Turkey's Mediterranean Coast Guide

Turkey's Mediterranean coast, known as the Turquoise Coast, stretches for approximately 1600 kilometers and is dotted with fine-sand beaches and stunning remnants of ancient cities. It has more and better beaches and resorts than the Aegean coast, while the sea is warmer and saltier than the Black Seashore. Along much of the coast, the Taurus (Toros) Mountains provide a stunning background, frequently descending sharply down into the sea.

What Are The Cities Located On The Mediterranean Coast Of Turkey?

The cities located on the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey are listed below:

• Antalya
• Mersin
• Adana
• Hatay

1. Antalya

To the east and west of Antalya, there are long sandy beaches, the Turquoise Coast's main airport, and luxurious hotels with stunning views of the sea and mountains. Antalya sits on Anatolia's southwest coast, between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Where the ancient city of Kaleici surrounds the Roman port. Furthermore, many of the structures here belong to the Ottoman civilization, others to the Roman empire, and some have been renovated as homes, hotels, pensions, and restaurants. Moreover, Antalya has a humid subtropical climate with scorching summers and moderate winters. Antalya welcomed 15,567,000 tourists in 2019, according to official estimates from the province government. Finally, Antalya is a beautiful city with many attractions nearby. People are really friendly. Antalya has it all: safe streets, beautiful weather, and much to do.

2. Mersin

The eastern Mediterranean port city of Mersin is Turkey's major business hub, yet it's not a well-known tourist destination. Mersin is the capital of the Icel province and the main port for exports to and from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Mersin is easily accessible by bus. Several times a week, cars and passengers cross between Mersin and Magusa in Northern Cyprus. As well as that Adana Airport is 50 kilometers east. Mersin is one of Turkey's warmest regions, with an average daily high of 25°C. Several months of the year are warm to hot, with temperatures often exceeding 25°C (34°F). July and August are ideal travel months due to the milder weather.

3. Adana

Adana, Turkey's fourth-largest city, is a fast-growing industrial and agricultural bustling city that stands as the eastern Mediterranean coast's commercial district. The city is located on the Seyhan River, 35 kilometers away from the Mediterranean Sea's northern shore. Adana is located on a significant trade route connecting Europe and the Middle East. Adana was a port city in the 16th century, with ships navigating the Seyhan River to the harbor just south of Taskopru. Even though it has an excellent number of hotels, Adana is not a tourist hotspot because of the extreme heat and humidity in the summer, the whirling traffic, and the few sights.

4. Hatay

Hatay is a Turkish province on the Shore in the south, flanked to the south and east by Syria. Furthermore, The Akkadian Empire ruled the area, followed by the Amorite Kingdom, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. It was formerly a Syrian-Turkish border dispute. Weather-wise, April, May, June, and November are the most likely months to have nice weather with average temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C.

Hatay Airport, located about 25 kilometers from Antakya, receives flights from Ankara, Ercan, Jeddah, Riyadh, Nicosia, Izmir, and Istanbul. Adana Sakirpasa Airport is 190 kilometers away from Hatay. Hatay has only one railway connection, from Iskenderun to Adana and Mersin. Also, people in Hatay use buses for local transit. Hatay locals speak Arabic as well as Turkish, influenced by neighboring nations. Antakya and Iskenderun in Hatay are famed for shopping, entertainment, and delicious cuisine.

5. Burdur

Burdur, located within the borders of the Republic of Turkey, is a very important cultural and tourist city with its values. The city stands out with its geographical location and cultural values. In addition to its natural beauties, the city is of great importance with its ancient cities and works reflecting Turkish-Islamic culture.

This region was called Psidia in the classical Greek Age. The arrival of the Turks in the region dates back to the Battle of Manzikert in 1071. Yildirim Beyazit added Burdur to the Ottoman lands in 1391. With the Republic, Burdur became the provincial center. Today, the city consists of 11 districts together with the central district.

