Things To Do
in Ağlasun
Ağlasun is a small highland town in Burdur Province, nestled among pine covered hills of the Taurus foothills. It serves as a gateway to ancient Sagalassos and a tranquil base for exploring lakes, valleys, and rural villages. The town preserves traditional stone houses and a calm, slow-paced atmosphere perfect for culture and nature lovers.
Visitors come for archaeology, scenic landscapes, and warm Turkish hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Sagalassos, where you can marvel at the impressive ruins that date back to the Roman period. As the sun rises, the golden light casts a beautiful glow over the amphitheater and the stunning statues that have stood the test of time. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history and architectural significance of this archaeological site.
After exploring the ruins, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. Consider hiking to the nearby thermal springs, where you can soak in the warm waters and relax amidst the tranquil scenery. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos as you discover hidden paths and picturesque viewpoints.
As the day winds down, return to Ağlasun and enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like kebabs and mezes. Engage with the friendly locals and perhaps learn how to make a traditional Turkish dessert. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through the charming streets, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the town.
Begin your morning with an invigorating nature walk in the nearby forests, where you can immerse yourself in the rich flora and fauna of the region. Bring your binoculars to spot native birds, such as the Eurasian hoopoe and the golden oriole, as you wander through the lush greenery. The fresh air and gentle sounds of nature will energize your spirit.
Head to the Ağlasun Lake for a delightful afternoon of relaxation and exploration, where you can enjoy a picnic by the water's edge. Engage in bird watching or simply take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoying the serene reflections and vibrant surroundings. You can also rent a kayak to paddle across the calm waters and get a different perspective of the landscape.
In the evening, return to town and visit a local café to sample some Turkish tea or coffee while enjoying the sunset views. This is a great opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. If you're feeling social, join a group of locals for a game of backgammon or just engage in friendly conversation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥙Lunch in a mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🎟️Entrance to Sagalassos ruins | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich archaeology and impressive ruins nearby
- Beautiful landscapes and quiet village life
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Rural transport can be infrequent outside peak season
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check, please
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Beni yönlendirebilir misiniz?" - Can you guide me?
Places to Visit in Ağlasun
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive ruin with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, ideal for dramatic wide shots at golden hour.
Cobblestone lanes and traditional stone houses provide textured foregrounds for street photography.
Calm waters and reed beds create reflective compositions during sunset and early morning light.
Panoramic overlook over the Taurus foothills perfect for panoramic landscape shots.
Rural village scenes with whitewashed walls and wooden doors ideal for portraits and detail shots.
Food in Ağlasun
Ağlasun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small dumplings filled with spiced meat and topped with yogurt and garlic sauce.
Must-Try!
Creamy wheat and meat dish slow cooked to a comforting, hearty consistency.
Slow roasted meat served with rustic bread and fresh salad.
A stuffed flatbread cooked on a griddle, often with cheese and greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, local cheeses, olives, honey, and handcrafted goods on market days.
Casual stalls offering hot gözleme and other quick, local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple Merhaba or Selam is polite; handshake is common in formal situations.
Dress modestly in rural areas and when visiting mosques; remove hats in sacred spaces unless advised otherwise.
Ask permission before photographing people; be respectful in religious or private settings.
Hospitality is important; accept tea or coffee when offered and engage with locals graciously.
Safety
Tipping in Ağlasun
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in restaurants is common but not mandatory; 5-10% is appreciated for good service. Small tips for guides or drivers are also customary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns; keep some cash for markets and smaller shops; ATMs are available in larger villages.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooler nights; carry water and sun protection. Expect clear skies and long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor exploring but take midday breaks.
Mild temperatures with wildflowers in bloom; great for hiking and photography with lush landscapes.
Harvest season with colorful foliage; comfortable daily highs and cooler evenings, perfect for countryside strolls.
Cold and occasionally snowy; some mountain roads can close; pack warm clothing and layers; quiet towns with cozy cafes.
Ağlasun at Night
Hiking in Ağlasun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hillside routes linking ruins with scenic overlook points.
Waterfront and forest trails along Kovada Lake ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Short ascent to a high viewpoint offering expansive valley panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Ağlasun by plane.
Major international gateway to the region with frequent domestic connections; travel by road or bus to Ağlasun.
Domestic and limited international flights; easier drive for shorter trips to the Burdur region.
Regional airport with some seasonal international flights; further by road to Ağlasun.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish-speaking families with a mix of farmers and artisans; aging population in rural areas.
Some influx of seasonal workers and visitors during harvests and tourism peak times.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns and schools, with local teams and informal matches common in parks and fields.
The surrounding Taurus foothills provide frequent opportunities for day hikes and nature walks.
Scenic rural routes suit road cycling and mountain biking for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ağlasun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on olive oil based dishes, vegetables, legumes, cheeses, and bread; ask for dishes like mercimek çorbası (lentil soup) or börek with greens.