Things To Do
in Besni
Besni is a small town located in southeastern Turkey, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and valleys that offer outdoor recreational opportunities. Besni is famous for its traditional handicrafts such as weaving and pottery, showcasing the artistic talents of the local community.
Visitors can explore historic landmarks like the ancient city of Perre and the Besni Castle, immersing themselves in the town's fascinating past.
- "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: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the beautiful Mount Nur, which offers stunning views of the region. Enjoy a hike through the fresh air and soak in the natural beauty.
Have lunch at a local restaurant and try the regional specialties. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of Besni and visit local shops.
Dine at a restaurant with a view and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine. Relax and reflect on the day's adventures under the stars.
Visit the ancient ruins of the nearby city of Arsameia, an archaeological site rich in history. Take a guided tour to learn about the significance of this ancient city.
Return to Besni for a lunch featuring local dishes. Later, explore the Besni Museum to gain insights into the local culture and heritage.
Enjoy a traditional Turkish tea at a café in the town square. Reflect on your cultural discoveries while watching the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenery
- Strong sense of community and tradition
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Proximity to major cities and tourist attractions in the region
- Limited job opportunities and economic development
- Lack of modern amenities and infrastructure
- Potential language barrier for non-Turkish speakers
- Less access to healthcare facilities compared to urban areas
- Hot summers and cold winters may not be suitable for everyone
Best Activities in Besni
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Taurus Mountains and enjoy hiking trails in the stunning natural surroundings of Besni.
Set up camp near the picturesque Lake Karakaya for a serene outdoor experience with opportunities for fishing and leisurely walks.
Experience adrenaline-pumping rafting adventures on the Ceyhan River, with its exciting rapids and scenic landscapes.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in the Akdaglar National Park, known for its rugged terrain and stunning cliffs.
Tours
Uncover the best of Besni with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Besni
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic Besni Castle offers stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes, providing excellent photo opportunities.
The peak of Mount Besni provides breathtaking panoramic views of the region, making it a great spot for capturing scenic photos.
Besni Lake offers picturesque views, especially at sunrise or sunset, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Besni
Besni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delectable dish of eggplant stuffed with a mixture of sautéed onions, garlic, tomatoes, and minced meat, then baked to perfection. It's often served with a dollop of creamy yogurt and freshly baked bread. Must-try at local eateries like Tadım Kebap Salonu.
Must-Try!
A savory grilled lamb dish seasoned with aromatic Turkish spices, typically served with fluffy rice pilaf and grilled vegetables. Visit GüneyKöy Kebap & Restaurant to savor this iconic dish.
A delightful dessert made of thinly sliced carrots cooked in sugar syrup, sprinkled with chopped walnuts, and often flavored with a hint of rose water. Enjoy this sweet treat at renowned patisseries like Gülçin Pastanesi.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Besni better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling open-air market where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and find a diverse array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Be sure to sample the delicious gözleme, a savory Turkish flatbread filled with various fillings and cooked on a griddle.
Take a stroll along the lively Çarşı neighborhood to discover an abundance of street food stalls offering treats like simit (sesame-coated bread rings), midye tava (fried mussels), and tantuni wraps filled with spicy meat and fresh vegetables.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Besni, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and direct eye contact. It is important to show respect by using formal language when addressing elders or people in positions of authority.
Hospitality is highly valued in Besni, and it is common for locals to invite guests into their homes for traditional Turkish tea or coffee. It is polite to accept such invitations and show appreciation for the host's generosity.
Besni has a predominantly Muslim population, so it is important to show respect for religious practices. This includes dressing modestly when visiting mosques and avoiding public displays of affection.
Safety
Tipping in Besni
Ensure a smooth experience
In Besni, Turkey, tipping is often practiced in restaurants, cafes, and for certain services such as taxis and hotel staff. It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% of the total bill as a token of appreciation for good service.
Cash is the primary method of payment in Besni, Turkey, although major credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller businesses and local markets. ATMs are also available in the town for convenient cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Besni, Turkey. The weather is mild, and you can enjoy the beautiful blooming flowers and outdoor activities.
Expect hot and dry weather. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Another good time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and the chance to experience the fall colors.
Can be cold, but it's a great time to experience traditional Turkish culture and enjoy winter activities.
Besni at Night
Hiking in Besni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with stunning views and a variety of trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Offers hiking trails through lush landscapes, known for its natural beauty and diverse flora.
Known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery, perfect for adventurous hikers looking for a challenge.
This area features panoramic views and various hiking paths, ideal for day trips or longer treks.
A popular destination featuring numerous hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning rock formations.
Aiports
How to reach Besni by plane.
Located in Izmir, approximately 940 km west of Besni, Adnan Menderes Airport is the nearest international airport offering a range of domestic and international flights.
Ankara's Esenboğa Airport, located about 300 km north of Besni, serves as a key international gateway to the Turkish capital.
Located about 70 km southeast of Besni, Gaziantep Oğuzeli Airport provides both domestic and some international flights, facilitating travel to various regions.
Situated around 150 km southwest of Besni, Hatay Airport serves the Hatay Province with flights to domestic and international destinations.
Approximately 80 km northeast of Besni, Malatya Erhaç Airport is primarily a domestic airport but has occasional international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Besni, consisting of cultural and linguistic Turks.
A significant ethnic minority in the region, primarily engaging in agriculture and commerce.
A smaller demographic group in Besni, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Includes various other ethnic and religious minorities present in smaller numbers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Besni, with many local teams and passionate fans.
Basketball has a growing following, with community leagues and programs for youth.
Volleyball is enjoyed at both amateur and professional levels, with local tournaments held regularly.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular among schools and various sports clubs.
Traditional Turkish wrestling has cultural significance and is practiced in local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Besni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is prevalent in many dishes, vegetarians can find delightful alternatives such as mücver (zucchini fritters), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and various mezze dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush at most restaurants.
Vegans can relish dishes like mercimek köftesi (spicy red lentil patties), vegetable-filled börek, and flavorful mixed olive platters. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly, and chefs are often accommodating.
For those with gluten sensitivities, opt for naturally gluten-free dishes like fresh grilled fish, rice-based pilafs, and salads with olive oil and herbs. Always communicate your dietary needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.