In terms of geography, the city is surrounded by Antalya in the south, Denizli in the west, Mugla in the southwest, Afyon in the North, and Isparta in the northeast. The province of Burdur is located at the point known as the Lakes Region. The natural structure of the region can be expressed as quite rugged. The city has a continental climate as it is located in the continental interior of the Mediterranean Region. The winter season is usually snowy and the summer season is hot. Due to its location, at the junction of the passages connecting the Mediterranean coastal regions and the inner regions of Anatolia. The region forms a link between the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Central Anatolian regions in terms of climate and geological structure.

It is possible to examine the tourism assets in Burdur under two groups. These groups are expressed as two headings: natural tourism values ​​and historical and cultural tourism values.

Salda Lake, known as Turkey's Maldives, is one of the clearest lakes in the world with its perfect turquoise hues and white beaches.

Burdur also has a unique history with its works included in the UNESCO temporary heritage list. Antonine Fountain, the striking structure of the Sagalassos Ancient City, attracts great attention from its visitors. The head of Medusa, which is located on the floor of the Odeon, one of the most important structures of the Kibyra Ancient City, and has the feature of being the only one in the world with its construction technique, fascinates those who see it.

The region amazes its visitors with its perfect nature in rich forests, the ruins of the oldest civilizations, and the clean beaches on the lake shores. Burdur attracts attention as an impressive region with its rugs and carpets embroidered with Turkish motifs, its waters that heal many ailments, and its agile regional music.

In the region with a total population of 273,716 people, the population density was measured as 210,389 people/km2.

6. Isparta

Isparta, which contains the delicious cherry, the famous rose, the carpet, and many other beauties, is located in the Lakes Region of the Mediterranean Region. The city borders the provinces of Burdur and Antalya. Isparta, which is a historical settlement with a population of more than 450 thousand people, is expressed as one of the important regions of the Mediterranean that is worth seeing with its world-famous roses, lavender gardens with a fascinating scent, and historical and cultural heritage.

Due to its location, the province of Isparta is located in the transition zone between the Mediterranean climate and the continental climate that is effective in Central Anatolia. For this reason, the characteristics of both climates are seen within the borders of the province. A semi-arid, slightly humid climate prevails in the region with cool winters and hot summers. The region is very rich in terms of flower and wildlife diversity. It is possible to say that there is a lot to discover in the region with its protected national parks, ancient cities, and Davraz Ski Center, which offers the opportunity to do winter sports. It should not be forgotten that this city is a unique paradise, especially for nature lovers. For example, you can explore nature by taking a walk in Pinargozu Cave, Yazili Canyon, or Adada Antique City. In the summer season, you can prefer Lake Egirdir, which offers opportunities for swimming, sailing, surfing, and similar water sports. You can have a peaceful and pleasant time with the golden yellow sand on Altinkum beach.

The socio-economic status of the province is stated as B+ in the regional report. The economy is mainly based on agriculture. The most produced product in the region is rose oil. After agriculture, carpet weaving and sulfur business also have an important share in the economy. The unemployment rate is low throughout the region. The population of the region increased by 1.22% as of 2022 and became 445,678. The population density was measured as 202,397 persons/km².

7. Osmaniye

Osmaniye is one of the most important settlement centers of the Cukurova Region, which has hosted many civilizations with its deep-rooted history dating back to BC. The city stands out with its historical castles, which are especially dense in architecture. For this reason, it is also called the "City of Castles".

Osmaniye is a city located in the east of the Mediterranean Region, within the borders of Turkey. There is Gaziantep in the east of the city, Adana in the west, Hatay in the South, and Kahramanmaras in the north. The city officially has 7 districts. Osmaniye is the 80th province of Turkey.

Although Osmaniye has many natural beauties, besides its natural beauties, it also draws attention with its legendary history and historical artifacts dating back to ancient times. It stands out as a city that draws attention with its Kastaba - Hierapolis Ancient City, Kadirli Ala Mosque, Haruniye Castle, Karatepe - Aslantas National Park, Kirmitli Bird Sanctuary, Sarlak Waterfall, and many more precious values.

