Things To Do
in Şanlıurfa
Şanlıurfa, often simply referred to as Urfa, is a city in southeastern Turkey known for its rich historical legacy, including connections to biblical prophets and ancient civilizations. The city is celebrated for its distinctive architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural heritage sites, such as the Pool of Sacred Fish (Balıklıgöl) and the ancient city of Harran.
Urfa's cuisine, particularly its kebabs and desserts, reflects its diverse cultural influences and adds to the city's allure as a destination for both history enthusiasts and culinary explorers.
- "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): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Göbekli Tepe, one of the oldest religious sites in the world. Explore the ancient carvings and get a glimpse of humanity's early spirituality.
Visit the archaeological museum in Şanlıurfa to see artifacts that date back thousands of years. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery to savor authentic Urfa kebabs.
Stroll around Balıklıgöl and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the sacred fish pool. Have dinner at a nearby restaurant overlooking the site, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Begin your day with a traditional Şanlıurfa breakfast that includes fresh bread and cheese. Don’t forget to try the local honey and olives for an authentic taste.
Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare popular local dishes like çılbır (poached eggs) and lahmacun. Experience the rich flavors of Şanlıurfa in a hands-on way.
Dine at a well-known meyhane and indulge in mezze dishes paired with rakı. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you sip drinks and share stories with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with ancient sites like Göbekli Tepe and the Balıklıgöl.
- Diverse and delicious cuisine, including local specialties such as kebabs and kebabs.
- Warm climate and scenic landscapes, attracting tourists and nature lovers.
- Vibrant cultural festivals and traditions, showcasing the local community's spirit.
- Strategic location with easy access to neighboring regions in both Turkey and Syria.
- Economically challenged compared to other major cities in Turkey, leading to limited job opportunities.
- Infrastructure and public services may not be as developed as in larger urban areas.
- High temperatures during summer can be uncomfortable for some residents and visitors.
- Political instability in the region may cause safety concerns.
- Limited access to international amenities and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Şanlıurfa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient archaeological site of Göbekli Tepe, which is considered the oldest known temple complex in the world.
Take a walk through the historic streets, visit the bazaars, and explore the traditional architecture of the old town.
Visit the Eyyübiye Mosque and the adjacent Pool of Sacred Fish, which is believed to be the location where Abraham was thrown into the fire.
Enjoy a tranquil atmosphere by the Balıklıgöl, where the sacred fish and the historical association with Abraham make it a significant site in Şanlıurfa.
Places to Visit in Şanlıurfa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
Archaeological site with unique stone structures and a great view of the landscape.
Sacred fish pool with a serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings.
Beautiful park with views of the city and traditional Ottoman architecture.
Food in Şanlıurfa
Şanlıurfa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, consisting of finely ground meat mixed with herbs and spices, traditionally cooked over wood fire and served with bulgur pilaf.
Must-Try!
A popular raw meat dish, made with bulgur, onions, and a blend of spices, usually served with lettuce leaves and lemon wedges.
A delicious local stew made with meat, tomatoes, peppers, and onions, seasoned with traditional spices and served hot.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide array of local delicacies, from spices and dried fruits to freshly prepared street food. Don't miss the chance to sample authentic Şanlıurfa street food such as lahmacun, dürüm, and grilled meats.
A lively food market where you can find a diverse selection of fresh produce, spices, and traditional Turkish ingredients. It's a great place to explore local flavors and shop for authentic ingredients to cook your own Şanlıurfa-inspired dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Şanlıurfa, it is important to show respect to elders through polite language, greeting them first, and offering to assist them if needed.
Displaying hospitality is a key cultural norm in Şanlıurfa. When visiting someone's home, it's customary to remove your shoes and express gratitude for any offered food or drink.
It's respectful to familiarize oneself with local traditions and customs, such as religious practices and traditional clothing, and to show appreciation for these cultural elements.
Safety
Tipping in Şanlıurfa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not required in Şanlıurfa, Turkey, as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants. However, it is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the total bill as a token of appreciation for good service.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Şanlıurfa, and many smaller establishments may not accept credit or debit cards. It's important to have enough local currency on hand for transactions. Larger hotels, restaurants, and stores in tourist areas are more likely to accept card payments, but it's always best to check beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, vibrant green landscapes, and beautiful blooming flowers. Ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Hot and dry weather, with temperatures reaching high levels. Perfect for visiting Şanlıurfa's famous landmarks, such as the Pool of Sacred Fish and the ancient city of Göbekli Tepe.
Warm days and cooler nights, with the city's surroundings displaying autumnal hues. Great for experiencing local culture and traditions during festivals and events.
Chilly and rainy weather, occasionally accompanied by snowfall. Suitable for indoor activities, including sampling traditional Turkish cuisine and visiting local markets.
Şanlıurfa at Night
Hiking in Şanlıurfa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular area for hiking, Karacadağ offers scenic views and a range of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Located near the ancient city of Harran, RÜKU features diverse flora and is perfect for nature hikes.
While known for its archaeological significance, the surrounding areas of Göbekli Tepe provide walking paths with stunning historical landscapes.
The trails around the Atatürk Dam present a combination of water views and rugged terrain, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
This national park features a variety of trails through natural beauty, with options for both short walks and extended hikes.
Aiports
How to reach Şanlıurfa by plane.
The nearest international airport to Şanlıurfa, located approximately 100 kilometers away in Gaziantep.
An international airport located around 120 kilometers from Şanlıurfa, serving the Adıyaman region.
Located approximately 130 kilometers from Şanlıurfa, this airport serves the Malatya area.
An international airport located about 160 kilometers from Şanlıurfa, serving the Diyarbakır region.
Approximately 200 kilometers away, Mardin Airport serves the Mardin area and offers international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Şanlıurfa, predominantly consisting of Arab people who speak Arabic and maintain cultural traditions.
A significant ethnic minority in Şanlıurfa, the Kurdish population is known for its distinct language and cultural practices.
A smaller demographic group in Şanlıurfa, Turkmen people are of Turkic origin and have their own cultural and linguistic heritage.
Another ethnic group found in the region, Zaza people typically speak the Zaza language and have distinct traditions.
Includes various smaller groups and communities such as Armenians, Assyrians, and other minor communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Şanlıurfa.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Şanlıurfa, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Traditional wrestling, particularly oil wrestling, has a significant cultural presence in Şanlıurfa, showcasing the region's historical heritage.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Volleyball is played recreationally in schools and by local clubs, contributing to the town's sports culture.
Track and field events are popular at educational institutions, encouraging youth participation in athletics.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şanlıurfa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Şanlıurfa's cuisine is primarily meat-based, many restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options, such as stuffed vegetables, lentil dishes, and flavorful mezes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a variety of gluten-free dishes, including rice-based meals, grilled vegetables, and meat skewers, along with gluten-free bread and traditional Turkish desserts made with alternative flours.