Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century complex features Seljuk architecture with ornate stone carvings. The site is a religious and historical ruin. Average visit duration: 1-2 hours.
Sivas Travel Guide – Attractions, Transport, Best Time to Visit
Last update February 12, 2026
Sivas is a city located in central Turkey, within Sivas Province and the Central Anatolia Region. It is situated on a high plateau at an elevation of approximately 1,280 meters above sea level. The city lies roughly midway between Ankara and Erzurum, making it an important link in east-west transit routes. Sivas has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, and it is known for its historical heritage, particularly from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.
Sivas Overview
- Location: Central Anatolia, Turkey
- Primary features: Seljuk architecture, historical urban sites, Central Anatolian steppe landscape
- Time needed: 2-3 days (minimum 1 day)
- Best time to visit: May-September (warm weather, low precipitation)
- Cost level: Low to medium compared to major Turkish cities
- Tourism profile: Cultural and historical tourism, urban sightseeing
Reasons Travelers Visit Sivas
- Historical significance as a center of Seljuk architecture and Ottoman heritage
- Presence of well-preserved medieval mosques, madrasas, and caravanserais
- Geographic location on Central Anatolian plateau with continental climate
- Cuisine characterized by Central Anatolian specialties including meat dishes and local breads
- Access to natural features such as nearby mountains and plateaus
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sivas is during late spring to early autumn, from May through September. During these months, the weather is warm to hot with low rainfall, suitable for exploring outdoor historical sites and urban areas. Winters, from December to February, are cold and snowy, which limits sightseeing comfort and accessibility.
| Season | Months | Typical Weather | Crowd Levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March-May | Mild, increasing temperatures, occasional rain | Low to moderate |
| Summer | June-September | Warm to hot, dry | Moderate |
| Autumn | October-November | Cooling temperatures, low precipitation | Low |
| Winter | December-February | Cold, snow common | Low |
How to Get There
Sivas is accessible by air, road, and rail, with the nearest major city being Ankara. The city has a regional airport and is connected by highways and train lines, serving travelers from different parts of Turkey.
- Nearest major city: Ankara (approximately 360 km southwest)
- Transport options: Domestic flights to Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport, intercity buses, trains, car travel via highways
- Travel times vary by origin and mode of transport
From Istanbul
- Flight: Approximately 1 hour direct flights from Istanbul Airport to Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport
- Car: About 8-9 hours driving via highways
- Bus: Approximately 10-12 hours from Istanbul with multiple daily services
- Train: No direct train; combination of train and bus needed, total over 12 hours
From Izmir
- Flight: No direct flights; travel via Istanbul or Ankara recommended
- Car: Approximately 10-11 hours driving
- Bus: Around 12-14 hours, no direct route
- Train: Not practical; combination of train and bus required
From Antalya
- Flight: No direct flights; connections via Istanbul or Ankara
- Car: About 9-10 hours driving
- Bus: Around 11-13 hours; multiple connections possible
- Train: No direct service; combination needed
From Ankara
- Flight: No flights; travel by road or rail preferred
- Car: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours driving on highways
- Bus: 5 to 6 hours direct intercity bus service
- Train: Direct train services around 6 hours
Getting Around
- Limited local bus services within city limits
- Taxis available for point-to-point travel
- Most historic and cultural sites are within walking distance in city center
- Car rental available for access to surrounding areas
Top Attractions in Sivas
Sivas Congress Museum
A museum housed in the former building of the 1919 Sivas Congress, significant in Turkish War of Independence history. It is a cultural and historical museum. Average visit duration: 1 hour.
Gök Medrese
A 13th-century Seljuk madrasa (Islamic school) featuring distinctive turquoise tilework and architecture. It is a historical monument. Average visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Sivas Castle
Ruins of a medieval fortress overlooking the city, originally constructed in Roman and Byzantine periods and later reinforced during Seljuk and Ottoman eras. The site is an archaeological and panoramic viewpoint. Average visit duration: 1 hour.
Common Visitor Activities
- Visiting historical sites and museums within Sivas city center
- Exploring Seljuk and Ottoman architectural landmarks
- Walking tours of downtown neighborhoods
- Tasting local Central Anatolian cuisine at restaurants
- Day trips to nearby natural areas and villages
Suggested Sivas Visit Duration
Recommended visit duration ranges from one full day to three days. A half-day visit allows for a brief overview of key historical sites. One day covers major city attractions. Two to three days enable exploration of museums, detailed study of Seljuk architecture, and nearby areas.
Nearby Destinations
- Kangal – Approximately 70 km southeast, known for thermal springs and historic sites
- Divriği – Approximately 110 km east, site of the UNESCO-listed Great Mosque and Hospital
- Erzincan – Approximately 160 km northeast, regional city with natural and historic attractions
- Ankara – Approximately 360 km west, Turkey’s capital city
Practical Information
| Climate | Continental — hot summers, cold and snowy winters |
|---|---|
| Seasonality notes | Best in late spring to early autumn. Winters have limited tourist activity due to snow. |
| Crowd levels | Generally low to moderate year-round; peak during summer months. |
| Constraints or limitations | Winter snow can restrict road access. Limited local public transportation; taxis are primary intra-city option. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of travelers visit Sivas?
Sivas attracts cultural travelers, history enthusiasts, and urban sightseers interested in Seljuk and Ottoman architecture. The city also appeals to visitors who explore Central Anatolian historical sites and enjoy mild summer weather conditions.
How many days are needed to visit Sivas?
Visitors typically spend 1 to 3 days in Sivas. One day covers main historic sites, while two to three days allow a more detailed visit to museums, architecture, and nearby attractions.
Is Sivas safe for travelers?
Sivas is generally safe for travelers. Normal urban precautions apply. Its low tourist density reduces typical risks associated with crowded tourist centers.
What is the best time to visit Sivas?
The best period to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry, facilitating outdoor sightseeing. Winter months are cold and often snowy, limiting outdoor activities.