Isparta - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Isparta

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Isparta, 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 Isparta 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 Isparta, 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 Isparta for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Isparta

Isparta is a city located in the southwestern region of Turkey. It is the capital of the Isparta Province and has a population of around 219,000 people. The city is known for its rose gardens and is a major center for the production of rose oil, which is used in the manufacturing of perfumes and cosmetics. Isparta is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Davraz Mountain and Lake Egirdir, attracting many visitors who enjoy hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities. The city has a rich cultural history and is home to many historic landmarks and museums showcasing the area’s traditional crafts and arts. The local cuisine of Isparta is delicious, with specialties such as Isparta meatballs, mantı (Turkish dumplings), and baklava being some of the most popular dishes. Overall, Isparta is a great destination for those looking to experience the beauty and culture of Turkey.

What to visit in Isparta

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Isparta, Turkey and some information about each: 1. Lake Eğirdir: This is the fourth-largest lake in Turkey, surrounded by mountains, with crystal-clear water and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can swim, take a boat tour, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
2. Davraz Ski Resort: This is a popular ski resort located on Mount Davraz, which is about 30 km east of Isparta city. It offers a variety of winter sports and activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
3. Süleyman Demirel University Botanical Garden: This enormous botanical garden is home to over 4,000 species of plants from around the world. It features several different gardens for visitors to explore, including a Turkish garden, Mediterranean garden, and a Japanese garden.
4. Gölcük Natural Park: This is a stunning natural park that features a lake nestled among steep mountains, surrounded by dense forests. Visitors can hike, picnic, or take a boat ride on the lake.
5. Isparta Museum: This is a regional museum that showcases the history and culture of Isparta. It has a wide range of exhibits, including archaeological artifacts from the ancient Roman city of Pisidia.
6. Atabey Mosque: This is a beautiful mosque located in the city center of Isparta. It was built in the 13th century and features intricate stone carvings and ornate Islamic architecture.
7. Turkish Bath: A visit to a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do experience in Isparta. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in a serene and luxurious setting, enjoying the steam, the scrub, and the massage.
These are just a few of the many attractions in Isparta, Turkey. Whether you are looking for natural beauty, cultural experiences, or winter sports, there is something to suit every interest and taste.
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 Isparta

The best time to visit Isparta in Turkey is during the months of April to June or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild with pleasant temperatures and the crowds are smaller. Also, the flowers and plants of the region are at their best during the spring and autumn. However, keep in mind that the summer months (July and August) can be very hot and crowded, and the winter months (December to February) can be wet and cold.

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

How to get to Isparta

Isparta is located in the western part of Turkey and can be easily reached by various modes of transportation: 1. By Plane: The nearest airport to Isparta is the Antalya Airport, which is approximately 130 km away. From Antalya Airport, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Isparta. Alternatively, there is also a small airport in Isparta called "Süleyman Demirel Airport," which has limited flights from Istanbul and Ankara.
2. By Bus: There are frequent bus services from major cities in Turkey to Isparta. You can take a bus from Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, or Antalya, among other cities. Bus companies such as Metro, Kamil Koc, and Ulusoy provide comfortable and affordable bus services.
3. By Car: If you are traveling by car, you can take the D650 highway from Antalya or the D330 highway from Konya to reach Isparta. The drive is scenic and takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Isparta!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Isparta, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Isparta

Isparta is a beautiful city located in the Mediterranean region of Turkey known for its rich culinary culture. Here are some of the typical foods of Isparta: 1. Isparta Kebabı: This is a classic dish in Isparta that consists of cubes of lamb or beef marinated in a special spice blend, skewered and grilled over charcoal.
2. Söğürme: This delicious dish is made by boiling potatoes, chickpeas and green lentils with onions, and serving them with yogurt with a bit of olive oil and red pepper.
3. Gölhisar Kebabı: This is another popular kebab in Isparta made by marinating and grilling lamb meat pieces on skewers, served with bulgur and salad.
4. Yeşil Keşkek: It is a traditional Turkish dish made of wheat grains mixed with yogurt and meat, usually lamb or beef. The dish is topped with melted butter and flavored with local spices.
5. Sütlaç: It is a Turkish dessert made of rice pudding typically flavored with vanilla and garnished with cinnamon or other spices.
6. Güllaç: It is another traditional Turkish dessert that is light and refreshing, made with layers of thin pastry sheets with a milk and rose water mixture.
7. Çörek: This is a sweet bread that originated from Central Asia, it is made from simple ingredients like flour, yeast, sugar and milk, topped with sesame seeds. 8. Pekmezli Cevizli Sucuk: This is a sweet and savory sausage made from ground walnuts and grape molasses which is consumed as a dessert or snack.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Isparta an expensive destination for tourists?

Isparta is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists in Turkey. Prices for accommodations, dining, and activities are generally lower than in other popular Turkish cities such as Istanbul, Ankara or Antalya. However, prices can vary depending on the season in which you visit and the level of luxury you choose for your stay. In general, budget-conscious travelers can find affordable options for lodging and dining, while those who are willing to splurge can enjoy more luxurious experiences.

Where to find accomodation in Isparta

It is best to find accommodation in the city center of Isparta, as it is the most accessible area to the main tourist attractions and transportation hubs. You can also consider staying near Lake Eğirdir, which is a scenic area located just outside of Isparta. Another option is to stay in one of the many traditional villages surrounding Isparta, such as Şenpınar, Gelincik, or Gönen, where you can experience rural Turkish culture and hospitality.
You can check hotel prices at Isparta here:
Booking.com

Is Isparta a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Isparta is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is low in Isparta, and most people are friendly and welcoming to tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's always important to take common-sense precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or wearing flashy jewelry, and not leaving valuables unattended. Additionally, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with any local customs or etiquette to ensure you are respectful of the locals and their culture. Overall, Isparta is a beautiful and safe destination to visit in Turkey.
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 Isparta.

What type of travelers will enjoy Isparta the most?

Isparta is a city in Turkey known for its nature, culture, and history. It is a great destination for all types of travelers. Couples can enjoy the romantic and peaceful atmosphere around the city and go for a walk in the famous Rose Garden. Families can explore the ancient ruins of Sagalassos and discover the city's rich history. Young people can have fun hiking on the nearby mountains and enjoying water activities on Lake Eğirdir.
Additionally, Isparta is famous for producing roses, which are used to make rose oil, so visitors can also experience the traditional local culture by visiting the rose fields and participating in the Rose Festival. Overall, Isparta has something to offer for all types of travelers who are interested in discovering Turkey's beautiful nature and cultural heritage.

How to get around Isparta

The most common mode of transportation in Isparta is buses and dolmuş (shared taxis). Taxis are also available but they are relatively expensive compared to buses and dolmuş. There is no metro or tram system in Isparta.

What to see around Isparta

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Isparta, Turkey: 1. Lake Eğirdir: A beautiful freshwater lake that offers a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.
2. Kovada National Park: A national park that offers visitors beautiful hikes, bird watching, and kayaking on Kovada Lake.
3. Kuyucak Village: A small village that is famous for its cherry orchards, and it's a great place to relax and try some locally grown cherries.
4. Sagalassos Ancient City: A historical site that showcases the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine architecture. 5. Barla: A small village with a beautiful mosque surrounded by nature suitable for those who appreciate tranquil environment.
6. Süleyman Demirel Museum: A museum dedicated to the life of the 9th President of Turkey, located in Isparta city.
7. Gölcük Nature Park: A scenic nature park located near Bolu town, offering beautiful hiking trails and picnic areas next to the lake.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Isparta!
For every travel information about Turkey you can click here.

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