whatdo

Things To Do
in Hilvan

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Hilvan is a district located in the southeastern part of Turkey, in the province of Şanlıurfa. It is known for its rich history dating back to ancient times, with many historical sites and ruins to explore. The town is surrounded by fertile plains, making agriculture a key industry in the area.

Hilvan is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as weaving and pottery, which are still practiced by local artisans today.

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4.8(17)

Gobeklitepe, The World's First Temple

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4.5(2)

All-inclusive Private Guided 2-day Tour of Sanliurfa

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Sanliurfa Airport GNY Transfers to Sanliurfa City Hotels

  • "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

day 1
Scenic Views in Hilvan
morning
:

Start your day by exploring the beautiful landscapes around Hilvan. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café with traditional Turkish tea.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic castles and ruins nearby to soak in the rich culture and history of the region. Grab lunch at a local eatery serving authentic cuisine.

evening
:

Wind down your day by taking a stroll along the riverside. Savor dinner at a cozy restaurant with stunning sunset views.

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All-inclusive Private Guided Tour of Sanliurfa City

day 2
Historical Journey
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the ancient ruins of a nearby castle, learning about the local heritage. Capture the moments with your camera in the morning light.

afternoon
:

Explore local museums to understand the region's archaeological importance. Enjoy traditional fare at a nearby restaurant after your museum tour.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance. Finish with a late-night snack at a local street vendor.

Hilvan Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history, with unique architectural sites.
  • Friendly and hospitable local population.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Turkey.
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Growing tourism potential with increasing interest in rural tourism.
  • Limited job opportunities and economic development.
  • Infrastructural challenges, including transportation and healthcare facilities.
  • Less access to modern amenities and services compared to major cities.
  • Potential language barriers for non-Turkish speakers.
  • Areas may face seasonal fluctuations in tourism, affecting local businesses.

Best Activities in Hilvan

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Kızlar Mountain

Enjoy a scenic hike through the beautiful landscape of Kızlar Mountain, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.

Exploring Halfeti Village

Visit the historic Halfeti Village, experience a boat tour on the Euphrates River, and witness the submerged ruins, creating a unique and picturesque setting.

Boat Tour on Birecik Dam Reservoir

Take a relaxing boat tour on the Birecik Dam Reservoir, surrounded by serene waters and picturesque surroundings, offering a peaceful outdoor experience.

Places to Visit in Hilvan

Visit one of these nice places.

Hilvan Castle

Offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape, great for photos

Hilvan Dam

Scenic views of the dam and reservoir, nice place for photography

Tigris River

Beautiful views along the river, great for capturing natural landscapes

Food in Hilvan

Hilvan, Turkey, is known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions that reflect the region's history and culture. The cuisine is characterized by a harmonious blend of flavors and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Hilvan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebab

The succulent and flavorful kebabs in Hilvan are a must-try, especially the famous Adana kebab made of minced meat and spices. Visit 'Göksu Kebap Salonu' for an authentic experience.

Must-Try!

Fırın Sütlaç

Indulge in the delightful creamy rice pudding, fırın sütlaç, at 'Şıhlar Antep Sofrası' known for its exceptional preparation of traditional desserts.

Dolma

Sample the delectable dolma, grape leaves stuffed with a savory rice and herb mixture, at 'Cennet Konaklama Tesisi' for a truly local taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hilvan Wednesday Market

Explore the Hilvan Wednesday Market to savor a variety of street foods like gözleme, a traditional savory Turkish flatbread, and stock up on fresh local produce and spices.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The average summer temperatures can reach high levels, often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while the winters are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F). Precipitation is more common in the winter months, with the bulk of the rainfall occurring between November and March. The summers typically see very little rainfall, leading to dry conditions. Humidity levels can vary, but the overall air can feel dry, particularly during the summer months. Due to its geographical location, the region can experience significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, especially in the spring and fall. Overall, the climate is conducive to agriculture, with crops such as wheat, barley, and various fruits being commonly cultivated.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

In Hilvan, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Merhaba' (hello) and a handshake. It's important to show respect by addressing people with their titles and using formal language initially.

Respecting elders

Respecting elders is a vital cultural norm in Hilvan. It's customary to show deference to older individuals by using formal language, standing up when they enter the room, and allowing them to speak first.

Hospitality

Hospitality is a significant aspect of the culture in Hilvan. When visiting someone's home, it's important to remove your shoes at the door and express appreciation for the host's generosity.

Safety

Safety in any location can be influenced by various factors, including crime rates, community involvement, local law enforcement efficiency, and socio-economic conditions. In the context of Hilvan, Turkey, it is generally regarded as a quiet and relatively safe town. The community is close-knit, which often contributes to a lower incidence of crime. However, like many places, it's always wise for residents and visitors to stay aware of their surroundings and practice common safety precautions, especially in less crowded areas or at night. As with most regions in Turkey, local laws and customs should be respected to ensure a positive experience. Engaging with local authorities, following travel advisories, and being informed about the area can further enhance personal safety. In summary, while Hilvan is often considered a safe place, maintaining a routine level of caution is advisable.

Tipping in Hilvan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Hilvan, Turkey, it is common to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. Tipping is also appreciated in hotels for housekeeping and bellboy services.

Payment

Cash is widely used for small transactions in Hilvan, although credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Hilvan is beautiful in spring, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding nature.

Summer

Summer in Hilvan brings hot weather, perfect for enjoying the local beaches and outdoor festivals. It's a popular time for tourists to visit.

Autumn

Autumn offers milder temperatures and the landscape is painted with beautiful fall colors. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the local cuisine.

Winter

Winter in Hilvan is chilly, with occasional snowfall. It's a quiet time for the town, but a good opportunity to experience local traditions and enjoy cozy indoor activities.

