Top 22 Things to Do in Mersin – Marina, Tarsus, Taurus Mountains

Mediterranean Coast of Mersin Marina

Spend Time at the Lively Promenade Filled with Culture and Leisure

The promenade along the Adnan Menderes Boulevard is a defining tourist attraction in Mersin. It stretches 14 kilometres along the Mediterranean Sea.

Visitors can cycle or walk under the shaded areas. They can also pause for a picnic and spot the F-16 bomber landmark along the route. The war aircraft is part of the Open-Air Museum (Açık Hava Müzesi).

Other landmarks on the boulevard are perfect for Instagram photos. Do not miss the squares of Galatasaray Meydanı, Barış Meydanı, and Mersin İdman Yurdu Meydanı.

Mersin Marina

Unwind Along Mersin’s Waterfront

The abovementioned promenade crosses two marinas filled with restaurants, fast-food outlets, and shopping venues. A top place to visit in Mersin if you seek sea views and lively urban experiences. Even more, there are a few yacht companies and boat rentals to charter a crewed yacht or embark on a short cruise.

Soli (Pompeiopolis)

Witness the Ancient Ruins of a Greek City

The Soli Pompeiopolis Ancient City ruins are just a few steps from the beach in the Mezitli district. They are close to Mersin’s centre. Known in Turkish as Soli Pompeiopolis Antik Kenti, Soli is one of the most notable archaeological sites.

This corner of Anatolia was once under the rule of several former superpowers. Its most well-known feature is a colonnade that used to adorn the entrance to the port.

The municipality fenced the site. However, travellers can admire the view from the pavement or cycle path and capture the scene of one of the most evocative Mersin sights on camera.

Yumuktepe Mound

An Ancient Settlement Tracing Back to the Neolithic Period

The Yumuktepe Mound (Yumuktepe Höyüğü) is situated nine kilometres inland from the coast. The history of these archaeological ruins goes back to 7,000 BC. Excavations have revealed artefacts that prove the mound was home to multiple prominent cultures.

The Yumuktepe is currently closed. Yet it remains worth noting on your Mersin travel list. Once reopened, it will offer history enthusiasts a rewarding glimpse into Anatolia’s earliest settlements.

Mersin Archaeology Museum

Discover Rare Artefacts from Yumuktepe and Soli Pompeiopolis

Exploring the Mersin Archaeological Museum (Mersin Arkeoloji Müzesi) is often included in the top things to do in Mersin. The collection exhibits amazing finds. Archaeologists unearthed a 4,500-year-old jar at Yumuktepe in 2021. And they also excavated a graceful 1,700-year-old Roman bust in Soli Pompeiopolis in 2018.

Muğdat Mosque

Check Out the Architectural Pearl of Mersin

A key highlight for Mersin sightseeing is the magnificent Muğdat Mosque (Muğdat Camii), a short walk from the Archaeological Museum. Built in the 1980s, the mosque is a stunning example of classical Ottoman architecture, particularly notable for its elegant six minarets, each reaching a height of 81 metres.

Mersin Naval Museum

Experience the Thrill of the Turkish Navy

Mersin is home to the country’s second-largest port. Therefore, visiting the Mersin Naval Museum (Mersin Deniz Müzesi) is highly recommended. Located along Adnan Menderes Boulevard, within walking distance of the Mersin Archaeological Museum, the building is hard to miss. Opened in 2011, it recovers curious items that shed light on the naval heritage of Türkiye.

Mertim Tower

Take a Photo of Mersin’s Modern Height

The skyscraper dominating Mersin’s skyline is the Mertim (from the acronym for Mersin Ticaret Merkezi). Often called Metropole, the tower is 177 metres high and has 52 floors. It also has a huge shopping mall, offices, and a hotel.

Mersin Colourful Murals

Celebrate the City’s Creative Talent

Mersin attractions extend beyond historical monuments and popular tour routes—art has also transformed the city’s residential districts.

