Antakya holidays

How to reach Antakya

• Flight time: Flights to Antakya from London via Istanbul take around 6 hours, including layover time. Connecting flights to Antakya are available from Istanbul’s two main airports (Istanbul and Sabiha Gökçen).

• Transfer time: From Hatay Airport, 19km north of Antakya, regular Havaş shuttle buses reach central Antakya in about 25 minutes, making it the most common and reliable option for airport transfers.

• Price: The Havaş shuttle costs around TRY50 (£1.10) one-way. Alternatively, taxis cost approximately TRY650 (£15), for the same journey and take about the same time.

Weather and best time to visit Antakya

Antakya enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild, wetter winters, so planning your Antakya holidays can depend on the season. Here’s what to expect year-round:

• March to May is one of the best times to visit, with pleasant spring weather making it ideal for exploring the city’s historic sites. Expect average temperatures of 15–25°C, minimal rainfall and around 8 hours of sunshine per day.

• June to August can be pretty hot, with highs reaching 30–35°C, making it best for those who enjoy the heat. Although it's the peak season for summer festivals, the midday heat encourages many visitors to explore indoors or relax at cafés.

• September to November is another pleasant time to visit, with temperatures dropping from 28 to 18°C by November and 7–9 hours of sunshine per day – still warm enough for outdoor activities like hiking in nearby Harbiye or exploring Antakya’s ancient streets.

• December to February sees mild winter temperatures ranging from 10–15°C, with increased monthly rainfall (around 80–100mm). It’s a quieter season, and while some rainy days are likely, it’s still possible to enjoy the main attractions, especially the covered bazaars and cosy cafés in town.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Turkish and Arabic are widely spoken, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage. English is understood at most tourist locations, although learning a few Turkish phrases can help.

• Local habits and customs: Antakya has a unique blend of Turkish and Arab customs, so embracing the city’s slower pace, enjoying long meals and dressing modestly in religious sites is respectful and appreciated.

• Currency: The Turkish Lira is the local currency. ATMs are readily available, and credit cards are accepted in most shops and restaurants.

• Getting around: In Antakya, dolmuş minibuses are a budget-friendly way to travel to local spots like Harbiye or Samandağ. Taxis are also available and reasonably priced, with most rides around town costing TRY50 (£1.10).

• Electricity and plug types: Turkey uses the standard European 220V with Type C and F plugs. Visitors from the UK will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Turkey is 3 hours ahead of GMT and does not observe daylight saving time.

• Required travel documentation: No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, British travellers need a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Best things to do in Antakya

Holidays to Antakya promise a mix of ancient history, delicious cuisine and much more. Here’s the best of what to expect:

Historical monuments

• Saint Pierre Church: This cave church, thought to be one of the world’s oldest, is said to be where the Apostle Peter preached and is a significant pilgrimage site. The interior is modest but atmospheric, and the city views from its entrance are well worth the climb.

• Roman Mosaic Museum (Hatay Archaeology Museum): This impressive museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of Roman mosaics. The intricate patterns and vibrant colours are incredibly well-preserved, offering a fascinating look at the city’s rich past.

• Habib-i Neccar Mosque: The oldest mosque in Anatolia, this peaceful mosque is said to honour Habib the Carpenter, a martyr mentioned in the Quran. Its simplicity and sense of history make it an important spiritual destination.

• Ancient Antioch’s Roman Bridge (Iron Gate): Built in Roman times, this bridge still stands strong, showcasing the remarkable engineering skills of the past. It’s located near the old city walls, adding to its historic charm.

The best districts

• Old Bazaar (Uzun Çarşı): Explore the bustling Old Bazaar’s winding alleyways, full of colourful stalls and fragrant spice shops. Here, visitors will find everything from traditional sweets and antiques to handcrafted soaps and fabrics.

• Harbiye (Daphne): This lush, green district is famed for its scenic waterfalls and charming riverside restaurants. According to local legend, this area is where the nymph Daphne turned into a laurel tree to escape Apollo.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mount Staurin: Overlooking Antakya, this hill provides panoramic views of the city and the Orontes River winding through it. The views are especially stunning at sunset.