The climate of Osmaniye varies in mountainous and plain areas. In general, it can be said that it has the characteristics of the Mediterranean climate. In general, summers in Osmaniye are hot and winters are warm and rainy. The lowest average temperature measured throughout the year is 18 degrees, and the highest average temperature is 42 degrees. The precipitation in the region in winter and autumn is higher than in other seasons. The annual average rainfall in the region was 767 cubic meters.

The population of the region increased by 0.81% as of 2022 and became 553,012. The population density in the region was measured as 401.606 persons/km².

How are the People of the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey?

Like in all of Turkey, people who live on the Mediterranean coast also think that their guests are "God's Guests". This mindset has not changed in the 21st century, despite mass tourism. Most Turks appreciate the chance to meet foreigners, learn about new cultures, and improve their language skills. Another noticeable tradition is that males in Turkey greet one another by kissing both cheeks.  Turkish people have great family ties. They appreciate and support each other. So, youngsters adore their elders, and they take care of their elders and help them financially and emotionally. This relationship is like a boomerang, older people support younger people, and younger people help older people.

What are the Climatic Characteristics of the Mediterranean Coasts of Turkey?

The climate in Turkey's western Mediterranean region is typical, with hot, dry summers and moderately mild, rainy winters. Summer lasts nine months, although apart from the middle of the season, the coast is pretty pleasant. The sun shines 300 days a year, and water temperatures never fall below 15°C or rise above 28°C. Temperatures in July and August can reach far above 40°C, making those heavily trafficked months. Most people visit the Mediterranean coast of Turkey in April/May and September/October. These times are free of summer heat and humidity, tourist crowds, and Turkish school holidays. Flights and accommodations are less expensive and less congested.

What is life like on the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey?

It is impossible to cover all the Turkish Mediterranean region activities, but some of the most popular are sailing, kiteboarding, and snorkeling. On land, ruins and other national treasures entice exploration, while local and global retail destinations entice spending and shopping. Saklikent, near Antalya, and Davraz, near Isparta, are two well-established ski resorts in the Taurus mountains, not to mention the world-class golf courses of Belek. Everyone knows the advantages of the Mediterranean diet, and Turkish Med cuisine does not disappoint with exquisite fruit, vegetables, and dairy products. You can't visit Turkey without trying some local cuisine. Freshly made bread gets served with most courses, Also do not forget to reserve a room for unique desserts. During the warmer months, you may find fresh cool water in pots known as sebils on street corners and in front of mosques.

Is Life Expensive on the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey?

Turkey's coast, which is frequently ignored in favor of more well-known Mediterranean destinations, offers a diverse, scenic, and cost-effective lifestyle. Expats already abound in many of the villages and port towns along the "Turkish Riviera," as this stretch of the Mediterranean is known. the great advantages are the extremely low cost of living and real estate prices. Turkey's Turquoise Coast is a steal when compared to other Mediterranean retirement destinations. You might get by on a monthly budget of $1,500 or less, including rent. You gain access to warm waters, white-sand beaches, and 300 days of sunshine per year for this affordable price. The people are nice and welcoming, and the way of life is relaxed and low-key.

Property values along the country's Mediterranean coast rose steadily until 2008, when they, like many other markets globally, were rattled, but not as violently. Prices began to rise again around a year and a half later. Despite recent gains, Turkish seaside real estate remains a bargain and is anticipated to continue to rise in value for some years to come. Foreign ownership of property is still restricted in certain regions, such as military bases and archaeological sites.

Also, foreign nationals cannot own more than 30,000 square yards of land without the Turkish Council of Ministers' approval. But retired purchasers shouldn't be bothered. It was extremely difficult for foreigners to obtain permanent residence in Turkey. Like buying a home, residency was a lengthy procedure. It is now considerably easier to gain legal residency through the acquisition of real estate. A part-time retirement in Turkey is ideal. If you dwell in Turkey for more than six months, you are subject to Turkish taxation on your international income.

How to Buy a House on the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey?

Many foreign and domestic homeowners dwell along this stretch of beach, some of them only use their home as a vacation home, while others live here year-round. Mediterranean Turkey has been a popular location for those wishing to relocate permanently to the country. Take a look at Realty Group  Turkish real estate for sale. Each item includes all you need to know, including contact information for more information or to schedule a viewing.

