Things To Do
in Soma
Soma is a town located in western Turkey. It is known for its coal mining industry, which has been a significant part of the town's economy for decades. Soma gained international attention in 2014 due to a tragic mining disaster that resulted in the loss of many lives.
Despite this tragedy, Soma remains a resilient community with a rich history and cultural heritage.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast at a local café. Visit the historical sites in the town center, absorbing the rich culture.
Take a leisurely walk through the lush parks of Soma and discover hidden gems. Stop for lunch at a family-run restaurant, enjoying homemade Turkish dishes.
As the sun sets, relax at a popular tea garden and try the local herbal teas. Engage with the friendly locals and enjoy their warm hospitality.
Head out early to the nearby mountains for a scenic hike. Take in the stunning views and connect with nature.
Have a picnic lunch in the mountains amidst beautiful landscapes. Explore more trails and enjoy some birdwatching.
Return to Soma and unwind at a traditional Turkish bath for relaxation. Enjoy a light dinner at your hotel or nearby eatery afterward.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites to explore.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and proximity to the Aegean Sea.
- Vibrant local markets and cuisine offering fresh, regional foods.
- A growing economy with opportunities in tourism and local industries.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited access to some modern amenities compared to larger cities.
- Potential economic fluctuations affecting local businesses.
- Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons.
- Educational and healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in urban centers.
- Environmental concerns due to industrial activities in the region.
Best Activities in Soma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Soma Canyon with its hiking trails and stunning natural scenery.
Enjoy birdwatching and nature walks in the serene surroundings of Tuzla Lake.
Discover cycling routes around Soma, offering scenic views and a chance to explore the local area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Soma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Soma
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views and great photo opportunities of the surrounding landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its stunning natural beauty, offers great photo opportunities for the rugged terrain and the flowing stream.
A picturesque canyon with scenic viewpoints, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the area.
Food in Soma
Soma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted lamb served with pilav (pilaf) and grilled vegetables. Best enjoyed at traditional Turkish kebab houses such as Kebapçı İskender.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with fermented wheat, vegetables, and yogurt. Available at local restaurants and eateries like Soma Sofrası.
Thin, savory Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients like spinach, cheese, or minced meat. You can savor delicious gözlemes at street food stalls or the Soma weekly market.
A traditional offal dish comprising stuffed lamb intestines. Try this unique delicacy at authentic local meyhanes (taverns) such as Meyhane Altın Asma.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this vibrant market to sample a wide range of local produce, dried fruits, spices, and freshly-prepared street foods like gözleme, grilled corn, and kebabs.
Stroll along this bustling street to find stalls offering simit (Turkish sesame bread rings), fresh fruit juices, and traditional Turkish desserts like baklava and künefe.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Soma, Turkey, it is a common cultural norm to greet people with a firm handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. This demonstrates respect and friendliness.
When entering a home or a mosque in Soma, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect. This practice helps to keep the indoor spaces clean and is considered polite.
Showing respect to elders is an important cultural norm in Soma, Turkey. This can include using formal language and gestures when addressing older individuals as a sign of reverence and courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Soma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Soma, Turkey, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. A tip of around 5-10% of the total bill is considered customary in these establishments.
In Soma, Turkey, cash is widely accepted for most transactions, although credit and debit cards are also becoming more commonly used, especially in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case of any issues with card acceptance.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Soma, Turkey as the weather is mild and the countryside is blooming with colorful flowers. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Soma, Turkey, with warm weather perfect for enjoying the beaches along the Aegean coast. Visitors can also experience local festivals and events during this time.
Autumn brings milder temperatures and is a great time for hiking and exploring the nearby archaeological sites. The fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the landscapes.
Winter in Soma, Turkey can be cold and rainy, but it's a great time to explore the local culture and cuisine. Visitors can warm up with traditional Turkish tea and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the town.
Soma at Night
Hiking in Soma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
A beautifully preserved area with well-marked hiking trails, lush greenery, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse plant life, Kozan Plateau provides a peaceful hiking experience.
A charming valley with gentle slopes and picturesque views, perfect for a relaxing hike with friends or family.
A unique geological site with striking rock formations, offering hiking paths that allow visitors to explore the area.
Aiports
How to reach Soma by plane.
Located approximately 75 kilometers from Soma, this is the main international airport serving the city of Izmir and the surrounding region.
About 125 kilometers away from Soma, this airport serves the Bodrum area and includes several international flights.
Approximately 70 kilometers from Soma, this airport is smaller but offers regional flights and some international connections.
Located around 400 kilometers from Soma, this is one of the largest international airports in the world, offering numerous global connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Soma, primarily making up the population.
A significant minority group in Soma, contributing to the diversity of the area.
A smaller community within Soma, reflecting the historical migration patterns in the region.
Includes various small ethnic and cultural groups, comprising a small percentage of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Soma, with many local teams and enthusiastic support from the community.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity among the youth in Soma, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women, with numerous local clubs and competitions.
Athletics, including running and track events, are celebrated in Soma, often promoted through local schools and athletic clubs.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity in Soma, facilitated by local pools and nearby natural water bodies.
Traditional wrestling remains a valued sport in Soma, reflecting local cultural heritage and practices.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Turkish cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Soma offer vegetarian and vegan dishes such as stuffed grape leaves, vegetable stews, and eggplant-based creations.
Several establishments in Soma provide gluten-free alternatives, particularly for dishes like rice pilav, grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional desserts made with alternatives to wheat flour.