population: 1.8 million

extension: 15,853 square kilometers

Museums

Great! If you're in Mersin and looking for museums to visit, I'd suggest checking out the Mersin Museum. It features exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, and natural history. Additionally, the Tarsus Museum is a short drive away and it showcases artifacts from the ancient city of Tarsus. If you're interested in exploring more museums in the area, you might also consider visiting the Silifke Museum, which houses archaeological findings, or the Erdemli Museum, which has exhibits on local history and culture.

Food

Sure! Mersin has a rich culinary tradition with plenty of delicious dishes to try. Here are some of the most popular and typical dishes according to local people:

1. Tantuni: A type of wrap made with thinly sliced beef or lamb, served in a lavash bread with tomato, onion, parsley and spices.

2. İçli Köfte: Also known as kibbeh, these are oval-shaped bulgur balls filled with minced meat, onions and spices.

3. Şırdan: A dish made from stuffed sheep's tripe with rice, onions, and spices.

4. Kerebiç: A sweet pastry made with semolina, flour, sugar, butter, and nuts.

5. Künefe: A dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and syrup.

6. Çiğköfte: These are spicy raw meatballs made with bulgur, tomato paste, pepper paste, onions, herbs, and spices.

7. Sini Mantısı: A type of dumpling stuffed with ground meat and served with yogurt.

8. Kabak Çiçeği Dolması: Stuffed zucchini blossoms filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices.

9. Yaprak Sarma: Stuffed grape leaves filled with rice, onions, and sometimes ground meat.

10. Şalgam Suyu: A fermented turnip juice that is often enjoyed as a refreshing drink alongside meals.

Activities

Certainly! There are many fun activities that locals enjoy in Mersin. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Go to the beach: Locals love spending time at the many beautiful beaches in and around Mersin, such as Kızkalesi, İncekum, and Susanoğlu.

2. Explore the old town of Mersin: Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, also known as the "Mersin Bazaar," where you can find traditional shops, cafes, and historical buildings.

3. Visit the Atatürk House Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. It's located in the city center and offers insight into the country's history.

4. Try local cuisine: Mersin is known for its delicious food, particularly its seafood dishes. Head to one of the local restaurants to try some authentic Turkish cuisine.

5. Take a boat tour: You can take a boat tour to explore the coastline and nearby caves and coves. Many locals enjoy this activity during the summer months.

6. Attend a cultural event: Mersin hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, theater performances, and traditional dance shows. Check out the local event calendar to see what's happening during your visit.