Isparta in Pictures
Tours, hotels and attractions in Isparta, Turkey
Isparta
Isparta is a compact provincial town in the western part of Turkey's Mediterranean region, located between the major tourist centers Antalya and Konya and close to the city of Burdur. With its low building density and a cozy historic center, the town is often called the Small City - a nickname that reflects its size, relaxed pace and ease for sightseeing on foot.
Isparta's geography appeals to nature lovers: the area around the town has many freshwater lakes and ponds, and within the province are Lake Eğirdir and Kovada, making the region popular for lake and eco tourism. Nearby is the Davras ski resort, allowing you to combine mountain activities with beach trips to Antalya.
The city's history is visible in its monuments: the Ulu Mosque, built in the early 15th century, the Firdevs Pasha Mosque from the mid-16th century associated with the architect Sinan, and Isparta Castle from the early 16th century create a rich historical landscape. Centuries-old craft traditions - handmade carpet weaving and rose oil production - have become an important part of the town's identity.
Isparta offers diverse types of tourism: cultural walks through the old town and bazaars, ethnographic routes with carpet-weaving workshops, nature trails in national parks and around the lakes, as well as active recreation - hiking and winter sports in Davras. The town's small size makes navigation easy and sightseeing comfortable even in one or two days.
The climate here is transitional between Mediterranean and continental - warm and dry in summer, cool in winter with snowfall in the mountains. The best seasons to visit depend on your goals: spring brings rose blooms and pleasant weather for walks, autumn offers mild conditions for excursions, and winter suits ski enthusiasts.
Visitors find it easy to orient themselves around the historic center, the bazaar area and the lakeside promenade, where the main museums, workshops and souvenir shops are concentrated. Nearby is Süleyman Demirel Airport, which operates regular and seasonal flights, making travel to Isparta convenient from around Turkey and Europe.
Isparta - the city of roses, crystal-clear lakes and famous rose oil.
Isparta - Ulu Mosque and the rose gardens
The main attractions of Isparta are concentrated in a compact historic center: the Ulu Mosque with its 15th-century atmosphere, the Firdevs Pasha Mosque connected to the architect Sinan, and the castle on the hill, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding lakes. Numerous narrow streets lead to markets selling handmade carpets and rose oil products - the region's signature souvenirs.
The natural sites near the town are another reason to visit: Lake Eğirdir and Kovada National Park offer boat trips, birdwatching and dedicated trails for hiking. 30-40 km from town lies the Davras ski area with chairlifts and T-bar lifts; plans include a new long cable car that will link different altitudes and allow quick transfers between beach and ski activities.
Cultural tourism in Isparta includes visits to museums, weaving workshops and seasonal rose festivals, where the stages of rose oil production are demonstrated and tastings are held. A historical note of interest to visitors: the technique for producing rose oil was brought to the region in the 19th century by settlers from Bulgaria, which helped shape the local industry.
The local cuisine blends continental Turkish traditions with ingredients from the lake region - notable dishes include lamb, fresh fish and dairy products; rose water and rose products are sometimes used in cooking. Rose lovers should plan a trip for late May to early June, while ski fans should choose the winter period from December to February.
City overview – facts & data for travelers
Popular Tours
Best tours and travel experiences across the continent
Guided tours, popular attractions, and top-rated hotels across the continent
