Leisure activities in Türkiye
You are in for a treat if you are in Türkiye as an expat. There are lots of different leisure opportunities awaiting you.
Music and Arts in Türkiye
Türkiye is a unique country resting right in the middle of Asia and Europe. Hence, the culture is exceptionally vivid and has been influenced enormously by the best of both worlds. You can experience the Middle East and Europe without ever leaving the country. This phenomenon is apparent in every aspect of society and makes no exception when it comes to music and performing arts. Indeed, Türkiye is a hidden musical haven where you can enjoy Western classical music, arabesque, Turkish art music, Anatolian rock, indie, jazz, pop, flamenco, and more in one single place.
Live shows have always been important to music fans in Türkiye. Consequently, there are many alternatives to venues, from small clubs like Babylon to huge performance halls like the Zorlu Performing Arts Center. You can enjoy small bands performing live music or fancy musical theater plays at these locations.
Turkish folk theater has a strong follow-up with a substantial audience. Theatrical plays range from comedy to drama, with some modern theater plays being focused solely on politics.
During Ramadan and special celebrations, you will probably stumble upon a version of Karagöz and Hacivat, which is a famous puppet (shadow play) show that has been around for centuries.
You can follow up on your favorite musicians filling up massive stadiums or concert halls just like in other European cities during summer. However, make sure you also check up on the local gems who are performing in small meyhane (local pubs/taverns) and bars for distinctive shows. If you fancy top-notch live music, then get ready to be blown away by the fantastic performances of these local artists.
Turkish people tend to go to Fasil nights to enjoy authentic Turkish music and real traditional food. It is an experience that you will never forget, and you get to watch the musicians perform between the tables without an actual stage. Feel free to sing along with them as most guests also do. Expect nothing less than an outstanding performance from Fasil musicians.
Spectating sports in Türkiye
It is no secret that Turkish people are huge soccer fans. The country has globally famous soccer clubs. Some of the players like Arda Turan, who played for FC Barcelona, are internationally popular.
Soccer fans march to the stadiums every weekend, mostly on Sundays, to support their teams. Many cities have large and modern stadiums for this purpose. It is festive and a great way to enjoy the weekend if you like sports. The Turkish soccer league, called the Süper Lig, is run by the Turkish Football Federation. Eighteen clubs compete annually for the championship. Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş are the most popular clubs with millions of fans.
Basketball is another popular sport that has been growing in Türkiye since the early 1930s. TBL, the Turkish Basketball First League, is made up of sixteen teams that compete with each other. Many fans support their teams at the games, and you will realize that it might be hard to get tickets for important games. Other popular sports in Türkiye include wrestling, volleyball, and tennis, and they all have their own fan base.
If you want to play rather than watch, then you can do so in the game areas that are located in public parks. There are free soccer, basketball, and tennis courts that are set up and run by local municipalities. Nevertheless, paid soccer fields with artificial grass (Astroturf) are widely popular among amateur soccer players.
Outdoor activities in Türkiye
If it is summertime, then you will probably end up by the beach. Make sure you gear up with adequate sunblock since it gets really hot. Extra humidity in the air makes it feel hotter than the actual temperature, especially in the southern parts of the country where the temperature ranges from 35°C to 45°C (95°F to 113°F) in the season.
Türkiye has a very rich coastline full of beautiful beaches. Even if you travel non-stop during the summer, it is almost impossible to visit them all in one season.
Take note that the accommodation facilities are highly developed. From all-inclusive 5-Stars luxurious hotels to small village pensions, the country is loaded with a tremendous variety of lodging. In winter, there are plenty of ski resorts all around the country where you can enjoy snowboarding or skiing. As of 2020, there are 37 active ski resorts with 131 ski lifts. The most famous ones are Erciyes, Palandöken, Kartalkaya, Kartepe, and Uludağ.
Another popular leisure activity in Türkiye during springtime is probably having a barbecue and picnics with close friends. You will notice that Turkish families gather around the parks and other recreational areas with small disposable barbecues and soccer balls. It is a favorite pastime for the locals as long as it is not raining. Kids play soccer or volleyball while the parents chat and prepare the grill.
Hiking in Türkiye
Türkiye, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, offers plenty of hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From the rugged mountains to the scenic coastlines, the country's trails provide a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and challenging terrains.
Türkiye's geography is incredibly varied. In the north, the lush, green Kackar Mountains offer alpine hiking experiences, while the Taurus Mountains in the south provide dramatic rocky landscapes. Coastal trails like the famous Lycian Way combine the beauty of the Mediterranean and Aegean seas with ancient ruins, making for an enriching hiking experience.
Hiking in Türkiye isn't just about the physical journey; it's also a dive into history and culture. Many trails pass through ancient sites, offering a glimpse into the country's rich past. The Lycian Way, for example, is dotted with Lycian tombs, Roman ruins, and Byzantine remnants.
