Things To Do
in Selim
Selim is a picturesque town located in eastern Turkey in the province of Van. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, lush valleys, and crystal-clear lakes surrounding the town. Selim is also famous for its historical landmarks, including the Selim Bridge, an ancient stone bridge that dates back to the 15th century.
The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of rural Turkey.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along Selim's beautiful coastline. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze while collecting seashells or just soaking in the views.
Have lunch at a beachfront café, where you can relish fresh seafood dishes. Afterward, relax on the sandy beach or take a swim in the crystal-clear waters.
As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant that offers stunning views of the shoreline. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach under the stars.
Embark on a morning hike in the nearby hills to experience Selim's lush landscapes. Bring your camera for breathtaking photos of the surrounding nature.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies at a scenic viewpoint. Spend time exploring the flora and fauna of the region.
Return to Selim and visit a local market for some shopping. End your day with dinner at a restaurant that features traditional Turkish cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, with notable landmarks and sites.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains nearby.
- Warm Mediterranean climate that attracts tourists year-round.
- Vibrant local markets and delicious cuisine offering fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
- Friendly and hospitable local community.
- Economic challenges and higher unemployment rates compared to larger cities.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services compared to more urbanized areas.
- Tourist crowds can lead to seasonal congestion and higher prices.
- Potential language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
- Environmental concerns, such as pollution and habitat loss due to development.
Best Activities in Selim
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and natural scenery while exploring the Taurus Mountains through hiking trails.
Take a scenic cycling tour along Lake Egirdir, enjoying the fresh air and the picturesque surroundings.
Experience a relaxing day of fishing at Kovada Lake National Park, surrounded by peaceful nature.
Engage in adrenaline-pumping adventure sports such as paragliding and rock climbing in the stunning Akpinar Plateau.
Places to Visit in Selim
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of Selim and the surrounding landscape.
Provides picturesque views of the mountains and valleys, perfect for photography.
Food in Selim
Selim Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delectable dessert made from kadayıf (shredded pastry) filled with hot, gooey cheese and sweetened with syrup, typically served piping hot and paired with clotted cream (kaymak). A must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Must-Try!
This dish features anchovies seasoned with an assortment of spices and served with a hearty pilaf, delivering a burst of flavor that perfectly captures the essence of the Black Sea region.
Mıhlama is a traditional Turkish dish made with corn flour, butter, and local cheeses. It’s a popular choice for breakfast or a cozy dinner.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Selim Friday Market brims with a vibrant array of fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, and dried fruits. It's an ideal spot to immerse in the hustle and bustle of the local food scene and sample delicious street food such as gözleme (savory Turkish flatbread) and grilled corn on the cob.
This bustling market showcases an array of dried fruits, nuts, and an assortment of local specialties, offering an authentic taste of Selim's culinary landscape.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Selim, Turkey, it is customary to greet others with a handshake and direct eye contact. When meeting someone for the first time, it is a sign of respect to use their title and last name.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Turkish culture. It is important to address older individuals with titles and show deference in conversation and social interactions.
When dining in Selim, Turkey, it is polite to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to not begin eating until they do. Additionally, it is customary to express appreciation for the meal and the host's hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Selim
Ensure a smooth experience
In Selim, Turkey, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. A common practice is to leave about 10-15% of the total bill as a tip. However, it's important to check if a service charge has already been included in the bill before tipping.
Cash is widely used for payments in Selim, especially in smaller establishments and markets. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, particularly in larger cities. It's advisable to carry some cash for transactions in rural areas and smaller towns. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, offering convenience and security for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Selim, Turkey, as the weather is mild and the landscapes are blooming with colorful flowers. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Summer in Selim, Turkey, brings warm weather and longer daylight hours, making it perfect for exploring the region's outdoor attractions, such as hiking and visiting the nearby lakes. The summer months are also popular for cultural events and festivals in the area.
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and the changing colors of the trees, providing a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking and photography. It's also a great time to experience the local cuisine and harvest festivals in the region.
Winter can be cold in Selim, Turkey, but it's a great time for those who enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque setting for outdoor adventures and provide opportunities to experience the local traditions and winter festivities.
Selim at Night
Hiking in Selim
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Turkey, offering challenging trails and breathtaking views, ideal for experienced hikers.
A scenic route around Lake Van with opportunities to explore the unique flora and fauna of the region. Suitable for all skill levels.
Located in the Eastern Black Sea region, this area offers stunning alpine landscapes and diverse hiking paths.
A less-known spot with picturesque views, perfect for a peaceful hiking experience away from the crowds.
Offering an easy to moderate hike, this area features a beautiful crater lake and unique geological formations.
Aiports
How to reach Selim by plane.
Istanbul Airport is the main international airport serving Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the largest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for international travel.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul. It serves both domestic and international flights and is known for its convenient access.
Adnan Menderes Airport is located in Izmir, Turkey. It serves as a significant international gateway in the Aegean region.
Antalya Airport is located near Antalya, Turkey, and is a major airport for tourists heading to the Mediterranean coast.
Esenboğa Airport is the main international airport serving Ankara, the capital city of Turkey. It handles a variety of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Selim, Turkey, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant ethnic minority in Selim, often residing in rural areas and maintaining distinct cultural traditions.
An ethnic group primarily found in eastern Turkey, also present in Selim, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A religious minority in Turkey, with some presence in Selim, known for their unique interpretations of Islam.
A small community in Selim, reflecting historical ties and contributions to local culture and economy.
Includes small populations of Circassians, Georgians, and other ethnicities, contributing to the region's demographic richness.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Selim, attracting large crowds and fostering local teams.
Basketball has a significant following in Selim, with many youth clubs and leagues promoting the sport.
Volleyball is commonly played in Selim, especially among schools and recreational leagues.
Wrestling has cultural significance in Turkey and is practiced in Selim, reflecting traditional sports values.
Running is a popular activity in Selim, with local parks and trails providing venues for both casual and competitive runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Selim.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat dishes are prevalent, many establishments in Selim offer an array of vegetarian options, such as mercimek çorbası (lentil soup), çig köfte (spicy bulgur patties), and fresh vegetable mezes. For vegans, traditional dishes like zeytinyağlı fava (broad bean puree) and stuffed vine leaves (dolma) are excellent choices.
Those with gluten sensitivities can savor dishes like kebabs served with rice, various mezes, grilled seafood, and yogurt-based dishes. When dining out, it’s advisable to discuss dietary requirements with the staff, who are generally accommodating and knowledgeable about ingredients.