Aksaray travel guide

Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Aksaray

Home to more than 253.1 thousand people and the magnificent Egri Minaret, Aksaray is an exciting adventure awaiting! With a unique historical background and an incredible variety of natural and architectural beauty, Aksaray is a highlight in Turkey.

But it’s not just about sightseeing—Aksaray’s immersive culture invites you to truly connect with the local way of life. For the latest happenings, from festivals to special events, the official Aksaray website is your go-to resource.

If you’d rather skip the planning and dive straight into your adventure, browse through the most popular travel packages in Aksaray. You’ll find options tailored for every type of traveler.

But before you lock in your itinerary, there’s more to discover! This guide reveals everything from the perfect time to visit to the hidden treasures that make Aksaray truly special. Keep reading to uncover all the must-know tips and best-kept secrets!

History of Aksaray

Nestled in the heart of Anatolia, Aksaray boasts a rich and varied history that dates back to ancient times. The region has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, and it rose to prominence during the Roman and Byzantine eras as a vital stop on the Silk Road.

Aksaray's significance continued into the Seljuk period, where it became a key administrative center. The city's crown jewel, the Sultanhanı Caravanserai, was built in 1229 and stands as a testament to the Seljuk architectural prowess. The city further flourished under Ottoman rule, contributing significantly to trade and culture in the region.

Today, Aksaray offers a fascinating glimpse into Turkey's layered history, with historical sites like the Kızıl Kilise (Red Church) and the Monastery Valley drawing history buffs and casual visitors alike. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or enjoying the vibrant local culture, Aksaray's historical legacy provides an enriching backdrop to your journey.

Local culture and customs in Aksaray

Aksaray, located in the heart of Turkey, offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that reflect its deep historical roots and traditional Anatolian lifestyle. Visitors will find that hospitality is a cornerstone of the local culture. It is common for residents to invite tourists for tea or a meal, and accepting such invitations is a wonderful way to experience local life firsthand.

The city’s markets are vibrant hubs of activity, where bargaining is not only expected but also a part of the shopping tradition. Engaging in polite haggling can be a fun cultural exchange. Dress modestly out of respect for local customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should consider carrying a scarf to cover their heads when entering mosques.

Aksaray’s cuisine is another cultural highlight, with dishes such as 'testi kebab', a savory meat stew cooked in a clay pot, showcasing local culinary skills. Participating in local festivals and events can provide further insights into the community’s customs and traditions. Overall, Aksaray is a place where tourists can immerse themselves in the authentic rhythms of Turkish life.

Currency information for travelers in Aksaray

When traveling to Aksaray, Turkey, it's essential to know that the official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). For daily transactions, cash is widely used and preferred, especially in smaller shops, local markets, and rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout Aksaray, allowing you to withdraw Turkish Lira directly using international debit or credit cards.

Credit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments, such as hotels, restaurants, and major retail stores. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted, though some places may also accept other major cards. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and when visiting more remote areas. Be aware of potential foreign transaction fees from your bank when using cards. Budgeting adequately for both cash and card expenses will ensure a smoother financial experience during your stay.

Language tips for travelers in Aksaray

When visiting Aksaray, a basic understanding of Turkish can greatly enhance your experience. While many younger people and those working in tourism may speak some English, it is less common among the older generation. Learning a few key phrases like 'Merhaba' (Hello), 'Teşekkür ederim' (Thank you), 'Lütfen' (Please), and 'Afedersiniz' (Excuse me) can go a long way in showing respect and making connections.

Consider downloading a translation app to assist with communication, especially for complex interactions. Additionally, carrying a small Turkish phrasebook can be helpful. In restaurants, menus may not always be available in English, so familiarizing yourself with common food terms can be useful. Understanding basic numbers will also aid in shopping and bargaining. Remember, a friendly smile and patience can bridge many language gaps.

Best time to visit Aksaray

The best time to explore Aksaray is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming flowers and lush landscapes, while autumn offers a tapestry of warm colors and a comfortable climate. These periods also tend to have fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience.

Summer (July and August) can be quite hot, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C (86°F). While this season is great for those who enjoy the heat, the high temperatures might limit the enjoyment of outdoor excursions. Winter (December to February) is generally cold and can bring snowfall, especially in higher elevations, making it a less favorable time for visitors who prefer milder weather.

Special events such as the International Cappadocia Art and Culture Festival, usually held in June, add an extra layer of excitement to a spring visit. Coupled with lower crowd levels and unique seasonal activities, these factors make spring and autumn the best times to visit Aksaray.

Weather in Aksaray

Aksaray, nestled in the heart of Turkey, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. During the summer months, from June to September, temperatures can soar to around 30-35°C (86-95°F), with July and August being the hottest months. Travelers should be prepared for the heat and stay hydrated.

In contrast, the winter season, spanning from December to February, sees temperatures dropping to around -2 to 5°C (28-41°F). Snowfall is common during these months, providing a picturesque but chilly landscape. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, making April, May, September, and October the most pleasant times to visit, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F).

Aksaray's relatively low humidity levels make the heat more bearable, but sudden temperature drops in the evenings are not uncommon. Rainfall is infrequent and sporadic, primarily occurring in the spring and autumn. Visitors should be prepared for potential weather changes and plan accordingly.

Local tip for visiting Aksaray

Aksaray, nestled in the heart of Turkey, has many hidden gems that can elevate your travel experience. An insider tip from the locals is to explore the city's traditional markets, especially the Aksaray Bazaar, early in the morning. Not only will you avoid the midday crowds, but you'll also get the freshest produce and the best selection of local crafts.

