Iskenderun City Guide

Try Iskenderun Döner, Künefe, and Hatay mezes. Some Italian and fast food places exist. Vegetarian options are decent with vegetable dishes and mezes. Late-night spots mainly döner shops and cafés.

Nightlife is quiet with mostly cafes and tea gardens. Few bars, no major clubs.

Traditional Turkish coffee houses and some chains like Kahve Dünyası dominate. Specialty coffee shops are rare.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Around 5-10% in restaurants, rounding up for taxis and small tips for services.

SIM cards from Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom are available with ID registration. Turkcell holds the best coverage and speeds. eSIM offered by Turkcell and Vodafone depending on device.

Street cleanliness varies; main areas kept tidy but side streets less so. Waste pickup regular.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies rotate for after-hours, a few minimarts open late. Late-night food mostly from döner shops and cafes.

Supermarkets like Migros, CarrefourSA, and BİM carry local and some international products. Fresh markets offer local produce and spices. Shops usually open 9 AM to 7-8 PM, often closed Sundays.

Cards work well in supermarkets and bigger shops, but smaller stores and transport need cash.

ATMs from major banks like Ziraat, İş Bankası, Garanti BBVA, and Akbank are easy to find. Watch for possible withdrawal fees.

Local schools teach in Turkish. No known international schools in Iskenderun; closest options in larger cities nearby.

Digital nomad presence is very small with no dedicated community or co-working spaces.

Parks and the coastal promenade offer green spaces and shade, good for walks and runs.

The coastal promenade is popular for running and generally safe with flat, scenic paths.

Gyms offer daily and short-term passes, suitable for visitors.

Tennis courts available at sports clubs; booking usually direct.

Padel is not common in Iskenderun.

A few yoga studios exist but wellness options are limited.

Martial arts like Taekwondo and Karate are practiced locally but with limited English instruction.

No ski resorts near Iskenderun.

Some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding exist mostly in nearby coastal towns, limited in city center.

Mediterranean coast here lacks surfable waves.

Limited dive spots in Iskenderun; better options further south. Visibility varies.

Iskenderun State Hospital and private Gelişim Hospital serve the city. Private clinics have more English speakers. Pharmacies follow regular hours with after-hour services rotating.

Tap water isn't recommended for drinking due to taste and old pipes; bottled water is common.

Several parks with playgrounds and a coastal promenade offer family outings. Kid-friendly cafés are increasing.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is low. No safe spaces or events; discrimination risks exist.

Pet-friendly places vary. Veterinary care is available but pet parks are rare.