Things To Do
in Şarkışla

Şarkışla is a charming district in Turkey, located in the province of Sivas. Known for its rich history, the area features several historical sites and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. The local culture is vibrant, showcasing traditional Turkish hospitality.

With its blend of modernity and tradition, Şarkışla offers visitors a unique and authentic experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical and Cultural Sights
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Şarkışla Mosque, an iconic architectural landmark dating back to the Ottoman period. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local cafe.

afternoon
:

Explore the local bazaar where you can shop for handicrafts and traditional textiles. Visit the historical tomb of Şeyh Hamid-i Veli, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant serving authentic Turkish cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk in the town center to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Take a morning hike at the nearby mountains, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit a local food market to sample fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional snacks. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy your evening at a local tea garden, sipping traditional Turkish tea while watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🥖Street food snack$1
🚍Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Friendly locals and excellent hospitality
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Şarkışla

Visit one of these nice places.

Şarkışla Mosque

A stunning example of Ottoman architecture, this mosque offers beautiful photo opportunities both inside and out.

Tomb of Şeyh Hamid-i Veli

An important historical site, perfect for capturing the intricate stonework and tranquil surroundings.

Local Bazaar

A vibrant scene filled with colorful stalls and local life, ideal for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Şarkışla

Şarkışla offers a delightful culinary experience with its mix of traditional Turkish flavors and local specialties. Visitors can expect to find a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty.

Şarkışla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebap

A popular dish made from marinated meat, grilled to perfection, often served with rice and salad.

Must-Try!

Mantı

Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, usually topped with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Şarkışla Bazaar

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

Climate Guide

Weather

Şarkışla experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can soar to 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, averaging around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is crucial in Turkish culture; greetings should be polite and courteous.

Dress Modestly

While Şarkışla is relatively liberal, it's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Hospitality

Expect warm hospitality; it is polite to accept offers of tea or food when visiting someone's home.

Safety Guide

Safety

Şarkışla is generally safe for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard travel precautions apply, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Şarkışla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also usable in many establishments. Ensure you have some cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and dry weather; carry water and sunscreen for outdoor excursions, and enjoy refreshing local beverages.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make this a picturesque time to visit the region.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter can be a quieter time to visit, perfect for cozy indoor experiences and enjoying warm local dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Şarkışla at Night

Şarkışla's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities. Most locals gather in tea gardens and cafes for socializing in the evenings. Occasionally, there are local events or festivals that provide entertainment, but bars and nightclubs are limited.

Hiking in Şarkışla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kızılkaya Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for all skill levels.

Çamlık Nature Park

This park features various hiking paths through lush greenery and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Airports

How to reach Şarkışla by plane.

Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport

Located approximately 70 km from Şarkışla, this airport connects the region to major Turkish cities with domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Şarkışla is fairly walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the community is friendly towards pedestrians. However, some areas may require transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Locals

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Turks, who maintain traditional customs and lifestyles.

Students

Due to the presence of educational institutions, there is a significant student population, contributing to the town's vibrancy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Şarkışla, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling events are celebrated, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Şarkışla is generally light, with most people using cars or walking for transportation. Public buses connect the town with surrounding areas and are an affordable option for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Şarkışla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff about ingredients.

Halal Food

Most food in Şarkışla adheres to halal standards, making it accessible for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Şarkışla include local clinics and a hospital. Basic medical services are available, but for specialized care, traveling to Sivas city may be necessary. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical services in Turkey.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide