Things To Do
in Şereflikoçhisar
Şereflikoçhisar is a small rural district in Ankara Province, located on the central Anatolian plateau about 100–120 kilometers south of Ankara. The local economy revolves around farming—wheat, sunflowers, and dairy—and the town serves as a quiet gateway to nearby wetlands and the Tuz Gölü region. Visitors will encounter a slow paced, hospitable atmosphere with traditional markets, simple family run eateries, and scenic countryside perfect for day trips.
In all seasons the area offers a balance of nature, history, and authentic Turkish village life away from larger urban centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Şereflikoçhisar Nature Park, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of its landscapes. Take a leisurely hike along the designated trails, keeping an eye out for local wildlife. After your hike, indulge in a traditional Turkish breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh bread and local cheeses.
Spend your afternoon exploring the town's rich history by visiting the ancient ruins of the Roman city of Tium. Take time to stroll through the local market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and taste some delicious street food. Make sure to engage with the friendly locals, who are more than happy to share stories about the town's past.
As the sun sets, head to the lakeside for a peaceful evening by the water. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant with a view, indulging in local specialties such as lamb kebabs or mezes. Conclude your day by watching the stars twinkle over the lake, an enchanting way to end your first day in Şereflikoçhisar.
Begin your second day by visiting the local cultural center, where you can learn about traditional crafts such as carpet weaving and pottery. Participate in a workshop to create your very own souvenir, guided by skilled artisans. This hands-on experience will allow you to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional lokanta and then take a guided tour of the local historical sites, including the Seljuk Mosque which showcases remarkable architecture. After the tour, visit the local art gallery to admire contemporary works by Turkish artists. This afternoon will give you a deeper understanding of the area's culture and artistic expressions.
In the evening, witness a captivating folk dance performance that highlights the traditional dances of the region. Enjoy a light dinner paired with local wines as you take in the lively atmosphere. Reflect on your cultural immersion experience while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚶One-way local transport | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (budget) | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Turkish experience with friendly locals
- Affordability and easy access to nature and landscapes
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Fewer large-scale accommodations and English-speaking staff
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Şereflikoçhisar
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick houses, narrow lanes, and a central minaret silhouette provide classic Anatolian photography scenes.
Expansive salt flats and sky reflections offer dramatic wide-angle compositions at dawn or dusk.
Golden fields with distant hills create simple, evocative countryside imagery.
Food in Şereflikoçhisar
Şereflikoçhisar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small Turkish dumplings served with garlic yogurt and chili oil when available in town eateries.
Must-Try!
A comforting fermented yogurt and grain soup perfect for cooler days.
Slow-cooked meat, often beef or lamb, served with bread or in stews.
A hearty oven casserole with vegetables or meat, typically enjoyed with crusty bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling weekly market with fresh produce, dairy, bread, and local specialties.
Street-level snacks: thin flatbreads filled with cheese or vegetables, great with ayran.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite handshake; addressing elders with respect is common. Tea sharing is a sign of hospitality.
Dress modestly in public spaces and during visits to religious sites; remove shoes where required in mosques.
Ask before photographing people; accept refusal gracefully and respect private property.
Safety
Tipping in Şereflikoçhisar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service is not included. Small tips for taxi and hotel staff are common.
Cash in Turkish lira is widely accepted; many places accept credit/debit cards in town centers and larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming fields; great for outdoor walks, photography, and farmer markets.
Hot and dry days; carry water, wear sun protection; early mornings and late afternoons are best for activities.
Warm days and cooler evenings; harvest season brings abundant produce and scenic skies.
Cold, with possible frost; indoor dining and cozy teahouses are comforting after short outdoor excursions.
Şereflikoçhisar at Night
Hiking in Şereflikoçhisar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic day hikes through fields and gentle hills with vistas of the Central Anatolian plains.
Seasonal wetlands and salt flats offer broad horizons and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Şereflikoçhisar by plane.
Main international airport serving Ankara; about 100–120 km from Şereflikoçhisar; well-connected by road and bus services.
Another regional hub roughly 150–180 km away; accessible by road with several daily connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily ethnic Turkish inhabitants with a strong agricultural heritage; population tends to skew older in rural areas.
Some seasonal migrant workers may be present in agricultural seasons, contributing to local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, followed in local communities and schools.
Wrestling, outdoor games, and casual sports are common in rural areas and village gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şereflikoçhisar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include mercimek çorbası, imam bayıldı, güveç with vegetables; most eateries can adapt dishes.