Things To Do
in Savur
Savur is a historic hill town in southeastern Turkey perched above a broad Mesopotamian plain. Its stone houses, mosques, and winding lanes reveal centuries of life shaped by Kurdish and Turkish communities. The town offers panoramic viewpoints, sunset moments, and easy access to olive groves and rural scenery.
It makes a compelling base for day trips into surrounding valleys and ancient ruins.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the picturesque town of Savur, known for its charming stone houses and historical significance. Take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets to soak in the scenery and local culture. Stop by a quaint café to enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast paired with fresh tea.
Explore the ancient Savur Castle, perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Engage with local artisans at the market, where you can find hand-crafted goods and sample delicious local snacks. Visit the nearby historical mosque to appreciate its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.
As dusk falls, dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and engage with locals, learning about their way of life. Conclude your day by wandering the quaint streets, illuminated by soft lights, as the town settles into a tranquil night.
Begin your day with a visit to the Sarıçaylilar Monastery, an ancient site offering insight into the region's rich history. Take your time to explore the beautiful frescoes still visible within its walls. Enjoy the serenity of the surrounding nature as you have a peaceful morning.
Make your way to the Valley of Savur, known for its scenic beauty and dramatic landscapes. Spend some time hiking the trails, capturing stunning photographs of the hills and valleys. Pack a picnic to enjoy amid the natural beauty, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Return to the town for a relaxed evening, where you can visit local shops for unique souvenirs. Choose a cozy spot to witness the sunset over the hills, creating a picturesque backdrop. Conclude your day by indulging in a leisurely dinner at a terrace restaurant, soaking in the views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip within town) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
- Scenic hill town with great views and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and smaller traveler scene
- Some services may require travel to larger towns for major amenities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Yardım edebilir misiniz?" - Can you help?
- "Fiyat nedir?" - What is the price?
- "Bu nerede?" - Where is this?
- "İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Savur
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic view of the town below and the Mesopotamian plain beyond, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Narrow streets and whitewashed stone houses framed by hillside stairs, ideal for candid street scenes.
Terraced olive groves on the hill above Savur offer tranquil compositions with town silhouettes.
A historic stone bridge with arches over a small stream; great for architectural and landscape photography.
Food in Savur
Savur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Braised rib meat with regional spices, often finished with a tomato-onion base; a specialty you’ll find in Savur’s kebab houses.
Must-Try!
Stuffed bulgur croquettes filled with spiced meat or veggie fillings, common in local eateries.
Slow-cooked vegetable and meat casserole served in a clay pot, ideal for family-style meals.
Sweet cheese pastry drenched in syrup, a popular dessert after a hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can sample olives, dried fruits, cheeses, and fresh vegetables, plus street foods like gözleme and simit.
Gözleme (savory Turkish pancake), lahmacun, and fresh ayran sold from mobile stalls and small shops around the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; greet with Merhaba, and address elders with courtesy.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in mosques.
Guests are treated with warmth; accepting tea or coffee is a common social courtesy.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private settings.
Respect prayer times and dress codes during visits to religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Savur
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. A small tip for hotel staff and guides is common.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places now accept credit/debit cards; carry Turkish lira for smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with intense sun; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days with cooler evenings and harvest energy in the countryside; good for walks and village visits.
Cool to cold with occasional rainfall; some higher roads may be damp or foggy, pack a jacket.
Moderate temperatures with blooming flowers; pleasant for hikes and market trips.
Savur at Night
Hiking in Savur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop that climbs above the town for panoramic views of the plain and rolling hills.
A gentle path through olive groves and farmland offering quiet nature photography opportunities.
A ridge route connecting nearby hamlets with scenic overlooks of the valley.
Airports
How to reach Savur by plane.
Regional airport with connections to Istanbul and other major cities; about a several-hour drive from Savur.
Close by regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for arrivals from Istanbul and Ankara.
Alternative regional airport offering additional connections; longer drive but useful for certain itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population speaks Kurdish, with Turkish as the national language in education and administration.
Turkish-speaking residents who maintain traditional families and commerce in the town center.
Many residents are engaged in agriculture, herding, and local crafts, contributing to the town’s relaxed rural character.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport region-wide with local clubs and informal matches in parks and schools.
Common in schools and community centers; pickups and local leagues happen in the evenings.
Oil wrestling and other rural sports are part of regional culture and festival activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Savur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include generous meze platters, lentil soups, grilled vegetables, and olive oil-based dishes. When ordering, ask for no meat or chicken in stews.