What are the must-see places on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey?

The must-see places on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey are as follows:

• Kizkalesi
• Kas
• Kemer
• Alanya
• Iskenderun
• Patara
• Side
• Heaven and Hell
• Turkey Mediterranean Coast Beaches

1. Kizkalesi

The romantic name for the crusader castle 150 meters offshore from this eastern Mediterranean beach tourist town is Kizkalesi. There you can find Korykos, the second castle in Kizkalesi, sitting on the eastern end of the excellent beach. Why stop? To photograph the castles and, if you're brave enough, swim out to the island's Kizkalesi. Otherwise, you can take a small cruise boat out there, or parasail over it. Hundreds of hotels, villas, apartments, and pensions make this a wonderful area to stay if traveling along the coast. It's cheaper and more peaceful than cities. There is also the Kanytelis Roman-Byzantine necropolis, inland from the coastal settlement of Kumkuyu, vast Roman-Byzantine remains at Kanlidivane, and the spectacular caverns of Heaven and Hell.

Many coastal seafood restaurants are available at Narlikuyu, a few kilometers west of Kizkalesi. A modest museum preserves Roman mosaics. A sultan built the Kizkalesi Fortress to defend his daughter from a snakebite, according to the famous legend. Sadly, a snake in a fruit basket got within the castle walls, and the sultan's daughter died. The walls failed to protect the princess, but they did protect many others, notably the Armenian Kings who erected them in the 12th century against savage Mediterranean pirates.

2. Kas

Kas is a typical Turkish Mediterranean seaside resort spot. Whitewashed houses line the winding mountain roads leading to gorgeous beaches and a harbor that reminds you that life is good in Kas and you should soon adjust to the Mediterranean lifestyle. Many of the oldest homes in Kas have wooden shutters, small alleyways, and spacious terraces for enjoying the mid-day sun. While Kas is a laid-back Mediterranean resort, it is also at the forefront of a current trend.

Some activities include hiking the Lycian Way, sea kayaking, and paragliding. To keep the kids entertained, parents can take them canyoning, mountain biking, or scuba diving in the beautiful seas near Kas. To get to Kas you can also fly into Antalya airport for a three-hour transfer or Dalaman airport for a two-hour transfer. Kas lies just off the Antalya motorway, which parallels the shore. The town is easily accessible by bus from Kalkan, Fethiye, Cirali, and Antalya.

3. Kemer

Kemer is a custom-built resort on Turkey's pine-shaded Mediterranean coast, 35km southwest of Antalya. It is a contemporary vacation town built on the same basis as Cancun, Mexico. Kemer is known for its sun and sea. As well as for its charming ancient buildings, meandering lanes, and archaeological remains. The beaches are mainly pebbles and stones, with some sand near the yacht marina and Yoruk Park. For international guests, shops and restaurants provide signage, advertisements, and menus in Russian, Arabic, German, and other languages. Antalya is more centrally placed and has more to offer than Kemer. From Antalya's Otogar and Dumlupnar Bulvar (D400) just north of the Antalya Aquarium on the city's western side, minibusses leave to Kemer, Phaselis, Olimpos, and Cirali. In the summer, the Sea bus runs between Antalya's Old Harbor and Kemer.

4. Alanya

Beautiful beaches, beautiful Taurus Mountain vistas, historic ruins, and a thriving social scene await visitors of Alanya. On the eastern side of the peninsula sits the medieval fortified port, while the majestic 13th-century castle and Red Tower are on the western side. Alanya, with its white-sand beaches and intriguing ancient ruins, is a popular tourist destination in Turkey. This increased popularity is affecting the real estate market. Alanya sits in the eastern Mediterranean. Also, it is part of the greater Antalya province.

Moreover, Alanya is easily accessible through the D400 motorway. Buses link Antalya to other cities in Turkey. However, sometimes travelers must first go to Antalya's bus station. Otherwise, most residents and visitors fly into the modern Antalya Airport. Flights to several nations are common throughout the year. Also, a smaller airport, Gazipasa Airport, offers accessible air travel. Moreover, mild winters of 20 degrees and scorching summers explain why foreigners reside there all year. January-February is the rainy season, while temperatures peak in August and September. Beachgoers choose June to September, while nature lovers prefer March to June and October to December.

