Things To Do
in Eğirdir

Eğirdir is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Eğirdir in southwestern Turkey. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it offers a blend of historical sites and outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by mountains and lush landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

With its charming streets, local markets, and hospitable residents, Eğirdir provides a unique glimpse into Turkish culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Eğirdir
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local cafe, followed by a leisurely walk along the shore of Lake Eğirdir to enjoy the serene views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Eğirdir Castle, exploring its ancient walls and enjoying panoramic views of the town and lake. Afterward, stroll through the local market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and local produce.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh fish dishes while watching the sunset over the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike to the nearby Sütçüler Plateau to experience breathtaking views and the rich flora and fauna of the region.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn more about the history and culture of Eğirdir and its surrounding areas. Afterward, take some time to enjoy a coffee in one of the town's quaint cafes.

evening
:

Join a local cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes, followed by a communal dinner where you can share your culinary creations.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚍Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel (per night)$40
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Eğirdir

Visit one of these nice places.

Eğirdir Lake

Capture the stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and sky in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Eğirdir, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Eğirdir Castle

The ancient castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and lake, making it a perfect spot for landscape photography.

Sütçüler Plateau

A great location for nature shots, featuring diverse flora and stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Eğirdir

Eğirdir offers a delightful culinary experience, with unique local dishes and vibrant food markets that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Eğirdir Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Eğirdir Fish

Freshly caught fish from Lake Eğirdir, often grilled and served with seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Gözleme

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Eğirdir Market

A bustling market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Eğirdir has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

While Eğirdir is more relaxed than larger cities, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially in religious sites.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common for greetings, and it's polite to greet everyone in a group.

Hospitality

Turkish culture emphasizes hospitality; if invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift.

Safety Guide

Safety

Eğirdir is considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. The local police are approachable if you need assistance.

Tipping in Eğirdir

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included, and rounding up is appreciated in cafes.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many establishments also accept credit cards. ATMs are available in the town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Summer can be hot, especially in July and August, but it's perfect for swimming and enjoying lakeside activities.

Autumn

Autumn features cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for scenic drives and photography.

Winter

Winter in Eğirdir can be quite cold, with occasional snow, providing a different perspective of the landscape and opportunities for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Eğirdir at Night

Eğirdir has a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily focused on cafes and restaurants. While there are not many bars, you can find spots along the lake where locals gather in the evenings. Some places offer live music, and it's common to see families enjoying leisurely dinners outdoors as the sun sets.

Hiking in Eğirdir

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kızıldağ National Park Trail

A scenic trail within the national park, offering diverse landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Mavikent Trail

This trail provides stunning views of Lake Eğirdir and the surrounding mountains, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Eğirdir by plane.

Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Eğirdir, this airport offers domestic flights and connections to major cities in Turkey.

Getting Around

Walkability

Eğirdir is quite walkable, especially around the lake and town center. The streets are generally flat, making it easy to explore on foot. Many attractions, cafes, and restaurants are within walking distance, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population consists of Turkish locals, who are known for their hospitality and strong community ties.

Tourists

Eğirdir attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in nature, history, and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Eğirdir, with local teams and matches drawing community support.

Water Sports

Given its proximity to the lake, water sports such as kayaking and sailing are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Eğirdir is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and minibuses that connect to nearby towns and cities. However, most attractions are best explored by walking.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Eğirdir.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients to ensure no meat products are included.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, fresh salads and grilled meats are typically available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Eğirdir include a public hospital and several private clinics. The quality of care is generally good, but for more serious conditions, residents often travel to larger cities like Isparta. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide