Things To Do
in Gölhisar
Gölhisar is a small inland town in Burdur Province, set on a patchwork of plains, olive groves, and rolling hills. The town blends rustic rural life with hints of historic architecture in its narrow streets and market squares. Nature nearby offers tranquil lakes, rivers, and forested ridges ideal for day trips and outdoor exploration.
Visitors come for authentic Turkish countryside experiences, friendly locals, and approachable outdoor activities away from the coast’s crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, where you can savor traditional Turkish pastries and tea. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Gölhisar, admiring the well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Visit the ancient Gölhisar Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
In the afternoon, explore the nearby archaeological site of the ancient city of Kibyra, known for its impressive ruins and historical significance. Take a guided tour to learn about the unique theatre, temples, and the remnants of the Roman road. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, tasting regional dishes such as gözleme and kebabs.
As the sun sets, head to the local market where artisans sell their handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with the friendly locals and perhaps pick up a few unique items to remember your trip. Conclude your evening with a traditional Turkish dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the stunning views and local flavors.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk along the shores of Lake Gölhisar, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The morning light creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for photography or quiet reflection. Stop at a nearby café for a light breakfast while enjoying the picturesque lake views.
After your lakeside morning, rent a bicycle and explore the scenic trails around the lake. The ride offers opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the breathtaking landscape. Treat yourself to a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas by the lake, soaking up the tranquility of your surroundings.
As dusk approaches, settle down at a lakeside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh fish caught from the lake. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as the sun sets, painting the sky with vibrant colors. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, enjoying the soft sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🧺Basic groceries (weekly) | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Turkish experience away from the coast
- Warm hospitality and family-style dining
- Affordable prices for food, lodging, and activities
- Pleasant day trips to nearby nature and villages
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Rural transport can be less frequent; a car is helpful
- English speakers may be fewer than in larger cities
- Distance to major airports longer than coastal destinations
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Gölhisar
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow streets, stone houses, and a sense of daily life—ideal for candid street photography and architecture shots.
A picturesque silhouette against the sky, especially during sunset when the lights come on.
Water, hills, and a tranquil horizon; perfect for wide-angle landscape photography.
Reflections of trees and traditional buildings in calm water, especially in calm mornings.
Scenes of rural life, farmers, and seasonal harvests along quiet country roads.
Food in Gölhisar
Gölhisar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge served with yogurt; a rustic staple found in many village eateries and during special occasions.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted lamb served with rice or bulgur, smoky and tender from traditional ovens.
Thin pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes, best when made fresh at bakeries or street stalls.
A warming yogurt-and-fermented-dough soup, especially comforting in cooler months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering seasonal vegetables, fruit, dairy, honey, and bread; great for sampling fresh produce and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings like 'Merhaba' (hello) are appreciated; addressing elders with respect and a handshake is common in urban settings.
Dress modestly when visiting villages and religious sites; remove hats in mosques and follow local guidance.
Ask permission before photographing people or intimate settings; avoid photographing minors without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Gölhisar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In sit-down restaurants, leaving 5-10% for good service is common; small tips to cafe staff are also common.
Cash is widely accepted, with ATMs available in town. Many larger eateries accept cards, but carry cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor walks, photography, and village visits. Expect occasional showers; pack a light rain jacket.
Hot and dry with long days; carry water, wear sun protection, and seek shade in the early afternoon. Evening outings are pleasant.
Comfortable temperatures with harvest time in rural areas; clear skies and golden light perfect for photography and hiking.
Cool to chilly, with occasional frost; snowfall is possible on higher ground. Indoor activities and warm meals are common in the evenings.
Gölhisar at Night
Hiking in Gölhisar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rim-side paths offering water views and a easy-to-moderate hike suitable for families and beginner hikers.
Rolling hills with olive groves and pine patches; several viewpoints over the plain.
Forest-edge trail with shaded sections and a chance to spot songbirds and small mammals.
Airports
How to reach Gölhisar by plane.
Regional airport about 140–170 km away; accessible by road or domestic flights via major hub cities.
About 100–120 km away; regional flights connect to Istanbul and Ankara, with car or bus transfer to Gölhisar.
Approximately 190–210 km away; broad international and domestic flight options; drive or take a bus to Gölhisar.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish families and long-term residents with a rural, aging demographic in parts of the district; small pockets of Kurdish or Alevi communities exist in the wider area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local amateur teams and gatherings in town squares on match days.
Common in schools and community centers; casual leagues and pickup games occur in the evenings.
Leisurely outdoor activity popular among locals, especially in the spring and autumn.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gölhisar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on vegetable dishes, lentil or bulgur-based meals, soups like tarhana, salads, and ayran; communicate ingredients to avoid hidden meat stocks and broths.