Things To Do
in Amasya
Amasya is a picturesque town in northern Turkey, known for its stunning location alongside the Yesilirmak River and impressive mountains that surround it. The town is rich in history, with many ancient ruins and Ottoman-era buildings to explore, including the famous Amasya Castle. Amasya is also famous for its unique architecture, such as the traditional Ottoman-style houses carved directly into the rock cliffs.
The town's lush greenery, peaceful atmosphere, and charming streets make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a more authentic Turkish experience.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking up to Amasya Castle offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Exploring the ancient rock tombs carved into the cliffs overlooking the river in Amasya.
Relaxing and enjoying the beautiful gardens and historic atmosphere near the river.
Taking a leisurely walk or hike along the picturesque Yesilirmak River promenade.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the stunning mountains surrounding Amasya. You’ll witness breathtaking views and may even spot some local wildlife.
Visit the historic Amasya Castle perched on a hilltop. The climb is worth it for the panoramic views of the city and the Yeşilırmak River.
Stroll along the riverbank to admire the beautifully lit old Ottoman houses. Grab dinner at a riverside restaurant and enjoy the local cuisine.
Visit the Amasya Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. The museum houses many artifacts dating back to ancient times.
Explore the rock tombs of the Pontic Kings nestled into the cliffs. These impressive structures offer insights into the region’s ancient royal history.
Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner in the heart of Amasya. Try local specialties such as Amasya apples and the famous Amasya kebab.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including sites like the Amasya castle and ancient tombs.
- Beautiful natural scenery, with the Yeşilırmak River and lush mountains surrounding the city.
- Pleasant climate, especially in spring and autumn, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.
- Known for its unique traditional houses, providing a picturesque atmosphere.
- Delicious local cuisine, including Amasya apples and various regional dishes.
- Limited modern amenities compared to larger cities in Turkey.
- Potential language barrier for non-Turkish speakers, as English may not be widely spoken.
- Transport options may be limited, with fewer direct connections to other major cities.
- Tourist infrastructure may not be as developed, leading to fewer choices in accommodations.
- Can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, which might detract from the experience.
Places to Visit in Amasya
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape
Provides stunning views of the city and Yeşilırmak River
Provides a picturesque view of traditional Ottoman houses built along the river
Offers a breathtaking view of the city and the historical rock tombs
Food in Amasya
Amasya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Turkish dish of small dumplings filled with seasoned ground meat, often served with yogurt and garlic, and topped with a spiced butter sauce. Must-try at Sultan Saray Mantı Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Various vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchinis, or grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. Recommended at Ozlem Restaurant for a delicious version.
A unique kebab cooked in a sealed clay pot, producing tender meat and flavorful vegetables. Try it at Cemal Baba Konağı for an authentic experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and local delicacies like peksimet (dried bread rings) and Amasya elması (Amasya apples). Don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional gözleme (stuffed flatbread) from the street food vendors.
Enjoy stunning views of the city while savoring street food snacks like kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes) and midye dolma (stuffed mussels) from the food stalls at the Seyir Terası area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Amasya, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Addressing people with their titles and using formal language is also appreciated.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Amasya's culture. It is customary to show deference to older individuals and seek their advice and approval in social situations.
Hospitality is a significant aspect of Amasya's culture. Visitors are commonly welcomed with warmth and generosity, and it is customary to accept offers of food and drink as a gesture of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Amasya
Ensure a smooth experience
In Amasya, Turkey, tipping is generally not expected or required. However, it is appreciated for exceptional service in restaurants, hotels, and taxis. A small tip of 5-10% is common in upscale establishments, while rounding up the bill or leaving some loose change is acceptable in more casual settings.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Amasya, Turkey, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's a good idea to keep some cash on hand for small purchases and transactions in more rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Amasya for blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and popular local festivals such as the Amasya International Tulip Festival.
Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the lush greenery, but can be quite hot.
Great for enjoying the changing colors of the foliage and experiencing cooler temperatures.
A quieter time to visit, with occasional snowfall and a chance to see the city's historic sites without the crowds.
Amasya at Night
Hiking in Amasya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic plateau offering beautiful views and natural hiking trails surrounded by lush forests.
A vast park featuring various trails for hiking enthusiasts, with diverse flora and fauna.
A green haven near the city offering walking trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful atmosphere.
A mountain with several trails providing stunning panoramic views of the Amasya area.
A picturesque trail following the river, ideal for a leisurely hike with beautiful landscape views.
Aiports
How to reach Amasya by plane.
An international airport located approximately 220 km from Amasya, primarily serving the Bodrum region with both domestic and international flights.
Located about 120 km from Amasya, this international airport serves Trabzon and the surrounding Black Sea region, offering various domestic and international routes.
Approximately 121 km from Amasya, this airport serves the city of Samsun and offers both domestic and select international flights.
Located roughly 210 km from Amasya, this international airport serves Kayseri and the Central Anatolia region, with various flight options.
About 218 km from Amasya, Erzincan Airport provides services to domestic and some international destinations, catering to the Erzincan region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Amasya, comprising the largest portion of the population.
A significant minority group in Amasya, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
An ethnic group closely related to Kurds, with a presence in Amasya.
A smaller demographic group, mainly in certain neighborhoods within Amasya.
Includes various small communities that contribute to the multicultural fabric of Amasya.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Amasya, with various local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting teams in regional leagues.
Basketball enjoys a significant following, with local teams competing in national and regional tournaments.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and recreational centers, with community leagues fostering local talent.
Athletics, particularly running events, are popular among youth, with various competitions organized throughout the year.
Traditional Turkish wrestling (Yağlı Güreş) holds cultural significance and is practiced in the region during festivals and local events.
Cycling is becoming increasingly popular as a recreational activity, with scenic routes attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amasya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer delicious vegetarian options such as börek (savory pastries), stuffed vegetables, and various mezze (appetizers). Han Restaurant is known for its flavorful vegetarian dishes.
While vegan options are limited, it's possible to find dishes like stuffed grape leaves, falafel, and vegetable-based mezze. Communicating dietary requirements directly with the chefs is recommended for a tailored dining experience.
Many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as grilled meats, rice-based dishes, and fresh salads. However, it's advisable to inquire about preparation methods and potential cross-contamination when dining out.