From Hatay
Set out on an enriching day tour exploring the historical harbor town of Payas and the ancient sights of Hatay. This fully guided daily excursion immerses you in the region's deep Ottoman and early Christian heritage, featuring architectural marvels, religious landmarks, and ancient ruins.
Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pick-up in Hatay, transporting you comfortably in an air-conditioned, non-smoking coach. Payas has long served as a vital harbor town connecting Anatolia to the Middle East, growing immensely in strategic value following the Battle of Mercidabık in 1516. Its location along the pilgrimage route prompted Sultan Selim II to commission the magnificent Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Complex to support travelers and secure the trade route.
Moving onward into Hatay city, the exploration continues with profound spiritual and historical landmarks. You will encounter the rock-cut St. Pierre Church, a cornerstone of early Christianity, alongside the intriguing relief of Hell's boatman. Conclude your sightseeing at the Habib-i Neccar Mosque, widely celebrated as the earliest mosque in Anatolia, before returning safely to your hotel at the end of this memorable Hatay day trip.
| Tour type | Private · day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 day 7h |
| Price | From €214 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 2 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours · TÜRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full day programme — click to see every stop.
Payas and Hatay Historical Landmarks Tour
Begin your day with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Hatay, boarding a fully air-conditioned and non-smoking coach for your journey ahead. Head directly toward Payas, a historically significant harbor town that connected Anatolia to Middle Eastern trade routes and pilgrimage paths. Your first stop is the magnificent Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Complex, commissioned by Chief Admiral Sokullu Mehmet Pasha, where you will also admire the ancient monumental olive tree standing within the grounds. Continue your exploration to Payas Castle, a remarkable heritage site from the Ottoman Empire, followed by a visit to Cin Tower, which served essential duty and defense functions during the Ottoman period. Afterward, travel to Hatay city to visit St. Pierre Church, one of the earliest Christian sanctuaries carved directly into natural rock. View the intriguing relief of Hell's boatman before concluding the day's visits at the Habib-i Neccar Mosque, celebrated as the very first mosque built in Anatolia. Following a day rich in history and culture, you will be comfortably dropped back off at your hotel.
Hatay → Hatay Payas
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles — the same fleet we use on your tour.
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Real, verified reviews from travellers who explored Turkey with us.
My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized — from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!
