Amasya
· TR

Amasya

Amasya, Amasya, Turkey

Step Back in Time in Amasya, Turkey: Where History Meets Enchanting Beauty Nestled within a verdant valley carved by the Yeşilırmak River, Amasya, Turkey, is more than just a city; it's a living museum. This captivating …

#Historic City#Cultural Heritage#Natural Beauty#Ottoman Architecture#Tourist Destination
1/5
Stay & flyThings to doVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Amasya.

Top Hotels in Amasya

Top Flights to Amasya

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Amasya.

Tours

Amasya Castle Visit

Explore the historic Amasya Castle with stunning views of the city from its elevated position.

Ferhat Water Channel Tour

Discover the ancient water channel built by King Ferhat for his love, Shirin.

Visit to Hazeranlar Mansion

Explore this Ottoman-era mansion turned museum, showcasing the lifestyle and architecture of the period.

Hamamözü Turkish Bath Experience

Experience a traditional Turkish bath in the historic Hamamözü district, offering relaxation and cultural immersion.

Shopping

Amasya Bazaar Shopping

Shop for local crafts and souvenirs in the lively Amasya Bazaar, a hub of cultural exchange.

Outdoor

Ihlara Valley Hiking

Enjoy a hiking trip in the picturesque Ihlara Valley, known for its natural beauty and ancient cave churches.

Amasya Boat Ride

Enjoy a serene boat ride on the Yesilirmak River with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and historical architecture.

Yedikut Hiking Adventure

Embark on an adventurous hike across the Yedikut Mountains, known for its challenging terrains and breathtaking views.

Green River Park Picnic

Relax and enjoy a picnic at Green River Park, a beautiful spot along the Yesilirmak River.

Traditional Pottery Workshop

Participate in a hands-on pottery workshop and learn the skills to craft beautiful ceramic pieces.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Amasya.

Currency
₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Amasya, Amasya, Turkey is around 0.3 million.
Languages
Turkish, Turkish
Average weather
Amasya
Jan
cold
5°-3°
Feb
cold
7°-2°
Mar
cloud
12°1°
Apr
cloud
18°6°
May
sun
23°10°
Jun
sun
28°14°
Jul
hot
32°17°
Aug
hot
32°17°
Sep
sun
27°13°
Oct
cloud
20°8°
Nov
cloud
13°3°
Dec
cold
7°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Amasya.

What people love

Amasya, located in the Amasya province of Turkey, is a historical and picturesque city known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Amasya:

  1. Historical Sites: Amasya is home to numerous historical sites dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Pontic Kingdom, Roman Empire, and Ottoman Empire. Visitors can explore the ancient rock tombs, historical mosques, bridges, and Ottoman mansions scattered throughout the city.

  2. Natural Scenery: Situated along the banks of the Yesilirmak River and surrounded by stunning mountains, Amasya offers breathtaking natural scenery. The city is known for its lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and beautiful riverside promenades.

  3. Local Cuisine: Amasya is famous for its delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes such as mantı (Turkish dumplings), keşkek (wheat and meat porridge), and Amasya-style apple tea. Visitors can indulge in authentic Turkish flavors at local restaurants and cafes.

  4. Traditional Handicrafts: Amasya is known for its traditional handicrafts such as handwoven carpets, copper items, and pottery. Visitors can explore local markets and shops to purchase unique souvenirs and support local artisans.

  5. Hospitable Locals: The people of Amasya are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and at home. Travelers can interact with locals, learn about their customs and traditions, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Overall, traveling to Amasya offers a blend of history, nature, delicious cuisine, traditional handicrafts, and warm hospitality, making it a delightful destination for those seeking an authentic Turkish experience.

Enjoy your trip to Amasya!

What to know

While Amasya, Turkey, is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and cultural heritage, there can be some potential downsides or challenges to consider when traveling there:

  1. Limited Accessibility: Amasya is not as easily accessible as some of Turkey's more popular tourist destinations like Istanbul or Cappadocia. The nearest major airport is in Samsun, about a two-hour drive away. This might require additional travel planning and time.

  2. Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Amasya, especially compared to larger cities in Turkey. This can make communication challenging for travelers who do not speak Turkish.

  3. Tourist Infrastructure: While Amasya has some tourist facilities, it may not have the same level of infrastructure as more tourist-heavy locations. This includes fewer options for luxury accommodations and high-end dining.

  4. Seasonal Weather: Amasya experiences a continental climate, which means hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Depending on the time of year, the weather might be a deterrent for some travelers.

  5. Limited Nightlife: If you're looking for vibrant nightlife, Amasya may not meet your expectations. The city is more oriented towards historical and cultural exploration.

  6. Crowds During Peak Season: While not as crowded as other Turkish destinations, Amasya can get busy during Turkish holidays and the peak tourist season, which might detract from the experience if you prefer quieter visits.

These potential cons can vary based on personal preferences and expectations, so it's essential to plan according to what you are looking to experience.

Amasya, located in northern Turkey, is a city rich in history and culture, with a heritage that dates back thousands of years. Here is a detailed history of Amasya, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Ancient and Classical Periods

  • Early Settlement: Amasya's history dates back to the Hittite period in the 2nd millennium BCE. It later became part of the Phrygian and then the Lydian kingdoms.

  • Persian and Hellenistic Periods: After the defeat of the Lydians, the city came under Persian control. Following Alexander the Great's conquests, Amasya became part of the Hellenistic world.

  • The Kingdom of Pontus: Amasya gained prominence as the capital of the Kingdom of Pontus in the 3rd century BCE. It was ruled by the Mithridatic dynasty, with King Mithridates VI being one of the most famous rulers. Under his reign, the city flourished as a center of culture and learning.

Roman and Byzantine Periods

  • Roman Rule: Amasya fell to the Roman Republic in 70 BCE after the Mithridatic Wars. It became an important city within the Roman Empire, known for its strategic location and the production of notable scientists and geographers, such as Strabo.

  • Byzantine Era: During the Byzantine period, Amasya continued to be a significant urban center. It was an episcopal see and played a role in the military and administrative organization of the empire.

Seljuk and Ottoman Periods

  • Seljuk Control: In the late 11th century, the Seljuk Turks captured Amasya. It became part of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum and later various Anatolian beyliks.

  • Ottoman Empire: Amasya was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the late 14th century. It became an important administrative center and was known for producing several notable Ottoman statesmen and scholars.

  • Cultural Renaissance: During the Ottoman period, Amasya experienced a cultural renaissance. It became a center of learning and art, with numerous schools, mosques, and other architectural projects being constructed.

Modern Period

  • Turkish War of Independence: Amasya played a vital role in the Turkish War of Independence. The Amasya Circular, issued in 1919 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was a significant document that declared the need for an organized national resistance against the occupying forces.

Important Landmarks

  • Rock Tombs of the Pontic Kings: Carved into the cliffs above the city, these tombs are a testament to Amasya's ancient heritage and its importance during the Kingdom of Pontus.

  • Amasya Castle: Overlooking the city, this castle has been a strategic military site throughout history, offering panoramic views of Amasya.

  • Yesilirmak River: The river runs through Amasya, adding to its scenic beauty and historical significance. Many historical structures are located along its banks.

  • Mosques and Madrasas: Notable religious and educational buildings include the Sultan Bayezid II Mosque, the Burmali Minare Mosque, and the Gök Medrese.

  • Old Ottoman Houses: The city's old quarter is famous for its traditional Ottoman houses, which exemplify the architectural style of the period.

Amasya's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a unique and significant city in Turkey's historical landscape.