Tourism in Mersin: The Best Tourist Attractions in Mersin, Turkey

The city of Mersin is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey. Tourism in Mersin is very exciting due to its abundance of stunning tourist sites and landmarks. The city is known for its charming atmosphere and includes many luxurious hotels that are suitable for Arab visitors.

The Best Tourist Attractions in Mersin

Visiting tourist areas in Mersin, Turkey, is a wonderful experience that reflects an incredible cultural fusion.

One of the most important historical events associated with Mersin is the birth of Saint Paul the Apostle, the first apostle of Christ, in Tarsus, which is located 25 km from Mersin.

Tarsus has inherited a cultural heritage that has accumulated over the past 6,000 years.

Archaeological excavations carried out at the Yumuktepe Tumulus, located in the center of Mersin, revealed that the city was first built 9,000 years ago and was founded by Seleucus Nicator, one of Alexander the Great’s commanders.

Around 100 ancient cities are scattered around Silifke, showcasing the unique heritage of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations that we can explore together.

In addition, it can be reached within three hours by car, making it one of the other tourist attractions that should not be missed.

It is a wetland protected under international agreements.

If you are interested in birdwatching skies and turtle nesting areas, you can join a photo safari at any time that suits your travel plans.

Rafting tours are organized on the Göksu River under the supervision of experienced guides and trainers every weekend from May to September.

Mersin has hosted many small and large halls for international and national gatherings.

In addition, there is a group of hotels with sufficient capacity.

Mersin ranks first among Anatolian cities in terms of the number of archaeological excavation sites, with approximately 10 excavation centers bringing the ruins of different civilizations to light.

The Mersin Plateau region is a paradise of highlands.

You can enjoy the cool air on dozens of plateaus intertwined with archaeological sites in the heart of the Taurus Mountains, away from the scorching heat and noise of cities.

This ancient city is located in the eastern part of Cape Inamur, 6 kilometers southwest of Anamur.

It was first built by the Romans and later rebuilt during the Byzantine era.

1- Aynaligöl Cave (Gilindire), Mersin

Gilindire Cave, located on the Mediterranean coast and discovered by a shepherd in Mersin, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the Ice Age by descending 560 steps.

Discovery of the Cave

The cave was discovered in 1999 on the borders of the Aydincik district when a shepherd followed a wandering porcupine while grazing his animals. The shepherd was surprised by the cave’s size and appearance, and the Ministry of Forestry and Water Affairs declared it a natural park and placed it under protection.

Specialized studies determined the cave’s age, revealing that it dates back to the early stages of past climate change during the transition to the post-Ice Age period.

Research also found stalactites and stalagmites formed due to weather changes that continued until the present day.

The cave, which is 45 meters above sea level, is 555 meters long and 46 meters deep.

Visitors entering the cave by descending 560 steps can observe many fascinating formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, columns, cave pearls, travertine heads, and shower heads.

Gilindire Cave, which has water reaching a depth of 46 meters, is also called the “Mirror Lake” due to this feature.

The fact that the lake’s water level is 47 meters below sea level indicates that the cave continues beneath the sea surface.

The cave is considered unique for preserving hydrological and meteorological data related to the Ice Age.

It is the only recording point in the Eastern Mediterranean covering Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and the Balkan region.

Visitors wishing to visit the cave can proceed 4 kilometers before reaching the center of Aydincik district on the Mersin–Antalya highway.

The area can also be accessed by sea.

2- Yapraklı Bay, Mersin

One of the most famous tourist areas in Mersin, Yapraklı Bay is among the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the city.

The distance to the center of Silifke is approximately 17 kilometers.

Yapraklı Bay is a natural wonder because it has water sources emerging from five different points.

After sea temperatures rose in 2003, studies revealed that the bay’s waters remained cold due to five different freshwater sources. When diving, you can feel both cold and warm water at the same time.

Liafi Bay is famous not only for its cold waters but also for the surrounding rocks.

These rocks do not prevent entry into the sea; on the contrary, they allow diving and jumping into the water.

Picnic and Accommodation Areas at Yapraklı Bay

The right and left sides of the bay consist of constructed platforms for sea access.

On these platforms, you can find sun loungers and sand areas.

Stairs are located throughout the bay to ensure a comfortable swimming experience.

There are also areas where non-swimmers can easily enter the water.

Professional diving areas are also available.

Yapraklı Bay is suitable for family vacations as it is clean and decent.

There are hotels and hostels near the lush surroundings.

