustling city known for its delicious cuisine and rich history.
  • Antalya: located approximately 350 km west of Mersin, Antalya is a popular destination among tourists, offering stunning beaches and a well-preserved old town.
  • Cappadocia: located approximately 600 km northeast of Mersin, Cappadocia is a unique and stunning landscape of fairy chimneys and underground cities that is a must-see for any traveler to Turkey.

Conclusion

Mersin may not be the most well-known city in Turkey, but it has everything visitors could ask for - rich history, stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, welcoming locals, and more. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural attractions, Mersin is a city worth exploring.

The waterfront of Mersin's Yenişehir district The waterfront of Mersin's Yenişehir district Mersin railway station Mersin railway station