Yeşilova
,Yeşilova is a small town located in southwestern Turkey, known for its peaceful atmosphere and lush green surroundings. The town is nestled between the Taurus Mountains and Lake Eğirdir, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational activities. Yeşilova is also famous for its traditional Turkish cuisine, with local restaurants serving delicious dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
Visitors can explore historic sites such as ancient churches and ruins, providing a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Morning Walks in Yeilova
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing walk around the serene lakeside of Yeşilova. Enjoy the peaceful scenery and the chirping of birds as you soak in the natural beauty.
afternoon
:Visit local cafes for lunch and taste traditional Turkish cuisine. Take some time to explore local shops and interact with friendly villagers.
evening
:Enjoy a beautiful sunset by the lake while sipping on a nice cup of tea. End your day with a stroll through town, taking in the quaint atmosphere.
Nature Explorations in Yeilova
morning
:Begin with a hike in the nearby nature reserves, where you can experience the rich flora and fauna. Capture stunning photos of the diverse wildlife along your path.
afternoon
:After your hike, pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature. Find a scenic spot to relax and recharge.
evening
:As night falls, consider visiting a local restaurant to enjoy dinner with a view of the natural surroundings. Share stories from your day's adventures with the people you meet.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Access to traditional Turkish cuisine and local markets.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger cities.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities.
- Fewer entertainment options and amenities.
- Infrequent public transportation services.
- Potentially harsh weather conditions in summer and winter.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Taurus Mountains
Explore the breathtaking trails of the Taurus Mountains, providing stunning views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
Visit to Lake Salda
Enjoy a day at Lake Salda, known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Cultural Exploration
Discover the rich history of Yeşilova by visiting local historical sites and museums, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Cycling Tours
Take a cycling tour around the scenic countryside, enjoying the fresh air and picturesque landscapes.
Bird Watching
Visit nearby natural reserves for bird watching, where you can spot various species in their natural habitats.
Camping
Set up camp in designated areas around Yeşilova for a weekend getaway amidst nature, complete with bonfire nights.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Yeşilova with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Yeşilova Plateau
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Salda.
Lake Salda
Known for its stunning turquoise water and white sandy beaches, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Mount Keçikaşı
Perfect for capturing breathtaking views of the area and Lake Salda from an elevated vantage point.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Çılbır
A traditional Turkish dish consisting of poached eggs, yogurt, and a drizzling of butter infused with paprika. It can be found in most local restaurants and cafes in Yeşilova.
Must-Try!
Kuzu Tandır
Slow-cooked lamb, seasoned with traditional Turkish spices and herbs, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Look for this dish at authentic local restaurants known for their traditional cuisine.
Gözleme
Thin, savory Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients such as spinach, cheese, or minced meat, then folded and cooked on a griddle. The Gözleme stalls in the local food markets are great spots to savor this regional delight.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yeşilova better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Yeşilova Market
This bustling market offers a tempting array of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample an assortment of street foods such as simit (Turkish sesame bread rings), kebabs, and stuffed mussels, all prepared by local vendors.
Çarşı Food Bazaar
A vibrant food bazaar where visitors can explore a diverse selection of authentic Turkish street foods, from lahmacun (Turkish pizza) to börek (filled pastries), as well as an assortment of desserts and fresh juices.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Yeşilova, as with many parts of Turkey, showing respect to elders is a significant cultural norm. When interacting with older individuals, it is customary to use formal greetings and to offer assistance when needed.
Hospitality
Hospitality is a cornerstone of Turkish culture. When visiting someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruit. Additionally, it is common for hosts to offer food and drink, which should be graciously accepted as a sign of respect.
Dress Modestly
While Yeşilova may have a more relaxed atmosphere, dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, is appreciated. It's advisable to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yeşilova with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Yeşilova, Turkey, tipping is a common practice, particularly in restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is customary to leave a tip of about 5-10% of the total bill. In smaller establishments, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also appreciated. However, tipping is not obligatory and is left at the discretion of the customer.
Payment
Payment methods in Yeşilova include cash and various electronic payment options. While cash is widely accepted, especially in local markets and smaller shops, credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments, restaurants, and hotels. Contactless payments are also making their way into the region, although cash remains popular among the locals.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yeşilova.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring is a great time to visit Yeşilova, Turkey, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. It's perfect for exploring the natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Summer
In the summer, Yeşilova experiences warm weather perfect for enjoying the beaches and water activities on Lake Beyşehir. The area is bustling with tourists during this time.
Autumn
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, making it a lovely time for nature walks and hikes in Yeşilova. The area is less crowded compared to the summer months.
Winter
Winter in Yeşilova is cold and quiet, with occasional snowfall. It's an ideal time for a peaceful retreat and for experiencing the local life in a different setting.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Saklıkent National Park
A stunning natural park known for its deep gorges and scenic hiking trails, located about 20 km from Yeşilova, perfect for various hiking levels.
Köprülü Canyon National Park
Famous for its breathtaking canyon and river views, this national park offers a range of hiking trails along the river and through lush forests, approximately 60 km from Yeşilova.
Akköy Plateau
An easy-access hiking area featuring beautiful plateaus and panoramic views, situated around 25 km from Yeşilova, ideal for day hikes.
Mt. Davras
A picturesque mountain range with trails that offer views of the surrounding landscapes and a chance to explore diverse flora and fauna, located roughly 40 km from Yeşilova.
Salda Lake
Known as 'Turkey's Maldives,' the area surrounding this clear blue lake offers scenic hikes with stunning views, about 30 km from Yeşilova.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yeşilova through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Yeşilova by plane.
Antalya Airport (AYT)
Antalya Airport is one of the largest airports in Turkey, serving the region of Antalya and its surroundings.
Bodrum-Milas Airport (BJV)
Bodrum-Milas Airport serves the popular holiday destinations of Bodrum and the surrounding areas.
Dalaman Airport (DLM)
Dalaman Airport serves the southwestern region of Turkey, providing access to popular resorts like Fethiye and Marmaris.
Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB)
Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport is the primary airport serving Izmir and the Aegean region of Turkey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Turkish
The majority of the population in Yeşilova is Turkish, reflecting the national demographic.
Kurdish
The Kurdish community is also present in some areas of Yeşilova, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Other Ethnic Groups
There are smaller populations of ethnic minorities, including Arabs and Circassians.
The Soul of Yeşilova
Discover the essence of Yeşilova through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Yeşilova, played by both men and women, with local teams and leagues.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth, with various schools and community teams participating in local tournaments.
Volleyball
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community centers, and it has a strong following, especially among women.
Athletics
Athletics events are organized in local schools, and many young athletes participate in running and field events.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Yeşilova, with scenic routes attracting both local cyclists and tourists.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many restaurants in Yeşilova offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including stuffed vegetables, mezes, and salads made with locally sourced produce. It's common to find vegetarian and vegan-friendly options on the menu.
Gluten-Free Options
While traditional Turkish cuisine heavily features bread and bulgur, many establishments in Yeşilova are mindful of dietary requirements and offer gluten-free alternatives. Visitors with a gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, various kebabs, and rice-based meals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yeşilova with these cultural adventures.