Things To Do
in Akşehir
Akşehir is a historic market town in central Anatolia, tucked along a calm, lakeside landscape. It carries the enduring legacy of Nasreddin Hodja, whose stories echo through streets, museums, and friendly tea houses. The town blends agricultural roots with a relaxed, approachable vibe, especially around the lake area and old stone streets.
Visitors can explore ancient landmarks, museums, and hospitable cafes that anchor Akşehir as a gateway to Konya Province.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, sampling traditional Turkish pastries and strong coffee. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of Akşehir's historic center, admiring the well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Don't miss the chance to visit the Akşehir Archaeological Museum to learn about the region's rich history.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant, where you can savor local specialties like 'manti' and 'kebap'. Post-lunch, visit the iconic Nasreddin Hodja Museum, dedicated to the famous Turkish philosopher and humorist, whose legacy is celebrated in Akşehir. Stroll through the nearby parks and gardens, soaking in the serene atmosphere of the city.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a rooftop terrace to experience panoramic views of Akşehir. Savor a delightful dinner featuring regional dishes while enjoying the vibrant colors of the evening sky. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, reflecting on the city's charm.
Begin your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast at a local eatery, where you can indulge in olives, cheese, and fresh bread. After breakfast, visit the bustling Akşehir Bazaar, where you can browse through stalls full of spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly locals as you explore the market, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Savor a delicious lunch at one of the market's eateries, trying out popular dishes that are unique to the region. Following lunch, take a short walk to the Şehir Parkı for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature, where you can enjoy a picnic or read a book. Spend some time interacting with local artists and craftsmen who often showcase their work in the park.
As evening falls, choose a local restaurant to experience traditional Turkish hospitality at its finest. Enjoy a meal of meze and freshly grilled seafood or meat, paired with a glass of local wine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, enjoying the calming sounds of water and the twinkling lights reflecting off the surface.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧭Local transit ticket (single ride) | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in a café | $1-3 |
| 🧺Grocery staple selection | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Nasreddin Hodja heritage and folklore
- Compact, walkable town with lakeside scenery
- Warm hospitality and affordable local cuisine
- Limited nightlife and large-scale tourist infrastructure
- Busier access routes may be slower during peak travel times
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / sorry
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Burası neresi?" - Where is this place?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Akşehir
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic house and museum dedicated to the legendary folk humorist; captures traditional architecture and storytelling ambiance.
Serene waterside path framed by reeds and migratory birds; excellent at sunrise and during golden hour for landscape photography.
Narrow lanes and Ottoman-era facades provide charming backdrops for street photography and architectural study.
Food in Akşehir
Akşehir Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Konya-style flatbread topped with seasoned minced meat and herbs, best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery or kebapçı.
Must-Try!
Okra soup often enriched with tomatoes and spices, a comforting staple in colder months.
Beef sautéed quickly on a convex iron pan with onions and spices, served with bread or pilav.
Small skewered meat with roasted peppers, commonly found in neighborhood eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where produce, cheeses, olives, and regional snacks are sold; great for sampling fresh seasonal bites and homemade treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Merhaba' and maintain respectful eye contact; tea-sharing is a social ritual, so accept invitations to sit and chat.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious sites; remove shoes where required and follow signage or staff instructions.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces, especially around elders; avoid loud conduct in sacred or community spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Akşehir
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; in sit-down restaurants, leaving around 5-10% for good service is common; rounding up at smaller cafés is appreciated.
Turkish Lira is primary; cards are increasingly accepted in town center venues, though smaller establishments may prefer cash or cashless options like contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor walking, photography, and market visits.
Hot and dry; plan early-morning excursions and lake visits to beat the heat; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Comfortable temperatures with changing foliage; ideal for strolls along the lake and in the old town.
Cold with occasional snow; some outdoor sites may have reduced access, but indoor museums are welcoming and cozy.
Akşehir at Night
Hiking in Akşehir
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Relaxed day-hikes and gentle climbs through rural landscapes and surrounding hills, offering scenic views of the Konya region.
Airports
How to reach Akşehir by plane.
Main regional airport with domestic flights; roughly 1.5–2 hours by road from Akşehir depending on traffic.
Major international gateway; about 2.5–3 hours by road, suitable for longer trips or onward connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish-speaking residents with strong rural and agrarian roots; some seasonal workers and visitors contribute to a diverse local atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local clubs; matches and social games are common in town.
Popular in community centers and gyms; shows up in youth leagues and casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Akşehir.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for lentil or chickpea stews, vegetable dishes, salads, and bread-based meals; order meat-free arrivals with vegetables, yogurt, and olive oil. Most places can accommodate if you request no meat or broth.