Hatay Travel Guide

Discover the rich culture and history of Hatay, Turkey with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat and how to get there.


Introduction to Hatay

Hatay, also known as Antakya, is a city and a province located in the southern region of Turkey. The city has a rich history and cultural significance that has been shaped by various civilizations throughout its past. Hatay is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from various empires such as the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans among others. This ancient city is known for its diverse cuisine, stunning scenery, and hospitable locals who are always eager to showcase their hometown to visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Hatay

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Antakya Archaeological Museum - One of the most important museums in Turkey that houses an extensive collection of artifacts from Hatay’s rich history.
  • St. Pierre Church - A significant Christian pilgrimage site that is believed to have been built on the spot where the Apostle Peter preached his first sermon.
  • Titus Tunnel - An ancient Roman tunnel built during the reign of Emperor Vespasian that still functions to this day.
  • Ulu Mosque - A beautiful mosque built in 1174 AD during the reign of the Seljuk Empire and one of the oldest in Turkey.
  • Vakifli Village - A picturesque village that is home to the last remaining Armenian population in Turkey.
  • Harbiye Waterfall - A stunning waterfall and natural pool that has been an attraction since Roman times.

Natural Attractions of Hatay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kasri Nehroz Nature Park - A scenic location overlooking the Orontes River, perfect for hiking and picnics.
  • Mount Amanos - A mountain range that is home to various species of plants and animals.
  • Daphne Beach - A popular beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Guzelyayla Nature Park - A vast park that offers stunning views of the countryside and the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hatay

  • Amanos Mountains Trans-Antaky Trail - A long-distance trail that spans 521 kilometers and takes adventurers through the stunning Amanos Mountain range.
  • Harbiye Trail - A moderate-level trail that is popular among hikers for its scenic views and swimming opportunities.
  • St. Peter Trail - A trail that is said to trace the footsteps of St. Peter, featuring stunning ocean views.

Best Things to Do in Hatay: Activities and Tours

  • Food tours - Taste the local cuisine such as baklava, hummus, and kebabs that is influenced by Hatay’s diverse history.
  • Antakya Bazaar - Experience the bustling atmosphere of a traditional Turkish bazaar and shop for souvenirs.
  • Cable Car Ride - Take a cable car to get a breathtaking view of the city skyline from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hatay

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Antakya Archaeological Museum, explore the city center
Day 2 Visit St. Pierre Church and Titus Tunnel, shop at Antakya Bazaar
Day 3 Take a hike along the Harbiye Trail, swim at Harbiye Waterfall
Day 4 Take a food tour and taste the diverse cuisine of Hatay
Day 5 Visit Vakifli Village and Cable Car Ride
Day 6 Take a day trip to Daphne Beach
Day 7 Visit Mount Amanos and Guzelyayla Nature Park

Food and Drink Scene of Hatay

Must-Try Dishes

  • Antakya Kebab - A grilled meat dish made with marinated meat served on pita bread with grilled vegetables.
  • Hummus - A spread made from ground chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and spices.
  • Sekerpare - A sweet and sticky cake made from semolina and drizzled with syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Nar Golu - A syrup made from pomegranates that is drunk diluted with water or mixed in cocktails.
  • Sira - A popular non-alcoholic drink made from grape juice, sugar, and spices.

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

  • Liwan Hotel - A stylish boutique hotel located in the city center with luxurious amenities and reasonable prices.
  • Antik Grand Hotel - A traditional Ottoman-style hotel located near many cultural attractions.
  • My Stone Home Hotel - A charming guesthouse located in the historic old town with comfortable rooms and welcoming staff.

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

  • Antakya Soap - A type of soap made with olive oil and laurel oil that has been produced in the region for thousands of years.
  • Olive Oil - Olive groves are abundant in the Hatay region, so it is a great place to buy some of the world’s best olive oil.
  • Copper Utensils - Copper crafts are a traditional Turkish handicraft, and Hatay is no exemption.

Local Culture and Customs of Hatay

Hatay has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various cultures throughout its past. The locals are warm and welcoming and are proud of their history and traditions. It is customary to bring a small gift when invited over for dinner, and visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Hatay

The best time to visit Hatay is between March and May, and September and November when the temperature is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer is very hot, and the number of tourists peaks, making it more expensive and crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hatay

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Bargain at markets and bazaars.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture or religion.
  • Show public displays of affection.
  • Wear immodest clothing near religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hatay

Hatay is a safe city to visit, with a low crime rate. Visitors should always take care of their belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Hatay

Visitors should ensure that all their regular vaccinations are up to date. The tap water is not advisable to drink, so it is better to stick to bottled water.

Getting to Hatay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hatay

  • Hatay Airport(HTZ) - The nearest airport is Hatay International Airport. It is located 25 kilometers from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Hatay

  • Antakya Intercity Bus Station - A large bus station located in the city center that serves many cities in Turkey.

Other Options

  • Car rental - Car rental is an excellent option for those who want to explore the city on their own.

How to Get Around in Hatay

The best way to get around in Hatay is by using public transportation, such as taxis and buses, although visitors also rent cars. Public transportation is generally affordable, and taxis are readily available.

Where to Go Next from Hatay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gaziantep - A neighboring city with a rich history and famous for its Gaziantep cuisine.
  • Iskenderun - A coastal city located 25 kilometers from Hatay, known for its delicious seafood and stunning beaches.
  • Adana - A vibrant city located 130 kilometers from Hatay known for its rich cuisine and vibrant nightlight.

Conclusion

Hatay is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine that visitors should not miss. This city located in the southern region of Turkey has something for everyone, from exciting outdoor adventures to ancient ruins to lively bazaars. A visit to Hatay promises to be a memorable experience that will leave visitors in awe of this stunning and vibrant city.

Crusader-era Bakras Castle, standing in isolation on the Amanos Mountains between Antakya and İskenderun Crusader-era Bakras Castle, standing in isolation on the Amanos Mountains between Antakya and İskenderun ''Künefe'' in its quintessential tray, along with the equally quintessential Turkish tea ''Künefe'' in its quintessential tray, along with the equally quintessential Turkish tea


    Iskenderun