Seasonal houses can also be rented in Atakent Susanoğlu.

The bay is crowded on weekends.

Sun loungers are available for rent.

Around the bay, there are buffets and restaurants where you can eat fresh fish and enjoy your drink at the same time.

Parking is also available.

Yapraklı Bay is located in a very beautiful area, allowing those vacationing in Susanoğlu to visit many nearby attractions.

It is very close to the centers of Taşucu and Silifke.

If you wish to visit surrounding beaches, we recommend going to Susanoğlu Beach and seeing bays such as Boğsak Bay and Tisan Island with tour companies.

3- Mersin Marina

Mersin Marina is a recently opened facility located southwest of the commercial port.

The staff are very friendly and always ready to help with minor issues.

The marina is currently operating at only 10% of its capacity, so there is plenty of space for everyone.

All passing yacht journeys dock at the same pier, with electricity costing only 9 euros for six days.

This helps solve calibration-related issues.

The marina is a large complex of upscale shops and outlets.

Many restaurants are located in front of the marina, including Burger King and Starbucks, as well as a large Migros supermarket.

The gym has two swimming pools, but they were not operational.

Wi-Fi service is only available at the marina office; however, since Turkcell has excellent 3G coverage, it is recommended to purchase a dongle.

The on-site bathrooms are of high quality, but there are only four bathrooms (two for men and two for women across two blocks), totaling eight bathrooms for 500 boats.

Security in Mersin Marina is very good, as a private company is hired to secure the entire site.

No winter living facilities have been provided yet.

Therefore, visitors coming from established marinas such as Alanya, Kemer, or Finike may lack a social meeting point, as management has not yet understood the requirements of this type of clientele.

They have little understanding of the cost of providing external services, such as refrigerator repairs.

Make sure to obtain a written quote before any work is done, as is common practice throughout Turkey.

The “Blue Card” system does not appear to be implemented in Mersin, and the black water pumping machines observed were not functional.

It is clearly a new marina, and many of these minor issues are expected to be resolved over time.

4- Myrtos Susanoğlu Beach

Mersin is one of the most beautiful provinces along the Mediterranean coast.

In addition to its major contribution to the country’s economy, the city has begun to highlight its stunning Blue Flag beaches, breathtaking nature, and historical and tourist sites that attract millions of visitors every year.

It is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Turkey for a seaside holiday.

Mersin’s coastline extends for a total of 321 kilometers, with 108 kilometers consisting of natural sandy beaches.

Myrtos Susanoğlu Beach is an excellent alternative for those who wish to immerse themselves in the cool waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

The beach, named after Myrtos Susanoğlu located offshore, attracts great interest with its beautiful sand and its sea displaying every shade of blue.

Susanoğlu Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Mersin.

Blue Flag Susanoğlu Beach is located in the Atakent neighborhood of Silifke district in Mersin.

The beach provides visitor services such as cafés, restaurants, and shower facilities.

Susanoğlu Beach, one of the finest beaches in Mersin, is also suitable for people with disabilities.

It should be noted that the beach becomes very crowded during holiday periods. See also Yapraklı Bay in Susanoğlu.

The Blue Flag is an international environmental award granted to qualified beaches and marinas that meet required standards. At Myrtos Susanoğlu Beach, a total of 33 international criteria are met under categories such as bathing water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and life safety.

For these reasons, it is considered one of the most beautiful and famous tourist attractions in both Mersin and Turkey.

5- Asthma Cave (Astım Cave)

Asthma Cave is one of the best-known and most prominent tourist attractions in Mersin.

It is located in Narlıkuyu, Silifke district, about 300 meters southwest of the Heaven Sinkhole.

Asthma Cave is one of the finest reflections of the region’s geographical conditions.

Cave Structure

The cave, which is accessed by descending a metal staircase, consists of galleries extending for 200 meters.

Massive stalactites and stalagmites can be seen throughout the galleries.

These impressive formations were created by the accumulation of silica minerals inside the cave and date back to the Third Geological Era, attracting many local and foreign visitors.

It is believed that the cave’s air pressure, which reaches 85% in summer and 95% in winter, is beneficial for asthma patients.

The average air temperature inside the cave remains around 15°C throughout the year, and the interior lighting enhances the visual experience.

Trees and shrubs around the cave are decorated with fabric strips and pieces tied as wishes by visitors.

Due to this belief, locals also refer to Asthma Cave as Dilek Cave (Wish Cave).

