The Turquoise Coast - Where pine forests meet crystal waters, ancient Lycian tombs dot mountainsides, and 300 days of sunshine illuminate paradise
Last reviewed on 2 May 2026.
The Mediterranean Region (Akdeniz Bölgesi) stretches along Turkey's southern coast from Muğla to Hatay, encompassing the famous Turquoise Coast (Türkiz Riviera). This region combines stunning beaches, ancient ruins, mountain ranges, and modern resorts in perfect harmony.
The region includes Antalya, Adana, Mersin, Hatay, Isparta, Burdur, Kahramanmaraş, and Osmaniye provinces. The Taurus Mountains run parallel to the coast, creating a dramatic landscape where snow-capped peaks overlook palm-fringed beaches.
Turkey's tourism capital with 2.6 million residents. Kaleiçi old town with Ottoman houses, Hadrian's Gate, stunning beaches at Konyaaltı and Lara. Hub for 15 million annual visitors.
Resort city dominated by Seljuk fortress on rocky peninsula. Cleopatra Beach, Damlataş Cave, Red Tower. Popular with European tourists and expats. 330,000 population.
Ancient port city with spectacular ruins. Temple of Apollo at sunset, Roman theater, agora. Modern resort grown around archaeological site. Perfect blend of history and beach.
Bohemian coastal town, scuba diving capital. Greek island views, Lycian tombs, charming old town. Gateway to Kekova sunken city. Retained authentic character.
Built over ancient Telmessos. Famous for Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon, Lycian rock tombs, Butterfly Valley. Paragliding capital. 160,000 residents.
Fifth largest city, 2.2 million population. Industrial hub, culinary capital famous for Adana kebab. Stone Bridge, Sabancı Mosque. Gateway to eastern Mediterranean.
Nomadic Turkmen tribes who still practice transhumance - moving flocks between summer highlands (yayla) and winter coasts. Traditional goat-hair tents, carpet weaving, yogurt and cheese production. Yörük festivals celebrate this living heritage.
Antalya and Adana celebrate citrus blooms in April. The region produces 75% of Turkey's citrus. Orange blossom cologne (kolonya) is regional specialty. Streets perfumed with blossoms, parades, concerts.
Alanya hosts major oil wrestling (yağlı güreş) tournaments. Wrestlers (pehlivan) covered in olive oil compete for golden belt. 660-year tradition, UNESCO Intangible Heritage.
3.5 million tons annually - oranges, lemons, grapefruits, tangerines. Finike oranges particularly prized. Export to Russia, Europe, Middle East.
52,000 hectares under glass - world's 4th largest. Year-round tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers. Supplies Europe's winter vegetables.
Isparta produces 65% of world's rose oil. Lavender fields in Burdur. Essential oils for perfume and cosmetics industry.
Scuba Diving: Kaş underwater canyon, airplane wreck
Sailing: Blue Cruise gulet tours from Fethiye
Rafting: Köprülü Canyon, Alanya Dim River
Sea Kayaking: Kekova sunken city tours
Kitesurfing: Gökova Bay perfect conditions
Lycian Way: 540km trekking route, one of world's best long-distance trails
Paragliding: Ölüdeniz - 1,960m takeoff from Babadağ
Rock Climbing: Geyikbayırı near Antalya, world-class routes
Canyoning: Saklıkent, Göynük Canyon adventures
Skiing: Saklıkent ski resort, ski in morning, swim in afternoon
Gulet Cruises: Traditional wooden yacht sailing
Turkish Bath: Historic hammams in old towns
Cooking Classes: Mediterranean cuisine workshops
Village Tourism: Stay with Yörük families
Archaeological Tours: Expert-guided ancient site visits
Mediterranean cuisine features fresh vegetables, citrus, seafood, and distinctive spices. Arab influences stronger in eastern parts (Hatay, Adana).
Adana Kebab: Spicy hand-minced lamb on skewer
Tantuni: Julienned beef wrap from Mersin
Şakşuka: Fried vegetables in garlic yogurt
Hibeş: Chickpea and tahini spread
Tahinli Piyaz: White bean salad with tahini
Levrek: Sea bass grilled with herbs
Karides Güveç: Shrimp casserole
Kalamar: Stuffed or fried squid
Barbun: Red mullet, Mediterranean delicacy
Lagos: Grouper in olive oil and lemon
Kabak Tatlısı: Candied pumpkin dessert
Bergamot Jam: Antalya specialty
Orange Blossom Water: Flavoring for sweets
Şalgam: Fermented turnip juice from Adana
Fresh Orange Juice: Street vendors everywhere
Mediterranean Climate: Hot, humid summers (28-35°C, up to 40°C). Mild winters (10-18°C). Sea temperature 18-28°C. Rain mainly November-March.
Best Times: April-May and September-November for sightseeing. June-September for beaches but very hot. Winter mild, many hotels closed but perfect for ruins without crowds.
Air: Antalya Airport - 35 million passengers/year, Turkey's 3rd busiest. Dalaman Airport serves western resorts. Adana and Hatay airports for east.
Road: D400 coastal highway spectacular but winding. Modern highways to all major centers. Dolmuş minibuses serve beaches and villages.
Sea: No international ferries but boat tours abundant. Private yacht charters from all marinas.