In recent years, entire suburban neighbourhoods have come alive with vibrant murals painted by local artist Nazife Bilgin Hazar. Her large-scale works recreate artwork by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and others. As a result, apartment blocks turned into open-air galleries.

Locals nicknamed the artist “Frida Kahlo of Mersin”. Hazar’s project aims to bring art into everyday life and make culture accessible to all.

Down Café

Have Coffee at a Café that Changes Lives

Another interesting spot in Mersin is the Mezitli Municipality Down Café (Mezitli Belediyesi Down Kafe). All the staff here are young people with Down syndrome. Visitors can enjoy home-style meals and a cup of rich coffee with chocolate and support a project that brings inclusion and warmth into the city's heart.

Maiden’s Castle

Boat to the Mersin Historical Landmark in the Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean coast in the Erdemli district of Mersin holds a delightful surprise. Maiden’s Castle (Kızkalesi) is a stunning fortress perched on a tiny island. It sits 300 metres off the shore of Kızkalesi Public Beach (Kızkalesi Halk Plajı).

The castle is 60 kilometres from the city centre and is among the most signature historical sites in Mersin. Relaxing on the beach or swimming with a mediaeval island castle as your backdrop is unforgettable. For a closer look, ride a boat to the fortress ruins during the summer season.

Narlıkuyu Museum

Gaze at the Beauty of the Three Graces

Hidden behind the seaside restaurants of Narlıkuyu is a micro museum. It contains the mosaic floor of a 4th-century Roman bath commissioned by the Governor Poimenios of Corycus (modern Kızkalesi).

The museum displays the Three Graces—Aglaea, Euphrosyne, and Thalia—dancing alongside doves and partridges. The sacred waters flowing from the nearby Cennet sinkhole in the Taurus Mountains once nourished the site.

Narlıkuyu Museum is a captivating stop near Maiden’s Castle for anyone seeking in-depth Mersin cultural tours.

Tarsus Christian Landmarks

Walk Through Early Christian History

Of course, you cannot mention Mersin attractions without talking about the historic city of Tarsus. Within an hour by car, Tarsus is part of the greater Adana-Mersin metropolitan area. Besides, it is one of the top things to do in Mersin Province.

For many Christians, Tarsus immediately recalls the birthplace of Saul, later known as Paul the Apostle.

For Christian pilgrims, the Church of St. Paul (Aziz Pavlus Kilisesi) is a point of interest. Crusaders built the church in the 12th century on the grounds of a 4th-century church from Emperor Constantine’s time. The current domeless basilica, however, dates to 1862.

Today, the church is part of the St. Paul Memorial Museum (St. Paul Anıt Müzesi). While the interior of this small church is modest (be sure to notice the frescoes on the domes!), it remains a worship shrine for many believers.

Another must-visit destination linked to Paul is the St. Paul’s Well (St. Paul Kuyusu). Since the earliest centuries of Christianity, people have come to worship here. Christians consider the well’s water holy and believe it has healing properties.

Tarsus Islamic Landmarks

Unveil Mosques and Tombs

Islam has also shaped the rich history of Mersin Province. The key Islamic monuments in Tarsus are:

• Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque). Built in the 16th century, its tall minaret and elegant courtyard display classic Ottoman architectural traditions.
• Kubat Pasha Madrasa (Kubat Paşa Medresesi). The 16th-century religious school, adjacent to Ulu Camii, features interesting stone architecture.
• Tomb of Prophet Daniel and Makam-ı Şerif Mosque (Danyal Peygamber Kabri - Makam-ı Şerif Câmii). The supposed grave of Biblical Daniel is on the grounds of the Makam-ı Şerif Mosque and is a pilgrimage destination for Muslims.
• Bilal-i Habeşi Masjid (Bilal-i Habeşi Mescidi). A 16th-century small mosque is linked to a trusted follower of the Prophet Muhammad. He was the first muezzin of Islam and was said to have prayed here.

Ancient Roman Landmarks in Tarsus

If you want the best day trips from Mersin, go to Tarsus. As the capital of the Roman province of Cilicia, Tarsus evolved into a major political and economic hub. It boasted an advanced infrastructure with temples, roads, and a drainage system. These historic ruins afford profound Mersin cultural experiences and a direct connection to the past.

