Hatay City Guide
General Information
Hatay is located in southern Turkey, on the Mediterranean coast, bordering Syria. As of 2024, its population is around 1.7 million. Known historically as Antioch, the city was one of the largest in the Roman Empire and played a major role as a cultural and commercial hub.
The city is geographically diverse with the Orontes (Asi) River, Amik Plain, mountains, and Mediterranean shoreline. The climate is typically Mediterranean: hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Agriculture is an important part of Hatay’s economy, especially citrus, olives, cotton, and vegetables. Hatay is also part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Gastronomy, highlighting its world-famous cuisine.
Cultural diversity defines Hatay: mosques, churches, and synagogues stand side by side, making it a symbol of tolerance and coexistence. Religious holidays are celebrated collectively, reflecting the city’s centuries-old multicultural fabric.
Places to Visit
- Hatay Archaeology Museum: Hosts one of the largest mosaic collections in the world from the Roman era.
- Habib-i Neccar Mosque: One of the first mosques in Anatolia, symbolizing religious diversity.
- Saint Peter’s Church: Considered one of the earliest Christian churches, a pilgrimage site.
- Samandağ Titus Tunnel & Beşikli Cave: Remarkable Roman engineering and ancient rock tombs.
- Harbiye (Daphne) Waterfalls: Natural retreat with restaurants and picnic areas.
- Uzun Bazaar: A lively marketplace with spices, copperware, and traditional foods.
- Payas Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Complex: Ottoman caravanserai, mosque, and fortress.
- Vakıflı Village: The only Armenian village in Turkey, famous for organic produce.
- Çevlik–Samandağ Beach: One of Turkey’s longest beaches, suitable for surfing.
- Moses Tree: A legendary centuries-old tree, a symbolic landmark.
Bus Terminal
The Hatay Intercity Bus Terminal is located in Antakya and serves thousands of passengers daily. It provides frequent services to Adana, Gaziantep, Mersin, and Şanlıurfa. Facilities include ticket offices, restaurants, waiting areas, and minibus connections to districts. Public transport and taxis offer easy access to the city center.
What to Eat?
- Tray Kebab (Tepsi Kebabı)
- Künefe (Cheese-filled dessert with syrup)
- Oruk (Stuffed Bulgur Köfte)
- Kaytaz Böreği (Onion & minced meat pastry)
- Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, Wild Thyme Salad
- Spicy Bread (Biberli Ekmek)
- Pumpkin Dessert (Kireçte Kabak Tatlısı)
Transportation
- By Bus: Regular connections from Adana, Gaziantep, Mersin, and Şanlıurfa.
- By Air: Hatay Airport is 25 km from the city center with direct flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
- By Road: Adana–Hatay ~200 km, Gaziantep–Hatay ~200 km, Mersin–Hatay ~250 km.
- By Rail: No active passenger train line currently.
Bus Companies
- Hatay Güney Turizm
- Has Turizm
- Seç Turizm
- Metro Turizm
- Ben Turizm
