Imagine a city gleaming in the Mediterranean sun, with the deep blue sea on one side and thousands of years of history on the other… Mersin. This city, which surprises first-time visitors and captivates those who return, offers so many places to explore, from ancient cities to hidden coves, from coastal walks to street food, that the question "Where to visit in Mersin?" starts generating excitement even before you set off.
For me, Mersin is one of those cities where you accumulate the most beautiful memories while wandering around spontaneously, and where you encounter a different story around every corner.
If you want to enjoy the sea air, experience history and nature all at once, and explore extensively, Mersin is perfect for you. Moreover, it's very easy to get to; whether you take a quick flight to Mersin or buy a bus ticket and enjoy the journey…
List of Places to Visit in Mersin
Before you pack your bags, let's take a look at the wonderful surprises Mersin has in store for you. Here is a list of places to visit in Mersin that visitors should definitely see and that will help you get to know the city up close…Heaven and Hell Sinkholes
The Heaven and Hell Sinkholes are one of the most striking natural formations to visit in Mersin. Located near Silifke, these sinkholes stand out both for their impressive scenery and their mythological stories.
Thanks to the stone stairs leading down to Paradise Sinkhole, you can reach inside the sinkhole and enjoy the cool, green atmosphere. Hell Sinkhole, on the other hand, is a stop that can only be viewed from above due to its deep and steep structure, and its mysterious appearance fascinates visitors.
Maiden Castle
Kızkalesi is one of the most iconic destinations that comes to mind when Mersin is mentioned. Rising in the middle of the sea, just a few hundred meters from the shore, this historical castle captivates everyone with its legends, views, and the deep blue Mediterranean backdrop.
Swimming from the beach towards the castle in the summer months, taking boat tours, or walking along the beach at sunset make Kızkalesi (Maiden's Castle) a special place on the list of places to visit in Mersin. It is one of the most enjoyable stops in Mersin for those who want to experience both history and sea enjoyment at the same time.
Yerköprü Waterfall
Yerköprü Waterfall is one of the most impressive spots in Mersin where you can be alone with nature. This waterfall, where the Ermenek River cascades down through a canyon, is a perfect escape, especially in the summer months, for those who want to cool off and get away from the city crowds.
Thanks to the wooden walkways, you can get close to the waterfall and enjoy the view created by the turquoise water and lush nature. It is one of the must-see stops for nature lovers among the places to visit in Mersin.
Adamkayalar
Adamkayalar is one of Mersin's most mysterious and impressive historical sites. Located near Erdemli, the human reliefs carved into the steep cliffs bring a story stretching back thousands of years to the present day. These figures bear important traces of the region's Roman era.
Although reaching Adamkayalar requires some effort, the view and sense of history at the end of the journey make all the fatigue worthwhile. It's a special stop on the list of places to visit in Mersin, a must-see for those who love to explore and seek out different routes.
Anemurium Ancient City
The ancient city of Anemurium is one of Mersin's most impressive historical sites and one of the places that most powerfully evokes a sense of time travel. Located near Anamur, nestled by the sea, this ancient city carries the traces of the Roman era to the present day with its theater, baths, mosaics, and extensive necropolis area.
Walking through ancient streets accompanied by the sea breeze offers a unique experience for those who want to both explore history and enjoy the scenery. Among the places to visit in Mersin, it is one of the must-add stops for those who want to experience history and nature together.
Aynalıgöl (Gilindire Cave)
Aynalıgöl (Gilindire Cave) in Mersin is one of the impressive destinations where nature transforms into a work of art. Located near Aydıncık, this cave captivates visitors from the moment they arrive with its stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. The most striking feature of the cave is Aynalıgöl, from which it takes its name, with its glass-like reflections.
As you venture deeper into the cave, a completely different atmosphere awaits you, accompanied by cool air and a visual feast. For those who want to see a natural wonder and experience a unique discovery, this is a special route that should definitely be visited in Mersin.
Alahan Monastery
Alahan Monastery is one of Mersin's most impressive stops in terms of history and scenery. Located within the borders of Mut district, at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, this structure is considered one of the most important religious centers of early Christianity in Anatolia.
With its stonework, location, and the magnificent valley views surrounding it, Alahan Monastery is not only a historical structure but also a soul-soothing viewpoint. Among the places to visit in Mersin, it is a special stop that history enthusiasts should definitely see.