Cleopatra Gate

Tarsus was once enclosed by walls with three main gates. The only surviving getaway is the western “port gate”, which led to the Mediterranean.

During the Ottoman era, the gate was called Kancık Kapı, meaning “female gate”. In the 20th century, it was renamed Cleopatra Gate (Kleopatra Kapısı). Local legends say the Egyptian queen entered the city through this very arch to meet her lover, the Roman general Mark Antony.

Ancient Roman Road

Unearthed by chance in 1993, the preserved Ancient Road (Antik Yol) wonderfully exemplifies Roman engineering. Imagining history’s prominent figures once walking on this ancient pavement feels almost surreal. The Apostle Paul, Cicero, Julius Caesar, and Cleopatra were among them.

Tarsus Historic Houses

Stay, Dine, and Take in the Atmosphere

Sightseers will find the Tarsus Historic Houses (Tarihi Tarsus Evleri) in the heart of the city. This district is dotted with lovely Ottoman-era mansions. Many of the restored buildings now operate as boutique hotels and authentic restaurants. They make a perfect cultural stop on your Mersin tours.

Kanlıdivane

Head to the Ancient City of Kanytella

The Kanlıdivane ruins (Kanlı Divane Ören Yeri) add significantly to the ancient ruins of Mersin and the top things to do in the province. They lie fifty kilometres from the city centre. This cultural hub grew around a vast sinkhole. Traces of life in Kanlıdivane span from the Hellenistic era to the Byzantine period (third century BC to the seventh century AD).

History buffs can scrutinise a well-preserved Hellenistic tower. They can also admire intricate family and soldier reliefs carved into the rock face, as well as the remains of early Byzantine basilicas. Thanks to the rich history and picturesque landscape, Kanlıdivane (ancient Kanytelis from Greek: Κανυτελής) is among the most compelling attractions in Mersin Province.

Mersin Natural Wonders in the Taurus Mountains

Visit the Pits of Heaven and Hell

The Heaven and Hell Caves (Cennet-Cehennem Mağaraları) or Sinkholes are important places to visit in Mersin. They offer a rare combination of natural beauty and an ancient history near Narlıkuyu. Collapsed cave ceilings formed these formations.

You can descend into the Heaven Sinkhole by lift or steps leading to a small Byzantine church. The Hell Sinkhole is viewed from a platform above.

The nearby Asthma Cave (Astım Mağarası) is a limestone cavern filled with giant stalactites and stalagmites. Many believe it benefits people with respiratory conditions. This area demonstrates the Mersin natural beauty, where geological wonders coexist with human history.

Travel Tips:

• Cennet: The descent is steep with uneven stairs – wear comfortable shoes.
• Cehennem: There is no descent. However, the viewing platform can get crowded. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
• Asthma Cave: The interior is humid and slippery – carry water and watch your footing.

Mamure Castle

Step into a Medieval Fortress

Mamure Castle (Mamure Kalesi) tops the list of the most gorgeous mediaeval fortresses in Türkiye. This is a must-see landmark for those travelling along the Mediterranean coast between Antalya and Mersin. It takes about three hours to get to the castle from Mersin.

A word to the wise: visiting this Mersin historical landmark in the summer heat can be strenuous. The citadel lacks modern safety rails and has several potentially dangerous drops. Visitors must watch their step carefully.

Alahan Monastery

A Mountain Sanctuary Tied to Early Christianity

The fifth-century Alahan Monastery (Koja Kalessi in Turkish) is 1,300 metres above sea level. Just 20 kilometres north of Mut District, it is on the list of those Mersin attractions that are little known to locals.

The complex comprises churches, living quarters, and other structures. The place of monastic history and Byzantine art is believed to have been a refuge for St. Paul and St. Barnabas on their missions.

