Things To Do
in Burdur

Burdur is a charming city located in southwestern Turkey, known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. It is surrounded by beautiful lakes, including Lake Burdur, which is famous for its unique ecosystem. The city is steeped in history, with ancient ruins and traditional architecture that reflect its cultural heritage.

Burdur serves as a gateway to many archaeological sites and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist hotspots.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Burdur's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Burdur Museum, which houses extensive collections of artifacts from the region's ancient civilizations.

afternoon
:

Head to the ancient city of Termessos, located just outside of Burdur, to explore its ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in regional cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk around Lake Burdur to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the stunning Salda Lake, often referred to as the 'Turkish Maldives,' where you can swim and enjoy the white sandy beaches.

afternoon
:

Return to Burdur and explore the local markets, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and sample street food.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy café in the city center and experience traditional Turkish tea before heading back to your accommodation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
🍕Fast food combo meal$5
Coffee at a café$2
🚌Public transportation ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Less tourist infrastructure than major cities.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Burdur

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Burdur

A breathtaking lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes and sunsets.

Termessos Ruins

Ancient ruins set high in the mountains, offering dramatic backdrops for photography.

Salda Lake

Known for its turquoise waters and white sandy shores, this location provides unique photographic opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Burdur

Burdur offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the region's rich agricultural heritage and local flavors. Visitors can indulge in traditional dishes and explore vibrant food markets.

Burdur Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Burdur Kebab

A local specialty made with marinated meat, grilled to perfection and served with rice and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Burdur Yoghurt

Famous for its rich and creamy texture, often served with meals or as a refreshing side dish.

Gözleme

A traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or minced meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Burdur Market

An open-air market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options like simit and döner.

Climate Guide

Weather

Burdur experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F), while winters average around 5°C (41°F) with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local customs.

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone, but in more traditional settings, a nod or slight bow may be more appropriate.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and it's polite to compliment the food.

Safety Guide

Safety

Burdur is generally a safe destination for travelers. Standard precautions should be followed, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Local authorities are friendly and helpful, and emergency services are accessible.

Tipping in Burdur

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Expect hot weather, perfect for enjoying the lakes and outdoor dining, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create a picturesque setting for exploring the region.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snowfall can be experienced; it's a quiet time to visit, ideal for those seeking solitude.

Nightlife Guide

Burdur at Night

Burdur's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities. The local scene includes cozy cafés and a few bars where you can enjoy traditional music and drinks. Most places close early, so it's a good idea to start your evening early and soak in the local atmosphere.

Hiking in Burdur

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Köprülü Canyon Trail

A beautiful trail that winds through the Köprülü Canyon, offering stunning views and opportunities for adventure.

Mount Aydınlar Trail

This challenging hike leads to the summit of Mount Aydınlar, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Burdur by plane.

Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport

Located approximately 35 km from Burdur, this airport offers domestic flights and is the closest major airport to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Burdur is a walkable city with a compact center where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but be cautious of traffic in certain areas. It's easy to explore the city on foot and enjoy its charming streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Citizens

The majority of Burdur's population is ethnically Turkish, with a rich cultural heritage that influences local customs and traditions.

Students

Burdur is home to a university, attracting a diverse group of students from different regions of Turkey and abroad.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Burdur, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a following among the youth, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Burdur is manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses and dolmuş (shared taxis) that connect various parts of the city. Walking is encouraged for short distances due to the city's compact layout.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Burdur.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it is advisable to ask about ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Halal Food

Most food in Burdur is halal, but it's always good to confirm with the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Burdur is accessible, with public hospitals and private clinics available. Emergency services are reliable, and many healthcare professionals speak some English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide