Hatay is a small province in southern Turkey, bordering Syria. Despite being often overlooked by those visiting Europe, Hatay is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable experience to those who discover it. If you're seeking an exotic and affordable European holiday destination, Hatay is the place to hit.
One of the perks of visiting Hatay is that it does not have international flights. This means that your flights to Hatay will most likely be cheaper compared to other popular destinations in Europe. Several airlines provide affordable flights to Hatay from the major airports in Turkey as well as from the United Kingdom. This makes it an excellent budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy a unique European destination.
The province of Hatay is home to a rich cultural and historical heritage, with traces of almost every civilization that once lived there. The region’s cuisine is a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, which will satisfy any food lover's palate. Be sure to try the famous Antakya cuisine, which includes dishes made with local ingredients such as bulgur, pomegranate molasses, and spices.
For history buffs, Hatay's capital city Antakya is a must-visit destination. This city is home to the magnificent Antakya Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Roman, Byzantine, and Hellenistic artifacts. You can also visit St. Peter’s Grotto, one of the oldest churches in the world, and explore the nearby Red Church, one of the city's main cultural attractions.
If you're looking for a different kind of experience, be sure to visit Harbiye Falls, just a short drive from Antakya. The falls are a stunning natural beauty that offers a refreshing break from the city's heat. You can swim in the natural pool or dine in one of the nearby restaurants that offer the freshest local food.
Hatay is also home to some of the most breathtaking ancient cities in the world. The ancient city of Seleucia Pieria, located on the Mediterranean coast, was once a thriving city and a major trading center during the Roman era. The city’s ruins offer an insight into its glorious past, and you can wander around the agora, theater, and the city walls that are still standing today.
Hatay, Europe is a unique destination that offers an unforgettable experience, and it's perfect for travelers seeking an affordable and culturally rich holiday destination. With cheap flights and a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, Hatay is a destination you'll want to explore again and again.
Airlines flying to Hatay
Looking for cheap flights to Hatay? There are a few airlines that fly to this southern Turkish city.
One of the most popular airlines is Turkish Airlines. They offer flights from Istanbul to Hatay multiple times a day. The flight time is just over an hour, making it a quick and convenient option.
Pegasus Airlines is another budget-friendly airline that flies to Hatay. They have direct flights from cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara. If you're looking to save money, this could be a good option for you.
SunExpress is a Turkish-German airline that also offers flights to Hatay. They have flights from cities like Antalya and Izmir. Their prices are generally on the lower side, so it's worth checking out if you're planning a trip to Hatay.
Lastly, Onur Air is another Turkish airline that flies to Hatay. They have direct flights from Istanbul and Antalya. Their prices are reasonable and they often have promotions, so keep an eye out for deals.
If you're looking for a cheap flight to Hatay, there are several options to choose from. Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, and Onur Air all have flights to this southern Turkish city.
Getting to and from the airport
Cheap Flights
If you're looking for an affordable way to travel to Hatay, Europe (HTY), there are some great options for finding cheap flights. One of the easiest ways is to use a flight search engine like Skyscanner, Momondo, or Kayak. These sites allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines, and can often help you find the best deal.
Another method for finding cheap flights is to book well in advance. Many airlines offer discounted fares for early bookings, so if you're planning a trip to Hatay, Europe (HTY), it's worth considering booking your flight as early as possible.
Hatay
Once you arrive in Hatay, Europe (HTY), there are several transportation options available to get you where you need to go. If you're staying in a hotel, they may offer a shuttle service that can pick you up from the airport. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or hire a car at the airport.
Main Airport Code. HTY
The main airport code for Hatay, Europe is HTY. When booking your flight, make sure to double-check that you've selected the right airport code.
In Summary...
Getting to and from Hatay, Europe (HTY) is easy and affordable with cheap flights and transportation options like shuttles, taxis, and car rentals. Just remember to book in advance and double-check your airport code to ensure a smooth journey.
What to do in Hatay
Hatay is a beautiful city located in the Mediterranean region of Turkey, close to the border with Syria. This historical city was the birthplace of Saint Paul and has a unique cultural mix due to its strategic location throughout history. Here are some things you shouldn't miss when visiting Hatay.
Explore Antakya
Antakya is the largest city in Hatay and is a great place to soak up the atmosphere. Take a stroll through Antakya's bazaars and experience the vibrant Turkish markets. Visit the Saint Pierre Church, one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Christians, and explore the Hatay Archeological Museum, which showcases the area's rich history and culture.
Taste the local cuisine
Hatay is famous for its cuisine, which has many influences from the Ottoman, Arab, and Mediterranean cultures. Some must-try dishes include kunefe, a dessert made with cheese and syrup, and künefe, a pastry made with thin layers of dough and topped with cheese and syrup. You can also try other local delicacies such as musakhan, a chicken and onion dish, and dolma, stuffed marinated vegetables.
Visit the old city of Samandağ
Samandağ is a small, picturesque town located near the sea. It has a long history that dates back to the Greeks, and it is believed that the famous poet Homer mentioned the town in some of his works. You can visit the ancient city of Seleucia Pieria and the Samandağ Museum, which showcases the town's history and cultural heritage.
Relax on the beaches
Hatay has several beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. Harbiye Waterfalls, Amanos Mountains, and Vespasianus Titus Tunnel are natural sites where you can go to recharge and get close to nature.
With cheap flights available, it's never been easier to visit Hatay and experience the unique local culture that this Turkish gem has to offer.
When is best to visit Hatay
Looking to explore the beautiful city of Hatay, Europe? You may be wondering when is the best time to go. Well, it depends on your preferences!
If you're looking for the cheapest flights, you should consider visiting Hatay during off-peak seasons. This is usually during the months of November to February, excluding the Christmas and New Year holidays. During this time, you may find great deals on flights and accommodation.
However, if you're after the best weather, the ideal time to visit Hatay is during the spring and autumn months which are March to May and September to November, respectively. The temperatures during these months are comfortable, with lesser crowds compared to the summer season.
Speaking of summer, Hatay can get quite hot between June and August. With temperatures reaching as high as 35°C (95°F), it can be challenging to explore the city during the day. However, if you're a lover of the heat and don't mind the crowds, summer can be a great time to visit Hatay.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Hatay, Europe, depends on your personal preferences. Choose a time that suits you best and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.
What to eat in Hatay
Are you planning a trip to Hatay, Europe but have no idea what to eat while you're there? No problem, we've got you covered! But first, let's talk about how to get there.
Thanks to the availability of cheap flights, Hatay is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers. To get there, simply book a flight to Hatay airport and you'll be there in no time!
Now, let's move on to the food. Hatay cuisine is a unique blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, resulting in a tantalizingly flavorful experience. Here are some must-try dishes.
- Kunefe. A dessert made of pastry threads filled with cheese and soaked in syrup. It's a Hatay specialty, so you can't leave without trying it.
- Hummus. You may have tried hummus before, but Hatay hummus is something else entirely. Made with fresh chickpeas and tahini, it's creamy and addictively delicious.
- Lahmacun. Known as "Turkish pizza," this flatbread is topped with spiced minced meat and served with fresh vegetables. It's a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
- Baklava. Another dessert you can't miss out on, baklava is a sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, chopped nuts, and syrup. In Hatay, they make it using pistachios, which gives it a unique flavor.
- Muhammara. This red pepper and walnut dip is perfect for spreading on bread or dipping veggies in. It's got a little bit of heat and a lot of flavor.
These are just a few of the delicious foods Hatay has to offer. With so many options to choose from, you'll never go hungry. So pack your bags and get ready for a culinary adventure in Hatay!
Top 5 attractions in Hatay
- Looking for a budget-friendly destination in Europe? Consider Hatay! This Turkish province has plenty of attractions to offer without breaking the bank. Plus, you can find cheap flights to Hatay from major European cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya.
- Here are our top 5 recommendations for things to see and do in Hatay.
- Hatay Archaeology Museum - This museum houses artifacts from Hatay's rich history, including Roman mosaics, Byzantine frescoes, and Ottoman ceramics. It's a great way to explore the region's cultural heritage.
- Saint Pierre Church - As the supposed burial place of Saint Peter, this church is a major pilgrimage site for Christians. The building itself is also impressive, with architectural influences from Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman eras.
- Harbiye Waterfall - If you're in the mood for some natural beauty, head to this waterfall located in the Harbiye district. There are hiking trails and picnic areas around the falls, making it a great spot for a day trip.
- Antakya Old Town - Wander through the cobblestone streets of Antakya's historic center and admire the traditional architecture. You can also visit the city's famous bazaar, which sells everything from spices to textiles.
- Mount Habib Neccar - This mountain offers panoramic views of Hatay and the surrounding countryside. It's a popular spot for hiking and picnics, and there are also several historic sites (like a Roman aqueduct) located on its slopes.
- Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just exploring a new place, Hatay has something to offer. And with cheap flights available, it's a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Places like Hatay worth visiting
Here are the top 5 places like Hatay in Europe that you should consider visiting.
- Istanbul, Turkey. Istanbul is a city that is rich in history and culture, much like Hatay. It's home to the famous Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Hagia Sophia. Cheap flights are available from many European cities.
- Athens, Greece. Athens is another city that offers a glimpse into the past with its incredible ruins and historical monuments. It's an affordable travel destination, and flights to Athens are often reasonably priced.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia. Dubrovnik is a coastal city in Croatia that's known for its stunning beaches and gorgeous architecture. It's a bit pricier than other destinations on this list, but there are still ways to find cheap flights and lodging.
- Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It's known for its colorful neighborhoods, delicious food, and lively nightlife. Flights to Lisbon from most European cities are relatively affordable.
- Krakow, Poland. Krakow is a city that's bursting with culture and history. It's home to many beautiful churches, cathedrals, and museums, as well as a lively student population. Flights to Krakow are affordable, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers.
There are many destinations in Europe that offer a similar experience to Hatay. No matter which one you choose, you're sure to have a memorable trip filled with history, culture, and adventure.