Aksaray - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Aksaray

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Aksaray, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Aksaray and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Aksaray, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Aksaray for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Aksaray

Aksaray is a city located in central Turkey, in the region of Cappadocia. It has a population of around 300,000 people and is known for its historical sites such as the ancient city of Nora and the Sultan Han caravanserai. Aksaray is also a popular destination for hot air balloon rides over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia and for its delicious local cuisine. The city has a warm climate with dry summers and mild winters.

What to visit in Aksaray

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Aksaray, Turkey: 1. Aksaray Museum: This museum houses artifacts dating back to the Paleolithic period. It includes a collection of mosaics, stone sculptures, and tombstones from the Roman era.
2. Salt Lake: Located in the Tuz Golu village, this is the second-largest lake in Turkey. The lake is famous among visitors as salty mud is used for medicinal purposes.
3. Ihlara Valley: This is a picturesque valley surrounded by a gorge with a river running through it. It's a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Turkey.
4. Ağzikarahan Caravanserai: This is a well-preserved Seljuk-era caravanserai that dates back to the 11th century. It was built to provide accommodation and protection for travelers and their animals.
5. The Underground City of Saratli: This is one of the underground cities in Cappadocia, which was used for protection from invaders during ancient times. Visitors can explore the complex tunnels and learn about the history of the area.
6. Acıgöl Lake: This is a beautiful saltwater lake that's said to have medicinal properties. Visitors can swim and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
7. Sultanhan Caravanserai: This is another Seljuk-era caravanserai located on the ancient Silk Road. It was built to provide shelter for merchants and their goods.
Overall, Aksaray is a city with rich history and natural beauty. Visitors can find many ancient and cultural landmarks to explore and enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Aksaray

The best time to visit Aksaray in Turkey is during the spring (April to May) or autumn (September to November) months when the temperature is moderate and the skies are usually sunny. Summers can be scorching in Aksaray, with temperatures often reaching well over 35°C, while winters can be cold with snowfall. Keep in mind that Aksaray is a popular destination among tourists, so it's always a good idea to plan ahead and book your accommodation and travel arrangements well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Aksaray

There are several ways to get to Aksaray in Turkey, depending on where you are travelling from.
1. By plane: The nearest airport is the Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport, which is about an hour's drive from Aksaray. It is served by domestic flights from several cities in Turkey, including Istanbul.
2. By bus: Aksaray is easily accessible by bus from most major cities in Turkey. There are several bus companies that operate regular services to Aksaray, including Metro, Ulusoy, and Kamil Koç.
3. By car: Aksaray is located on the E90 highway, which connects Ankara and Kayseri. If you are travelling from Istanbul, you can take the E80 highway and then connect to the E90 at Ankara.
4. By train: There is a train station in Aksaray, which is served by trains from Ankara and Istanbul. However, train travel can be slower and less frequent than other modes of transportation in Turkey.
I hope this information helps you in organizing your trip to Aksaray.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Aksaray, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Aksaray

Here are some typical foods of Aksaray, Turkey with a short description for each: 1. Tandır kebabı - A type of kebab made by marinating lamb meat in spices and cooking it in an underground oven called "tandır".
2. Mantı - A type of Turkish dumpling filled with minced lamb or beef, served with yogurt and tomato sauce.
3. Testi kebabı - A special kebab cooked in a clay pot called "testi", usually made with lamb meat, tomatoes, peppers, onions and spices.
4. Börek - A flaky pastry made with phyllo dough, usually filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
5. Ayran - A popular yoghurt-based drink that is served cold and refreshing, usually with meals.
6. Kebapçı Hasan Pide - A type of flatbread topped with spicy meat, onions, tomatoes, and peppers.
7. Güvec - A traditional dish of meat, vegetables, and spices cooked in a clay pot, usually served with rice.
8. Sütlaç - A type of rice pudding made with rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
9. Çöp Şiş - A type of grilled meat skewer made with lamb or beef, usually served with bread and salad.
10. Baklava - A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and honey syrup.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Aksaray an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other popular tourist destinations in Turkey, Aksaray is generally considered to be a more affordable place to visit. Prices for accommodations, meals, and transportation tend to be reasonable and can be found to fit a range of budgets. However, the cost of your trip will depend on a number of factors, such as the time of year you visit, the type of accommodations you choose, and the activities you participate in. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before making your travel plans.

Where to find accomodation in Aksaray

In Aksaray, there are a few areas where you can find accommodation options. The most popular area for tourists is the city center, where you'll find a range of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Another option is to stay in the outskirts of the city, where there are more rural lodging options. You can also consider staying in nearby towns like Ihlara and Guzelyurt, which offer a more traditional Turkish experience and are close to popular attractions like the Ihlara Valley and the underground cities. Ultimately, the best area to stay in Aksaray depends on your personal preferences and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Aksaray here:
Booking.com

Is Aksaray a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Aksaray is generally considered a safe place for tourists. It is a small and peaceful city located in Central Turkey, and crime rates are generally low. However, like any other destination in the world, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in crowded areas. It is also advisable to take the usual precautions such as keeping your valuables safe and avoiding any suspicious individuals or situations. Additionally, it is always a good idea to check for any travel advisories or warnings before embarking on your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Aksaray.

What type of travelers will enjoy Aksaray the most?

Aksaray is a great destination for families and history enthusiasts. There are many interesting historical and cultural attractions like the Aksaray Museum, the Ihlara Valley, the ancient roman city of Aksaray and the underground city of Derinkuyu. Aksaray is also known for its natural beauty, with stunning landscapes and geological formations like fairy chimneys and magnificent valleys to explore. The city may not be an ideal destination for young people looking for a lot of nightlife and entertainment options, but there are enough restaurants and cafes around to keep visitors entertained. Overall, Aksaray is a great destination for those looking for a relaxing and educational vacation.

How to get around Aksaray

In Aksaray, there are several modes of transportation available for moving around the city, including local buses, taxis, and private cars. The local bus is the most common and affordable option, with frequent routes and multiple stops throughout the city. Taxis are also available, but they can be a bit more expensive. If you prefer the convenience of your own vehicle, you can rent a car or hire a private driver. Additionally, you can also walk or bike around the city if you prefer a more active and eco-friendly option.

What to see around Aksaray

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Aksaray, Turkey: 1. Ihlara Valley: This stunning canyon is a great place to go for hiking and exploring, with its unique rock formations and ancient cave churches.
2. Mount Hasan: A volcanic mountain with its crater turned into a lake, located about 45 minutes from Aksaray. It is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
3. Derinkuyu Underground City: One of the many underground cities in the Cappadocia region, this is a fascinating place to explore the ancient underground architecture and life in the area.
4. Lake Tuz: This is the second largest lake in Turkey and is known for its mineral-rich salt flats that are used for salt production. It is located about an hour from Aksaray.
5. Sultanhanı Caravanserai: This is an ancient roadside inn dating back to the Seljuk period, located about 30 minutes from Aksaray. It's a great place to explore and have a picnic.
6. Acıgöl Lake: This is a scenic crater lake surrounded by lovely natural scenery, located about an hour from Aksaray.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about Turkey you can click here.

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