5. Iskenderun

Iskenderun is today a bustling business hub and a vital Mediterranean port. This is one of the few still-existing cities created by Alexander the Great and named after him. Iskenderun has a population of almost 300,000 people and is bordered by petrochemical and steelworks, yet the city center is nevertheless charming with its palm-lined promenade on the sea. Moreover, Iskenderun features nice hotels, restaurants, and cafés among the palms by the Mediterranean Sea, at the foot of the high Amanos Mountains. Iskenderun's food is wonderful, notably "Kunefe", a hot cheese treat. The finest prawns exist here.

The nearest international airport is in Adana, to the north. Domestic flights are also available from Hatay Airport, 45 minutes south of Antakya. Otherwise, TCDD operates regional trains from Mersin to Adana twice daily, in the morning and late afternoon. The city is linked to the rest of Turkey via the O-53 highway (toll road). The route to Antakya and Syria is well-paved yet windy. There are no minibusses in Iskenderun, and the city buses are difficult to use without the Turkish language. The town center is walkable, but getting to the bus terminal requires a cab, which should cost around 10-15 TL.

6. Patara

The Beach is 17 km west of Kalkan on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, and it is famed for its long, uncrowded sandy beach. Patara hamlet, 3.5 km south of the D400 coastal highway, has many small hostels and modest motels offering affordable prices for double rooms. Inland from the beach lies a little community with only a few hundred tourist beds. The beach should be safeguarded from overdevelopment because the remnants of ancient Patara lie nearby.

One disadvantage of the beach is the lack of trees and consequently shade, so be prepared for a hot day. In addition to the theater and triumphal gate, there is a necropolis (cemetery) containing Lycian graves, and a damaged basilica and public bath. Patara may be reached by car, bus, or taxi. From Ovakoy, take a cab (or hitch) for 3.5 kilometers to the village of Gelemis. which everyone names Patara. The beach is another kilometer south of the ruins of ancient Patara.

7. Side

Side was once a lovely and classic Turkish Mediterranean hamlet nestled among marble Roman remains on a 2-kilometer stretch of untouched beach about 65 kilometers east of Antalya or west of Alanya. However, tourism arrived with a fury in the 1980s, and while Side is still charming, it is now congested in the summer. The pristine white sand beaches, the coastal restaurants and cafes, the diversity of accommodation (from affordable tiny pensions to luxury hotels), and the stunning Hellenistic and Roman remains attract both Turks and tourists. Moreover, late April, May, early June, and October are the ideal months to visit Side. If you must visit during the summer, avoid weekends when the entire city of Ankara descends on the Side for a dip. You may reach here by car, bus, or minibus. Antalya and Alanya have buses and minibusses. Antalya's airport is located 55 kilometers west of Side.

8. Heaven and Hell

The Caves of Heaven and Hell (Cennet ve Cehennem) lie 1.4 km northwest of Narlikuyu on Turkey's Mediterranean coast. In honor of Zeus, the ruler of the gods who appears prominently in the caverns' ancient tales, a large Temple of Zeus has been built here along the access route from the Mediterranean coastal roadway. Enter the archeological site, go down the 288 steps to the Byzantine church at the cave's mouth, and you can park beside the temple. Look for ancient trees, singing birds, and seasonal flowers. The air cools as you walk down the largely shaded route to the cave's huge mouth, where it is quite cool and wet. The rocky stairs might be slimy. So, take care! If you are hurt, your phone won't operate in the cave, and aid will take a long time to come.

Another 70 stairs take you to a level area below the chapel where it's cool and there's a table and seats. With enough natural and artificial light, you can walk into the cave without a flashlight. The 400+ steps to the rim are frightening. The rim restaurant serves refreshing beverages, snacks, and small meals in a shaded, airy setting. The Cavern of Hell (Cehennem), 100 meters upward from Heaven, is a 30-meter diameter and 120-meter-deep hole. Fortunately, its sheer walls prevent entry, so you can't go inside it.

