Things To Do
in Şefaatlı
Şefaatlı is a small Anatolian town known for its rural charm and agricultural heritage. It sits in central Anatolia near Ankara, offering easy day trips to farmland, quiet villages, and rolling hills. The town center features traditional mosques, a weekly market, and family-run eateries that serve hearty Turkish dishes.
Visitors come to experience authentic village life, seasonal markets, and the surrounding countryside scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Turkish pastries and fresh tea. Afterward, set off to explore the historic center of Şefaatlı, where you can admire the unique architecture and charming streets. Don't miss visiting the ancient mosques and the local market to immerse yourself in the culture.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a family-run restaurant known for its authentic Anatolian cuisine. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the local historical sites, including the remnants of the Byzantine walls and the centuries-old fountain. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts, from pottery to weaving.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a rooftop café overlooking the town. Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner featuring kebabs and mezes while listening to live music. Conclude your day with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast packed with local flavors before heading out into nature. Take a short drive to the nearby nature park, where you can enjoy a refreshing morning walk surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Observe the native flora and fauna while breathing in the fresh country air.
After a leisurely morning, find a scenic spot for a picnic lunch amidst the trees, complete with local cheeses, olives, and fresh bread. Continue your exploration with a guided nature hike, where you can learn about the local ecology and history of the area. Keep an eye out for various bird species and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors.
Return to Şefaatlı in the evening and unwind at a local tea garden, sipping on traditional Turkish tea. Engage in conversations with locals, sharing stories and laughter as the day winds down. Enjoy a light dinner featuring seasonal vegetables and grilled fish before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-3 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🫖Bread and basic groceries | $2-6 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Turkish experience
- Accessible from Ankara
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Affordable costs
- Limited nightlife and shopping opportunities
- Some services may be basic in rural areas
- Public transportation infrequent outside town center
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I'm fine, thanks
Places to Visit in Şefaatlı
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic Anatolian townscape with a minaret, shaded courtyards, and weathered stone houses.
Open farmland and gentle hills offering sweeping light during golden hours.
Narrow lanes and timber-framed houses provide textures and character for street photography.
Wide horizons and dramatic skies ideal for landscape shots.
Food in Şefaatlı
Şefaatlı Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy yogurt and grain soup that is a staple of village kitchens, especially in colder months.
Must-Try!
Tiny dumplings filled with spiced meat, served with yogurt, garlic, and paprika oil.
Sliced meat sautéed quickly in a wide pan (sac), often served with peppers and bulgur or bread.
Fluffy bulgur pilaf cooked with vegetables and sometimes meat, a common accompaniment to many mains.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, yogurt, breads, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Merhaba' or 'Selam' is standard. Handshakes are common; in more conservative settings, a verbal greeting may be preferred first.
It is polite to accept offers of tea or water. Remove your shoes when entering homes in many rural households, and wait to be invited to sit.
In rural areas, modest clothing is appreciated, especially in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Şefaatlı
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafés, a tip of about 5-10% is appreciated if service is good. Small tips for hotel staff and drivers are common but not always expected; rounding up fares to the next lira is also common in markets and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long days. Start early to avoid heat, stay hydrated, and seek shade in the afternoon.
Cold with occasional snow. Layered clothing is essential; some rural roads may be slick.
Mild and green, with blooming landscapes. Great for hiking and markets.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest energy; golden light and fewer crowds.
Şefaatlı at Night
Hiking in Şefaatlı
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Open-countryside trails with rolling hills, pine forests, and panoramic views near the Haymana region.
Airports
How to reach Şefaatlı by plane.
Major international airport serving Ankara; reachable by car in about 1–2 hours depending on traffic.
Regional airport in Konya province; a longer drive but serves as an alternative option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Turkish residents with a strong rural heritage; small numbers of seasonal migrant workers and traders.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local amateur teams and fields across towns.
Traditional Turkish wrestling celebrated in rural areas and during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şefaatlı.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes based on lentils, chickpeas, bulgur, vegetables, and dairy. Ask for dishes without meat or broth and request olive oil or yogurt as flavor bases.