Things To Do
in Tomarza
Tomarza is a small district in Kayseri Province, set among the rolling hills and farmland of Central Anatolia. The town preserves traditional Anatolian life with stone houses, mosques, and welcoming shopfronts along narrow streets. It serves as a quiet base for exploring nearby nature and historic sites, with easy day trips to higher plateaus and valleys.
Visitors can experience a slower pace, local hospitality, and simple, hearty Turkish meals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Kayseri Airport and take a scenic drive to Tomarza, soaking in the beautiful landscapes of Central Anatolia. Settle into your accommodation, where you can enjoy some traditional Turkish hospitality. Take a moment to relax and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea while planning your itinerary for the upcoming days.
Explore the charming streets of Tomarza, where you can visit local shops and taste delicious Turkish snacks. The tranquil atmosphere and the warmth of the locals will make you feel welcome. Don’t forget to take some photographs of the unique architecture and stunning landscapes.
Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in dishes such as kebabs and gözleme. Engage with the locals and learn about their customs and traditions. End the night with a leisurely stroll through the village, admiring the starry sky.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Tomarza Mosque, an exquisite example of Ottoman architecture. Spend some time learning about the history of the mosque and its significance in the region. Capture photos of the intricate details and stunning inscriptions.
Head to the ancient ruins of Kayseri Castle, where you can learn about the area's rich history while enjoying panoramic views of the surroundings. The sprawling site offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and reflection. Take a packed lunch to enjoy amidst the historical backdrop.
Return to Tomarza and treat yourself to a Turkish bath experience at a local hamam. This relaxing ritual will leave you rejuvenated after a day of exploration. Cap off the evening with a local herb tea while listening to stories from the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥖Grocery basics for a day | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-50 |
| 🚇Local bus ticket | $0.75-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic small-town Turkish experience
- Friendly locals and great value for money
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in Tomarza
- Longer drives to major sights and cities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Bu nerede?" - Where is this?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
Places to Visit in Tomarza
Visit one of these nice places.
A central landmark providing a focal point for street photography and sunset silhouettes over the square.
Winding lanes and sunlit courtyards framed by traditional stone architecture offer classic Turkish photography scenes.
A hillside vantage point with panoramic views of the plains and patchwork fields.
Early morning light on stalls and locals creates vibrant color and atmosphere.
Food in Tomarza
Tomarza Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small dumplings topped with garlicky yogurt and melted butter, often sprinkled with chili oil.
Must-Try!
Cured beef (pastırma) and spicy sausage served with bread or sliced into simple dishes.
Thin flatbread topped with seasoned minced meat and baked to a crisp, typical Kayseri style.
Fresh bread, pastries, and locally produced cheeses and yogurt to accompany meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, olives, dairy, cheese, bread, honey, and textiles.
Casual bites like gözleme (savory crepes), simit, and ayran enjoyed at the market gates or plaza.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful hello with 'Merhaba.' Handshakes are common; address people with titles until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly in public; when visiting mosques, coverage is expected for shoulders and legs, and women may be asked to cover hair.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities.
If offered tea, accept if possible as a sign of welcome.
Safety
Tipping in Tomarza
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5-10% if service is satisfactory. Small tips at cafes and tea houses are appreciated but not required.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; many places also accept major credit/debit cards in larger establishments. ATMs are common, especially in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with intense sun; start days early and stay hydrated. Seek shade in the afternoons and enjoy evening strolls.
Milder temperatures with harvest colors; ideal for outdoor walks and photography.
Cold with potential light snow; plan indoor activities and pack warm clothing.
Green landscapes and blooming wildflowers; great for hiking and outdoor markets.
Tomarza at Night
Hiking in Tomarza
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, easy loop along the river with shade trees and local farmland views.
A moderate hike with panoramic views over the plains and occasional wildflowers.
Several short rural trails connecting villages and hillside pastures, ideal for half-day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Tomarza by plane.
Main gateway to the region; about 85-100 km by road, with domestic and international flights.
Alternative gateway for Cappadocia region; about 120-140 km drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish residents, with small minorities and seasonal workers from nearby regions.
A mix of families, workers, and retirees; some younger residents travel to Kayseri for education and work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Turkey and in Tomarza, with local clubs and casual play.
Traditional Turkish wrestling events in nearby towns and school activities.
Common in schools and community centers; casual leagues and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tomarza.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by choosing vegetable dishes, yogurt-based sauces, mezes, and bread. Request vegetable stews or lentil dishes, and confirm no meat stock or broths are used.