Things To Do
in Aksaray
Aksaray is a city located in central Turkey, known for its historical and cultural significance. The city is home to several ancient monuments, including the Aksaray Castle and the Sultanhanı Caravanserai. Aksaray is surrounded by striking landscapes, including the volcanic Mount Hasan and the enchanting Salt Lake.
The city also boasts a rich culinary scene, with traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs and baklava being popular choices among visitors.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Sultanhanı Caravanserai, an impressive example of Seljuk architecture. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café nearby.
Explore the ancient ruins of Tuz Gölü, one of the largest hypersaline lakes in the world. Take photographs and appreciate the unique landscape.
Dine at a local restaurant offering authentic Aksaray cuisine. Try the pottery kebab, a local specialty you won't want to miss.
Visit the Aksaray Museum to learn about the region's rich history and archaeological discoveries. Take your time to admire the exhibits.
Stroll through the historic city center and discover local shops selling unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Don’t forget to grab some delicious Turkish delight.
Relax at a traditional tea house in the city center. Experience the local culture while sipping on freshly brewed Turkish tea.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with numerous ancient sites and monuments.
- Strategic location as a gateway to central Turkey, making it accessible.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Turkish cities.
- Natural beauty with nearby parks and nature reserves.
- Vibrant local markets and a strong sense of community.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in some areas.
- Less touristy than other popular destinations in Turkey.
- Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
- Hot summers which may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
Best Activities in Aksaray
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking and exploring the scenic valley with its rock-cut churches and stunning natural landscapes
Discover the historical caravanserai, a Silk Road landmark with impressive architectural features
Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area
Tours
Uncover the best of Aksaray with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aksaray
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning canyon with a river running through it, offering incredible landscapes and photo opportunities.
A historical caravanserai with impressive architecture and a great place to capture the essence of the region's history.
A vast salt flat providing unique and breathtaking vistas, particularly during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Aksaray
Aksaray Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful kebab dish slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot, typically made with tender meat, vegetables, and spices. Must-try at Haci Dayi Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A type of Turkish dumpling filled with spiced meat or cheese, topped with yogurt and garlic-infused tomato sauce. Best enjoyed at Kervan Manti Evi.
A traditional Turkish rice pudding baked to a creamy perfection, often sprinkled with cinnamon. Sample the best at Haci Yusuf Muhallebicisi.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aksaray better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a bustling market offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Don't miss the gozleme vendors for savory stuffed flatbreads and the simit sellers for sesame-crusted bread rings.
Visit the square to indulge in an array of street food such as midye dolma (stuffed mussels), fresh grilled corn, and delectable Turkish sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting religious sites or participating in cultural events, it is important to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for the local customs and norms.
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home in Aksaray as a sign of respect for their living space and cleanliness.
It is considered polite to accept an offer of tea or coffee when visiting someone's home or a business, as it is a way of showing hospitality and building rapport.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aksaray with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aksaray
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Aksaray, Turkey. It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% at restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. Tipping is also expected for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.
In Aksaray, Turkey, cash is widely used for everyday transactions. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted at most businesses, especially in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aksaray.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Aksaray, Turkey. The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. The countryside is in full bloom with colorful wildflowers, making it a great time for nature lovers and hikers to explore the area.
Summer (June to August) can be hot in Aksaray, with temperatures often reaching well over 30°C. It's a popular time for tourists, especially those interested in exploring the underground cities and caves in the region. However, visitors should be prepared for the heat and potential crowds.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and the landscape takes on beautiful golden hues as the leaves change color. It's a great time for photography enthusiasts and those who enjoy scenic drives through the countryside.
Winter (December to February) can be cold in Aksaray, with occasional snowfall. It's a quieter time for tourism, but still offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing in the nearby mountains. The region also has a charming atmosphere during the holiday season.
Aksaray at Night
Hiking in Aksaray
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful canyon offering a variety of hiking trails alongside the Melendiz River, featuring ancient rock-cut churches and stunning landscapes.
A stratovolcano that provides challenging hikes with rewarding views from the summit, as well as opportunities for photography and nature observation.
A network of trails in the Cappadocia region, known for its unique fairy chimneys and rock formations, offering both easy and moderate hiking options.
A serene hiking spot with trails around the lake, where visitors can enjoy the peaceful environment and birdsong.
A scenic area ideal for hiking with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aksaray through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aksaray by plane.
Located in Nevşehir, approximately 70 km from Aksaray, this airport serves the Cappadocia region, offering domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 130 km from Aksaray, Konya Airport is an international airport that facilitates both domestic and international flights.
Approximately 160 km from Aksaray, Kayseri Airport serves the central Anatolian region with various domestic and international flights.
Located around 230 km from Aksaray, this is the main international airport serving the capital city of Ankara, with numerous domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Aksaray, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A sizable ethnic minority in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Aksaray.
A smaller demographic group present in Aksaray, mainly involved in local trade and commerce.
Includes various other ethnic groups and migrants, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
The Soul of Aksaray
Discover the essence of Aksaray through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Aksaray, with many local teams and a strong following among residents.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Aksaray, with various local clubs and schools participating in regional competitions.
Volleyball is widely played in Aksaray, especially among youth in schools and local clubs.
Athletics, including running and track events, is promoted through local sports clubs and schools.
Traditional wrestling holds cultural significance and is practiced in various local communities throughout Aksaray.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aksaray.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Aksaray offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as stuffed grape leaves, hummus, and vegetable-based kebabs. Be sure to inquire about meatless alternatives when dining out.
While traditional Turkish cuisine heavily features bread and wheat-based items, some restaurants in Aksaray provide gluten-free options like rice pilaf, grilled meats, and fresh seafood. Communicate your dietary needs to the staff for tailored recommendations.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Aksaray with these cultural adventures.
