Things To Do
in Silvan
Silvan sits in the fertile plains southeast of Diyarbakır, Turkey. It blends centuries of history with Kurdish hospitality, offering a gateway to ancient ruins, hill country, and a warm local culture. The town sits near the Tigris River and is known for its traditional crafts and hearty Diyarbakır-style cuisine.
Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, scenic landscapes, and friendly locals who welcome travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a walk through Silvan's enchanting historic center, where ancient stone buildings tell stories of the past. Visit the impressive Silvan Castle, perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and feta cheese.
After lunch, explore the beautiful Ulu Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and intricate stone carvings. Wander through the local bazaars, where you can find handmade crafts and sample delicious street food. Take a moment to relax in one of the charming parks, soaking in the local atmosphere and perhaps chatting with friendly locals.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional restaurant that serves regional specialties, such as kebabs and mezes. After dinner, stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the serene views and the sound of water flowing. Conclude your day with a visit to a local tea house, where you can sip on fragrant tea and immerse yourself in the vibrant evening atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the ancient site of Hasankeyf, a short drive from Silvan, where you can explore the ruins and learn about the area's rich history. The stunning landscape along the Tigris River adds to the magic of this historical site. Enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by the remnants of ancient civilizations.
After your explorations, head back to Silvan and visit the local museum, which showcases artifacts from the region's diverse heritage. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the history and culture of Silvan and its surroundings. Spend some time at the historic Seljuk Bridge, where you can capture beautiful photographs.
For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at a local restaurant that specializes in traditional dishes from the region. Taste the unique flavors that reflect Silvan's cultural melting pot, featuring both Kurdish and Turkish influences. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the illuminated streets and the warm ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.30-0.80 |
| 🚌One-way ticket (local transport) | $0.40-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with Kurdish and Turkish influences
- Strategic base for day trips to Diyarbakır and rural hills
- Warm hospitality and authentic regional cuisine
- Compact town center is easy to navigate on foot
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options within Silvan
- Occasional travel delays in rural routes; more services in larger nearby cities
- Hot summers can be challenging for outdoor activities without planning
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Nerede bu?" - Where is this?
- "Kaç para?" - How much is it?
- "Menu var mı?" - Is there a menu?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "İyi günler" - Have a good day
Places to Visit in Silvan
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop ruin offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding plains, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Narrow stone lanes, traditional houses, and doorways adorned with local crafts provide intimate street photography opportunities.
A riverside vantage point ideal for golden-hour river reflections and silhouette shots of local life.
Food in Silvan
Silvan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked lamb dish with vegetables and spices, often served with rice or bulgur and a touch of tomato sauce.
Must-Try!
Bulghur croquettes stuffed with spiced meat or vegetarian fillings, fried or baked until crisp.
Liver kebab skewers, grilled over charcoal and usually garnished with onions and herbs.
Thin flatbread topped with seasoned minced meat, herbs, and vegetables, rolled up with a squeeze of lemon.
A fragrant bulgur rice dish often enriched with vegetables and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling town market where you can sample fresh produce, herbs, bread, and street snacks like grilled skewers and falafel-style bites.
Casual stalls along the Tigris offering quick bites, refreshing drinks, and seasonal sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and rural areas. In casual settings, modest clothing is still common in many towns.
A warm greeting with a handshake is typical. Use Turkish words like 'Merhaba' (hello) and 'Teşekkür ederim' (thank you).
Hospitality is important; if offered tea or food, accepting is customary as a sign of goodwill.
Safety
Tipping in Silvan
Ensure a smooth experience
In cafes and restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if service is good and not already included. For smaller places, rounding up the bill is common. Cash is handy in rural areas, while many establishments in town accept cards; confirm before paying.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming fields make it ideal for outdoor strolling and photography. Expect lush landscapes and active markets.
Hot and dry; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Stay hydrated and seek shade in the town center.
Comfortable temperatures and harvest-season produce; great for walks and scenic photography of farm terraces.
Cool to cold with the possibility of rain; some outdoor areas may be less accessible, but the town’s indoor venues offer cultural experiences.
Silvan at Night
Hiking in Silvan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route through hill country, offering viewpoints over the plains and traditional farmsteads.
A gentle riverside hike with opportunities to observe local wildlife and rural life.
Airports
How to reach Silvan by plane.
Main regional airport with domestic and some international connections; typically reachable within an hour by car from Silvan.
A smaller option within a few hours’ drive, useful for regional trips or longer itineraries that include Batman Province.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population with strong cultural and linguistic presence alongside Turkish communities.
Rural and urban families contributing to the local economy through agriculture and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local teams and amateur leagues are common in towns and villages.
Heritage-based activities and regional events often highlight traditional sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Silvan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-dominant dishes are common, you can find vegetarian options like bulgur pilavı, lentil dishes, stuffed peppers, grape leaves, and vegetable stews. Communicate clearly with staff; many places will accommodate with a mezze platter or veggie version of a favorite dish.