Things To Do
in Zara
Zara is a historic town in central Turkey known for its stone houses, winding lanes, and traditional markets. It sits amid rolling Anatolian hills and offers a window into rural life with warm hospitality and authentic local cuisine. Visitors can wander the old town, sample tarhana-based dishes, and base themselves for day trips to nearby canyons and viewpoints.
With a laid-back pace and scenic surroundings, Zara is a great offset to busier Turkish cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Land at Sivas airport and take a scenic drive to Zara, soaking in the Anatolian landscape. Settle into a traditional stone guesthouse in the heart of town, feeling the warm hospitality of local hosts. Stroll along the winding cobblestone streets to get your first impressions of Zara’s authentic atmosphere.
Head to the Zara Ethnography Museum to uncover artifacts that tell the story of the region’s diverse cultures. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a family-run lokanta, sampling freshly baked pide and hearty çorba. Wander through the bazaar stalls, admiring handmade textiles, copper wares, and local honey for sale.
Watch the sun dip behind the red-hued hills while sipping tea in a riverside café overlooking the Çaltıcak Creek. Savor a traditional dinner featuring succulent lamb kebabs and locally harvested vegetables. Join a small-group folk music performance in a cozy courtyard, immersing yourself in Sivas region’s musical heritage.
Set off early to Zara Castle, perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the town, exploring its weathered fortress walls. Marvel at the intricate stonework and imagine the medieval sentries scanning the horizon for distant travelers. Capture panoramic photos of the valley below as golden rays of dawn illuminate the ancient ramparts.
Descend into the castle grounds and wander along hidden staircases leading to secret chambers and cisterns. Enjoy a picnic lunch amid blooming wildflowers at the base of the fortress walls. Learn about the site’s Byzantine and Seljuk influences from a knowledgeable local guide.
Return to town for a leisurely stroll through the old quarters, where wooden balconies and rustic doorways evoke centuries-old stories. Dine at a family-run restaurant specializing in mezes and succulent grilled vegetables. Spend the night sampling locally distilled rakı with newfound friends under a star-filled sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Grocery basics (weekly) | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, authentic Anatolian town experience
- Warm hospitality and delicious local food
- Limited nightlife and shopping options compared to bigger cities
- Limited English widely spoken outside tourist areas
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Bari" - Excuse me / Pardon
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check, please
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
Places to Visit in Zara
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled lanes lined with traditional stone houses, especially atmospheric at sunrise and sunset.
A hilltop vantage with views over the river valley and surrounding fields.
Medieval-style gates and walls offering dramatic silhouettes during golden hour.
Colorful stalls, baskets, and textures for vibrant street photography.
Food in Zara
Zara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy traditional soup made from dried yogurt, fermented grains, and peppers.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked wheat and meat dish, typically served on festive occasions.
Spiced minced meat on a thin flatbread, similar to pide; best enjoyed fresh from a bakery.
Turkish dumplings topped with garlic yogurt and paprika oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling daily market where locals shop for vegetables, cheeses, olives, and baked goods; try simit from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake or light kiss on both cheeks among friends; say hello with 'Merhaba' and maintain a friendly, patient demeanor.
Respect mosques: dress modestly, women may cover shoulders, remove shoes before entering; avoid loud behavior near prayer times.
Offer tea when hosting guests; taking time to sit and chat is common.
Safety
Tipping in Zara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for café staff and guides are appreciated.
Cash (Turkish Lira) and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common in towns; ATMs available in Zara; expect limited card acceptance in smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long, hot days with temperatures often in the 30s Celsius; plan to explore early mornings and late afternoons, carry water, and seek shade.
Mild days with cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor strolling and light hiking.
Cold with possible snow; pack warm layers and waterproof footwear; some attractions may have shorter hours.
Blooming landscapes, comfortable temperatures, occasional showers; great for photography.
Zara at Night
Hiking in Zara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes with scenic views of hills and farmland within a short drive.
Short day hikes offering forest and canyon scenery within a short drive from Zara.
Airports
How to reach Zara by plane.
Closest airport with domestic flights; about 60-90 minutes by car to Zara.
Regional hub with more flight options; about 2.5-3.5 hours by road.
Major international hub; longer drive but good connections; about 4-5 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Turkish residents with rural families and a growing number of visitors and seasonal workers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local teams and community leagues.
Cultural events and seasonal festivals often feature traditional sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy vegetable stews, grilled vegetables, lentil dishes like mercimek çorbası, and seasonal salads; clearly ask about stock and broths.