Entrance Fees

The entrance fee for Asthma Cave, which is under the supervision of the General Directorate of Museums, is 5 Turkish Lira.

Museum Card holders receive two free visits annually, while Museum Card+ holders enjoy unlimited access.

The cave is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM between April and October, and from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM between November and March.

Astım Cave is located 23 km north of the Mersin–Antalya highway, near the Narlıkuyu junction in Silifke.

It is possible to reach the cave by dolmuş from Narlıkuyu, with Hasanlılar Village located 300 meters from the sinkhole.

There are many cafés and restaurants along the road, making it suitable for breakfast or a light meal.

The café located at the cave is an ideal place to taste local Mersin delicacies and delicious yogurt.

For accommodation in Silifke, Altınorfoz Hotel is considered the most suitable option.

6- Mersin Tisan Bay

Tisan is known as the hidden paradise of the Mediterranean. It is a peninsula hidden behind mountains in the Yeşilovacık area of Silifke.

The peninsula is reached by crossing a steep hill, but while driving, you will realize that the journey is well worth it.

With pine forests on your right and white houses along the shore on your left, Tisan Bay resembles a bird’s-eye view of Bodrum.

If you wish to stop and admire the scenery for a few minutes, you will be amazed.

It is said that these magnificent bays, where blue meets green, were discovered by a colonel flying a helicopter during the Cyprus Peace Operation.

Later, Tisan Housing Cooperative was established in 1976 by the colonel and his friends who visited the area and built a holiday site. The peninsula takes its name from this cooperative.

It is an essential destination for holidaymakers from different cities and abroad, especially Ankara, thanks to its clear waters and tranquility.

The peninsula has two white sandy beaches and turquoise bays on the east and west sides, as well as two nearby islands suitable for swimming.

Its Features

The peninsula stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for its historical remains.

According to some sources, the history of the peninsula dates back to Aphrodisias, a Greek colony founded in the 7th century BC.

Thus, Tisan is also considered a historical region.

Aphrodisias, meaning “dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite,” is sometimes confused with another ancient settlement of the same name.

The ancient city of Aphrodisias, known today as Tisan, is located at the cape of the settlement.

According to sources, it had two harbors to the east and west.

Aphrodisias is located southeast of the eastern bay, 7 meters above sea level and 3 meters from the shoreline.

It was built in the 7th century AD.

7- Tarsus Waterfall

Upon arriving at the area, damaged stones can be seen in the active section of the waterfall.

These stones were carved in ancient times and used as tombs, but over time they were destroyed by the waterfall’s flow.

Tarsus Waterfall has a water drop of about 5 meters in the Berdan Stream area.

As the land receded, the area was used as a cemetery during the Roman period.

There are many restaurants and picnic areas near the waterfall.

Here, you can enjoy the calm sound of flowing water and stay in an area that carries the scent of history and nature.

The waterfall attracts a large number of tourists during the summer months.

According to some rumors, the tombs were destroyed and exploited by treasure hunters.

For this reason, many rocks can be found scattered around.

From our perspective, these tombs appear highly eroded and damaged.

The magnificent ancient scenery combined with the stunning waterfall views attracts many visitors.

Numerous recreational areas and restaurants are located around the waterfall.

The picnic areas are particularly popular due to the scenery.

During your visit, you can enjoy a pleasant breakfast and start your day facing this wonderful view.

Doesn’t it sound wonderful to welcome the sun with juices, pastries, and a village-style breakfast?

These breakfasts can be prepared in many restaurants in the area, allowing you to taste a variety of flavors.

Those who prefer not to eat at restaurants can bring their own food and enjoy it in the picnic areas while connecting with nature.

For these reasons, it is considered one of the most beautiful and prominent tourist attractions in Mersin.

8- Yerköprü Waterfall

Yerköprü Waterfall, located approximately 35 kilometers from Mut in Mersin, was registered as a natural monument on May 3, 2011.

The waterfall flows from a height of about 30 meters and is located in a first-degree protected area with extremely rich natural vegetation.

It was officially registered as a natural monument by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks under the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.

Yerköprü Waterfall has successfully attracted both local and foreign tourists with its breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere.

The area features dense vegetation ranging from fig trees to pomegranate trees.

The waterfall pours down from a height of approximately 30 meters onto the Raminik Creek.

A water tunnel measuring 200 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 10–15 meters in depth contains untouched rocks and rich plant life.

There is also a lake and a cave behind the waterfall.

