Things To Do
in Burdur
Burdur is a tranquil inland city in southwestern Turkey set against pine-clad hills and the waters of Lake Burdur. The town blends ancient history with a warm, rural ambience, making it a delightful base for exploring nearby archaeological sites and natural scenery. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, with welcoming locals, traditional markets, and scenic viewpoints around the lake.
Visitors can enjoy regional cuisine, museums, and easy day trips to nearby towns and countryside landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Burdur and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Turkish menemen. Take a stroll through the peaceful streets and admire the local architecture.
Explore the quaint Burdur Museum to discover the region's rich history and archaeological treasures. Afterwards, enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional restaurant featuring local dishes. Take some time to walk around the charming town center and shop for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a café and sip on Turkish tea while watching the locals go about their evening routines. Later, dine at a well-known eatery specializing in kebabs, immersing yourself in the flavors of Turkish cuisine. Wind down by visiting a local park for a serene evening stroll.
After breakfast, head to Salda Lake, often dubbed the 'Maldives of Turkey' due to its stunning turquoise waters. Enjoy the scenic drive and capture breathtaking views as you approach the pristine lake. Once there, take a refreshing dip or simply relax on the sandy shores.
Bring a picnic lunch to savor by the lake, surrounded by its natural beauty. In the afternoon, hike around the area to discover the unique flora and fauna, or engage in some water sports. Ensure to take plenty of photos of this stunning landscape.
Return to Burdur and reflect on your day over dinner at a local restaurant. Try the traditional Burdur kebab, a dish famous for its unique taste. Finish the evening with a visit to a local tea house, mingling with the townsfolk.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-80 |
| 🚗Taxi ride within town | $2-7 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and archaeology nearby
- Scenic lake setting with easy day trips
- Affordable and relaxed atmosphere
- Friendly locals and authentic cuisine
- Limited nightlife and urban attractions compared to coastal cities
- Occasional limited English in rural areas
- Some sites may have reduced hours outside peak season
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "İyi günler" - Have a good day
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
Places to Visit in Burdur
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, tranquil lake views framed by rolling hills; best at sunrise or sunset for soft light and reflections.
Historic streets, traditional architecture, and the central clock tower provide atmospheric, postcard-like moments.
Ancient theater, baths, and hillside ruins with panoramic vistas; a compelling backdrop for wide-angle and detail shots.
Evening ambiance along the waterfront with lights, locals gathering, and boat silhouettes on the water.
Food in Burdur
Burdur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A ceremonial wheat and meat stew often served with yogurt; try it at traditional restaurants or village markets.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings topped with yogurt and garlic oil, a staple found in many local eateries.
A rustic shepherd’s salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and olive oil; a refreshing accompaniment to meals.
A comforting chicken broth soup that is commonly enjoyed as a starter in local diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively spot for fresh produce, cheeses, olives, herbs, and seasonal snacks; great for sampling street food options.
Casual stalls near the waterfront offering quick bites like simit, borek, and ayran.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light handshake is common; in more formal settings, a kiss on the cheek may occur among acquaintances. Use a respectful tone and eye contact.
Hospitality is a key value; accepting tea or coffee when offered is common. It is polite to accept and then reciprocate gestures when possible.
Dress modestly at religious sites; remove hats indoors where required; avoid displays of impatience in busy markets.
Safety
Tipping in Burdur
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service is not included. Small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are common.
Turkish Lira is preferred; many places accept cash and cards. ATMs are widely available, but carry some cash for smaller stalls and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming olive groves; ideal for hiking and outdoor markets. Pack layers for cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
Hot and dry; bring sun protection, water, and light clothing. The lake offers refreshing breaks and scenic sunsets.
Comfortable weather with cooler evenings and colorful landscapes; great for photography around the lake and countryside.
Cool to cold, with occasional snow in the hills; some outdoor sites may have limited access but museum visits are a good indoor option.
Burdur at Night
Hiking in Burdur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike through pine forests with occasional glimpses of the ancient ruins and sweeping valley views.
A relatively flat lakeside route perfect for a gradual walk, photography, and sunset views over the water.
Moderate trails that lead to overlooks of the surrounding countryside and historical sites.
Airports
How to reach Burdur by plane.
Major international gateway about a 2.5–3 hour drive from Burdur; good for long-haul connections and domestic flights.
Smaller airport closer to Burdur; serves domestic flights and limited international connections.
Another major hub in the region with a broader flight network; reachable by road via a longer drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families and professionals living in the city center and surrounding neighborhoods.
People from nearby villages and farmland who contribute to markets and local traditions.
Students from regional schools and institutions who add to the youthful, energetic atmosphere in certain areas.
Domestic and international visitors attracted by nature, archaeology, and regional cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular recreational and club sport across the region with local leagues and informal play in parks.
Common in schools and community centers; games and pick-up matches happen in urban areas.
Lake Burdur and nearby waters provide opportunities for swimming and water-based recreation in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burdur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for areas with fresh salads, lentil dishes, pastries, and cheese-based plates. Ask for vegetable-based meze and avoid meat-heavy specialties if needed.