Things To Do
in Simav
Simav is a tranquil town in western Turkey known for its rural charm and warm hospitality. Nestled in the plains of Kutahya Province, it offers a blend of historic streets, local markets, and scenic countryside. The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural and cultural attractions, from hillside viewpoints to traditional crafts.
Visitors will find a laid-back pace, flavorful regional cuisine, and opportunities to connect with everyday life in Anatolia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Simav and settle into your hotel with a warm cup of Turkish tea on a terrace overlooking the town. Unpack your bags and take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood streets lined with historic stone houses. Feel the gentle buzz of this thermal resort town as locals greet you with friendly smiles.
Head to a local thermal spa and soak in centuries-old mineral-rich pools known for their therapeutic properties. Pamper yourself with a traditional Turkish hammam scrub and massage offered by skilled attendants. Let the healing waters melt away your travel fatigue as you float between heated marble slabs and steam rooms.
Relax at a cozy café where you’ll sample freshly made gözleme drizzled with melted butter and accompanied by cool ayran. Wander along the riverbank as the sun sets and lights begin to twinkle in the town square. Cap the night with aromatic apple tea and local honey baklava while listening to soft folk melodies.
Explore the ruins of Simav Castle perched high above the town, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Wander the ancient walls and imagine the battles that shaped the region’s history. Feel the breeze carrying centuries of tales as you climb the crumbling turrets.
Descend into the historic city center to visit the local museum and uncover artifacts from Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. Browse vibrant bazaars where artisans sell handwoven rugs and pottery painted with traditional motifs. Chat with vendors over cups of sweet Turkish tea as they demonstrate their craft.
Sample a hearty lamb kebab at a family-run lokanta where recipes have been passed down for generations. Stroll through narrow alleys illuminated by lanterns, stopping to listen to live folk music drifting from hidden courtyard cafés. End the night with a plate of warm baklava paired with a glass of şerbet while stars emerge overhead.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Short local transport ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Three-course restaurant meal for two | $20-40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentically Turkish experience away from mass tourism
- Warm hospitality and close-knit local communities
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Less English widely spoken in rural areas
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede" - Where is...?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İyi günler" - Good day
Places to Visit in Simav
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic stone buildings and the quiet morning light create atmospheric photos.
Rolling fields with olive trees and farmhouses provide textured landscapes.
Architectural details and intricate patterns captured in soft light.
Panoramic shots of Simav’s surrounding hills and valleys.
Vibrant stalls, locals, and colorful textiles offer dynamic street photography.
Food in Simav
Simav Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasoned meatballs served with a cool yogurt sauce and a simple salad.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings served with garlic yogurt and a paprika oil drizzle.
A tangy yogurt-and-grain soup rich in flavor, perfect for cooler days.
A thin pastry stuffed with cheese or vegetables, freshly made at cafés.
Flatbread topped with cheese and vegetables, baked in a stone oven.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly stalls offer fresh produce, olives, herbs, and warm street foods like simit, gözleme, and ayran.
Stalls along main lanes serve döner, börek, and grilled corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Merhaba; use polite titles such as Bey (Mr.) or Hanım (Ms.) when addressing strangers.
Dress modestly in religious sites; ask before taking photos of people; avoid loud public displays.
Safety
Tipping in Simav
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% is common if service is good; cafes may not expect tips.
Cash (Turkish Lira) is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards; small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for walks and photography. Pack layers and a light rain jacket.
Hot and dry days; carry water, seek shade, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant weather with harvest activity; golden light enhances landscape photography and outdoor visits.
Cold, with occasional snow; some rural roads can be slower; dress warmly and plan indoor optional activities.
Simav at Night
Hiking in Simav
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike with panoramic views of the plains and farmlands.
A scenic loop through groves and woodland with opportunities for wildlife watching.
Airports
How to reach Simav by plane.
A regional airport with domestic connections; typically accessed by road from Simav.
A regional hub for connections to major Turkish cities; reachable by road from Simav.
Major international hub; used for long-haul or international travel with domestic connections.
Capital city airport with extensive international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily agricultural communities with long-standing local traditions.
Young people and seasonal workers who travel to larger nearby towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, followed in local clubs and schools.
Occasional displays and local events tied to regional culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simav.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Turkish cuisine offers abundant vegetarian dishes; look for meze plates, vegetable pide, lentil soup, and farmers' salads; ask for egg-free options.