Polatlı,
Polatlı is a charming town located in the Ankara Province of Turkey. It is known for its rich history and historical sites, including the Roman ruins of Pessinus and the Polatlı Castle. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering visitors opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural scenery.
Polatlı is also famous for its agricultural products, particularly its delicious grapes and olives.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
- "Lütfen" - Please
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Historical Exploration
morning:Start your day with a visit to Polatlı Castle, an ancient fortress with stunning views of the city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Polatlı Market to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs, then grab a freshly baked simit from a local bakery for a quick snack.
afternoon:For lunch, head to the charming Çarşı Restaurant and try their delicious kebabs and traditional Turkish mezes. Afterward, explore the fascinating Polatlı Museum to delve into the area's rich history, and enjoy a refreshing Turkish tea at a nearby teahouse.
evening:Indulge in an authentic dining experience at Mevlana Pide Salonu, known for its mouthwatering pide and warm hospitality. Cap off the night with a visit to one of the local tea gardens for a relaxing evening of conversation and people-watching.
Nature & Wellness Retreat
morning:Embrace the tranquility of nature with a morning hike in the beautiful surroundings of Polatlı Forest, breathing in the crisp, fresh air. After your hike, treat yourself to a delicious Turkish breakfast at the cozy Göksu Cafe, offering a variety of freshly baked pastries and organic jams.
afternoon:Unwind and rejuvenate at a local hammam for a traditional Turkish bath experience, followed by a relaxing massage to soothe your muscles. Then, savor a healthy and hearty lunch at Atmaca Kebap Salonu, known for its mouthwatering grilled meats and fresh salads.
evening:Complete your day with a serene walk along the peaceful Göksu River, and consider joining a yoga class at a local studio to end the evening on a peaceful note.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Polatlı Ethnography Museum, where you can admire an impressive collection of traditional artifacts and textiles. Stop by a local bakery to enjoy a freshly-baked borek, a savory pastry filled with cheese or meat, to start your day on a delightful note.
afternoon:Explore the charming streets of Polatlı and visit the Kocapinar Mosque, a beautiful architectural gem with ornate details. For lunch, enjoy an authentic taste of Turkish cuisine at Köfteci İsmail, serving up delectable grilled meatballs and flavorful side dishes.
evening:Experience a captivating performance at the Polatlı Cultural Center, showcasing traditional Turkish music and dance. Later, head to a local cafe to enjoy a cup of fragrant Turkish coffee while savoring the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Market & Culinary Delights
morning:Begin your day at the bustling Polatlı Market, browsing through the vibrant displays of fresh produce, local crafts, and artisanal goods. As you explore, don't miss the opportunity to sample a variety of delectable Turkish pastries from the market vendors, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
afternoon:Discover the art of Turkish cooking with a hands-on culinary class at a local cooking school, where you'll learn to prepare classic dishes such as manti and dolma. After the class, savor the fruits of your labor with a delicious lunch, showcasing your freshly made culinary creations.
evening:For a memorable evening, embark on a guided food tour of Polatlı, sampling an array of authentic street foods and local delicacies. End the night with a visit to a popular dessert shop, indulging in a sweet treat like künefe or baklava.
Polatlı Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Tava Ciğer
Tava Ciğer is a popular dish in Polatlı, consisting of thinly sliced liver pieces sautéed with butter, onions, and various spices. It is often served with a side of freshly baked bread, yogurt, and grilled vegetables. For an authentic experience, head to Şahin Lokantası, a renowned local restaurant known for its delicious Tava Ciğer.
Must-Try!
Etli Ekmek
Etli Ekmek, also known as 'meat bread,' is a specialty of Polatlı. It features a thin, crispy crust topped with minced meat, fresh vegetables, and herbs. The best place to savor this local delight is at the bustling street vendors along Atatürk Boulevard.
Pide
Pide, a Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients, is a beloved dish in Polatlı. Visit the family-owned bakery, Güneş Pide, for an assortment of pide options, including classic toppings like cheese and spinach, or more adventurous choices like spicy lamb.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Polatlı Friday Market
The Polatlı Friday Market is a vibrant hub of local food vendors, offering a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and homemade delicacies. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, explore the market stalls, and sample traditional street food such as gözleme (stuffed flatbread) and simit (sesame-coated bread rings).
Atatürk Boulevard
Atatürk Boulevard is lined with diverse street food vendors, providing an opportunity to indulge in authentic local snacks and treats. From grilled kebabs to sweet pastries, the bustling street food scene along this boulevard offers an exciting gastronomic adventure for food enthusiasts.
Pet sitters in Polatlı
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!