Things To Do
in Divriği
Divriği is a historic town in Sivas Province, perched in a green highland valley in eastern Anatolia. It is renowned for the UNESCO-listed Divriği Ulu Cami and Darüşşifası, celebrated for its extraordinary stone carving and architectural detail. The town pairs medieval streets and stone houses with a rugged natural backdrop, offering striking viewpoints over a winding river.
Visitors can explore ancient walls, shop in small markets, and use nearby canyons as dramatic settings for photography and outdoor strolls.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases stunning Seljuk architecture. As you walk through its intricate stone carvings, take time to appreciate the artistry that reflects the deep history of the region. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh bread, olives, and local cheeses.
After a leisurely lunch, spend your afternoon wandering the charming streets of Divriği, where you can explore local shops selling handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Visit the nearby Divriği Castle for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the stunning landscape. Capture beautiful photographs of the unique rock formations and the picturesque town below.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic dishes such as kebabs and mezes. Engage in conversation with locals who share stories of Divriği’s rich history and cultural significance. End your evening with a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this beautiful town.
Begin your day with a visit to the vibrant local market where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Divriği. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and traditional textiles while interacting with friendly vendors. Sample local specialties such as gözleme (Turkish flatbread) and freshly brewed çay (tea) as you explore.
After the market, take a short hike to the nearby village of Kangal, known for its unique thermal springs. Enjoy the restorative properties of the mineral-rich waters, perfect for relaxing after your morning adventure. Grab a simple lunch at a local eatery, savoring home-cooked meals made with fresh ingredients.
Return to Divriği and visit a local cultural center where you can experience traditional music and dance performances. Engage with artisans showcasing their crafts, from pottery to weaving, and perhaps even participate in a workshop. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner featuring regional dishes that highlight the flavors of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Hostel or budget hotel (per night) | $15-25 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km (in town) | $0.80-1.80 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a day | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and UNESCO-listed architecture
- Stunning canyon and highland scenery within reach
- Affordably priced food and lodging, friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities within town
- Occasional road closures or accessibility issues in winter
- Smaller selection of modern services compared to big cities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is ...?
- "İngilizce konuşur musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Divriği
Visit one of these nice places.
UNESCO-listed mosque and hospital complex renowned for its stone carvings and serene interiors; early morning light highlights the reliefs.
Winding lanes and centuries-old architecture with wooden balconies and textured walls make for atmospheric compositions.
Spectacular vantage points along the canyon offering dramatic horizons with river and pine forests below.
Food in Divriği
Divriği Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tiny Turkish dumplings often served with garlicky yogurt and a square of browned butter—particularly popular in regional eateries.
Must-Try!
A tangy, warming soup made from fermented yogurt and grain; a comforting staple in colder months.
Slow-cooked lamb with vegetables, typically served with bulgur or rice.
Thin flatbread stuffed with cheese, spinach, or potatoes, cooked on a crescent griddle.
Fluffy bulgur pilaf often enhanced with onions, herbs, and occasional meat or chickpeas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can sample fresh produce, dairy, nuts, and homemade snacks; bargaining is common and part of the experience.
Simit, borek, ayran, roasted corn, and other fast-friendly bites available from local vendors around the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and say 'Merhaba' (hello). Address elders politely and use a respectful tone in conversations.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques and prayer spaces; remove hats and keep shoulders and knees covered.
Bargaining is common but done with courtesy; a friendly exchange enhances the experience.
Safety
Tipping in Divriği
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a small tip of 5-10% for good service is customary. Round up at smaller places or leave a few lira for excellent service.
Cash is widely accepted; Turkish Lira is standard. Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in towns and larger eateries; ATMs are available in Divriği.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; showers are possible. Pack light layers, a rain jacket, and good walking shoes.
Warm to hot days; cooler in the evenings. Hydration is essential; carry sun protection and plan visits for morning or evening to avoid peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage. Ideal for hiking; layers recommended as days shorten.
Cold and often snowy; some routes can be icy or inaccessible. Bring warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and check road conditions ahead.
Divriği at Night
Hiking in Divriği
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the canyon offering dramatic views, waterfalls, and forested sections suitable for most hikers.
Seasonal highland trails that reward hikers with panoramic views of the valley and distant peaks.
Airports
How to reach Divriği by plane.
Small regional airport about 110-140 km from Divriği; connects to Istanbul and Ankara, with flight options seasonally available.
Major city airport for Sivas; roughly 160-190 km away; serves domestic routes and some international connections via hubs.
Larger regional airport about 250+ km away; offers more frequent domestic flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish, with strong rural and agricultural ties shaping daily life and culture.
Smaller numbers of Kurdish and other local communities; cultural exchange is typically friendly and welcoming to visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Turkey; local towns often gather for matches and community events.
Given the surrounding mountains and canyons, trekking and outdoor adventure attract visitors and locals alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Divriği.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most places; focus on lentil dishes, vegetable stews, bulgur pilavı, and dairy-based dishes. Communicate clearly to avoid hidden meat broths.