Engage with the vendors; many of them are more than happy to share stories about their products and the history of the region. This personal interaction can offer a richer understanding of Aksaray's culture and traditions. Plus, mornings are when you'll find the most vibrant atmosphere, with bakers pulling out fresh simit (Turkish bagels) from their ovens and the air filled with the enticing aroma of Turkish coffee. This early start allows you to experience Aksaray more authentically and peacefully, making it a memorable part of your visit.

Top services in Aksaray

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Aksaray, Turkey. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Aksaray, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Turkey. Check out the best things to do in Aksaray. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of stays and 1 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Aksaray with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Aksaray from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Aksaray with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Aksaray travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Aksaray!

Learn more about Turkey

With destinations such as Aksaray, a trip to Turkey needs no further explanation. Spanning over 783,562 square kilometers, Turkey is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Turkey has something to enchant every traveler.

In Aksaray alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Aksaray Historical Pasha Hammam, Aksaray Museum, and Egri Minaret. Thus, a trip to Turkey becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Turkey offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Turkey. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Turkey and its offers.

What to see in Aksaray

View of Ihlara town,Aksaray, Turkey.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Aksaray, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Aksaray offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Aksaray travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Aksaray

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Aksaray is more than just a wonderful city in Turkey. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Turkey's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Aksaray is the unforgettable Aksaray Historical Pasha Hammam. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Aksaray.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Aksaray, check out our list of top attractions below.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Aksaray.

Vacation packages in Aksaray

Panoramic view towards Güzelyurt Monastery Valley and Church Mosque.

Booking a vacation package to Aksaray means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Aksaray to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Aksaray also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Aksaray travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

Popular types of vacations in Aksaray

The most popular way to experience Aksaray is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Turkey. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Aksaray on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Turkey, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Turkey, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Aksaray, there is a vacation package for you.

Explore the popular types of travel packages to Aksaray below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.

Top vacation packages in Aksaray

Top-rated travel packages to Aksaray allow you to experience a memorable journey. These packages offer customizable features, ensuring you're guaranteed to have an immersive exploration through the heart of Aksaray and beyond. Browse a couple of options to uncover the finest ways to explore the city with ease and excitement.

For an epic vacation, discover Aksaray and other top destinations in Turkey on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Turkey Road Trip from Ankara traveling south to Goreme, Adana, and Aksaray. If 50th Year Park, MTA Sehit Cuma Dag Natural History Museum, Anıtkabir, Seğmenler Parkı, and Kuğulu Park are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

Get more Aksaray vacation ideas by continuing to read this Aksaray travel guide and discover the greatest selection of travel packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Turkey that match your needs and budget.

Find

All Vacations in Aksaray

See more

Find vacation packages in Aksaray

Explore and compare 127 vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful city of Aksaray. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, accommodations, and activities in Aksaray tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in Turkey. Your customized holiday package to Aksaray is only a few clicks away!

Where to stay in Aksaray

Yüksek Kilise, also known as St. Analipsis Church in Aksaray, Turkey.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Aksaray is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Aksaray usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Aksaray offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Aksaray and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Aksaray planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Aksaray, you'll find 3 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Turkey can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Aksaray. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Aksaray.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Aksaray in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Aksaray

A trip to Aksaray means opportunities to relax at any of the 3 different types of places to stay in the city. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Aksaray provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the city, Grand Cakiroglu Hotel is one of the top picks of travelers in Aksaray. Grand Cakiroglu Hotel is a 4-star stay with an average rating of 194 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at Asik Molla Caddesi No:47 A, Aksaray and boasts many great utilities, including restaurant, room service, and free wi-fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Aksaray. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Aksaray, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Çiftlik otel. For approximately 14 EUR, guests can book a comfortable single room at this popular bed & breakfast, which also offers restaurant, free wi-fi, and more.

Below is a list of all 3 different types of places to stay in Aksaray. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Aksaray

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Aksaray for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Aksaray provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Aksaray are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Aksaray.

Grand Altuntas offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Aksaray. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Grand Cakiroglu Hotel, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Aksaray, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Cappadocia Ihlara Mansions and Caves, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Aksaray. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Aksaray by clicking the cards.

Find

All Hotels in Aksaray

See more

Search for accommodation in Aksaray

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Aksaray is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Aksaray effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Aksaray

Selime Cathedral,Aksaray, Turkey.

To navigate Aksaray effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 1 car rental companies in Aksaray, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Aksaray start at 46 EUR per day or 320 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Renault Clio. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Aksaray, starting at 41 EUR per day or 288 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat Egea.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Aksaray, Turkey below.

Search for car rentals in Aksaray

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Aksaray. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Aksaray, Turkey, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Aksaray

A view of Ihlara valley, Aksaray

The city of Aksaray is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Turkey. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Turkey has it all.

Each destination in Turkey offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Turkey that are as magical as the city of Aksaray. The most popular travel destinations in Turkey are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Turkey

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Turkey. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Transportation in Aksaray

Aksaray, Turkey offers a variety of transportation options to ensure convenient travel within the city. Public transit in Aksaray primarily includes buses and minibuses, which are efficient and cover most areas of the city. The bus system is well-connected, making it easy to reach both central and suburban locations. Taxis are readily available and provide a comfortable and flexible way to navigate the city. They can be hailed on the street or booked via phone apps for added convenience. For those who prefer more control over their travel itinerary, rental cars are a viable option, with several rental agencies offering a range of vehicles. This allows visitors to explore Aksaray and its surrounding regions at their own pace. Additionally, a unique local transportation experience is the 'dolmuş,' a shared minibus taxi that operates on set routes, offering an affordable and community-driven travel option. Whether you choose public transit, a taxi, or a rental car, getting around Aksaray is straightforward and accessible.

Most popular countries in Europe

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.