Things To Do
in Aksaray
Aksaray is a historical city located in central Turkey, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. It serves as a gateway to the Cappadocia region, offering unique rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. The city is a blend of modernity and tradition, featuring bustling bazaars and historical sites.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, explore nearby attractions, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the residents.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Aksaray Archaeological Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history and view ancient artifacts.
Head to the Sultanhanı Caravanserai, an impressive historical site offering insight into the Silk Road's past. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local kebab shop.
Stroll through the local bazaar, where you can shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs, and end your day with a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant.
Visit the Ihlara Valley for a scenic hike, where you can appreciate the stunning canyon views and explore ancient rock-cut churches.
After hiking, return to Aksaray and visit the Grand Mosque, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, then enjoy a relaxing evening at a local café, sipping Turkish tea or coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10-$20 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-$3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $3-$5 |
| 🥖Simit (street food) | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30-$50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage.
- Stunning natural landscapes nearby.
- Warm and hospitable local people.
- Limited nightlife options.
- Public transportation may not be as frequent.
- Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Hoşça kal" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Aksaray
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque canyon with stunning rock formations and ancient churches, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
This medieval caravanserai is an architectural marvel, perfect for capturing the essence of historical Silk Road trade.
An impressive mosque with beautiful architecture and intricate details, providing a serene backdrop for photography.
Food in Aksaray
Aksaray Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique dish cooked in a sealed clay pot, filled with tender meat and vegetables, and served freshly baked.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce, a local favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies, perfect for sampling street food.
Vendors selling simit, a sesame-covered bread, are common and a must-try snack while exploring the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common; when meeting women, wait for them to extend their hand first.
In religious sites, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Turks are known for their hospitality; it's polite to accept offers of tea or coffee when visiting someone's home.
Safety
Tipping in Aksaray
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill. It's also appreciated in cafes and for guides.
Most establishments accept cash (Turkish Lira) and credit cards; however, it's advisable to have some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time to explore outdoor attractions and enjoy the scenery.
Expect hot weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), making it perfect for early morning or late afternoon excursions.
Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors create a picturesque setting for hiking and sightseeing.
Cold weather with occasional snowfall; this season offers a unique charm, especially in historical sites.
Aksaray at Night
Hiking in Aksaray
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 14 km trail along the Melendiz River, featuring unique geological formations and ancient churches carved into the rocks.
A beautiful hiking area with stunning rock formations, lush landscapes, and small cave churches; perfect for a day of exploration.
Airports
How to reach Aksaray by plane.
Located approximately 70 km from Aksaray, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for international travelers heading to the Cappadocia region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population consists of Turkish citizens, reflecting the rich cultural and historical background of the region.
Aksaray attracts both domestic and international tourists, especially those visiting nearby Cappadocia and its unique landscapes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Aksaray, with local teams competing in regional leagues. Community games are a common social event.
Traditional Turkish wrestling is a celebrated sport, often showcased during local festivals and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aksaray.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat-based broths in soups and stews.
Most local eateries serve halal food, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.