Isauria, Turkiye Travel Guide

Discover the ancient wonders and natural beauty of Isauria in Turkiye, where history meets breathtaking landscapes.

Nestled in the rugged Taurus Mountains of Turkiye, Isauria is a captivating blend of history, mystery, and natural beauty. This ancient region, once a formidable kingdom, offers a rare glimpse into the past with its well-preserved ruins and archaeological sites. From the remnants of grand temples to the ruins of fortresses, every corner of Isauria tells a story of a bygone era. Visitors can wander through the remains of the ancient city of Isaura, where they can see the impressive city walls and the ruins of the agora, a testament to the region's historical significance. The nearby ancient city of Zengibar Castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. Nature lovers will find Isauria's landscapes equally enchanting. The Taurus Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploration. The region's unique flora and fauna add an extra layer of charm to the outdoor experience. The cool mountain air and the serene environment make it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Isauria.

Best visited in spring or autumn to avoid the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.
Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the ruins.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities can be sparse in the remote areas.
Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views from Zengibar Castle.

Explore Isauria: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Isauria

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Apollon Temple

Explore the breathtaking Apollon Temple in Side, Turkey, a stunning historical landmark that offers a journey through ancient culture and architecture.

4.8

Göbeklitepe

Explore Göbeklitepe, the world's oldest temple site, and discover the origins of human civilization in beautiful Şanlıurfa, Turkey.

4.7

Bodrum Castle

Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Bodrum Castle, a stunning fortress overlooking the Aegean Sea and home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

4.5

Ihlara Valley

Explore the stunning Ihlara Valley, where lush landscapes meet ancient history in the heart of Turkey's breathtaking natural scenery.

4.6

Best landmarks in Isauria

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Galata Tower

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Istanbul's iconic Galata Tower, a must-see landmark for every traveler.

4.7

Grand Bazaar

Explore the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, a historic marketplace bursting with colors, cultures, and unique treasures waiting to be discovered.

4.4

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Explore the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a stunning blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, a must-see historical treasure in Istanbul.

4.8

Topkapi Palace Museum

Explore the opulence of Topkapi Palace Museum, where the splendor of the Ottoman Empire awaits in Istanbul's historic heart.

4.7

Best restaurants in Isauria

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Hanzade Terrace Restaurant

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with stunning views at Hanzade Terrace Restaurant in Istanbul's historic Fatih district.

4.8

Hidden Garden

Experience exquisite Turkish and European flavors in a serene garden setting at Hidden Garden Restaurant in Istanbul.

4.9

Seven Hills Restaurant

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with breathtaking views at Istanbul's renowned Seven Hills Restaurant.

4.3

Divella Bistro Restaurant

Discover the flavors of Turkey at Divella Bistro Restaurant in Istanbul - where culinary tradition meets modern dining.

4.8

Best bars in Isauria

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Corner Irish Pub

Discover the lively Corner Irish Pub in Istanbul, where Irish hospitality meets vibrant local culture, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

4.5

Old English Pub Cafe & Restaurant

Discover the unique blend of English pub culture and Turkish hospitality at the Old English Pub Cafe & Restaurant in Kadıköy, Istanbul.

4.3

The Harp Irish Pub

Discover The Harp Irish Pub in Kadıköy, where vibrant Irish culture meets Istanbul's lively nightlife with great food, drinks, and live music.

4.3

U2 Istanbul Irish Pub

Discover the vibrant U2 Istanbul Irish Pub, where live music meets authentic Irish cuisine in the heart of Beyoğlu, Istanbul. A must-visit for tourists!

4.7

Best nightclubs in Isauria

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Escape Club İstanbul

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Escape Club İstanbul, where music, energy, and unforgettable moments come together in the heart of the city.

4.8

Taksim Club IQ

Discover the exhilarating nightlife of Taksim Club IQ, where live music, dancing, and vibrant energy create an unforgettable experience in Istanbul.

4.7

Ritim

Experience the pulse of Istanbul's nightlife at Ritim, where unforgettable music, dancing, and vibrant energy come together.

4.4

Çiçek Pera İstanbul

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Istanbul at Çiçek Pera, a premier night club and event venue in the heart of Beyoğlu, perfect for unforgettable nights.

4.7

Best shops in Isauria

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Egyptian Bazaar

Explore the Egyptian Bazaar in Istanbul - a vibrant market filled with spices, sweets, and unique treasures, perfect for every traveler.

4.5

Venezia Mega Outlet

Explore Venezia Mega Outlet, Istanbul's top shopping destination for international brands, local delights, and an unforgettable shopping experience.

4.2

İstinye Park Alışveriş Merkezi

Explore luxury shopping, exquisite dining, and vibrant entertainment at İstinye Park Alışveriş Merkezi in Istanbul.

4.5

Alara Grand Bazaar

Explore the Alara Grand Bazaar: A vibrant market in Alanya where local crafts, delicious foods, and rich culture converge for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Explore Isauria on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Isauria, mapped for you.

Isauria Essentials

Isauria is located in the central region of Turkiye. The nearest international airport is Antalya Airport, which is approximately 120 kilometers away. From Antalya, you can rent a car, take a bus, or hire a private transfer to reach Isauria. The scenic drive takes around 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, buses run from major Turkish cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to nearby towns, from where local transportation can take you to Isauria.
Within Isauria, local minibuses (dolmuş) and taxis are the most common modes of transportation. Car rentals are also available and can be a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace. For the more adventurous, renting a bicycle or scooter can offer a unique perspective of the area. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the smaller towns and archaeological sites.
The official currency in Turkiye is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before venturing into remote areas. Currency exchange services are also available at airports and in larger cities.
Isauria is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in the larger towns of Isauria. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight bow of the head as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Isauria like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Turkish goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient ruins and historical sites, as they offer a glimpse into the rich past of Isauria. For a unique experience, try to attend a local festival or event, which can provide deeper insight into the local traditions and way of life.

