Things To Do
in Nallıhan

Nallıhan, located in the Ankara Province of Turkey, is a charming town celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled in a valley, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the Sakarya River. The town is known for its unique pottery and carpets, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship of the region.

Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy local delicacies, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Nallıhan Bird Paradise, a nature reserve where you can observe various bird species in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Nallıhan Pottery Workshops to see local artisans at work and learn about the traditional pottery-making process.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll along the Sakarya River, taking in the picturesque sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start with a visit to the historical Nallıhan Castle, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets and sample street food, then visit the nearby Sakarya River for a relaxing afternoon by the water.

evening
:

Dine at a recommended local eatery and immerse yourself in the local music scene with a visit to a cafe featuring traditional Turkish music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚖Taxi Ride$5
🏨Night at a Hotel$30
🛒Groceries (Weekly)$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport may be sparse
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nerede?" - Where is?
  • "Evet" - Yes

Places to Visit in Nallıhan

Visit one of these nice places.

Nallıhan Bird Paradise

A breathtaking nature reserve perfect for capturing the beauty of local wildlife.

Nallıhan Castle

Offers stunning panoramic views ideal for landscape photography.

Sakarya River

The riverbanks provide picturesque scenery, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nallıhan

Nallıhan offers a delightful array of traditional Turkish cuisine that reflects its cultural heritage. Visitors can indulge in local specialties and experience the vibrant food scene.

Nallıhan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nallıhan Kebab

A local variation of kebab, marinated with unique spices and grilled to perfection.

Must-Try!

Manti

Turkish dumplings stuffed with meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Gözleme

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nallıhan Local Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food.

Street Vendors

Enjoy delicious gözleme and simit from vendors along the main streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nallıhan experiences a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are mild, offering pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Rainfall is most common in spring and autumn, while summer is typically dry and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common; addressing people with respect is important.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and it's polite to finish all the food on your plate.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nallıhan is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Be cautious when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, ensuring you are prepared for changing weather conditions.

Tipping in Nallıhan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and most establishments also accept credit cards, though it's good to carry some cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

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

Summer

Hot and dry weather; perfect for enjoying river activities and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, great for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold winters with occasional snowfall; enjoy cozy indoor activities and traditional winter dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Nallıhan at Night

Nallıhan's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, but there are a few local cafes and bars where you can enjoy traditional Turkish music and dance. Many places offer live performances on weekends, providing an authentic experience of local culture. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Nallıhan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sakarya River Trail

A scenic hiking trail that follows the Sakarya River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for bird watching.

Nallıhan Nature Park

Features various trails through diverse landscapes, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Nallıhan by plane.

Esenboğa Airport (ESB)

Located about 130 km from Nallıhan, this is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nallıhan is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from the town center. The streets are generally flat and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some outdoor areas and hiking trails may require transportation to access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Residents

The majority of Nallıhan's population are Turkish citizens, known for their hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Tourists

Visitors from various countries come to explore Nallıhan's unique attractions, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

A popular sport in Nallıhan, with local teams and community support.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling is celebrated in the region, with events held during local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nallıhan is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include minibusses and shared taxis, which connect to nearby towns and cities. However, during peak times, roads can become congested, especially near market areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nallıhan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; be sure to ask restaurant staff for options.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire at restaurants for suitable dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nallıhan are adequate for basic needs, with a local hospital and several clinics available. For more serious health issues, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Ankara, where more advanced medical services are available.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide