Things To Do
in Eğirdir
Eğirdir sits on the western shore of Lake Eğirdir, offering a serene blend of water views, hillside homes, and a small-town vibe. The lake mirrors the surrounding mountains, while the town center features mosques, markets, and a waterfront promenade. History and nature sit side by side, with ancient ruins and scenic viewpoints just a short ride from the lake’s edge.
Visitors come for sunset scenery, fresh fish, and easy access to outdoor activities around the lake.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Eğirdir and settle into your accommodation, savoring the stunning views of Lake Eğirdir. Take a leisurely morning stroll along the lakeshore, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, complete with fresh bread, olives, cheese, and honey.
After lunch, visit Eğirdir Castle, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the lake below. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the rich history of the area while wandering through the cobblestone streets. As the afternoon light softens, find a quiet spot by the lake to relax and soak in the natural beauty of your surroundings.
Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can indulge in freshly caught fish from the lake and a variety of mezes. As dusk settles, take an enchanting evening walk along the water's edge, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. Wrap up the day with a cozy gathering at a local tea house, sipping herbal tea and mingling with friendly locals.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike through the scenic Eğirdir Forest. The crisp morning air and the sounds of nature will invigorate you as you make your way along the trails lined with pine trees. Stop to take photos and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna endemic to the region.
After your hike, find a picnic spot with a view and enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the beauty of nature. Spend some time birdwatching or simply lounging in the shade while soaking in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, return to Eğirdir and visit a local artisan shop to pick up handmade souvenirs.
As evening approaches, consider taking a sunset boat ride on Lake Eğirdir. The calm waters provide a perfect reflection of the fiery sky, creating an unforgettable experience. For dinner, try a different restaurant in town that specializes in traditional Turkish kebabs and mezes, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚍Local bus ride | $0.50-1.5 |
| 🚕Taxi start (short ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake setting and relaxed pace
- Good value for money with tasty, fresh food
- Friendly locals and easy access to nature
- Compact town that's easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and shopping options compared to larger Turkish cities
- Smaller scale amenities for long stays
- Seasonal tourist crowds can affect quiet days in peak months
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where are you?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
Places to Visit in Eğirdir
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic promenade along the lake with docks, swaying reeds, and island silhouettes at sunset.
Old stone walls and narrow streets framed by hills and the lake, ideal for atmospheric photography.
Hilltop vantage points offering sweeping views of the lake and town as the sun sinks.
Food in Eğirdir
Eğirdir Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh lake trout, usually grilled with lemon and herbs, a signature dish around Lake Eğirdir.
Must-Try!
Thin pastry stuffed with cheese and greens, a common street-and-café staple.
Turkish dumplings served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
Sautéed meat dish often served with vegetables and bread; hearty and popular in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, honey, and local crafts. Great for sampling seasonal snacks.
Simit, gözleme, borek, and other quick bites sold along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Merhaba' and maintain polite eye contact. Expect tea and hospitality to accompany conversation. Dress modestly when visiting mosques; ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Eğirdir
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not required; leave around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good and no service charge is included. Small tips to guides and hotel staff are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming fruit trees; bring light layers and plan outdoor walks as trails dry out after winter.
Hot days with cooling lake breezes; best for boating and outdoor activities; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures and golden light; ideal for hiking and photography; harvest markets begin.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; some attractions slow; cozy cafes and misty lake views create a tranquil mood.
Eğirdir at Night
Hiking in Eğirdir
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, easy-to-moderate route along the lake edge with viewpoints and picnic spots.
Moderate hikes offering panoramic views of the lake and town from higher elevations.
Forest routes within a short drive offering shade, birds, and nature immersion.
Airports
How to reach Eğirdir by plane.
Domestic flights and some international connections; approximately 50–70 minutes by car to Eğirdir.
Regional airport with connections to major Turkish cities; about 2–2.5 hours by road to Eğirdir.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish-speaking with strong community and family ties.
Visitors mainly in spring and summer attracted by the lake and outdoor activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local pastime; you may catch matches in nearby stadiums or watch on TV in cafes.
Popular pastime; fishing charters and equipment can be rented locally.
Scenic routes around the lake and nearby hills attract cyclists and hikers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eğirdir.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for meze plates, sebze yemekleri (vegetable dishes), zeytinyağlılar (olive oil dishes), and cheese breads. If in doubt, ask for 'sebze yemeği' or 'zeytinyağlılar' on the menu.