During April, May, and June, when water flow is at its strongest, the split view of the waterfall cascading over two levels creates an unforgettable experience.

Due to the rugged and steep nature of the area, activities such as mountain biking, hiking, and camping are possible around the waterfall.

Do not forget your camera, as the waterfall offers unique landscapes ideal for photography.

Swimming and barbecuing around the waterfall are not permitted.

These rules are strictly enforced to protect the natural beauty of the area and prevent unwanted incidents, and they are highly recommended to be followed.

Transportation:

Since there is no public transportation, access is possible only by private car or taxi.

After driving approximately 22 km from Mut to Raminik, turn left before reaching Ferin Village.

9- Narlıkuyu

When descending to a depth of 9 meters east of Narlıkuyu, you can see Foça Cave, which has a rocky sandy bottom and measures 3 meters in length and 5 meters in height. Here, freshwater mixes with cold seawater.

Important Note: Do not dive without proper equipment and necessary safety precautions for your life and property.

The area is surrounded by the sea on three sides.

To protect underwater cultural and natural assets, prevent smuggling of historical artifacts, and ensure that diving activities comply with legislation, the Coast Guard Command prohibits diving activities under Law No. 2863 and Law No. 5326, applying penalties for violations.

According to Article 35 of the Law on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Assets No. 2863, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism declared the area an underwater protected site, published in the Official Gazette on September 24, 2001, by a Council of Ministers decision. All types of diving are prohibited except for scientific research.

Sports diving boats operating outside restricted areas are inspected for valid activity permits issued by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Diving is prohibited for clubs, organizations, or individuals without certification or operating in restricted zones, and related records are submitted to provincial cultural directorates.

10- The Ancient City of Diocaesarea Olba

The ancient city of Diocaesarea Olba is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Mersin and one of its most enjoyable heritage sites.

Olba, also known as Olbe (Turkish: Ura), was an ancient city and bishopric in the Roman province of Isauria, located in present-day southern Turkey.

Mersin is a city inhabited by history, and this site is among its most unique historical locations.

It is well preserved and easily accessible, unlike many other sites that require serious hiking skills.

Anyone willing to explore history will enjoy this site.

The only downside is that it is somewhat far from the city.

However, there is a small market in the center of Uzuncaburç that meets basic needs such as water.

Visiting during summer is ideal, as temperatures are at least 7–8°C cooler than in Mersin, making winter exploration less practical.

The site is located in Uzuncaburç village, about half an hour from Silifke or Kızkalesi.

At the entrance, a ticket officer is present where you park your car.

Afterward, it is pleasant to walk among the ruins, surrounded by nature with many trees and lush green areas.

The site is worth visiting, especially when combined with other nearby attractions.

You can drive to Asthma Cave and the Heaven/Hell Sinkholes, then continue here.

There are many other archaeological remains along the way that you can stop to explore.

You can return to Silifke using a different route.

At least one hour is recommended unless you plan to picnic. The spring water here is delicious, so be sure to fill your water bottles.

11- Göksu River Valley

Göksu is the most important river in the Yeşil district, originating from two branches of the Central Taurus Mountains.

The southern branch begins in the Geyik Mountains, while the other branch starts in the Haydar Mountains.

These two branches merge south of Mut to form the Göksu River.

The 260-kilometer-long river forms a delta between Taşucu and Silifke before flowing into the Mediterranean Sea.

The river creates lakes at Akgöl and Paradeniz along the coast between Silifke and Taşucu.

Göksu Delta is recognized by the International Council for Bird Preservation as a major bird sanctuary in Europe and the Middle East.

More than 300 bird species live in the Göksu Delta.

It is Turkey’s main breeding area for species such as the reed cock, summer duck, pelicans, ruddy shelduck, flamingos, avocets, long-legged marsh swallows, İzmir bee-eaters, white-moustached warblers, and white-throated birds.

The Göksu Delta is also of special importance as one of the few remaining areas in the world where sea turtles and blue crabs lay their eggs.

The Ministry of Environment’s Environmental Protection Agency declared the Göksu Delta a Special Environmental Protection Area to prevent pollution and exploitation and to preserve natural and cultural resources for future generations.

The delta is expected to be included in the Ramsar Convention list of internationally important wetlands, signed by 45 countries including Turkey.

Wild goats, wild boars, partridges, and rabbits live in the mountains of the Göksu basin.

Lower slopes are covered with laurel shrubs, flowering trees, and sandalwood.