Hilvan at Night

Nightlife in Hilvan is a blend of traditional Turkish culture and modern influences, providing a unique and intimate experience for locals and visitors alike. Small, family-run cafes and tea houses are popular spots where people gather to socialize over cups of Turkish tea or coffee. These establishments often stay open late, offering a cozy atmosphere for conversation and relaxation. For those who enjoy live music, local venues and occasionally outdoor events feature traditional Turkish music, creating a vibrant, communal experience. While Hilvan is not known for an extensive array of bars and nightclubs like Turkey's bigger cities, it does boast a few intimate spots where you can enjoy a drink or two, often accompanied by local musicians. Dining options during the evening also highlight the local cuisine, with restaurants serving up dishes such as kebabs, mezes, and freshly baked bread. These eateries are typically family-friendly, and dining out often turns into a leisurely, social event. Overall, the nightlife in Hilvan is characterized by its laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for anyone looking to experience the local culture in an authentic and relaxed setting.

Hiking in Hilvan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Karaca Mountain

A popular hiking destination with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for both casual and experienced hikers.

Kara Dağ

Known for its rugged terrain, this mountain offers various trails and breathtaking landscapes for adventurers.

Duru Lake

A serene spot ideal for hiking along its banks, enjoying nature and possibly a picnic with friends or family.

Sürekli Forest

Featuring a range of trails through a lush forest, this area is great for hiking and bird watching.

Kızılkaya Valley

Offers scenic hiking routes that take you through valleys and picturesque views, suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers.

Aiports

How to reach Hilvan by plane.

Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB)

Located in Izmir, approximately 195 km from Hilvan, it is one of the main international airports in Turkey.

Gaziantep Oğuzeli Airport (GZT)

Approximately 94 km from Hilvan, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.

Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY)

Located about 59 km from Hilvan, it is the nearest airport offering international connections.

Malatya Erhaç Airport (MLX)

Located approximately 104 km away from Hilvan, this airport operates flights to various domestic and some international destinations.

Diyarbakır Airport (DIY)

Around 115 km from Hilvan, this airport provides both domestic and limited international flights.

Walkability

Walkability refers to how friendly an area is to walking, encompassing aspects like the availability of sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, greenery, safety, and the proximity of amenities. In many towns and smaller cities, factors such as urban design and local infrastructure significantly affect walkability. In some regions of Turkey, the mixed-use development encourages pedestrian traffic, with essential services like shops, schools, and parks within a reasonable distance. While certain areas may have enjoyable walking conditions, others might pose challenges due to the lack of pedestrian pathways, heavy traffic, or inadequate street lighting. In a place like Hilvan, the character of the streets and public spaces will reflect local priorities and urban planning decisions. An effective pedestrian environment may include well-maintained sidewalks, safe crossing points, and accessibility features, making it inviting for residents and visitors to explore on foot. Community efforts to enhance walkability could involve adding more green spaces, improving street aesthetics, and ensuring public safety, all of which contribute to a more vibrant and connected community. Factors such as the climate, cultural habits, and local economy also play a role in shaping the walking experience. Areas that foster a sense of community and encourage social interactions tend to promote more walking. In summary, the walkability of any area, including smaller towns, hinges on a combination of infrastructure, community planning, and local engagement.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish

The largest ethnic group in Hilvan, making up a significant majority of the population.

Kurdish

A notable minority in Hilvan, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Arabic

A smaller demographic group present in Hilvan, primarily among the local communities.

Others

Includes various smaller ethnic and cultural groups residing in Hilvan.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Hilvan, with many local teams and a strong community following. Matches often draw large crowds.

Basketball

Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth in Hilvan, with several local clubs and courts available for practice.

Volleyball

Volleyball is played both recreationally and competitively, with schools and community centers often organizing local tournaments.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is a significant cultural sport in the region, with local events and competitions held regularly.

Athletics

Track and field activities are popular among schools and youth, encouraging participation in various athletic disciplines.

Traffic

Traffic in the area typically features a mix of local and through traffic due to its geographical position. The roads can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours when residents commute to work or school. The local infrastructure includes narrow streets that may not always accommodate larger vehicles, leading to potential bottlenecks. Public transport options such as minibuses and taxis are commonly used, but private vehicles dominate the roads. The presence of various shops and markets can also contribute to increased traffic in certain parts of the town. Pedestrian activity tends to be significant in residential areas, and drivers must be mindful of walkers, especially children and elderly residents. Overall, navigating through the area requires attention and patience, particularly during busy times of the day.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hilvan.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many local eateries offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as stuffed peppers, eggplant dishes, and mezes, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy the local cuisine.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional dishes often contain wheat-based ingredients, some restaurants in Hilvan offer gluten-free alternatives and are willing to accommodate special dietary needs upon request.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in this Turkish town is characterized by a blend of public and private services. The primary healthcare facilities include state hospitals, which are generally equipped to handle a wide range of medical needs and emergencies. These hospitals provide services such as emergency care, outpatient services, and various specialized treatments. Patients typically have access to family health centers and polyclinics, which serve as the first point of contact for residents seeking medical attention. These centers focus on preventive care and basic health services, including vaccinations, maternal and child health services, and general consultations. In addition to public healthcare options, there may be private clinics and practices that offer specialized services with shorter wait times and potentially higher standards of comfort and privacy. However, these private services usually come at a higher cost. The Turkish government has been investing in healthcare infrastructure, and this trend can also be seen in smaller towns like Hilvan. Improvements in facilities, medical equipment, and the training of healthcare personnel are ongoing, aimed at enhancing the quality of healthcare services provided to the community. Access to healthcare can sometimes be impacted by geographical and socioeconomic factors, but overall, residents benefit from a network of healthcare services designed to address both primary healthcare needs and more complex medical issues.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2024 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide