2026 Sivas Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

When most people think of Cappadocia, they immediately picture hot air balloons floating above the fairy chimneys. I was excited for that too, but during my trip, the balloons didn’t fly because of the weather. Surprisingly, I wasn’t disappointed at all. Instead, I discovered another side of Cappadocia—one filled with peaceful towns, breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and unforgettable moments. 🤍 🏡 Starting the day in a cave hotel I stayed at Potamia Cave Suites, and it was one of the most unique accommodations I’ve ever experienced. Sleeping inside a traditional cave room is something you simply have to try at least once. The hotel perfectly combines authentic Cappadocian architecture with modern comfort, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Waking up surrounded by ancient stone walls made me feel like I had stepped into another era. ☕ Coffee with an incredible view No trip is complete without a good cup of coffee. Before exploring, I visited Espresso Lab Cappadocia, a beautiful café where I enjoyed a delicious coffee while taking in the peaceful surroundings. It was the perfect place to slow down, recharge, and appreciate the beauty of Cappadocia before continuing the adventure. 🌿 Discovering the peaceful town of Avanos One of my favorite places in Cappadocia turned out to be Avanos. Unlike the rocky landscapes that make Cappadocia famous, Avanos is incredibly green. Tall trees line the streets, colorful flowers brighten every corner, and the peaceful Kızılırmak River, the longest river in Turkey, flows gently through the town. One of the highlights was crossing the famous suspension bridge. As soon as you step onto it, you’ll notice that it gently sways beneath your feet. It may feel a little unusual at first, but after a few steps, it becomes part of the fun. Standing in the middle of the bridge, surrounded by beautiful river views, lush greenery, and the quiet atmosphere of Avanos, was one of my favorite moments of the entire trip. 🌉🌳 I also loved watching the ducks swimming in the river while local families enjoyed their afternoon walks nearby. Everything felt calm, peaceful, and authentic. 🎨 The home of Turkish pottery Avanos has been famous for pottery for centuries. As I wandered through the charming streets, I discovered countless ceramic workshops where talented local artisans continue traditions that have been passed down through generations. The handmade pottery, colorful ceramics, and small family-owned shops gave the town so much character. Even if you’re not planning to buy souvenirs, simply exploring these workshops is an experience worth having. 🍽️ An unforgettable dinner After a wonderful day exploring Avanos, I had dinner at Narin Restaurant, and it quickly became one of my favorite restaurants in Cappadocia. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, the staff were incredibly kind, and every dish reflected the rich flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine. Everything tasted fresh, homemade, and beautifully prepared. It was the perfect way to end such a memorable day. ❤️ Cappadocia is much more than hot air balloons My trip reminded me that the best travel experiences often come from unexpected moments. Although I didn’t get to see the balloons in the sky, I experienced peaceful mornings in a cave hotel, enjoyed excellent coffee, walked across a gently swaying suspension bridge, explored the charming streets of Avanos, admired centuries-old pottery traditions, tasted authentic Turkish cuisine, and met wonderful people along the way. Sometimes, the places that aren’t on your original itinerary become the ones you remember the most. If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, don’t rush from one famous viewpoint to another. Slow down, explore the local towns, enjoy the cafés, walk along the river, cross the suspension bridge, and let yourself experience the true soul of this magical region. I promise you’ll leave with memories that are even more valuable than the photos. ✨🤍 📍Places I visited: 🏡 Potamia Cave Suites ☕ Espresso Lab Cappadocia 🌿 Avanos 🌉 Avanos Suspension Bridge 🎨 Local Pottery Workshops 🍽️ Narin Restaurant #Cappadocia #Turkey #Avanos #TravelDiary #TravelInspiration #HiddenGems #TurkishCuisine #Pottery #CaveHotel #NatureLovers #Wanderlust #TravelBlogger #ExploreTurkey #AuthenticTravel #TripMoments

Turkey is a magical blend of surreal natural landscapes, rich ancient history, and vibrant cultures bridging Europe and Asia. If you are planning your first trip, here is a breakdown of my 7-day journey from Cappadocia to the coastal charm of Antalya, wrapping up in historic Istanbul. Day 1: Arrival & Journey to Cappadocia · Istanbul Connection to Cappadocia: Land in Istanbul, clear immigration, grab an Istanbulkart, and catch a domestic flight straight to Cappadocia. · Evening in Göreme: Head to my hotel in Göreme by airport shuttle to settle in and get a good night's rest for an early start tomorrow. Day 2: Exploring Cappadocia – Göreme & Avanos · Aydın Kırağı Sunrise Point: Wake up early to catch a breathtaking panoramic sunrise over Göreme as the town slowly bathes in golden morning light. · Göreme Open Air Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring remarkable rock-cut churches and monasteries adorned with centuries-old Byzantine frescoes. · Avanos Pottery Town & Red River: Visit Avanos, famous for its red-clay pottery tradition dating back to ancient times. Take a relaxed walk across the suspension bridge over the Kızılırmak River. · Sunset at Göreme Sunset Viewpoint: End my day watching the valley glow as the sun sets over the fairy chimneys. Day 3: Valley Hopping · Hot Air Balloons at Love Valley: Experience the unforgettable spectacle of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons rising over Love Valley at dawn. · Uçhisar Castle: The highest natural rock citadel in Cappadocia. · Pigeon Valley: A scenic valley named after the thousands of small pigeon houses carved into the soft volcanic tuff cliffs over centuries. · Cavusin: Spend the afternoon hiking through valleys painted in distinctive pinkish rock hues and catching sunset near the historic village of Cavusin. Day 4: Cappadocia to Antalya · Morning Stroll & Scenic Drive: Enjoy a peaceful final morning taking photos around Cavusin before hopping on an intercity bus bound for the Mediterranean coast. · Arrive in Antalya: Settle into your hotel in Antalya. Day 5: Ancient Marvels & Flight to Istanbul · Perge Ancient: Explore the impressive ancient ruins of Perge. · Kaleiçi Old Town & Harbor: Walk through picturesque cobblestone streets lined with Ottoman-era houses leading down to the lively ancient harbor. · Fly to Istanbul: Catch an evening flight to Istanbul and check in hotel. Day 6: Istanbul – Crossing Continents · Historic Sultanahmet: Marvel at Istanbul’s world-famous architectural masterpieces, including the majestic Blue Mosque, the historic Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower · Bosphorus Ferry Sunset Ride: Take a scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, watching seagulls soar past as you cruise between Europe and Asia under the setting sun. Day 7: Grand Bazaar & Farewell · Grand Bazaar & Balat Neighborhood: Wander through the vibrant aisles of the Grand Bazaar for spices and Turkish delights, then stroll through Balat’s colorful historic streets for lovely photos. · Heading Home at afternoon. Traveler Tips & Helpful Advice 1. E-Visa Caution: Getting a Turkish visa is pretty straightforward nowadays since you can apply online yourself. Just make sure you are using the official government portal, as there are many third-party website copies that look similar to the real one. 2. Currency Exchange: · If you have time in Istanbul, head to the Grand Bazaar - the exchange booths inside offer some of the best rates in the country. Keep in mind that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. · If you are flying straight to Cappadocia without visiting central Istanbul first, look for a PTT (the official post office). They cap exchanges at $300 USD per transaction and the rate isn't quite as competitive as the Grand Bazaar, but it is still significantly better than airport exchange counters. 3. Accommodation Choice: · In Cappadocia, I personally prefer staying in a standard room over a traditional cave hotel, as cave rooms can feel a bit damp and carry a faint smell of mortar or stone dust. · In Istanbul, I recommend booking a stay in the Sultanahmet area - it’s clean, charming, and super convenient for walking to major sights. 4. Catching the Balloons: If your schedule allows, try to stay in Cappadocia for at least 3 full days. Hot air balloon flights are weather-dependent and get canceled easily due to wind, so extra buffer days give you the best shot at flying or getting those iconic sunrise photos. 5. Getting Around: Grab an Istanbulkart as soon as you land in Istanbul - it makes hopping on metros, trams, and ferries effortless and budget-friendly. #hotairballoon #istanbul #antalya #cappadocia #travel2026 #turkey #turkiye

Friends who travel to Turkey for the first time rarely pay attention to the "Seljuk" period, and they are tired of hearing about ancient Greece, ancient Rome, Byzantium, and the Ottoman Empire. It's okay, let's talk about something you haven't vomited today. The "Seljuk period" in a broad sense is from AD 1037 to AD 1453, more than 400 years. Why don't they promote it more? Because they always lose in wars, the society is turbulent, and a large empire is finally divided into twenty or thirty small countries, which really can't lose the face of the old earth. Just like talking about ancient China, how about Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing, few people talk about Wei, Jin, and Five Dynasties. However, the more chaotic times, the more likely it is to be a time when artistic masterpieces emerge, and so is Turkey. The early Seljuk architectural decoration is known for its exquisite tiles and plaster sculptures, but after being passed to Anatolia, the craftsmen obviously added the main skill points to stone carving and stone carving, especially the fine carving on giant brick and stone buildings. , It's simply the pinnacle. Many cities in Turkey have preserved Seljuk period buildings, but when you come to Sivas (Sivas), you are in the right place. This is a city that has a great collection of Seljuk heritage buildings: ①Gök Medrese【Figure 1-7】: Blue Seminary, World Heritage Preparatory List, built in the middle of the Seljuk period in 1271 AD, completed in 2023, the animal stars and the tree of life on the outer wall of the main door are almost all 800 years ago. The original, the current seminary has been converted into a museum, free to visit; ②Ulu Cami【Figure 8】: Ulu Mosque, built in the early Seljuk period in 1196 AD, Sivas's oldest building is not one, single-story multi-column rectangular, almost no decorative techniques, the seemingly about to collapse The leaning tower was built in 1213; ③Çifte Minareli Medrese【Figure 9-12】: Twin Tower Seminary, World Heritage Preparatory List, built in 1271 AD, now only the main gate wall and twin towers are left, but you can still see the extremely spectacular stone carving decoration from the leopard in the tube; ④Şifaiye Medresesi【Figure 13-14】: Rehabilitation Seminary, World Heritage Preparatory List, located opposite the Twin Tower Seminary, built in 1217 AD, one of the oldest hospitals, now converted into a restaurant and handicraft market, free to visit; ⑤Buruciye Medresesi【Figure 15-16】: Buruciye Seminary, World Heritage Preparatory List, built in 1271 AD, it is said to be built for the study and teaching of science and technology, the stone carvings on the main gate wall are very detailed, almost all are original genuine products, now here It has been converted into a restaurant and is free to visit. Hey, don't think that you have finished watching Sivas, the next article will show you where the ceiling of Seljuk architectural art is.

Gök Madrasah is located in Sivas, a city in central Turkey. Built in the 13th century, this historic madrasah has an elaborately decorated entrance gate that you can gaze at for hours without getting bored. The blue (gök) tile decorations inside are also the origin of the madrasah's name. The minaret (tower) built next to the entrance is 25 meters high and has a beautiful, imposing appearance. It is about a 15-20 minute walk from the center of the old town, where other tourist sites such as Cifte Minaret are located, but it is well worth the trip. Sivas has become easier to access since the high-speed train from Ankara opened. #Overseas travel

Time to chess

My pass

Sivas|A Time-Travel Journey Through the Seljuk Empire💫 In the heart of the Anatolian Plateau lies this millennia-old book lightly covered by wind and sand—Sivas🇹🇷 Without the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, Yet with the deepest whispers of the Seljuk dynasty. Three stunning madrasas, three time codes, Take you straight back to the 13th century✨ 🌠 Gök Medrese (Blue Madrasa) — The Star Map Fallen from the Sky "The moment I opened the door, I heard the sound of stars falling." 💙 Cobalt blue hexagonal tiles form a river of stars 🌟 The dome’s starburst pattern is the Seljuks’ eternal cosmic poem 📸 Photo tip: Shoot the dome from below + silhouette shots for instant masterpieces 🍃 Şifaiye Medresesi (Healing Madrasa) — The Healing Light in the Stone Crevices "Royal hospital from 1217, still able to heal restless hearts today." ⚕️ The courtyard pool was once a sacred place for patients to cleanse 🌿 Stone benches in the corridor have hosted countless seekers of healing 💭 Now only wind and light flow between the stone walls 🔮 Buruciye Medresesi (Buruciye Madrasa) — The Secret Language of the Stars "A miniature jewel box designed by astronomers." 🌌 Each stone pillar is engraved with different astronomical symbols 📚 The small courtyard holds the most exquisite Seljuk architectural aesthetics 🚶‍♀️ Recommended Tour Route: Blue Madrasa → Healing Madrasa → Buruciye Madrasa (All within a 10-minute walk, recommend spending 2 hours to savor slowly) 👗 Outfit Guide: ▪️ Dark long dress + wide-brimmed hat = full atmosphere vibes ▪️ Ethnic-style earrings perfectly complement the ancient architecture 📌 Practical Tips: · Best photo times: early morning or dusk🌇 · Don’t forget coins; the apple tea from the grandma at the madrasa entrance is delicious🍵 "This city is a sleeping philosopher, Only telling its millennia-old stories To those willing to pause." · My Sivas Diary

Qatar F1 experiment is honestly a wild ride 🚗🔥 Qatar is defs the place to be if you wanna watch F1 racing—total adrenaline rush in a super safe and glam city! Honestly, Doha feels like a dream with those bright lights and modern vibes. Even at night, the city’s architecture looks epic and sooo Insta-worthy—make sure to snap a pic or two! (Pro tip: If you're a foodie, definitely check out the amazing dessert scene. You’ll find gorgeous treats decked out with fruit and syrup. They're almost too pretty to eat! 😋) When it comes to blowing your mind with local culture, Souq Wakif is a MUST. Grab traditional bites here—every dish feels like a flavor adventure. Address: Souq Waqif, Doha, Qatar. Opening hours: Usually daily 10:00–22:00 (but double-check before you go!) And don’t miss the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)! It’s a total gem with insane views and jaw-dropping exhibitions. Address: Museum of Islamic Art, Corniche, Doha, Qatar. Opening hours: Sunday–Thursday 9:00–7:00, Friday 1:30–7:00, Saturday 9:00–7:00. The city is so clean you’ll legit wanna take your shoes off and walk around—no joke! As for car rentals, heads up: Sometimes you'll end up with a random Chinese car instead of what you booked. So maybe plan for a taxi or rideshare if you wanna keep it simple. If you’re obsessed with motorsport, some F1 events happen at the Lusail International Circuit—definitely check dates! Address: Lusail International Circuit, Al Wusail, North of Doha, Qatar. Qatar is giving luxe vibes and desert nights—add it to your bucket list! 🌟

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips Madrasah Menara Kembar - Sivas Bahasa Indonesia: Sebuah prasasti yang membentang dari tiga arah tepat di atas portal menunjukkan bahwa madrasah tersebut dibangun pada tahun 1271/1272 oleh Wazir Ilkhanat Sahip Şemseddin Mehmet Cüveyni . Satu-satunya fitur asli bangunan yang bertahan hingga saat ini adalah fasadnya yang megah, yang membanggakan portal tertinggi di Anatolia. Dua menara yang menjulang di atas portal telah menjadi simbol Sivas. Ini adalah salah satu madrasah paling monumental yang dibangun di Anatolia dan juga dikenal sebagai Darü'l-hadis. Ini adalah struktur dua lantai, empat iwan. Menara bata di atas portal dihiasi dengan ubin. Portal batu, dihiasi dengan motif bunga dan geometris, dan relung muqarnas di sisinya memberikan bangunan itu penampilan yang semarak. Di sudut-sudutnya terdapat setengah menara bergalur. Itu masih utuh dan terbuka untuk pengunjung.

#mytraveldiary I just explored Erzurum—a city where Seljuk architecture, Ottoman legacy, and rugged mountain landscapes collide. At nearly 2,000 meters (6,500 ft) elevation, it’s a place of piercing blue skies, warm hospitality, and deep Turkish identity, perfect for solo travelers craving authenticity and adventure. What Makes Erzurum Special? · Seljuk Splendor: Home to the stunning Çifte Minareli Medrese (Twin Minaret Madrasa) and other masterpieces of early Turkish architecture. · Winter Sports Capital: The nearby Palandöken Ski Resort is one of the best in the world. · Cultural Crossroads: A historic stop on the Silk Road with a rich mix of Turkic, Kurdish, and Caucasian influences. · Local Cuisine: Famous for cağ kebabı (horizontal lamb kebab) and ayran aşı (yogurt soup). Why Erzurum for Solo Travelers? · Safe & Authentic: Far from mass tourism—locals are genuinely curious and kind to visitors. · Compact Historic Center: Key sites are within walking distance. · Gateway to Adventure: Use it as a base for skiing, hiking, or visiting Lake Tortum and Öşvank Monastery. · Budget-Friendly: Accommodation, food, and transport are very affordable. · -- My Solo Itinerary Day 1: History & Architecture · Morning: Explored the Çifte Minareli Medrese—marveled at the ornate stone portal and twin minarets. · Afternoon: Visited the Üç Kümbetler (Three Tombs) and Erzurum Castle for panoramic city views. · Evening: Tried cağ kebabı at a local ocakbaşı (grill house) and chatted with friendly locals. Day 2: Culture & Mountains · Morning: Wandered the Rüstem Paşa Bedesten (covered bazaar) for spices, crafts, and antiques. · Afternoon: Took a dolmuş (shared taxi) to Palandöken Ski Resort—hiked or simply enjoyed the alpine scenery (skiing in winter!). · Evening: Visited the Yakutiye Medrese (now a museum) and relaxed with a glass of çay in a traditional çay bahçesi. · -- Solo Traveler Tips 1. Dress in Layers: Weather changes quickly—sunny one moment, windy or cold the next. 2. Try Local Specialties: Don’t leave without tasting cağ kebabı, kete (savory pastry), and Erzurum ayranı. 3. Learn Basic Turkish Phrases: “Merhaba,” “Teşekkürler,” “Ne kadar?” (How much?) 4. Stay Central: Choose a hotel near the medrese or castle for easy access to sights. · -- Final Thoughts Erzurum surprised me with its dignity, depth, and dramatic setting. As a solo traveler, I felt welcomed and inspired—whether admiring 800-year-old stonework or sharing tea with strangers. This is Turkey at its most raw and real. #SoloTravel #Erzurum #EasternAnatolia #SeljukArchitecture #AdventureTravel · -- Interested in day trips to Lake Tortum Waterfall or the ancient Öşvank Monastery? Let me know! 🏔️🕌

Sivas is an important city for Turkish modern history. The most important political party congress has been in the city before the general assembly is found in Ankara.

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#EuropeTravel Visiting the Double Minaret Medres School in Turkey was a wonderful historical experience. Located in the city of Arava in central Turkey, this old school is considered one of the most famous tourist attractions in the region. When I arrived at the Marriage Brick School, I was impressed by the beautiful architecture and intricate details of the building. The school was built in the 13th century AD and is a great example of Seljuk architecture. The building features two double towers at the front end, which are a characteristic of the school and give it its name. I started my visit with an interior tour where I was able to explore the different rooms and winding arcades. I had a sense of ancient history and culture as I walked around the school. The rooms were uniquely designed and filled with inscriptions and decorations reflecting beautiful Seljuk art. My visit to the Marriage Brick School was an opportunity to enjoy the history, culture and art of Turkey. It is a great place for those who love history, architecture and art. This visit will leave you inspired and connected to the country’s rich past and culture.

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In the bustling central area of ​​Sivas, a town in central Turkey, lies Taşhan, a magnificent and old-fashioned bazaar. Built in the late 19th century, it boasts a history of over 100 years. The two-story building is shaped like a square, with a courtyard in the middle. The ground floor is lined with shops selling bags and clothing, and both floors house cafes where locals leisurely enjoy chai and coffee. The three arched entrances were particularly beautiful. #OverseasTravel