Visitors can reach this hidden gem of Mersin Province from Mamure Castle via the Mersin-Anatolian Road (146 kilometres). However, they should be prepared for a steep climb to this dramatic mountainside landmark.

Kırkkaşık Bedesten

Immerse Yourself in the Gastronomic Culture of Mersin

Mersin boasts plenty of modern malls. Yet true retail heritage awaits in historic Tarsus at the Kırkkaşık Bedesten (Forty Spoons Bazaar).

This 16th-century venue originally served as a soup kitchen and madrasa. During the Republican period, it transformed into a covered market. It offers a unique shopping experience in Mersin. Tourists can find traditional Turkish crafts and local products with a distinct Mediterranean character.

Kiremithane

Culture, Food, and History—What More Could You Want?

And you do not have to travel to Tarsus to sample traditional local dishes. Mersin itself is full of decent restaurants on the coast road. Here, you can try specialities such as tantuni (a spiced veal wrap reminiscent of shawarma), ciğer şiş (liver skewers on lavash), and cezereye (a carrot-based dessert coated in pistachios and coconut).

But Kiremithane Restaurant deserves special attention. The historic building once served as a French police station. Today, it delights guests with refined décor, a calm ambience, and a menu that blends French and Levantine flavours.

Mersin Natural Beauties

Hear the Roaring Sounds of Waterfalls

Mersin tourism often means venturing into its natural wonders—and with good reason. The Mediterranean Sea, the majestic Taurus Mountains, and small rivers have shaped the region’s landscape. The result is a mix of breathtaking canyons, beaches, plateaus, and waterfalls.

The Tarsus Waterfall (Tarsus Şelalesi) is among the most popular spots for outdoor activities in Mersin. Another favourite place is the Yerköprü Waterfall (Yerköprü Şelalesi).

The best time to visit Tarsus Waterfall is in winter and spring, when melting snow from the Taurus gives it full force. Even more impressive in scale and beauty is Yerköprü Waterfall near Mut. Tourists describe it as one of the most beautiful places in Türkiye for photography, camping, and mountain biking.

Top Things to Do in Mersin in 1 Day

Leveraging one day in Mersin requires a well-planned schedule. This one-day itinerary covers sea views, museums, and a trip to Tarsus.

Morning: Marina Breakfast & Museums (8:00am–10:40am)

Start your day at Mersin Marina. Embrace the local culture by having Turkish breakfast at a waterfront restaurant, İskele Marin Restaurant. Regulars praise their sea bass and shrimp.

It may feel like a hearty start, but you are in Türkiye, so do as locals do. Spend about 1.5 hours for a relaxed meal and a short promenade stroll.

After the morning meal, embark on a Mersin city tour. Visit the adjacent Mersin Naval Museum and Mersin Archaeological Museum (together 1.5-2 hours). This pairs the coastline ambience with Mersin attractions rooted in heritage. It provides the balance newcomers seek in Mersin cultural tours and historical remnants.

Afternoon: Travel to Tarsus (10:40am–2:20pm)

Set out for Tarsus, a short trip that makes it an ideal addition to your one day in Mersin. You will need around 30-40 minutes to get there by taxi or private car.

The bus operator Kamil Koç departs from the Mersin Bus Terminal (Mersin Otogar) to the Tarsus Bus Terminal (Tarsus Otogar). Buses depart every hour. The travel lasts 30 minutes. You can visit this operator’s websites and buy tickets online.

Explore Tarsus landmarks. The St. Paul’s Well closes at 5:00pm, so visit it first. The St. Paul Museum closes at 6:30pm.

Finish at the historic roofed bazaar Kırkkaşık Bedesten. Plan 2.5-3 hours here, which gives you ample time for sightseeing.

You can lunch at Tarihi Kubbe Restaurant and try kaynar, a beloved local hot herbal drink. Or sit at Sofioğlu Fındık Lahmacun & HUMUS TARSUS, praised for its hazelnut lahmacun and creamy hummus.

