Things To Do
in Seyitgazi

Seyitgazi is a historic district in Eskişehir Province located on the central Anatolian plateau. It preserves a blend of Seljuk-era architecture, rural life, and expansive plains. The town is especially known for the Battal Gazi Mausoleum, drawing pilgrims and curious visitors alike.

With warm hospitality, olive groves, and panoramic views, Seyitgazi makes a rewarding stop for culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked simit and Turkish tea. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Seyitgazi, admiring the traditional Ottoman architecture and artisanal shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Seyitgazi Mosque, a beautiful representation of the region's rich history.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Seyitgazi Museum to delve deeper into the area's archaeological treasures and history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample local dishes like testi kebab. Post-lunch, take a walk to the nearby Seyitgazi Merkez Park, a perfect spot for relaxation and people watching.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a quaint spot in the town to enjoy dinner, perhaps trying some delicious meze platters. After your meal, take a stroll through the illuminated streets and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town at night. End your evening with a cup of traditional Turkish coffee at a local café, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

day 2
Visit to the Eskişehir Archaeological Museum
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before making your way to the Eskişehir Archaeological Museum, just a short drive from Seyitgazi. Spend your morning exploring the extensive collections, which include artifacts from the Phrygian civilization and other ancient cultures. Make sure to take your time with the exhibits, as they offer fascinating insights into the region's past.

afternoon
:

After your museum visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling some regional specialties. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Odunpazarı district, known for its historic wooden houses and vibrant art scene. Spend the afternoon wandering through the art galleries and artisan shops, soaking in the cultural vibe of the area.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a cozy restaurant for dinner in Odunpazarı, where you can enjoy both traditional and modern Turkish cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the historic streets, admiring the beautifully lit architecture. Conclude your day with a visit to a local tea house, experiencing the warm hospitality of the Turkish people.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or tea$1-2
🛏One night in a budget hotel$25-60
🥖Grocery staples (bread, basics)$0.5-1
🚕Taxi ride within town$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic village atmosphere
  • Affordable prices
  • Close to Eskişehir and other sights
  • Friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Fewer English speakers
  • Rural transport can be infrequent
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Ne kadar?" - How much?
  • "İyiyim" - I am fine

Places to Visit in Seyitgazi

Visit one of these nice places.

Battal Gazi Mausoleum and Mosque

A commanding complex with domes and minarets; captures can be taken from the courtyard and surrounding streets, especially during golden hour.

Seyitgazi Castle Ruins

Ancient walls perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the plains and village rooftops; ideal for wide shots and silhouettes.

Sunrise over the Anatolian Plain

Open fields and distant silhouettes as the sun rises, great for atmospheric landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Seyitgazi

Local cuisine in Seyitgazi reflects central Anatolian flavors: hearty stews, breads, and grilled meats made with seasonal produce. Expect simple, flavorful dishes shared in family-run eateries and small lokantas.

Seyitgazi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mercimek Çorbası

A comforting lentil soup often served as a starter in homes and eateries.

Must-Try!

Mantı

Tiny Turkish dumplings topped with garlicky yogurt and a spiced butter sauce.

Tandır Kebabı

Slow-cooked lamb or beef kebab prepared in a traditional clay oven.

Gözleme

Thin, stuffed pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes, cooked on a griddle.

İmam Bayıldı

Eggplant dish simmered with tomatoes, onions, and olive oil—great for vegetarians.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Seyitgazi Bazaar

Traditional market with seasonal produce, bread, herbs, and local snacks; great for a quick bite and photo opportunities.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, occasionally snowy winters. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, while summer can be very sunny and dry. Weather can vary with elevation and wind patterns across the district.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and hospitality

Greet with a friendly 'Merhaba' (hello). Hospitality is valued; removing shoes when entering homes is common, and modest dress is appreciated in religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Seyitgazi is generally safe for travelers. Practice standard precautions: watch belongings in markets, use licensed taxis, and stay hydrated in heat. For medical needs, access basic clinics in town or visit Eskişehir for more comprehensive care.

Tipping in Seyitgazi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. For cafes and teahouses, rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Turkish Lira is widely used; cash is accepted everywhere. Some larger eateries and hotels may take cards or mobile payments, but carry cash for markets and smaller venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry with long days. Carry water, wear a hat, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with golden rural scenery. Great for walking, photography, and harvest-time markets.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy; some outdoor sights may have limited access. Dress warmly and expect quiet streets in the evenings.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes. Ideal for hikes, village visits, and outdoor photography.

Nightlife Guide

Seyitgazi at Night

Seyitgazi’s nightlife is modest, centered on tea houses, family gatherings, and quiet evenings. In Eskişehir (nearby), a broader array of bars, live music, and cultural events is available, but Seyitgazi itself remains serene after dark.

Hiking in Seyitgazi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Seyitgazi Hilltop Trail

A scenic loop along gentle hills with panoramic views of the Anatolian plains.

Countryside Village Loop

A moderate walk through olive and almond groves connecting nearby villages.

Forest Edge Path

A shaded path along the edge of a small pine forest near the district, suitable for a half-day hike.

Airports

How to reach Seyitgazi by plane.

Eskişehir–Anadolu Airport

Closest airport serving domestic flights and some international routes; convenient access to Seyitgazi by road.

Ankara Esenboğa Airport

Major international gateway; about a 2-hour drive from Seyitgazi, with frequent connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Compact town center is fairly walkable; most sights are within a short stroll, though some viewpoints require a short climb or a quick drive.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Primarily Turkish families with a mix of older residents and younger people who often travel to Eskişehir for work or study.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in many Turkish towns, with local teams and community matches.

Basketball

Common in schools and community centers throughout central Anatolia.

Wrestling (oil wrestling)

Traditional sport with regional events and cultural significance in nearby towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Seyitgazi is light to moderate. Within town, streets are narrow but manageable for cars and motorbikes. Public transport is limited; dolmuş minibuses and taxis cover most needs, while longer trips may rely on regional buses or car hire.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Seyitgazi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose mercimek çorbası, gözleme with cheese/herbs, salads, and vegetable stews; request meat-free stock and separate pans when needed.

Gluten-free

Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free; opt for grilled vegetables, meat dishes without bread, and confirm sauces contain no gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic medical clinics operate in Seyitgazi; for more comprehensive care, hospitals in Eskişehir are accessible by road. Pharmacies are common in town; in case of emergencies, dial 112.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide