Things To Do
in Hacılar
Hacılar is a calm, ascending town in central Anatolia within Kayseri Province. The town sits on rolling plains with views of the Erciyes mountains to the north and lush farmland around. Its streets are lined with traditional stone houses, corner teahouses, and a welcoming, family-run atmosphere.
Visitors come for authentic Anatolian hospitality, easy access to Erciyes and nearby heritage sites, and the chance to sample Kayseri's distinctive cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Hacılar and settle into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the village to absorb the local atmosphere and stunning landscapes. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring fresh bread, olives, and cheese at a nearby café.
Explore the bustling local market where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their daily lives as you meander through the charming streets. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at a local eatery with a view of the surrounding hills.
As the sun sets, enjoy a sumptuous dinner featuring regional specialties like manti (Turkish dumplings) or gözleme (stuffed flatbreads). Relish in the sounds of the village coming alive in the evening. Finally, take a quiet night walk to soak in the peaceful ambiance.
Set out early for a day trip to the enchanting region of Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys. Visit the stunning Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient rock-cut churches. Spend time marveling at the frescoes that illustrate early Christian life.
After exploring the museum, enjoy lunch in a local village, sampling traditional dishes like testi kebab. Continue your adventure with a hot air balloon ride, offering breathtaking views of the surreal landscape. Capture the moment with vivid photographs as you soar high above the valleys.
Return to Hacılar and unwind from the day's excitement. Enjoy a dinner featuring local flavors and watch as the village prepares for the night. Reflect on the day’s adventures and share stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transportation (one-way) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛒Grocery staple basket | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet and authentic Anatolian town experience
- Proximity to Mount Erciyes for hiking and skiing
- Affordable lodging and meals
- Friendly locals and slower pace
- Limited nightlife and English in rural areas
- Smaller selection of high-end dining
- Occasional limited public transport outside the main town
- Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check, please
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help?
- "İyi akşamlar" - Good evening
- "Hoş geldiniz" - Welcome
Places to Visit in Hacılar
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful, weathered facades with morning light in the historic core.
Panoramic shots of the snow-capped peak on clear days.
Candid street photography of vendors, colors, and daily life.
Silhouettes against the evening sky and warm tones.
Reflections and greenery along traditional irrigation channels.
Food in Hacılar
Hacılar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and a paprika-laced sauce; a signature Kayseri dish.
Must-Try!
Long, thin flatbread topped with seasoned ground meat and spices; best hot from a wood-fired oven.
Cured beef sliced thin and often served in mezze or on bread.
Spiced dried sausage commonly enjoyed in slices or in stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, dairy, bread, and regional sweets; best early in the day.
Kebap wraps, gözleme, and simit around the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and handshake; dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes when entering homes or mosques where appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Hacılar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; taxis and guides appreciate small tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with mid-20s to low 30s C; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and seek shade in peak afternoon hours.
Mild days with cooler mornings; ideal for walking and photography as foliage changes.
Cold to chilly with possible snow near Erciyes; pack warm layers and expect occasional travel delays.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor activities and markets.
Hacılar at Night
Hiking in Hacılar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Numerous trails at varying elevations offering panoramic views.
Gentle to moderate trails with farmland scenery and village viewpoints.
Birdwatching and flat trails suitable for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Hacılar by plane.
Small to mid-size international and domestic flights; about 30-40 minutes by car to Hacılar.
Serves domestic flights; longer drive to Hacılar but an option for broader connections.
Major international hub about 3-4 hours by road; used for longer trips if connecting from Ankara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority Turkish families living in a rural-urban blend, with a growing number of students and commuters.
Tourists seeking authentic Anatolian experiences and proximity to Erciyes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most watched and played sport across the region.
Common in schools and local clubs.
Winter sports on Mount Erciyes attract both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hacılar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable dishes, lentils, and salads; ask for olive oil and no meat broths.