Things To Do
in Sultanhisar

Sultanhisar is a charming town located in the Aegean region of Turkey, known for its rich historical background and stunning natural landscapes. It boasts ancient ruins, including remnants of Roman architecture, alongside picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. The local culture is vibrant, with friendly residents who take pride in their traditions and cuisine.

Sultanhisar serves as an excellent base for exploring the beautiful Aegean coast and nearby historical sites.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering History and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the ancient city of Aphrodisias, just a short drive from Sultanhisar, known for its well-preserved ruins and the Temple of Aphrodite.

afternoon
:

After exploring the ruins, enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll around the beautiful sculpture museum nearby.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a sunset walk at the nearby lake, where you can enjoy the serene views and maybe even spot some local wildlife.

day 2
Day 2: Local Culture and Cuisine
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce and local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Take part in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Turkish dishes using fresh ingredients from the market.

evening
:

Enjoy your self-prepared dinner and then head to a local café for dessert, where you can indulge in Turkish delight and coffee.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Ride (5km)$3
🛒Weekly Groceries$30
🏨Budget Hotel Night$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and delicious cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be infrequent.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Sultanhisar

Visit one of these nice places.

Aphrodisias Ruins

The ancient ruins provide stunning backdrops with their impressive columns and beautiful sculptures.

Lake Sultanhisar

Perfect for sunset photography with its tranquil waters reflecting the sky.

Local Market

Captures the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sultanhisar

Sultanhisar offers a delectable array of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Sultanhisar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kuzu Tandir

Slow-cooked lamb, tender and flavorful, often served with rice and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Manti

Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, typically served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Simit

A sesame-crusted bread ring, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sultanhisar Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, and nuts, ideal for sampling local flavors.

Street Vendors on Main Street

Vendors selling traditional snacks like simit and roasted chestnuts, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sultanhisar experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Spring and autumn are pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common among men; women may prefer a nod or a smile.

Hospitality

It is polite to accept food or drink when offered, as refusal can be seen as disrespectful.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual wear is acceptable elsewhere.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sultanhisar is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Sultanhisar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in many restaurants and shops.

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 photography.

Summer

Hot weather; ideal for visiting lakes but be prepared with sunscreen and hydration.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage; a beautiful time for hiking and exploring.

Winter

Cool and occasionally rainy; fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Sultanhisar at Night

Sultanhisar has a low-key nightlife scene, with a few local cafes and tea houses where residents gather in the evenings. Some places offer live music and traditional dances, making it a cozy spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Alcohol is available, but the atmosphere is generally relaxed and family-friendly.

Hiking in Sultanhisar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kızılkaya Trail

A scenic trail that offers panoramic views of the countryside, suitable for all skill levels.

Aphrodisias Nature Trail

Connects the ancient ruins with beautiful landscapes, providing a blend of history and nature.

Airports

How to reach Sultanhisar by plane.

Aydın Çıldır Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Sultanhisar, this airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sultanhisar is quite walkable, with most local attractions, cafes, and shops within a short distance of each other. The town's layout is compact, and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks make it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so wear comfortable shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents are involved in agriculture, growing olives, fruits, and vegetables.

Tourists

Visitors primarily come for historical sites and the natural beauty of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

A beloved sport in the region, with local teams playing in various leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling events are held during festivals and local celebrations.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sultanhisar is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes local buses that connect to nearby towns, but schedules may be infrequent, so planning ahead is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sultanhisar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check for meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but there are rice-based dishes available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sultanhisar is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics available. For more specialized care, travelers may need to visit larger cities like Aydın or Denizli. Emergency services can be reached by calling 112.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide