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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Afyonkarahisar sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Anatolia like a precious jewel, Afyonkarahisar beckons to those who seek a respite from the grind of daily existence.
From its thermal spas and ancient ruins to its mouth-watering culinary delights, this city graces visitors with unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Afyonkarahisar:
1. Afyon Castle
Afyon Castle is a historical castle located on the hill overlooking the city of Afyonkarahisar in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s walls, towers, and ramparts to learn about its rich history. The castle offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the castle’s museum to see a collection of artifacts from the Phrygian, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the castle requires some uphill hiking. It’s best to visit during the cooler months of the year, as summers can be quite hot.
To fully appreciate the castle’s historical significance, try to hire a local guide for a more informative experience.
2. Afyonkarahisar Archaeological Museum
The Afyonkarahisar Archaeological Museum is a historical museum located in the city of Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: The museum showcases a vast collection of archaeological artifacts from various periods of history, including the Bronze Age, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Republic periods.
Visitors can see ancient sculptures, sarcophagi, pottery, coins, jewelry, weapons, and other historical objects.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive statue of Emperor Augustus, the sarcophagus of a wealthy Roman family, and the exquisite Ottoman Turkish carpets.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re interested in history and ancient civilizations, a visit to this museum is a must-see.
3. Ulu Mosque
Ulu Mosque is a historical mosque located in the center of Afyonkarahisar, a city in western Turkey. It is one of the oldest and largest mosques in the city.
What to see or do: The mosque is known for its beautiful Ottoman architecture and intricate decorations. Visitors can explore the main prayer hall, as well as a courtyard with several fountains.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the mosque’s minaret for a stunning 360-degree view of the city.
Insider travel tips: The mosque is open to visitors every day and there is no admission fee.
4. Ottoman-style historical houses in Sadikbey
Ottoman-style historical houses in the Sadikbey neighborhood of Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the Sadikbey neighborhood and admire the traditional Ottoman-style houses.
These houses date back to the 18th and 19th centuries and have been preserved to reflect the historical architecture of the Ottoman period.
Some of the houses have been converted into boutique hotels, cafes, and shops.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to stay in one of these beautifully restored Ottoman-style houses turned boutique hotels. The accommodations offer a unique experience and a chance to immerse oneself in the history of the area.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided walking tour with a local guide to fully appreciate the historical significance of the houses and the neighborhood.
Be sure to try some traditional Turkish coffee or tea at one of the cafes.
5. Zafer Museum
Zafer Museum is a historical museum located in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: The museum features exhibits related to the Ottoman Empire, the War of Independence, and the Turkish Republic. Visitors can explore galleries showcasing weapons, uniforms, photographs, personal belongings of soldiers and commanders, and more.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the section dedicated to the War of Independence, which displays original documents and artifacts related to the pivotal struggle for Turkey’s independence.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays.
6. Germiyan Street Bazaar
Germiyan Street Bazaar is a vibrant market located in the center of Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: The bazaar offers a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, traditional textiles, handmade crafts, and locally made ceramics. It is the perfect place to browse and shop for souvenirs or unique gifts.
Don’t miss: The freshly made Turkish Delight is a must-try at the bazaar. Also, make sure to check out the stalls selling traditional spices and herbs, and the local honey.
Insider travel tips: Visit the bazaar in the morning to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Afyonkarahisar. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the bazaar can get crowded and there’s a lot to explore.
7. Kybele Necropolis
Kybele Necropolis is an ancient burial site in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the tombs and see the intricate carvings on the sarcophagi, some of which date back to the 3rd century BC.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the elaborate tomb of Ayazamana, which is adorned with intricate frescoes depicting life in ancient times.
Insider travel tips: The site is relatively unknown to tourists, so visitors will likely have a peaceful and serene experience exploring the tombs. It’s recommended to bring a hat and plenty of water, as the site can get very hot during the day.
8. Karahisar Castle
Karahisar Castle is a medieval fortress situated in the city of Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle walls, towers and gates that have stood for centuries. The castle provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
The castle also houses a small museum to educate visitors about the history of the castle and city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the city and surrounding area from the castle’s walls. Within the castle, be sure to see the exhibits in the museum that detail its rich history.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some steep inclines.
