Isparta’da Ziyaret Edilmesi Gereken 15 Yer

Isparta, known as the land of roses, may be distant from the sea, yet it is a city adorned in green and blue. Its unique natural beauty and rich history are key factors that invigorate tourism, but its real trademarks lie in its rose gardens and lavender fields. Experiencing the enchanting scents of the flower-filled rose gardens and swimming in the lavender sea of Kuyucak Village are must-do activities in this city. Let’s check off the Isparta sightseeing spots one by one as we explore the city together.

Isparta Places to Visit

Isparta is a fantastic destination with its ancient cities from the Roman and Byzantine periods, vast dreamlike lavender fields, and pink-tinged fields ahead of the rose harvest. The city center features historical buildings, mosques, and lush recreational areas. Explore the wonderful lakes and nature parks that await you just outside the city. The first eight items in the list below represent the central attractions in Isparta, followed by those in the surrounding areas. You can set your travel route accordingly.

Tourist Attractions in Isparta

1. Isparta Ethnography Carpet and Rug Museum
2. Historical Chinar Tree
3. Aya Baniya Church
4. Historical Mimar Sinan Mosque
5. Firdevs Bey Bazaar
6. Gökçay Recreation Area
7. Historical Ayazmana Recreation Area
8. Gölcük Nature Park
9. Written Canyon Nature Park
10. Kovada Lake National Park
11. Eğirdir Lake
12. Kuyucak Village
13. Pisidia Antiokheia Ancient City
14. Adada Ancient City
15. Aksu Dungeon Cave

Isparta Ethnography Carpet and Rug Museum

Let’s start exploring Isparta from the city center. Our first stop is the Isparta Ethnography Carpet and Rug Museum, opened in 2013 by the Isparta municipality, it is the largest ethnography carpet and rug museum in Turkey. The ten-story museum features exhibition halls and a viewing tower, from which you can enjoy a delightful view of Isparta.

In the museum, 3,100 carpets and rugs are on display. In addition, around 2,300 items such as traditional costumes, old household items, agricultural tools, a Yörük tent, ancient firearms, and weaving looms are also showcased. Entry to the museum is free.

You can find the location of the Isparta Ethnography Carpet and Rug Museum here.

Historical Chinar Tree

In the center of Isparta, there’s an 800-year-old historical chinar tree. Surrounding it is a historic square with casual spots where you can enjoy tea. Make sure to add this spot to your list.

The location of the Historical Chinar Tree can be found here.

Aya Baniya Church

The Aya Baniya, or Aya Payana Church, is located in the Turan neighborhood, one of Isparta’s old settlements. It’s believed to have been built in 1750. Although this historic structure remains permanently closed, you can still view it from the outside.

Find the location of Aya Baniya Church here.

Historical Mimar Sinan Mosque

The Historical Mimar Sinan Mosque ranks among the oldest mosques in Isparta. Commissioned by the governor of Isparta, Firdevs Pasha, during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, it was constructed in 1561 in the style of Mimar Sinan. The mosque is still open for worship today.

The location of the Historical Mimar Sinan Mosque can be found here.

Firdevs Bey Bazaar

This bazaar was established by Firdevs Bey, the governor of Isparta, in 1561 to support the financing of the mentioned Mimar Sinan Mosque. It is constructed using a type of stone unique to Isparta called Kövke stone. Inside the bazaar, you can find shops to purchase souvenirs.

You can find the location of Firdevs Bey Bazaar here.

Gökçay Recreation Area

Gökçay Recreation Area offers a panoramic view of Isparta, surrounded by gardens and orchards, making it an excellent spot for a picnic. The area features park and play facilities for children as well.

The location of Gökçay Recreation Area can be found here.

Historical Ayazmana Recreation Area

Another pleasant picnic area is the Ayazmana Recreation Area, where you can watch squirrels and stroll amidst the sounds of chirping birds. The presence of chestnut and pine trees enhances the beauty of this place, which is perfect for spending time due to its cold water and clean air.

Find the location of Historical Ayazmana Recreation Area here.

