Things To Do
in Malatya
Malatya is a city in Eastern Anatolia known for its apricots and ancient heritage. It sits along the Melet River with a backdrop of hills and a long history from Hittite and Urartian to Seljuk and Ottoman eras. The old Battalgazi neighborhood and the modern city center offer a mix of markets, mosques, and riverfront parks.
Visitors can sample apricot-themed cuisine, explore archaeological sites, and use Malatya as a gateway to nearby canyon landscapes and highland scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the historic Malatya Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Stroll through the vibrant streets of the city center, soaking in the local culture and architecture. Stop by a traditional Turkish tea house to sip on some fresh tea and sample local pastries.
Visit the Malatya Museum, which houses artifacts from the region's rich history, including relics from the Roman and Byzantine periods. Afterward, indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the local kebab restaurants, famous for their unique flavors and spices. Explore the bustling local bazaar, where you can shop for handmade crafts and local delicacies.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the Tohma River, taking in the serene environment. Dine at a traditional restaurant that serves regional specialties like Malatya’s famous apricot dishes. End your evening with a visit to a local café to enjoy some Turkish coffee and engage with locals.
Start your day with a visit to one of Malatya's famous apricot orchards, where you can learn about the cultivation process of the region's prized fruit. Participate in an apricot-picking experience, letting you engage with local farmers and understand their traditions. Enjoy a fresh apricot snack while surrounded by lush greenery.
Head to a nearby village to witness the traditional drying process of apricots, a crucial part of the local economy. Enjoy a rustic lunch featuring apricot-based dishes, such as apricot pilaf or apricot jam. Spend some time exploring the village, interacting with the locals and learning about their lifestyle.
Return to Malatya and unwind at a local park, where you can enjoy the sunset amidst beautiful gardens. For dinner, try a local dish called 'kuru fasulye' (beans) paired with rice, a beloved staple in Turkish cuisine. Conclude your day by visiting a lively tea garden to experience the local social scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km) | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-70 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich apricot heritage and flavorful cuisine
- Historic old town and riverfront scenery
- Good day-trip base for nearby sights and nature
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Turkish cities
- Hot summers can be very hot
- Some attractions are farther away requiring longer drives
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İyi günler" - Have a nice day
- "Hava nasıl?" - How's the weather?
Places to Visit in Malatya
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruins with city views, especially sunrises over the plain and the Melet River.
Timber-framed houses and narrow lanes ideal for atmospheric architectural photography.
Interesting façade and the plaza; good for dusk photography.
River scenes, bridges, and parks suitable for sunset shots.
Food in Malatya
Malatya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bean stew with apricot glaze, a unique Malatya twist on a classic dish.
Must-Try!
A tangy yogurt- and grain-based soup popular in the region.
Stuffed bulgur croquettes often served with herb sauce.
Sweet treats featuring dried apricots and apricot jam common in Malatya.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering apricots, dried fruits, spices, and local snacks.
Street stalls with fresh produce and simple grilled foods by the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Guests are offered tea; accept politely and respond with thanks.
Modest dress in religious sites; remove shoes if required; greet with a handshake and a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Malatya
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated in restaurants (5-10% if service is good); small tips for taxis and bar staff.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities; cash is useful in markets; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming apricots in April; great for outdoor exploration.
Hot days; plan early morning or late afternoon outdoor activities; stay hydrated.
Pleasant days; harvest season; colors in rural landscapes and orchards.
Cold with occasional snow; some attractions may have reduced hours; indoor museums are good options.
Malatya at Night
Hiking in Malatya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate ridge walk just outside the city with views over farmland and distant mountains; best in spring and autumn.
A canyon hike in the surrounding hills featuring shaded paths and seasonal streams; suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Malatya by plane.
Main airport serving Malatya; connected to Istanbul and other major cities; taxis and shuttles available to the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; diverse urban culture.
A significant minority in eastern Turkey, contributing to local culture and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport with local clubs and casual play; matches can be observed in city stadiums.
Active local leagues and school-level competitions; games in sports halls around the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malatya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes rely on meat; look for lentil soups, vegetable meze, and pide or mezze made with vegetables; ask for olive oil-based preparations.