The coastal city of Mersin is located within the province that shares its name on Turkey's Mediterranean coast. Known as “The Pearl of the Mediterranean”, Mersin has not yet been fully discovered by European tourists, allowing the visitors who do make their way there to enjoy the same stunning scenery, fascinating historical attractions and excellent climate without all the crowds who head for Marmaris and Bodrum.
Over 100-kilometres of the province's 360-kilometre coastline is made up of natural sandy beaches, and tourists are really spoiled for choice when it comes to where to lay their towel for the day, both within the city itself and in the surrounding area.
One of Turkey's most famous beaches is located in the province of Mersin is Oludeniz or the 'Blue Lagoon'. This stunning body of water is almost entirely separated from the Mediterranean by two rocky headlands, creating not only a beautiful natural environment but a safe stretch of water for swimming.
If you grow tired of simply admiring the view from your sunbed, there are various water sports on offer as well as several beach bars, allowing you to continue your appreciation of your surroundings into the evening. In the city of Mersin itself, the beaches, which are backed by a long palm tree-lined promenade, can get very busy at weekends but they all have the usual amenities and you can find some excellent seafood restaurants for lunch by heading towards the old harbour area.
There is more to Mersin than its beaches, however, as the city has fascinating cultural history. The modern town was built on the ruins of a former settlement called Soli, and many ruins have been excavated over the years. Other ancient remains in the area include those at Tarsus, including Roman roads and a Roman bridge over the river as well as Cleopatra's Gate built in AD 41; the ancient gate that Cleopatra and Mark Anthony used to enter the city, according to legend.
Further south of Mersin is the coastal town of Kizkalesi, which means maiden's castle. The town gets its name from the large fortress built and still standing from an island a few hundred metres offshore. Boat trips take you to the island and along the Mersin coast in the summer months. A short distance inland from Narlikuyu stand two remarkable natural phenomenon; the Cennet chasm has steps carved into the walls so visitors can descend to a plateau where a tiny church was built in the 5th century. Remember to bring a torch!
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Mersin? Then below is a selection of apartments in Mersin and villas in Mersin that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
