Things To Do
in Şarkışla
Şarkışla is a historic town in Sivas Province, Central Anatolia, Turkey. It sits on the broad plains, framed by gentle hills and expansive farmland. The town is known for its traditional markets, Ottoman-era architecture, and warm hospitality from locals.
Visitors come to experience rural Anatolian life, savor simple, flavorful dishes, and use the area as a base for easy nature day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the charming streets of Şarkışla's historic center, where ancient architecture meets vibrant local life. Visit the impressive Şarkışla Mosque, taking in its intricate designs and learning about its historical significance. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast, savoring fresh bread, olives, and strong tea.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the local culture by visiting the Şarkışla Museum, which showcases artifacts from the region's rich history. Afterward, explore the local market, where you can interact with friendly vendors and find unique handicrafts and fresh produce. Treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling regional specialties like manti (Turkish dumplings) and gözleme.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic walk along the banks of the nearby river, taking in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. For dinner, choose a local restaurant that offers traditional Turkish cuisine, pairing your meal with a glass of local wine. End your night with a cultural performance, if available, to experience the music and dance of the region.
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby mountains, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views of the landscape. The crisp morning air invigorates your senses as you trek along well-marked trails, stopping to admire the diverse flora and fauna. After your hike, find a picturesque spot for a peaceful picnic, enjoying homemade snacks while soaking in the serenity of nature.
Continue your nature exploration by visiting a nearby lake, perfect for birdwatching and relaxing by the water's edge. Bring along a book to enjoy in this tranquil setting or take a kayak out for a gentle paddle on the lake. As afternoon turns to evening, collect some wildflowers to take back as a memory of this beautiful day.
Return to Şarkışla in the evening and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant known for its kebabs, where you can savor the smoky flavors of grilled meats. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the town square, enjoying the local nightlife and perhaps indulging in some ice cream.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
| 🚎Local transportation (per day) | $3-8 |
| 🧺Groceries or fresh produce | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and friendly locals
- Affordable prices and straightforward cuisine
- Wide, open landscapes ideal for day trips
- Quiet, authentic atmosphere away from crowds
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Sparse tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Public transport between towns can be infrequent
- Very hot summers and cold winters require seasonal planning
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Burası nerede?" - Where is this place?
- "İngilizce konuşur musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check please
Places to Visit in Şarkışla
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of town with traditional facades and daily life; best in early morning or at dusk for warm light.
Narrow lanes and preserved stone houses offer intimate street photography with characterful textures.
Open landscapes with expansive skies; a great spot for wide-angle shots of the horizon.
Colorful stalls, local crafts, and interactive scenes with vendors—ideal for candid photography.
Food in Şarkışla
Şarkışla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Turkish dumplings topped with garlic yogurt and spicy oil; widely available in local lokantas.
Must-Try!
Meat cooked in a wide iron pan with peppers and onions, typically enjoyed with bread or pilaf.
A comforting yogurt- and grain-based soup, perfect for cooler evenings.
A staple grain dish served as a side with meat or as a vegetarian main, featuring seasonal vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, dairy, honey, textiles, and household goods; best explored in the morning.
Simple bites like gözleme, simit, and ayran from small roadside stalls—great for a quick, authentic bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; address elders with warmth and politeness. In mosques, dress modestly and remove shoes where required; ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Şarkışla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leave about 5-10% if service is not included; staff in cafes and teahouses also appreciate small tips.
Turkish Lira is standard; many places accept cards in town, but smaller eateries and markets may be cash-only. Always ask if you’re unsure and carry some cash for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long days. Hydration is essential; seek shade during peak sun, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days and cooler evenings; harvest season brings plenty of fresh produce and pleasant walking weather.
Cold with potential snowfall; some rural roads may be affected. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor markets and cafes.
Mild and often rainy, with blooming landscapes. Attractive for walking routes, but bring a light rain jacket.
Şarkışla at Night
Hiking in Şarkışla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, easy-to-moderate loop through farmland, hedgerows, and small streams; 2-4 hours depending on pace.
A more challenging route to a hill overlook with panoramic plains views; 3-5 hours.
Airports
How to reach Şarkışla by plane.
Approximately 70-90 km from Şarkışla; domestic flights with road or bus connections to town.
About 150-180 km away; good for international and domestic connections; drive or take a bus.
Around 300 km away; longer drive but access to international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of multi-generational households in a largely rural setting.
Producers of dairy, grains, and crafts; often friendly and talkative.
Some residents travel to Sivas or Kayseri for higher education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular local sport; community games and amateur leagues are common.
Part of regional culture and occasional local events.
Rural trails and family farms offer beginner-friendly riding opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şarkışla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can rely on bulgur pilavı, lentil and chickpea dishes, yogurt-based soups, fresh vegetables, and cheeses. When ordering, ask for olive oil instead of animal fats, and verify no meat stock is used in broths or sauces.