Things To Do
in Savur

Savur is a charming town located in the Mardin province of Turkey, known for its stunning stone architecture and rich history. The town is perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Mesopotamian plains. Savur's narrow streets are lined with traditional houses, reflecting its ancient cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the local markets, historical sites, and engage with the hospitable local community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Savur
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Savur Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas.

afternoon
:

Explore the old town's narrow streets and visit the local mosque and ancient stone houses. Don't miss the local artisans' shops for unique handicrafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes while enjoying the serene atmosphere of the town.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby hills to experience the natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby village to experience traditional Turkish rural life and sample homemade delicacies.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or folk dance performance if available, to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$8
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$3
🏨Hotel (per night)$30
🚌Public transportation ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and hospitable local community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
  • Some attractions may require advance planning to access.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Savur

Visit one of these nice places.

Savur Castle

An ancient castle providing stunning panoramic views of the town and landscape, perfect for sunset photography.

Old Town Streets

The narrow, winding streets lined with stone houses create a picturesque backdrop for capturing the essence of Savur.

Mesopotamian Plains

From the hills surrounding Savur, the vast plains below offer a striking contrast of colors and textures for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Savur

Savur offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Savur Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebap

Grilled meats marinated in local spices, often served with fresh bread and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Manti

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

Dolma

Vegetables stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices, often served as appetizers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Savur Street Market

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

Climate Guide

Weather

Savur experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can exceed 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). Rain falls mainly in the winter months, with spring and autumn providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is customary when meeting someone.

Dress Modestly

While Savur is relatively liberal, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect towards older individuals is an important cultural norm.

Safety Guide

Safety

Savur is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, typical precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings are recommended. It is wise to stay informed about local customs and follow any advisories issued by local authorities.

Tipping in Savur

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and cafes; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in larger establishments.

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 and exploring.

Summer

Expect hot weather; plan to visit historical sites early in the morning or later in the evening.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors provide a picturesque setting for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures can occur; dress warmly, as some attractions may be less accessible due to weather conditions.

Nightlife Guide

Savur at Night

Savur's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few cafes and restaurants offering evening entertainment. Traditional music and dance performances may be available, especially during local festivals. Most locals enjoy socializing in small groups rather than in large clubs, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

Hiking in Savur

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mardin Hills Trail

A scenic trail that winds through the hills surrounding Mardin, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Hasankeyf Trail

A more challenging hike that leads to the ancient town of Hasankeyf, enriched with historical significance and stunning landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Savur by plane.

Mardin Airport (MQM)

Located approximately 90 km from Savur, Mardin Airport serves domestic flights and connects to major Turkish cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Savur is quite walkable, with many attractions within close proximity to each other. The narrow streets are pedestrian-friendly, although some areas may have uneven surfaces. Walking allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems throughout the town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurdish Community

The majority of the population identifies as Kurdish, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Arab Community

There is also a significant Arab population, adding to the diversity in traditions, cuisine, and customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with many local teams and passionate fans.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling events are held during festivals and are an important part of local culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Savur is minimal, with the town being small and easily navigable on foot. Public transportation options include minibuses and dolmuş (shared taxis) that connect to nearby towns. Roads leading in and out of Savur are generally well-maintained but may be narrow in some areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Savur.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat dishes dominate the menu, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited; however, fresh salads and grilled meats are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Savur is provided by local clinics and a small hospital. Emergency services are available, but for more serious medical needs, larger facilities in Mardin city are recommended. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide