Southern Anatolia Discovery: Adana, Tarsus, Hatay 3-Day Tour

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

• Morning: Arrive at Adana Airport via an early flight from Istanbul, Izmir, or Ankara. Meet your tour guide and enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local delicacies.
• Tarsus Tour:
• St. Paul's Church and Well: Visit the birthplace of St. Paul, one of Christianity's most significant figures.
• Tarsus Waterfall: Experience the serene beauty of this natural cascade.
• Grand Mosque of Tarsus: Explore this historic mosque known for its architectural grandeur.
• Kırkkaşık Bedesten: Wander through this ancient bazaar, a hub for local crafts and goods.
• Historic Tarsus Houses: Admire the preserved architecture reflecting the city's rich past.
• Roman Road and Cleopatra's Gate: Walk along ancient paths and see the gate associated with Cleopatra's visit.
• Seven Sleepers Cave: Discover the cave linked to the legend of the Seven Sleepers, significant in Christian and Islamic traditions.
• Shahmeran Hammam: Learn about the legend of Shahmeran and the historical significance of this bathhouse.
• Lunch: Savor authentic Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant.
• Adana Exploration:
• Stone Bridge (Taşköprü): Visit one of the world's oldest bridges still in use, spanning the Seyhan River.
• Old Clock Tower (Büyük Saat): See the historic clock tower, a symbol of Adana.
• Sabancı Merkez Mosque: Marvel at one of Turkey's largest mosques with its impressive architecture.
• Kazancılar Bazaar: Explore this vibrant market known for its copperware and local products.
• Bebekli Church: Visit this historic church, adding to the city's religious diversity.
• Seyhan Dam Lake: Enjoy the scenic views of this tranquil reservoir.
• Dinner and Accommodation: Conclude your day with a delightful dinner and overnight stay in Adana.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

• Morning: After breakfast, depart for Hatay, passing through the Nur Mountains and the fertile Amik Plain, with a brief stop in Iskenderun.
• Antakya (Hatay) Exploration:
• Hatay Archaeology Museum: Home to one of the world's richest collections of mosaics, including the renowned Antakya Sarcophagus.
• Church of Saint Peter: Recognized as one of Christianity's oldest churches, where the term "Christian" was first coined.
• Lunch: Relish local dishes in Antakya's renowned culinary scene.
• Cultural Sites:
• Habib-i Nejjar Mosque: Considered the first mosque in Anatolia, built atop a former pagan temple.
• Antakya Catholic Church and Sarimiye Mosque: Experience the close proximity of diverse religious sites.
• St. Paul Orthodox Church and Antioch Protestant Church: Explore these historic places of worship.
• Long Bazaar: Enjoy free time shopping in this historic market, known for its spices, soaps, and antiques.
• Dinner and Accommodation: Evening meal and overnight stay in Hatay.

Note: Due to the significant earthquake on February 6, 2023, some historical sites in the Hatay region may be under restoration, affecting accessibility.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

• Morning: Post-breakfast, head to Samandağ, believed to be the meeting place of Prophet Moses and Khidr.
• Sites Visited:
• Moses Tree: A revered site with a legendary ancient tree.
• Vakıflı Village: The only remaining Armenian village in Turkey, known for its church and local produce.
• Khidr’s Tomb (Hz. Hızır Türbesi): A significant site for both Muslims and Christians.
• Cradle Cave Rock Tombs: Ancient burial sites carved into the rock.
• Vespasianus Titus Tunnel: A remarkable Roman-era engineering feat designed to prevent flooding.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal in Samandağ, sampling regional specialties.
• Monastery of St. Simeon: Explore the ruins of this 6th-century monastery, founded by the ascetic St. Simeon.
• Return to Adana: Transfer to Adana Airport for your onward flight.

This itinerary offers a rich tapestry of historical, religious, and cultural experiences, providing deep insights into the heritage of Adana, Tarsus, and Hatay.