Anamur Mamure Castle
Anamur Mamure Castle is one of the best-preserved and most impressive castles in Mersin. Rising on the Mediterranean coast, right on the seafront, this magnificent structure, with its walls, towers, and inner courtyard, transports visitors back to the Middle Ages.
The promenade stretching right alongside the sea and the view offered by the castle make this place attractive not only for history buffs but also for photography enthusiasts. It's a must-visit stop for those who want to see both sea and history together on their list of places to visit in Mersin.
Uzuncaburç Ruins
The Uzuncaburç Ruins are one of the ancient sites where you can most clearly feel the depth of Mersin's history. This ancient city, located in Silifke, carries the traces of the Roman and Hellenistic periods to the present day with its monumental gate, colonnaded streets, temple ruins, and theater.
Wandering among the ruins spread over a vast area, you feel as if you are strolling through an open-air museum. For those who want to explore history in a tranquil atmosphere, this is a special route that should definitely be seen on the list of places to visit in Mersin.
Narlikuyu
Narlıkuyu is one of Mersin's most enjoyable stops and a favorite for those wanting a short break surrounded by the sea. Located near Silifke, this small coastal town stands out with its clear waters, seafood restaurants, and tranquil atmosphere.
Narlıkuyu, ideal for enjoying fresh fish by the sea, taking a short swim, or strolling along the coast, offers a lovely getaway for those seeking both relaxation and a delicious break, making it a perfect destination on the list of places to visit in Mersin.
Göksü River
The Göksü River is one of the most enjoyable routes for those who want to discover Mersin's close connection with nature. Originating in the Taurus Mountains and flowing into the Mediterranean Sea, this river offers a breath of fresh air to those seeking to escape the city crowds, with its scenery cascading through lush greenery and its peaceful atmosphere.
Walking along the river, taking a tea break while enjoying the view, or taking photos are some of the most beautiful moments Göksü has to offer. Among the places to visit in Mersin, it is one of the stops that should definitely be added to your itinerary with its tranquility and natural beauty.
Anamur
Anamur, located at the southernmost tip of Mersin, is one of the districts where you can experience the Mediterranean climate in its warmest and most tranquil form. With its long coastline, clean beaches, and nature surrounded by banana plantations, Anamur offers a pleasant route for those who want to both relax and explore.
With its historical structures like Mamure Castle, clear sea, and peaceful atmosphere, Anamur is a must-visit destination in Mersin for those who want to experience sea, history, and tranquility all at once.
Tarsus
Tarsus, a special district of Mersin, slows you down with its history-laden streets and whispers a different story at every turn. Thanks to its deep-rooted history stretching from ancient times to the present day, it has many places to explore, from Cleopatra's Gate to St. Paul's Well, from historical streets to museums.
Tarsus, where you can reach dozens of historical sites even on foot, is a must-see destination in Mersin for those who enjoy cultural and historical tours.
- Historic Saint Paul Church
- The Tomb and Shrine of Prophet Daniel Mosque
- St. Paul's Well
- Roman Road and Triumphal Arch
- Grand Mosque
- Cave of the Seven Sleepers (Ashab-ı Kehf Cave)
- Forty Spoons Bazaar
- Cleopatra's Gate
- Roman Baths
- Tarsus Museum
- Clock Tower
- Shahmaran Bath and Statue
- Tarsus Waterfall
- Nusret Mine Layer
Mersin Beaches
Mersin beaches offer swimming spots to suit every taste thanks to their long coastline. From fine sandy beaches to quieter coves, from family-friendly areas to pristine shores, there are many alternatives to choose from. For those who want to cool off in the summer, enjoy the sea all day long, and savor the Mediterranean, Mersin beaches are one of the most enjoyable stops on their trip.
- Leafy Dark
- Akçakıl Bay
- Tisan Beach
- Yanışlı Village Beach
- Anamur Beach
- Yeşilovacık Bay
- Bogsak Bay
- Barbaros Bay
- Kum Neighborhood Beach
- Altınorfoz Beach
- Bozyazı Beach
- Girls' Bath Bay
- Soğuksu Beach – Kapızlı Beach
- Yenikas
- Mavikent Beach