Things To Do
in Aksaray

The town market (often held weekly or several days a week) sells fresh seasonal produce, cheeses, olives, spices, and pastries; it’s ideal for sampling local fruits, gözleme stalls and picking up picnic supplies.

Street vendors and tea gardens serve simit, sandwiches, gözleme and strong Turkish tea—perfect for quick, inexpensive snacks while exploring.

Dress modestly when visiting mosques: remove shoes where required, cover shoulders and legs, and women may be asked to cover their heads with a scarf.

Greet with a friendly 'Merhaba' (hello) and use polite phrases—handshakes are common between men and between women; avoid initiating physical contact with the opposite sex in conservative settings.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and older residents; be mindful around private property and places of worship.

People are generally hospitable and may offer tea or conversation; accept politely or decline gently if you do not have time.

In restaurants, leaving a 5–10% tip is appreciated though not always mandatory; round up fares for taxis and tip hotel porters or room service a small amount. For guides and drivers on tours, tipping is customary if service was good.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in city restaurants, hotels and larger shops, but carry Turkish lira cash for small vendors, markets, rural areas and tea gardens. ATMs are available in Aksaray city.

Mild temperatures and blooming fields make spring a pleasant time for hiking and photography; some higher trails may still be cool in early spring, so layers are recommended.

Hot, dry summers with daytime highs often in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F); explore early mornings and evenings, carry water and sun protection, and expect calmer tourist crowds than peak Cappadocia sites.

Crisp, comfortable weather with beautiful autumnal colors in valleys—excellent for outdoor activities and cultural exploration; pack a light jacket for nights.

Cold winters with occasional snow, especially at higher elevations like Mount Hasan; some rural roads and trails may be icy—check conditions and clothing for cold weather if visiting.

A scenic canyon hike along the Melendiz River with several rock-cut churches and easy-to-moderate walking sections; popular for day hikes and photography.

Trails around and up Mount Hasan offer volcanic landscapes and panoramic views; routes vary in difficulty and conditions can change seasonally—guide recommended for summit attempts.

Short hikes and circuits through historic Güzelyurt, with cave dwellings, terraces and local orchards creating photogenic routes.

Paths linking Selime Monastery and parts of the Ihlara area provide varied terrain, ancient sites and opportunities for multi-stop hikes.

About 70–90 km east of Aksaray (approximately 1–1.5 hours by car). Serves domestic flights and some seasonal international charters; convenient for reaching Cappadocia and northern parts of Aksaray province.

Approximately 90–120 km northeast of Aksaray (around 1.5 hours by car). Larger regional airport with frequent domestic connections and more international options; often used by visitors to central Cappadocia and Aksaray.

Around 200 km northwest of Aksaray (roughly 2.5–3 hours by car). Major national and international airport—useful if combining a visit with the capital or if flight options are better.

Approximately 170–200 km to the west (driving times vary). An alternative regional airport with domestic flights and access to western routes toward Konya.