When is the best time to visit Isauria?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Isauria

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Isauria. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerhaba
  [mehr-HAH-bah]
- GoodbyeHoşça kal
  [hosh-CHA kal]
- YesEvet
  [EH-vet]
- NoHayır
  [HAH-yuhr]
- Please/You're welcomeLütfen/Rica ederim
  [LOOT-fen/ree-JAH eh-DER-im]
- Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [teh-shehk-KOOR eh-DER-im]
- Excuse me/SorryAffedersiniz/Üzgünüm
  [af-feh-DER-sin-iz/OOZ-goo-noom]
- How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [NAH-suhl-sin-iz]
- Fine. And you?İyiyim. Ya siz?
  [EE-yee-yim. YAH siz?]
- Do you speak English?İngilizce biliyor musunuz?
  [een-GIH-liz-jeh bee-LEE-yor moo-SOO-nuz?]
- I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [AHN-lah-muh-yor-um]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek isterim lütfen
  [meh-NOO-yoo GOHR-mehk ees-TEH-rim LOOT-fen]
- I don't eat meatEt yemiyorum
  [ET yeh-MEE-yor-um]
- Cheers!Şerefe!
  [sheh-REH-feh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum lütfen
  [OH-deh-mek ees-TEE-yor-um LOOT-fen]
- Help!Yardım edin!
  [YAR-duhm eh-DIN!]
- Go away!Defol!
  [DEH-fol!]
- Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [poh-LEE-see ah-RAH-yin!]
- Call a doctor!Bir doktor çağırın!
  [beer DOHK-tor chah-IR-in!]
- I'm lostKayboldum
  [KAHY-bold-um]
- I'm illHastayım
  [HAS-tah-yum]
- I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [sah-TUHN ahl-MAHK ees-TEE-yor-um...]
- I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [SAH-deh-jeh bah-KIY-or-um]
- How much is it?Bu ne kadar?
  [boo neh kah-DAR?]
- That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [boo chohk pah-HAH-luh]
- Can you lower the price?Fiyatı düşürebilir misiniz?
  [fee-YAH-tuh DOO-sheh-reh-BI-lir MEE-sin-iz?]
- What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [sah-AT kahch?]
- It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [sah-AT beer]
- Half past (10)On buçuk
  [ON boo-CHOOK]
- MorningSabah
  [sah-BAH]
- AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [UR-leh-DEN SOHR-nah]
- EveningAkşam
  [AHK-shahm]
- YesterdayDün
  [DUHN]
- TodayBugün
  [boo-GOON]
- TomorrowYarın
  [YAH-rin]
- 1Bir
  [beer]
- 2İki
  [ee-KEE]
- 3Üç
  [OOSH]
- 4Dört
  [DURT]
- 5Beş
  [BESH]
- 6Altı
  [AHL-tuh]
- 7Yedi
  [YEH-dee]
- 8Sekiz
  [SEH-keez]
- 9Dokuz
  [DOH-kooz]
- 10On
  [ON]
- Where's a/the...?Nerede ...?
  [NEH-reh-de ...?]
- What's the address?Adres nedir?
  [AD-res NEH-dir?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bana (haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [BAH-nah (har-ee-TAH-dah) GOS-teh-reh-BI-lir MEE-sin-iz?]
- When's the next (bus)?Sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [SON-rah-kee (oh-toh-BUS) neh ZAH-mahn?]
- A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....)
  [beer bee-LET (....)]

History of Isauria

Isauria, located in the rugged mountains of what is now southern Turkey, was originally inhabited by a group of ancient tribes known as the Isaurians. These tribes were known for their fierce independence and resistance to outside control. Their settlements were scattered throughout the region's mountainous terrain, providing natural fortifications against invasions.
In the 1st century BCE, the Romans began their expansion into Isauria. Despite the Isaurians' fierce resistance, the region was eventually brought under Roman control by the general Publius Servilius Vatia Isauricus. The Romans established several military outposts and colonies in the area to maintain control and integrate it into the Roman Empire.
During the Byzantine period, Isauria gained prominence as a significant region within the empire. It was the birthplace of several Byzantine emperors, including Zeno, who ruled from 474 to 491 CE. The Isaurians continued to be known for their military prowess, providing key troops for the Byzantine army.
One of the most notable periods in Isauria's history was during the Isaurian Dynasty (717–802 CE). Emperor Leo III, also known as Leo the Isaurian, founded this dynasty. He implemented significant military and administrative reforms that strengthened the Byzantine Empire, including the famous iconoclastic policies that sought to remove religious icons from worship.
Following the decline of the Byzantine Empire, Isauria experienced a period of turbulence with frequent invasions and control shifts. The region was contested by various powers, including the Seljuk Turks and Crusaders. The strategic importance of Isauria's mountainous terrain made it a valuable yet difficult territory to control.
Isauria was eventually incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the late 15th century. Under Ottoman rule, the region saw relative stability and integration into the larger imperial structure. In the modern period, Isauria is part of the Republic of Turkey, preserving its rich historical heritage and attracting visitors interested in its complex past.