Cilicia · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Enchanting Cilicia: A Journey Through Ancient and Natural Wonders

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Cilicia, nestled in the southern region of Turkiye, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its rich history, the region was once a thriving hub for ancient civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The remnants of their grandeur are scattered across the landscape, offering a unique glimpse into the past. Among the must-see sights are the ancient city of Tarsus, the birthplace of Saint Paul, and the impressive ruins of Anavarza Castle, which stand as a testament to the area's strategic importance throughout history. Beyond its historical allure, Cilicia boasts stunning natural beauty. The region is home to the Taurus Mountains, which provide a breathtaking backdrop to the lush, fertile plains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and exploring hidden caves to relaxing by the pristine beaches along the Mediterranean coast. The Cennet and Cehennem (Heaven and Hell) Caves are a particular highlight, offering a mysterious and captivating experience for adventurers. The local cuisine in Cilicia is another highlight, with a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the area's diverse cultural influences. Be sure to try the regional specialties like Adana kebab, hummus, and baklava. The local markets and restaurants offer a delightful culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and provide a deeper connection to the region's rich heritage.

Dereceören/Bolu Merkez

Abant Gölü Milli Parkı

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Ayaş Bld./Erdemli

Kanlı Divane Ören Yeri

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Kadirli

Karatepe Aslantas National Park

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Tarsus

Gülek Castle

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Kozan

Kozan Castle

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Vezirköprü

Şahinkaya Kanyonu Gezisi - Çataloğlu Turizm

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Tarsus

Cleopatra Gate

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Taksi

Yag Mosque

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Kozan

Anavarza Ruins

Discover Cilicia in Turkiye: A captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

When is the best time to go to Cilicia?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest months
Longest daylight
Driest period

Explore places in Cilicia

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Cilicia sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Abant Gölü Milli Parkı

    Experience the stunning natural beauty and adventure of Abant Gölü Milli Parkı, a national reserve perfect for hiking and nature exploration.

    Abant Gölü Milli Parkı

    Cleopatra Gate

    Explore Cleopatra Gate in Tarsus, a captivating historical landmark that embodies the grandeur of the Roman Empire and the legacy of Queen Cleopatra.

    Cleopatra Gate

    Kanlı Divane Ören Yeri

    Explore the ancient wonders of Kanlı Divane Ören Yeri, a unique archaeological site in Mersin featuring fascinating ruins and a stunning sinkhole.

    Kanlı Divane Ören Yeri

    Karatepe Aslantas National Park

    Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history at Karatepe Aslantas National Park, an essential stop for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Turkey.

    Karatepe Aslantas National Park

    Gülek Castle

    Discover the enchanting Gülek Castle, a historic fortress in Tarsus, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Turkey's rich past.

    Gülek Castle

    Kozan Castle

    Discover the majestic Kozan Castle in Turkey, a historical fortress with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

    Kozan Castle

    Yag Mosque

    Explore the historic Yag Mosque in Adana, a stunning architectural marvel blending cultures and offering a serene escape in the heart of the city.

    Yag Mosque

    Şahinkaya Kanyonu Gezisi - Çataloğlu Turizm

    Discover the stunning beauty and thrilling adventures of Şahinkaya Canyon in Turkey's Samsun region, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers.

    Şahinkaya Kanyonu Gezisi - Çataloğlu Turizm

    Yumuktepe Mound

    Explore the ancient wonders of Yumuktepe Mound in Mersin, where history and breathtaking views intertwine for an unforgettable experience.

    Yumuktepe Mound

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Egyptian Bazaar

    Discover the vibrant flavors and rich history of Istanbul at the Egyptian Bazaar, a must-visit market for every traveler.

    Egyptian Bazaar

    İstanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall

    Experience the ultimate shopping and entertainment destination at İstanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall, where style meets fun in the heart of Istanbul.

    İstanbul Cevahir Shopping Mall

    ANKAmall

    Explore ANKAmall, Ankara's premier shopping destination with over 200 stores, diverse dining, and entertainment options for a perfect day out.

    ANKAmall

    Viaport Asia Outlet Shopping

    Explore a shopper's paradise at Viaport Asia Outlet Shopping in Istanbul, featuring diverse stores, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

    Viaport Asia Outlet Shopping

    Venezia Mega Outlet

    Discover unbeatable deals and a unique shopping experience at Venezia Mega Outlet, Istanbul's top shopping destination.

    Venezia Mega Outlet

    İstinye Park Alışveriş Merkezi

    Discover a luxurious shopping experience at İstinye Park Alışveriş Merkezi, Istanbul's premier shopping mall with international brands, dining, and entertainment.

    İstinye Park Alışveriş Merkezi

    Kemeraltı Bazaar

    Discover the historic Kemeraltı Bazaar in İzmir, where vibrant shops and local culture come together in an unforgettable shopping experience.

    Kemeraltı Bazaar

    TerraCity

    Discover the vibrant retail and dining scene at TerraCity, Antalya's ultimate shopping destination for tourists and locals alike.

    TerraCity

    Antalya Migros Shopping Center

    Discover Antalya Migros Shopping Center, a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Konyaaltı, Antalya.

    Antalya Migros Shopping Center
    Fotoğraf : peyzaj, deniz, sahil, bulut, köprü, ufuk çizgisi, Şehir,  gökdelen, nehir, Cityscape, panorama, şehir merkezinde, Defne, Dönüm  noktası, Türkiye, İstanbul, güzel, yeşillik, Mavi Deniz, Hava fotoğrafı,  kentsel alan, Insan yerleşimi 4504x2983 - -
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    More about Turkiye

    Discover Turkiye: Where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

    Tell me more about Turkiye
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