Gölcük Nature Park

Gölcük Nature Park is located 8 kilometers from Isparta city center. This crater lake reaches a depth of 30 meters and has been a place for local people to relax, have fun, and meet their sports needs for years. It was designated as a nature park in 1991.

Find the location of Gölcük Nature Park here.

Written Canyon Nature Park

Now that we have covered the central attractions, let’s move on to the surrounding areas of Isparta. Written Canyon was designated as a nature park in 1989. Its depth varies between 100 to 400 meters, offering a chance to observe spectacular nature and wildlife.

The canyon gets its name from the Byzantine-era worship sites, altars, and inscriptions found on its walls. For more detailed information, you can read my article about Written Canyon Nature Park.

The location of Written Canyon Nature Park can be found here.

Kovada Lake National Park

When we talk about Isparta’s natural spots to visit, Kovada Lake National Park is one of the first places that comes to mind. It is located 29 kilometers south of Eğirdir District and boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna. You can cycle or walk along the trails, observe birds, and capture beautiful photographs of the lake. You can learn more about the lake by reading this article.

The location of Kovada Lake National Park can be found here.

Eğirdir Lake

Exploring the lakes is one of the top activities to do in Isparta. 😀 Eğirdir Lake transforms into a sight to behold at sunrise and sunset with captivating colors. It has a karst structure and reaches a depth of 12 meters, making it the second-largest freshwater lake in Turkey, while the surrounding area has been designated as a “First Degree Natural Site.”

The lake has islands connected by road, one of which is Yeşilada. On this famous island of Eğirdir, you can find a historical castle, several hotels, and restaurants.

The location of Eğirdir Lake can be found here.

Kuyucak Village

Kuyucak Village is potentially the most beautiful village in Isparta. Its stunning lavender fields resemble a sea of purple, providing a visual feast that has gained fame thanks to social media. As its popularity grows, it welcomes more visitors each day. Once barren fields, Kuyucak now rivals the Provence of France. Be sure to check out my guide on Kuyucak Village. 💜

Kuyucak Village’s location can be found here.

Pisidia Antiokheia Ancient City

Pisidia Antiokheia Ancient City is one of the historical sites in Isparta featuring remnants from the Roman and Byzantine eras. Established in 275 BC during the Seleucid period by either I. Seleucus or his son I. Antiochos, it served as a forward post against the Gallatians in Phrygia. You can read more about Pisidia Antiokheia Ancient City in my related article.

You can find the location of Pisidia Antiokheia Ancient City here.

Adada Ancient City

The Adada Ancient City is another ancient city you can visit in Isparta. First discovered in 1888 by G. Hirschfeld and W.M. Ramsey, the exact founding date of the city is unknown.

The city thrived during the Roman Empire under Emperor Trajan, Hadrian, and Antonius Pius. It contains remnants of ancient paths, the Trajan Temple, Emperor’s Temple, the Temple of the Emperors and Zeus Megistos-Serapis, a forum, basilica, acropolis, monumental fountain, administrative building, open-air meeting venue, theater, and tomb monuments.

The location of Adada Ancient City is here.

Aksu Dungeon Cave

The Aksu Dungeon Cave is located 2 kilometers northeast of Aksu district in Isparta. The cave is 765 meters long and is fully illuminated. It features various stalactites, flowstones, and caustic rocks formed by an underground river, along with mini canyons at different locations.

The location of Aksu Dungeon Cave can be found here.

Isparta Travel Guide

How Many Days to Visit Isparta?

You can allocate one day for city center attractions and two days for the surrounding areas. In total, you can explore the city comfortably in 3-4 days.

How to Get to Isparta?

There are three ways to reach Isparta: by train, by road, or by air. You can find all the details in this article.

What to Eat in Isparta?

Isparta has a rich culinary culture. While it may not be widely known for gastronomy, it surprises with its diversity. This richness is reflected in the local cuisine thanks to the agricultural and fruit wealth of the region.

What to Eat in Isparta

1. Oven Kebab
2. Banak
3. Stuffed Carp
4. Yufka Bread
5. Yalvaç Güllacı
6. Dirgit
7. Turnip Aşı
8. Tatar Dumplings
9. Top Tarhana
10. Rose Sherbet