9. Turkey Mediterranean Coast Beaches

The Turkish Mediterranean coast is 1.6 thousand kilometers long, with hundreds of beaches. The Antalya Gulf resorts are the most popular among holidaymakers. Taking a rest here can be as calm or busy as desired. Firstly, Adalar is the beach of the Twin Rocks, which is located inside Antalya's Karaalioglu Park and is one of the most picturesque sites on the coast. Secondly, the beaches of Beldibi resort, 15 kilometers from Kemer, entice guests with their quantity of beach hotels, accessibility, and stunning sceneries. Beach Park is a large recreational beach near Konyaalti. You may reach there from Konyaalti or the Antalya Museum. Near the second entrance are a bus stop and a parking area. Kemer's primary beach lies north of Turkiz Mania's yacht dock. Moonlight Beach is south.

The whole shoreline is lined by Mediterranean flora. Antalya's port is Kemer, 42 kilometers away. Konyaalti Beach lies near the Taurus Mountains, west of Antalya. The 8 km long and 50 m broad shoreline is accessible from 5 Konyaalti micro districts. Along the coast are a promenade and the Akdeniz motorway. Across the street from the beach are hotels and restaurants. West of Konyaalti, a spectacular mountain vista emerges. Mermerli is Antalya's oldest paid city beach, situated in a tiny stone bay near the Old City.

Moonlight Beach is located south of Kemer's Turkiz Marina, near Central Beach. It's a short stroll from any place in the city. Also, Moonlight received a blue flag for cleanliness. Tekirova Beach is 12 kilometers from Kemer in Antalya province. From Antalya, take the scenic roadway between the mountains and the sea. Additionally, the Turkish Riviera's Cleopatra Beach is named after Egypt's last Hellenistic Queen. Finally, Belek's primary beach is one of the Turkish Riviera's greatest jewels.

What are the Famous Meals of the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey?

The most popular Mediterranean Turkish Dishes are listed below.

• Zeytin salatasi: Zeytin Salatasi is a classic Hatay dish. This easy salad is produced by breaking green Turkish olives one by one in a copper dish.  As well, olive oil and pomegranate syrup dress the salad. It may be served as an appetizer or as a nutritious breakfast.
• Tuzda tavuk: Tuzda tavuk is also a classic Hatay dish. And, the meal is produced by stuffing a whole chicken with rice and other spices and seasonings. After stuffing, the bird is sprinkled with moist salt to make a crust. It is then roasted for up to two hours in a wood-fired oven or furnace until thoroughly cooked and tender.
• Karsambac: Karsambac is a typical Turkish dessert from the Mersin Highlands, similar to Camliyayla. Also, the dessert is created from pure mountain snow and sweet syrup-like honey, sugar syrup, or molasses.
• Piyaz: Piyaz is a Turkish salad. It's a dish of dry beans, parsley, onions, and sumac. In Antalya, piyaz is served with creamy tahini, lemon juice, and vinegar sauce.
• Cezerye: Cezerye is a Mersin-based Turkish dessert. Caramelized shredded carrots, sugar, and nuts like walnuts, hazelnuts, or pistachios are used to make it. The name cezerye comes from the root cezer (carrot).
• Tantuni: Tantuni is a southern Turkish street food dish made of thinly sliced beef fried with onions and tomatoes. The dish is prepared in tantuni pans.
• Adana kebab: This kebab's deep crimson color and spicy flavor come from ground lamb and tail fat kneaded with garlic, onion, paprika, and fiery red pepper flakes.

What are the Famous Drinks of the Mediterranean Coast of Turkey?

Turkey's Mediterranean coast is known for its succulent fruit. Ayran is another option that goes nicely with kebabs. Tea is available everywhere in Turkey, so it is not special to any region. Salgam Suyu is a popular Turkish beverage, which is made with turnip or purple carrots, bulgur wheat, salt, and yeast. It generally comes in two flavors: moderate and very hot.