Things to do
Afyon has many cultural and historical sites and delicious cuisines that will interest new visitors!
Afyonkarahisar Castle
The most talked of attraction in Afyon, Afyonkarahisar Castle is the heart of old city that stands upon the rocky mountain as an emblem of the past. The castle was passed down from the Hittites to the Ottoman Empire and is linked to many legends, often.
Sadly, only the walls of this castle can be seen from the foot of the mountain; so you’ve got to climb 1,000 stairs to reach the castle’s entrance. It’s an arduous journey, but it’s one that’s worth taking as the view from the hill is beautiful!
The Start of Great Offensive
Kocatepe is known for the “Great Offense” that started on Aug. 26, 1922 by Commander-in-Chief Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Like all cities, this place also has a Grand mosque (dating back to the Seljuk period) that’s named the Mosque of 40 pillars because it was constructed upon 40 wooden pillars.
The Mevlevi lodge here is the oldest in Anatolia. In the past, Afyon became a centre of the Mevlevi order, and this lodge was built in the 13th century. It’s now used as a museum that’s got dervish rooms, kitchens, and graves in the garden.
Thermal Baths and Spa Centres
Afyon is quite famous in Turkey for its spas and baths. There’s a spa-centre in Gazligol Kaplicasi, Gecek and Omerli Kaplicalari, Hudai Kaplicasi, and Heybeli Kaplicasi. Sandikli is famous for its magnificent mud-baths, as well!
They aren’t far from the town and are easy to reach. These resorts also provide boarding and lodging facilities, so visitors don’t have to worry about spending extra time to look for a place to rest.
Journey to the Old City
There are many places in Afyon that reflect this place’s long history. Çeşmeli Konak (a mansion with the fountain) is an old heritage-site that now serves as an art and culture centre.
The Archaeological Museum and the War of Independence Memorial can be visited by the historical buffs. To the north lie the Phrygian remains that are in the form of strange cult-rocks. Aslantas and Aslankaya are the largest of these rocks, and the lion reliefs that give them their names are located on the side of the temples. This is the Phrygian Valley, and it’s the most well-known historical site in Afyon.
Afyon Citadel is a great monument in the city. Built during the Byzantine period, it was used as a fortress by the Hittite King, Mursil II. The Citadel was called Karahisar by the Seljuks, which means “Black Castle”.
Altigoz bridge is another site that’s worth checking out, along with the town of Dazkiri on the Denizli highway that’s famous for its handicrafts such as carpets and kilims.
Pastries, Sucuk, Kaymak, and more
Afyon has such a wide variety of cuisine to offer to the new and old visitors alike. Constructed in 1922, the İkbal Restaurant offers tandir and cheery-bread pudding that are this place’s special delights.
Sucuk döner is one of Afyon’s famous dishes. Gamze Döner offers it along with handmade ayran and yogurt drink!
The village of Ayazini is famous for Şefika Aunt's house. She’s a household name in Turkey and is quite popular on local television channels for her gözleme, a special dish served with potatoes, cheese, and spinach.
Aşçı Bacaksız has been serving delicious lamb kebab (which takes three days to make!) since 1840. It’s an internationally recognized place in the city.
Tandır and güveç kavurma can be found at Salim Chef—a restaurant in the grand bazaar. You can also visit Aftat for some cherry bread pudding!