Late Afternoon and Early Evening: Kızkalesi Castle (2:20pm–4:00pm)

Next, head to Kızkalesi (closes at 6:30pm), one of the top things to do in Mersin. Continue with a short boat ride to the offshore fortress. Plan 1–2 hours at the castle and beach. The drive from Tarsus to Kızkalesi by car or taxi is 1 hour and 15 minutes (88 kilometres).

By public transport: Independent travellers in Mersin can use local transport. These involve buses or dolmuş from the Tarsus Bus Terminal (Tarsus Otogar). The travel time on a bus is approximately 1.50 hours. You will arrive at the Kızkalesi Bus Terminal (Kızkalesi Otogar) and walk a few minutes to the Kızkalesi Beach.

As an option, you can return to the Mersin Bus Terminal. From there, board a bus toward Silifke/Taşucu on the D400 to Kızkalesi Otogar.

When hungry, stop for dinner near the beach at Denizatı Cafe Restaurant Kızkalesi. This family-run spot serves simple and tasty dishes.

Late Evening: Transfer to Mersin

By public transport: Independent adventurers can use local transport. Go by bus or dolmuş (1 h 15 min) from the Kızkalesi Otogar to the Mersin Otogar. Then call a taxi to get to your hotel in Mersin. A taxi ride will get you to Mersin centre in 50 minutes.

Arriving by private transfer or taxi gives you more time to tour Mersin destinations.

This one-day itinerary in Mersin ensures you will not miss the closing times of Tarsus tourist sites and Kızkalesi.

Spending 2 Days in Mersin – Top Mersin Attractions

Day 1: City Highlights and Coastal Charm

The first day of this two-day Mersin itinerary captures the best of the city: coastal panoramas, historical landmarks, and a modern urban icon—Mertim Tower.

Morning (9:00am – 12:30pm)

• Breakfast at Down Café (1 hour)

Begin at Down Café in the Mezitli District, a social enterprise where employees are young people with Down syndrome.

• Soli Pompeiopolis (1 hour)

2.2 kilometres away, you will find the atmospheric Mersin sights—the ancient ruins of Soli. The site is a 30-minute walk or a quick 6-minute trip by taxi. The colonnaded street still conveys the grandeur of its Hellenistic and Roman past. Likewise, travellers from the city centre can catch buses to Viranşehir, which has bus stops near Atatürk’s House.

Afternoon (12:30pm – 4:30pm)

• Mersin Marina & Lunch (1.5 hours)

Mersin Marina is 11 minutes away by car. Have lunch at a seaside restaurant and stroll for a while along the promenade with shops and yachts.

• Mersin Naval & Archaeological Museum (2 hours)

Both museums are essential for any Mersin cultural tour, as they are a short walk from the marina. Spend around 2 hours, giving you time to examine naval artefacts, uniforms, and objects from the Yumuktepe Mound.

Evening (4:30pm – 8:00pm)

• Muğdat Mosque (30-40 minutes)

The Muğdat Mosque, the largest mosque in Mersin, is just a 6-minute walk from the Naval Museum. It makes for an excellent photo at dusk.

• Dinner at Kiremithane Restaurant (1.5 hours)

Book a taxi to Kiremithane Restaurant in Akdeniz, a nice venue for a delicious meal and rest.

• Martim Tower (1 hour)

End the day with an 8-minute drive to Mertim Tower, a skyscraper with a shopping mall and hotel. This striking sight contrasts with the Mersin historical landmarks you saw earlier. The views from here are a modern reminder of how the city bridges past and present.

Day 2: Ancient Mound and Tarsus

On the second day of your Mersin 2-day itinerary, you will uncover the top things to do in Mersin. These are the prehistoric settlement of Yumuktepe, along with Christian, Islamic, and Roman landmarks of Tarsus. You will also explore natural beauties like the Tarsus Waterfall. These are the best places to visit in Mersin that give a broader perspective on the region’s role in Mersin tourism.

Morning (9:00am – 11:00am): Yumuktepe Mound

Start with Yumuktepe Höyüğü, one of the major Mersin historical landmarks, which reveals thousands of years of settlement. Archaeologists continue to dig for artefacts here, highlighting Mersin’s role as a cradle of early Anatolian culture. The mound is closed for excavation, but it is still worth stopping on your Mersin sightseeing route. Plan for around 1.5 hours.

