Things To Do
in Kula
Kula is a highland town in western Turkey known for its cool climate, windswept terraces, and traditional stone houses perched around the hills. The town centers around a friendly, slow-paced rhythm where farmers' markets, cafes, and mosques anchor daily life. In spring and harvest season, the surrounding orchards glow with blossoms and fruit pickers.
Visitors enjoy local apple products, scenic drives through terraced fields, and warm hospitality from small-town families.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kula and settle into your accommodation. Grab a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and feta cheese. Take a leisurely stroll to familiarize yourself with the charming streets and historic architecture of the town.
Visit the Kula Earthquake Museum to learn about the region's geological history and the impact of seismic activity. Wander through the old bazaar, where you can find handmade crafts and unique souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, featuring regional specialties like gözleme.
As the sun sets, dine at a rooftop restaurant to enjoy panoramic views of Kula. Sample local dishes while indulging in Turkish tea or coffee. Conclude the evening with a leisurely walk, soaking in the ambiance of this quaint town.
Start your day with a visit to the Kula Cultural Center to participate in a workshop on local crafts such as pottery or weaving. Interact with local artisans and gain insights into the traditional techniques. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh fruit and homemade jam.
Head to the famous Kula Castle, perched on a hill offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Explore its ancient walls and learn about its rich history. Afterward, treat yourself to lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant, focusing on tasty mezes and kebabs.
Attend a folk dance performance showcasing the region's cultural heritage. Experience the energy and spirit of Kula through its music and dances. Wrap up with dessert at a local dessert shop, trying specialties like baklava.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚗Local transport ride | $1-4 |
| 🏨1-night hotel (mid-range) | $30-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful upland scenery and orchard landscapes
- Warm hospitality and authentic small-town Turkish culture
- Affordable prices and easy day trips from larger cities
- Good base for hiking and rural photography
- Limited nightlife and fewer English-speaking services outside town centers
- Smaller infrastructure than coastal resorts
- Can be hilly and challenging for some travellers; plan for stairs and slopes
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I'm fine, thanks
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Kula
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled lanes lined with whitewashed stone houses and wooden balconies—great for morning light.
A line of traditional windmills set against terraced orchards, excellent at golden hour.
Rolling orchards with a patchwork of greens and reds; best in spring blossoms or autumn harvest.
Food in Kula
Kula Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet apple desserts made with locally grown apples—find them in bakeries and homes across the town.
Must-Try!
A tangy yogurt and grain soup common in the region, perfect as a warming starter.
Skewered meat with peppers and onions, often cooked in clay ovens in local eateries.
Spread of small dishes made from seasonal vegetables from nearby farms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets where apples, honey, cheeses, and bread are sold; try fresh fruit and local pastries.
Simit, gozleme (savory pastries), and fresh fruit served by stall vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Guests are greeted warmly; removing shoes is not always required, but showing respect to hosts is important.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques; women may be asked to cover shoulders; speak softly and remove hats.
Turkish people are generally direct but courteous; address elders with titles and a respectful tone.
Safety
Tipping in Kula
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up at cafes or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and villages; cards are accepted in larger cafes and some shops; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming fruit trees, and clear skies; perfect for hikes and markets.
Hot daytime temperatures; seek shade, mornings and evenings are most comfortable; occasional rain showers.
Harvest season; vibrant colors in orchards; Perfect for photography and farm visits.
Cool to cold; some days sunny while higher elevations may see snow; warm central heating in guesthouses.
Kula at Night
Hiking in Kula
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested slopes with lookout points over the plains; moderate hikes suitable for most walkers.
Rural paths through orchards and pastures offering seasonal scenery and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Kula by plane.
Major international airport about 120-150 km from Kula; access via highway and regional routes.
Coastal international airport roughly 160-200 km away; longer drive but options for seasonal flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Turkish families and farmers; a growing number of visitors and some seasonal residents attracted to the apple harvest season.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport in the region, with local teams and community matches in seasonal calendars.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kula.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many mezze plates, salads, beans, lentils, and seasonal vegetables. Ask for vegetable stews without meat.