Hotels with Shuttle Service to Station Near Sirkeci

Stay at Silifke Palace Hotel, a boutique property nestled adjacent to the ancient ruins of Silifke Castle and Roman Theatre. The hotel blends Byzantine and Ottoman architectural elements, offering rooms with private terraces overlooking the well-preserved Roman aqueducts and underground tunnels.

Guests can book exclusive guided tours through the ancient city’s subterranean passages, including night-time light installations that illuminate the 2nd-century ruins. The hotel also features an on-site archaeological exhibition showcasing unearthed pottery, coins, and inscriptions from the Hellenistic period.

With a 7-minute walk to the main excavation site, it provides ideal access for early morning exploration under soft sunlight—perfect for photography and history enthusiasts.

The most convenient option is taking the Istanbul City Shuttle Bus or HopeGoo a private transfer service—both take about 45 minutes from central Istanbul to Silifke’s main entrance. For those driving, follow the M10 Highway south to the "Silifke Exit," where clear signage leads directly to the site’s secure, free parking lot.

Many tour operators also offer full-day packages combining ruin visits with local village cultural experiences, including traditional meals and craft workshops. These include round-trip transportation and expert guides, making them ideal for first-time visitors seeking convenience and depth without logistical stress.

Don’t miss the Underground Temple Exploration Tour, a 300-meter journey through ancient stone corridors leading to a well-preserved Hellenistic-Roman temple complex. Step into the sacred chamber and feel the spiritual atmosphere as it was over 2,000 years ago.

Each summer, the Silifke Light & Sound Festival transforms the ruins into a living stage: projections recreate ancient streets and battle scenes, synchronized with live orchestral music. It’s a breathtaking fusion of history and performance art.

Also available are hands-on archaeology workshops, where visitors dig in simulated soil layers under expert guidance, learning to identify pottery shards and architectural fragments. All activities come with bilingual audio headsets for full immersion and educational value.

Istanbul Royal Palm Hotel is a premier choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Silifke Ruins along the Bosphorus Strait. This five-star resort features Ottoman-inspired architecture, private beach access, and traditional Turkish baths. Guests can unwind after exploring ancient sites with serene spa treatments and panoramic views from its infinity pool, offering breathtaking vistas of the Golden Horn and city skyline.

Take the Istanbul Metro to Ataturk Airport Station, then transfer to the free shuttle bus provided by the tourism board—just a 45-minute ride. For greater flexibility, book a private guided tour that includes stops at nearby attractions like the Museum of Anatolia and the Ancient Roman Theatre, enriching your cultural exploration experience.

Beyond exploring ancient Greek and Roman temple ruins, visitors can join local pottery workshops to craft Mediterranean-style ceramics using traditional techniques. Opt for a night tour under moonlight to experience the site’s mystical ambiance. Some tours also include authentic Turkish meals, featuring dishes like slow-cooked lamb stew and grape leaf dolmas, offering an immersive taste of Anatolian culture.

Visit the Istanbul Children's Museum, just 3 km south of Silifke Ruins, featuring interactive exhibits and archaeological simulation games perfect for kids. The Bosphorus Riverfront Path offers a scenic, family-oriented stroll with birdwatching opportunities, historical stones, and play areas including slides and shaded rest zones—ideal for relaxing together in nature.

The Silifke Ruins are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays. Admission is 25 TRY for adults, with half-price tickets for students upon presentation of valid ID. It’s recommended to book e-tickets in advance via the official website to avoid queues. On-site facilities include multilingual audio guides and free Chinese-language brochures, helping visitors explore each structure’s historical significance.

Try Kadriye Café, a hidden gem tucked in the old town alleyways, renowned for its freshly baked bread and local honey. Their signature breakfast platter features smoked salmon, tomato and feta toast, and freshly squeezed orange juice, served in a lush garden setting. The café champions sustainability, sourcing all ingredients from nearby farms—perfect for a genuine start to your day in Turkey.