Here's your quick cheat sheet of Türkiye's most popular hiking trails:
- The Lycian Way: This 540 km trail along the southern coast is Türkiye's first long-distance walking route. It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and traverses ancient Lycian and Roman ruins.
- The St. Paul Trail: As a part of the long-distance walking route system in Türkiye, this trail follows the footsteps of St. Paul. It stretches from Perge, near Antalya, to Yalvaç in the province of Isparta, winding through forests, valleys, and traditional rural villages.
- The Kackar Mountains: A paradise for nature lovers, these trails offer breathtaking alpine scenery, with opportunities for both day hikes and more challenging multi-day treks.
- Carian Trail: Located in Southwest Türkiye, this 850 km trail winds through the ancient region of Caria, combining stunning coastal scenery with archaeological sites.
- Uludag National Park: Near Bursa, this park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, and its proximity to Istanbul makes it a popular weekend hiking destination.
- Cappadocia Trails: Famous for its unique fairy chimneys and rock formations, Cappadocia offers various hiking routes that meander through its otherworldly landscape.
Things to take into account when hiking in Türkiye
Spring and autumn are the best times to hike in Türkiye, offering pleasant weather conditions. Summers can be hot, especially on the coastal trails, while winters can be harsh in mountainous areas.
Adequate preparation is key. Hikers should carry appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
For certain trails, especially in remote or mountainous areas, hiring a local guide can enhance the experience and ensure safety.
When hiking in rural areas, it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can also be helpful in connecting with local villagers.
Museums and Archaeology in Türkiye
Anatolia has been home to many civilizations for thousands of years. Hittites, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans left their marks and helped to shape the current culture of the Turkish people. Remnants of these marvelous societies are a must-see.
You can either visit local museums that are spread around the country or see the actual cities, or what is left of them, in person. Walking on a thousand-year-old pathway like the ones in Ephesus or Adamkayalar is surely an exceptional experience.
If you are in Istanbul, make sure you visit the Topkapı Palace Museum, which was built in the 15th century. You can even see the original costumes of the Ottoman Sultans.
Shopping and bazaars in Türkiye
Türkiye offers a unique shopping experience that blends traditional bazaars with modern retail spaces. This exciting array of options, from traditional artifacts to contemporary fashion, can turn a simple shopping spree into an adventure to remember.
The heart of Turkish shopping lies in its local bazaars, bustling with life, colors, and a variety of goods. These bazaars are not just shopping destinations; they are a deep dive into Turkish culture and tradition.
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
Perhaps the most famous of all is the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops spread across 60 streets, the Grand Bazaar offers everything from spices, Turkish delights, and teas to intricately handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and textiles. Navigating through its labyrinthine alleys is an experience in itself, filled with the scents of spices and the sounds of bustling commerce.
Spice Bazaar and local markets
Another iconic spot is the Spice Bazaar, also in Istanbul, where the aroma of various spices, herbs, and sweets fills the air. Across Türkiye, most cities and towns have their local markets and bazaars, each offering a glimpse into the regional culture and specialties. These markets are great places to find authentic Turkish souvenirs, hand-painted ceramics, traditional lanterns, and beautifully woven carpets.
Modern shopping malls
In contrast to the traditional bazaars, Türkiye also boasts a number of modern shopping centers that cater to contemporary tastes and international brands.
Cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya are home to large, modern shopping malls, such as Cevahir, Zorlu Center, and Akasya in Istanbul. These malls offer a wide range of options, from high-end international brands to popular Turkish labels, along with entertainment, dining, and recreational facilities.
For those interested in fashion and designer wear, districts like Nişantaşı in Istanbul and Alsancak in Izmir are lined with boutiques showcasing local and international designers. These areas offer a more upscale shopping experience and are often frequented by those looking for the latest trends and quality apparel.
Apart from the malls, there are numerous streets and districts dedicated to local crafts and artisanal products. These shops are ideal for those looking to purchase unique, handcrafted items that reflect Türkiye's rich artistic heritage.
What you should know about shopping in Türkiye:
- In bazaars and local markets, bargaining is common and expected. Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, as it's part of the shopping culture.
- When buying traditional items like carpets or jewelry, ensure the quality and authenticity. It's advisable to do a bit of research or shop from recommended stores.
- While many shops accept credit cards, carrying some local currency (Turkish Lira) can be useful, especially in smaller markets or for smaller purchases.
All in all, living in Türkiye as an expat offers an exciting and vibrant array of leisure activities that cater to a wide array of interests and preferences. From the rich musical and artistic tapestry that integrates the best of Eastern and Western influences to the passionate sports culture, particularly in soccer, there's always something to keep you engaged and entertained.
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