Hi, has anyone been to Antakya and the Hatay region? I'm quite interested in going but want to know if there is anything left of ancient Antioch to see. What else is there to see or do in the area, is there much of interest in Iskenderun? What about local hotels, restaurants, any hammams or beaches?

Also, what is the best way to get there independently? Are there many flights into Adana, presumably travelling from the UK I would have to fly via Istanbul or Ankara? How would I move on from there?

When would be the best time to go, are there more transport options in summer, when is the weather best, are there any special festivals or events?

Thanks!

Unfortunately, I don't think there is much of ancient Antioch to look at. I was there is April and found little.

The Church in the cave is interesting, but the building is from the crusader era. If you go there, hike up to the rock carvings on the upper right hill.

The market is a true Turkish market and you'll enjoy walking around. You'll likely be the only non-Turk there. It's been in the same spot for centuries.

I suspect that the reason there are so few developed ruins there is that it is so far off the regular tourist track.

The best way to get there is to fly into Adana (an ugly, noisy city). The place isn't very tourist friendly. Grab a bus from the outogar to Hatay (about 3 hours).

A good day trip from Adana is to Tarsus. Don't miss the waterfall.

I visited Antakya in July and stayed at Hotel Saray. It was a nice place and I can recomend it. For a single room with breakfast included I paid 20 000 000 TL.

A nice place to visit outside Antakya is Harbiye. There there are small waterfalls and restaurants.

OK, thanks everyone. I might go next May or June. I'll let you know! Cheers...