Sandalwood, mastic, margosa, oak, and rocky oak trees begin at elevations of 500 meters, while red pine forests appear above 1,000 meters.

12- Boğsak Bay, Mersin

Mersin is truly one of Turkey’s most beautiful regions, and tourism in Mersin is exceptionally enjoyable.

Pearls of the Mediterranean are scattered throughout the city, with Byzantine, Roman, and Cilician heritage deeply rooted along its coastal landscapes.

Boğsak Bay in Silifke is one of the most beautiful beaches, a magnificent bay where green and blue blend harmoniously.

It is a natural area free from construction.

Sarıtetta Caretta nesting grounds, along with tent and caravan residents who frequent Boğsak Island, make the bay one of the city’s most special locations due to its clear sea, sandy beach, and tranquility.

It is located 118 km from Mersin, 17 km from Silifke, and 10 km from Taşucu.

The bay, distinguished by its carob trees, features a Blue Flag sea and is known for İncekum Sea and İncekum Harbor.

Serving as a natural breakwater, Boğsak Bay is a preferred choice for families with children due to its shallow waters.

Between the bay and the open sea, there are houses, tombs, cisterns, and church ruins from Byzantine and Roman periods in Boğsak Bay and Boğsak Island, making them must-visit sites in Mersin.

To the east of Boğsak Bay are the remains of Liman Castle from the 13th century.

It is believed to have been built to protect the harbor in the small bay directly east of the castle. Today, a military base surrounds Liman Castle and its vicinity.

13- Aya Tekla Church

Aya Tekla Church is one of the most visited tourist sites in Mersin.

Saint Thecla of Iconium is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating female figures of early Christianity.

The underground church located in the cave where Saint Thecla spent the last years of her life still stands as a reminder of her devotion.

This site, now known as Ayatekla or Aziz Thecla, is located on the outskirts of Silifke, along the eastern Mediterranean coast.

The story of Saint Thecla is known through the apocryphal Acts of Paul and Thecla, written in the late second century in Asia Minor.

Saint Paul came to Iconium (modern Konya) after being expelled from Pisidian Antioch.

A young woman named Thecla heard his sermon on chastity from her home and was deeply influenced by it.

She decided to break off her engagement to a prominent Roman citizen and convert to Christianity.

Her family and former fiancé did not accept the news calmly.

They reported Saint Paul to the Roman governor, accusing him of negatively influencing Thecla.

The apostle was imprisoned, but Thecla bribed the guards and visited him.

Another complaint led to Saint Paul’s expulsion from Iconium.

Thecla was sentenced to death by burning at the stake.

However, on the day of execution, heavy rain extinguished the fire, saving her life.

She fled the city disguised as a man and sought out Saint Paul, joining him on his missionary journeys across Asia Minor.

During their travels, they encountered a man named Alexandros, who fell in love with Thecla.

She revealed her Christian faith to him, which led to her being thrown to the lions.

Once again, she was miraculously saved, as the wild animals defended her instead of attacking.

In Pisidian Antioch, Thecla met Queen Tryphaena, granddaughter of Mark Antony and sister of the King of Pontus.

While staying in Tryphaena’s house, Thecla converted the entire household to Christianity.

14- Kanlıdivane

Kanlıdivane, which lay within the borders of ancient Cilicia, is located on the mountainous side, 3 kilometers from Sebaste, now known as Kanlıdivane.

The settlement, carved into rock around a sinkhole measuring approximately 170 × 200 meters with a depth of 60 meters, was connected to the Olba dynasty in the 2nd century BC, as confirmed by inscriptions, and later served as Olba’s port.

Due to geographical similarities with Corycian Cave, a Hellenistic-era shelter exists within the sinkhole.

The tower on the southern edge of the sinkhole, built from polygonal blocks, was constructed in the early 2nd century BC by Teucer, son of the priest-king Tarkyaris, and dedicated to Zeus Olbios.

The rectangular base tower was divided into three chambers, and wall buttresses were added during the Imperial period.

These buttresses indicate that the structure functioned as an arch-support tower, similar to others, until the early Byzantine period, with ceiling beams between floors.

Two inscriptions on flat blocks in the southwest corner confirm the structure’s association with Olba priests.

There are inscriptions belonging to the Armaronchas family on the southern wall of the sinkhole, carved into a 4 × 2 meter niche with considerable craftsmanship.

A five-line inscription appears on the right side of the relief, listing family names.

The family consists of six individuals: the father and mother seated beside their four children—one son and three daughters.