Central Anatolia Travel Guide
Discover all the best things to see and do in Central Anatolia, including cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and local cuisine.
- Introduction to Central Anatolia
- List of Places to Visit in Central Anatolia
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Anatolia
- Best Things to Do in Central Anatolia: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Central Anatolia
- Food and Drink Scene of Central Anatolia
- Where to Stay in Central Anatolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Central Anatolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Central Anatolia
- Best Time to Visit Central Anatolia
- Do’s and Don’ts of Central Anatolia
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Central Anatolia: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Central Anatolia
- Where to Go Next from Central Anatolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Central Anatolia
Central Anatolia is located in the heart of Turkey, in the Middle East, and in Asia. It is a vast region with a rich cultural and historical past, breathtaking natural scenery, and exciting outdoor activities. This comprehensive tour guide will take you on a journey through the best things to see and do in Central Anatolia, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, activities and tours, local cuisine, where to stay, and more.
List of Places to Visit in Central Anatolia
Central Anatolia is home to some of Turkey’s most significant cultural landmarks and stunning natural scenery. Here are some of the top places to visit:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Ankara Citadel
- Aspendos Theater
- Catalhoyuk
- Hattusa
- Mevlana Museum
- Sultanhani Caravansary
- Uchisar Castle
Natural Attractions of Central Anatolia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Cappadocia
- Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia
- Ihlara Valley
- Lake Tuz
- Salt Lake
- Taurus Mountains
Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Anatolia
Central Anatolia is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the city and explore hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the best trails:
- Cappadocia Hiking Trails
- Mount Erciyes Biking Trail
- Taurus Mountains Trek
- Ihlara Valley Trail
Best Things to Do in Central Anatolia: Activities and Tours
There are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Central Anatolia, and here are some of the best:
- Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
- Jeep Safari in Cappadocia
- Turkish Bath (Hammam) Experience
- Traditional Turkish Cooking Class
- Handicraft Workshops
Week-Long Itinerary for Central Anatolia
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Central Anatolia:
- Day 1: Arrive in Ankara and explore the city, visiting the Ankara Citadel and Anatolian Civilizations Museum.
- Day 2: Take a day trip to Hattusa, the capital of the Hittite Empire, and visit the Yazilikaya Open Air Temple and Lion Gate.
- Day 3: Head to Cappadocia and take a Hot Air Balloon Ride for a breathtaking view of the unique landscape.
- Day 4-5: Spend the next two days exploring Cappadocia’s valleys, including the Ihlara, Rose, and Red valleys, and underground cities.
- Day 6: Take a day trip to Aspendos Theater and follow it up with a relaxing and rejuvenating Turkish Bath Experience.
- Day 7: Head back to Ankara and spend your final day exploring the city or revisiting some of your favorite spots.
Food and Drink Scene of Central Anatolia
Turkish cuisine is known for its unique flavors, and Central Anatolia is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Mantı (Turkish Dumplings)
- Testi Kebabı (Cooked in a Pot Kebab)
- Ankara Tava (Ankara Style Casserole)
- Gözleme (Stuffed Pancakes)
- Pastirma (Air-Dried Beef)
Local Beverages
- Ayran (Yogurt-based Drink)
- Boza (Fermented Wheat Drink)
- Salep (Hot Orchid Drink)
- Şıra (Non-Alcoholic Grape Juice)
Where to Stay in Central Anatolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Central Anatolia offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the best:
- Perissia Hotel in Cappadocia
- Demosan Thermal Hotel in Ankara
- Alfina Hotel in Nevsehir
- Safranbolu Konak Hotel in Safranbolu
- Mithra Cave Hotel in Goreme
What to Buy in Central Anatolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Central Anatolia is famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, carpets, and jewelry. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:
- Pottery from Avanos
- Carpets and rugs from Kayseri
- Jewelry made with turquoise stones in Cappadocia or Konya
- Handwoven Kilim Rugs from Safranbolu or Kars
Local Culture and Customs of Central Anatolia
Central Anatolia is rich in history and culture and has unique customs and traditions. Turkish hospitality is legendary, and guests in Central Anatolia can expect warm welcomes and friendly locals wherever they go. Visitors should also respect local customs, such as removing shoes before entering a home or mosque.
Best Time to Visit Central Anatolia
The best time to visit Central Anatolia is during the spring and fall months, from April to June and September to November. The weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer, making it perfect to enjoy outdoor activities or explore the historical sites. Summers can be scorching in Central Anatolia, while winters can be cold and snowy.
Do’s and Don’ts of Central Anatolia
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs
- Remove shoes when entering a home or mosque
- Try local food and drinks
Don’t:
- Show affection in public places
- Wear revealing clothing in holy places
- Leave trash outdoors
Safety and Health
Safety in Central Anatolia
Central Anatolia is a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should still take common-sense precautions like they would in any other city. It is generally safe to walk around during the day, but it is best to avoid deserted areas at night.
Health in Central Anatolia
Central Anatolia has excellent medical facilities and well-trained medical staff. Visitors should have travel insurance covering medical expenses.
Getting to Central Anatolia: Transportation Options and Logistics
Central Anatolia is accessible by air, bus, and train from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major Turkish cities. Here are some options:
Airports Near Central Anatolia
- Ankara Esenboga International Airport
- Nevsehir Kapadokya International Airport
- Kayseri Erkilet International Airport
Bus Stations Near Central Anatolia
- Ankara Bus Terminal
- Nevsehir Bus Terminal
- Kayseri Bus Terminal
Other Options
- High-Speed Train: Ankara – Konya High-Speed Train
- Car Rental: Available in Major Cities
How to Get Around in Central Anatolia
The easiest way to travel within Central Anatolia is by car or bus. However, visitors can also arrange private tours or take public transportation to the major tourist sites.
Where to Go Next from Central Anatolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Central Anatolia is an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of Turkey. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:
- Istanbul
- Antalya
- Pamukkale
- Ephesus
- Marmaris
Conclusion
Central Anatolia is a region of immense natural and cultural diversity, offering something for everyone. From the hot air balloon rides over the Cappadocian landscape to exploring the ancient ruins of Hattusa or indulging in traditional Turkish cuisine, there is plenty to see and do. Follow this comprehensive tour guide for an unforgettable experience!
