Things To Do
in Aralık
Aralık is a small town in eastern Turkey near the Iğdır Province and the Aras River. It blends agricultural life with local markets and hillside views that overlook flat plains. Visitors can experience warm hospitality and traditional Turkish cuisine in a compact town with easy access to nearby natural scenery.
The climate is continental, with hot summers and cold winters, making each season distinct for exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where fairy chimneys and unique rock formations create a breathtaking skyline. Following your descent, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast in a cave restaurant, complete with fresh bread, olives, cheeses, and honey. Take some time to explore the charming town of Göreme and its local shops before heading out for more adventures.
Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient rock-cut churches adorned with beautiful frescoes await your discovery. After immersing yourself in history, embark on a hike through the Ihlara Valley, where the lush canyon contrasts beautifully with Cappadocia's dry landscape. Stop along the way to appreciate the serene environment and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
As the sun sets, head to a panoramic viewpoint for breathtaking views across the valleys of Cappadocia, making for perfect photo opportunities. Later, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Turkish dishes, like Testi Kebab, slow-cooked in a clay pot. Conclude your evening with a relaxing stroll under the starlit sky, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this magical region.
Begin your day at the iconic Hagia Sophia, marveling at its stunning architecture and rich history as an ancient church and mosque. Afterward, continue to the nearby Blue Mosque, where the intricate tile work and peaceful courtyard invite you to reflect. Take a moment to enjoy a cup of simit (Turkish bagel) from a nearby vendor as you soak in the sights of Sultanahmet Square.
Explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, where you can haggle for spices, textiles, and souvenirs, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. After a few hours of shopping, visit the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and discover its lavish rooms and beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to try authentic Turkish delights and baklava from the palace café.
As night falls, take a cruise on the Bosphorus to admire Istanbul's skyline from the water, with illuminated mosques and palaces reflecting on the waves. After your cruise, savor dinner in a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the boats drift by. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a traditional Turkish bath for a rejuvenating experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of tea or coffee | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🧀Grocery basket (weekly) | $20-40 |
| 🚎Public transport one-way | $0.20-0.60 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and authentic regional cuisine
- Accessible short getaways to nature and viewpoints
- Low-key nightlife and relaxed pace in a small town
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist facilities than bigger cities
- Winter travel can be challenging due to icy roads
- Fewer major attractions; best for a cultural and rural experience
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where are you?
- "Hava durumu nasıl?" - What's the weather like?
- "Bu, güvenli mi?" - Is this area safe?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the restroom?
- "İyi günler" - Have a good day
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help?
Places to Visit in Aralık
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful facades, narrow lanes, and daily life scenes make for authentic urban photography in the early morning or late afternoon.
Wide river views with soft light at sunrise or sunset; a tranquil spot for wide landscape shots and reflections.
Historic courtyard and stonework offer moody portraits and architectural detail shots.
Elevated vantage point for sweeping views of the plains, hills, and distant Caucasus foothills.
Food in Aralık
Aralık Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich lamb or beef dish slowly browned in its own fat, usually served with rice or bulgur.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced meat cooked on a vertical spit, commonly served with flatbread and fresh salads.
Savory Turkish flatbread filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes, prepared fresh at local eateries.
A refreshing yogurt-based drink lightly salted, perfect with heavy meals and hot days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where locals buy produce, dairy, grains, and regional snacks; great place to sample fresh bread and local treats.
Seasonal stalls offering gözleme, simit, ayran, and roasted nuts; ideal for a quick, inexpensive bite while wandering the streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake or cheek kiss among acquaintances; offering tea to guests is a sign of hospitality. It’s polite to accept a small drink and offer thanks.
Dress modestly in religious sites and respectful areas; remove shoes when required in mosques or certain homes and occasions.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or rural settings; avoid controversial topics in initial conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Aralık
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual cafes, rounding up the bill is common. For full-service restaurants, a 5-10% tip is customary if a service charge is not included.
Cash is widely accepted in rural areas; many establishments in town accept credit/debit cards, and ATMs are available in the center. Some smaller shops may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and dry skies; bring sun protection and water. Perfect for long riverfront walks, hillside viewpoints at sunset, and late-evening market strolls.
Cold temperatures and potential snowfall; several roads can be icy. Pack warm layers, and enjoy indoor markets, hot tea, and serene snowy landscapes if conditions allow.
Mild days with blooming landscapes; a great time for outdoor hikes and photography along the Aras River and foothills.
Cool, crisp air with harvest markets and colorful skies; ideal for walks, photography, and savoring seasonal dishes.
Aralık at Night
Hiking in Aralık
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside route through plains and gentle hills, suitable for a half-day hike and photography.
Access to higher elevations with views of the surrounding landscape; suitable for day hikes with proper gear.
Shorter trails near the region's foothills offering forest and open-sky scenery.
Airports
How to reach Aralık by plane.
Domestic flights connecting to major Turkish cities; convenient for travelers heading to Aralık.
Serves regional routes; a practical alternative with road connections to Aralık.
Larger airport farther away but with more flight options; accessible by road or domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the town and surrounding region.
Smaller communities exist in the broader Iğdır region, contributing to regional culture and language diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally, with local clubs and informal matches throughout the year.
Traditional and modern styles engage in regional events and community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aralık.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in most eateries; look for lentil soups (mercimek çorbası), vegetable stews, and salads. Clearly communicate ingredients in soups or sauces if you have dietary restrictions.