Afternoon (11:00am – 4:30pm): Tarsus Landmarks

Travel to Tarsus in about 40 minutes by car (or 38 minutes by bus). Dedicate your afternoon to its diverse religious and cultural heritage. Visit St. Paul's Well (30 minutes) and the St. Paul Museum (45 minutes).

Proceed to Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque) and Kubad Pasha Madrasa (40 minutes). Then see the Bilal-i Habeşi Masjid (20 minutes). Finish at the Cleopatra Gate & Roman Ruins (30 minutes).

Kırkkaşık Bedesten & Lunch (1 hour)

Shop for traditional goods. Stop at Tarihi Kubbe Restaurant nearby. Try regional dishes or relish lahmacun and hummus at Sofioğlu Fındık Lahmacun & HUMUS Tarsus.

Evening (4:30pm – 7:30pm): Tarsus Waterfall & Dinner

Conclude your day at the Tarsus Waterfall, the local Mersin natural beauty, to see in winter and spring. The entrance to the waterfall is through the restaurant. Relax, take photos, and enjoy the sound of rushing water. Skip the Tarsus Waterfall if you are travelling in summer or autumn.

Instead, spend time in the old city and dine at TerraDom Restaurant. This venue is in the historic old house. Check out their Instagram page – @terradomtarsus. You will love it!

After dinner, return to Mersin (40–50 minutes by car or bus). The trip completes your Mersin 2-day itinerary with history, culture, nature, and delicious cuisine.

Top Things to Do in Mersin in 3 Days

If you have three days in Mersin, follow the 2-day plan outlined above. On the third day, extend your journey westward along the Mediterranean coast. Learn about archaeological treasures, natural wonders, and spiritual landmarks that will turn your trip into a full Mersin tour.

Day 3: Castles, Sinkholes, and Religious Sites

• Morning — Day Trip from Mersin: Elaiussa Sebaste & Kız Kalesi (2 hours)

Commence your day by driving west from Mersin along the D400 highway (60 kilometres to Kız Kalesi). Before reaching the coast, pause in the small town of Ayaş. Browse the Ancient city of Elaiussa Sebaste (Sebaste Antik Kenti). This Roman town is right off the road and walkable from the highway.

Continue for 11 minutes to Kızkalesi (Maiden’s Castle) and sail across to the fortress.

• Midday: Cennet-Cehennem Sinkholes & Lunch (2 hours)

After Kızkalesi, drive 8 minutes inland to the Cennet-Cehennem (Heaven and Hell) sinkholes. Just above them sits Botanik Narlıkuyu Kahvaltı Salonu & Et Mangal Restoran. Though known for Turkish breakfasts, it also serves lunches. Try the baked trout, meatballs in tomato sauce, or lighter Turkish classics like gözleme and börek.

• Afternoon: Aya Tekla Church in Silifke (1.5 hours)

It is about 30 minutes by car from the sinkholes to Silifke (ancient Seleucia). Continue four kilometres to visit Aya Tekla Church (Aya Tekla Kilisesi), a Byzantine underground church. Tradition holds that Saint Thecla of Iconium, a disciple of St. Paul, sought refuge here while fleeing persecution.

• Evening: Dinner in Silifke (1 hour)

Before returning, dine at MBR Tantuni, a popular local spot where you can sample Mersin’s dish, tantuni. A wrap of beef or lamb with tomatoes, onions, parsley, and pickled chilli peppers is a fantastic way to conclude your 3-day itinerary.

Travel Tip: Several Mersin landmarks featured here are on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. These include Maiden’s Castle, Mamure Castle, and the Alahan Monastery, highlighting their international cultural value.

You should also note that many castles and museums in the region require entry fees. To make your Mersin tour more budget-friendly, consider purchasing a Museum Pass. It covers most state-run museums and historical sites in Turkey.