Hatay is Turkey's southernmost province, a slender finger of land bordering Syria and the Mediterranean Sea. Its capital, Antakya—the ancient Antioch on the Orontes—was one of the great cities of the Roman and early Christian world. Hatay's layered history, distinctive Arab-influenced cuisine, and multicultural society (Turkish, Arabic, Alevi, Armenian, and Greek Orthodox communities have coexisted here for centuries) make it unlike anywhere else in Turkey. Note: a magnitude-7.8 earthquake on 6 February 2023 severely damaged Antakya; many historic structures collapsed and rebuilding is ongoing. Travellers will find a city in resilient reconstruction rather than a fully restored old town.
Luxury hotels
Five-star and palace properties.
Savon Hotel Antakya
The most celebrated hotel in the province, occupying a restored 19th-century soap factory. Stone-vaulted rooms with hand-crafted furnishings. A premium restaurant serves elevated Hatay cuisine. Best upscale experience in Antakya.
Liwan Hotel Antakya
Heritage boutique hotel in a restored traditional courtyard house. Ten individually decorated rooms, award-winning Hatay-cuisine restaurant, private garden. Cultural and gastronomic luxury.
Divan Hotel İskenderun
The most consistent upscale business hotel in Hatay province, situated in İskenderun (less earthquake impact). Full amenities: pool, gym, restaurant, meeting rooms. Best option for reliable luxury infrastructure.
Arsuz Beach Hotel (Premium Suites)
The top coastal luxury option in Hatay; sea-view suites with private terraces. Full-service beach resort with watersports and restaurant.
Fine dining
Michelin-starred and chef-driven restaurants.
Kasr-ı Nehroz
Antakya's most refined dining experience in a restored historic mansion. Multi-course Levantine feast of 20+ meze dishes, rare Antakya specialities, and exceptional service. The closest Hatay comes to fine dining.
Savon Hotel Restaurant
Elevated Hatay cuisine with premium ingredients and elegant plating in the hotel's stone-vaulted dining room. Best for a private dinner or romantic evening.