Day trips in the area

• Harbiye Waterfalls: In addition to the district’s greenery, the waterfalls themselves are a must-visit. The cool mist and scenic views offer a refreshing break, and the area’s outdoor restaurants and tea gardens make it a relaxing day trip from the city.

• Samandağ Beach and Titus Tunnel: About a 30-minute drive from Antakya, this area offers the chance to explore a natural beach with stunning views and the ancient Titus Tunnel, built by Roman engineers to divert floodwaters. It’s an impressive feat of ancient engineering and a good spot for scenic walks.

• Musa Tree (Moses Tree): Located in Samandağ, this centuries-old tree is surrounded by local legends and is believed to have roots dating back to the time of Moses. This peaceful spot, with its picnic area, is a popular stop for locals and visitors alike.

• St Simeon Monastery: Perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean, this remote and scenic monastery dates back to the Byzantine era.

Activities for families in Antakya

Antakya offers plenty of family-friendly activities, making it a welcoming destination for travellers of all ages:

• Roman Mosaic Museum: Kids will marvel at the ancient Roman mosaics on display here, with their vibrant colours and elaborate designs.

• Antakya Zoo: A small zoo featuring a range of animals native to the region. It’s easy to explore with younger children and a great way to spend a few hours.

• Orontes River boat rides: Several operators offer boat rides along the Orontes River, providing a fun and scenic way to see the city.

Free things to do in Antakya

Exploring Antakya doesn’t have to be expensive, with plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy.

• Wander Uzun Çarşı (Old Bazaar): This lively bazaar is a great place to explore without spending a penny, although the local treats on sale may tempt you.

• Public events and festivals: Antakya has a calendar of cultural festivals, particularly during summer. Check local listings to see what concerts, parades or food festivals are happening during your visit.

• Walk along the Orontes River: A stroll along the riverbanks serves up a peaceful view of the city, with a selection of parks to enjoy along the way.

Wellness in Antakya

• Spas and thermal baths: The Museum Hotel Antakya is a high-end treat, featuring a relaxing hammam and views over ancient Roman mosaics. Blending historical intrigue with luxury, the complex includes a modern spa with traditional Turkish bath treatments.

  • Traditional body care: Visitors can experience hammams without the five-star price tag across Antakyam. Expect a vigorous scrub and massage with olive oil soaps, a speciality in this region known for its high-quality olive oil and handmade soap products.

Local dishes in Antakya

One of the absolute highlights of holidays to Antakya is indulging in the city’s culinary offerings, which blend Turkish and Levantine flavours into unforgettable dishes. Here’s a taste of what to expect:

Some typical dishes

• Meze plates: A variety of small dishes, usually including hummus, tzatziki (a yoghurt-based dip), stuffed vine leaves and aubergine salads. These are ideal for sharing and are a staple of Turkish dining.

• Gözleme: A popular street food, this thin, savoury pancake is filled with ingredients like spinach, cheese or minced meat and cooked on a griddle.

• Ispanak borani: This rich stew combines spinach, chickpeas and shredded meat with a tangy kick from yoghurt and lemon juice. It’s a favourite comfort food that also captures the fusion of Arab and Turkish influences in Antakya.

• Kağıt kebap: For a deliciously unique kebab experience, this dish sees seasoned minced meat cooked in a paper wrap, sealing in the flavour and making for a tender, aromatic treat.

• Serimsek börek: A regional speciality, this deep-fried pastry is filled with seasoned chicken, making it a comforting and savoury snack that pairs well with tea.

Sweets and desserts

Antakya’s dessert scene is famous for sweet treats like künefe – a decadent pastry of shredded wheat filled with mild, creamy cheese, baked and drenched in syrup. Another local favourite is şambalı, a honey-soaked semolina cake with a chewy and satisfying texture.

Local drinks

• Ayran: This cooling, salty yoghurt drink is perfect for the warmer climate and pairs nicely with spicy dishes.

• Local wines: Antakya’s wine scene includes a vast selection of local Turkish wines, ideal for pairing with kebabs and other hearty dishes.