9. Akdagmadeni Mesire Yeri Park
Akdagmadeni Mesire Yeri Park is a popular recreational area located in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and camping. The park also features a playground for children and designated barbeque areas.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll around the park’s beautiful lake and soak in the stunning natural scenery.
Insider travel tips: – Bring along insect repellent, especially during the summer months.
10. Kocatepe Mosque
Kocatepe Mosque is a prominent place of worship located in the city of Afyonkarahisar, Turkey. Completed in 2011, it is one of the largest mosques in the country and a symbol of the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive architecture of the mosque, which features six towering minarets and a grand dome. The interior is equally stunning with intricate calligraphy and ornate decorations.
You can also witness the daily prayers and experience the peaceful ambiance of the mosque.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic view of the city from the mosque’s courtyard. You can also check out the nearby marble factory that makes high-quality marble products using traditional techniques.
Insider travel tips:
11. Ihsan Dede Mosque
A stunning Ottoman-era mosque in the city of Afyonkarahisar, Western Turkey.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricate decorations of the mosque’s interior, including its elaborately painted tiles, carved wooden pillars, and colorful stained glass windows.
Admire the impressive architecture of the building, which features domes, arches, and minarets. Take some time to reflect and pray in the peaceful atmosphere of the mosque.
Don’t miss: The beautiful courtyard of the mosque, which is surrounded by a colonnade of white pillars and features a central fountain.
Also, make sure to see the historic library located within the mosque complex, which contains a wide collection of rare and ancient manuscripts.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the beauty and history of the Ihsan Dede Mosque, consider hiring a local guide who can provide you with a more detailed and informative tour of the site.
Additionally, be respectful of the mosque’s religious significance and dress modestly when visiting, covering your head and legs.
12. Sultanhatun Kulliyesi
The Sultanhatun Kulliyesi is an Ottoman-era complex located in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: The complex comprises a mosque, a madrasa (Islamic school), a hamam (Turkish bath), a caravanserai (a roadside inn for travelers), and a cistern.
Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture of these buildings and the historical artifacts on display.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the hamam, which is still functional and operates as a traditional Turkish bath. This is a unique opportunity to experience a traditional part of Turkish culture.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the complex is quite large.
Also, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat, as well as to witness the beautiful light of the rising sun on the buildings.
13. Koprulu Mehmet Pasha Mosque
Koprulu Mehmet Pasha Mosque is a historical mosque located in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey.
What to see or do: The mosque features stunning Ottoman architecture and ornate decorations, including intricate tilework, calligraphy and stained glass windows. Visitors can walk around the mosque area and admire the unique Islamic architecture.
Don’t miss: Visitors should not miss the chance to see the historic cave and spring located at the site of the mosque.
The cave is believed to have been used by early Christians as a place of worship, and the spring has special significance for Muslims who believe in its healing properties.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should dress conservatively and remove their shoes before entering the mosque, as is customary in Islamic tradition.
It is also recommended to visit the mosque during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is best for photography.
14. Ayazin Kalesi
Ayazin Castle or Ayazin Kalesi is a historical fortress located in the city of Afyonkarahisar in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the castle and enjoy the stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. The castle has several sections including the main entrance, watch tower, and the underground passageways.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view from the top of the castle is simply breathtaking and should not be missed.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the castle is located on a hill and requires some walking and climbing. Also, bring sunscreen and plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
15. Elpida Ranch Company and Milk Processing Plant
Elpida Ranch Company is a sprawling dairy farm in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey, that also houses a milk processing plant on the premises.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the ranch, see the cows and witness the milking process.
The tour then culminates at the milk processing plant, where visitors can observe how the milk is pasteurized, homogenized and packaged.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to sample the different varieties of milk, yogurt, cheese and other dairy products that the plant produces.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to avoid visiting the farm during peak milking hours as it can get crowded and noisy.
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