How to get to Malatya

If you are planning a trip to Malatya, located in the heart of Eastern Anatolia, a journey to one of the most colourful and hospitable regions of Turkey awaits you. This ancient city, known as the world capital of apricots, possesses a well-developed transport infrastructure, so you can arrive here by plane, train, intercity bus, or car. Before travelling, it is worth finding out in advance how to get to Malatya to choose the most comfortable route and begin exploring local attractions without any hassle.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by air. Malatya Airport (MLX), also known as Erhaç, receives regular flights from major Turkish metropolises and seasonal international charters. The terminal is located approximately 30 kilometres from the city centre, with which excellent transport links have been established.

If direct tickets are unavailable or you are planning a complex route, you can consider flying to neighbouring provinces. The nearest alternative airports are in Adıyaman and Elazığ, located less than 100 kilometres away. This option allows you to plan your journey flexibly and enjoy the picturesque views of Eastern Anatolia on the way to your destination.

Rail travel is a convenient option for tourists who have time and wish to see the country from a train window. In Malatya, there is an active railway station that receives passenger trains from various corners of Turkey. The station is located within the city limits, making arrival here quite comfortable.

The most popular routes depart from Ankara: the "Vangölü Express" and "Kurtalan Express" pass through the region. This is a long journey that allows you to enjoy the picturesque mountain and steppe landscapes of Anatolia. Additionally, there is regional service, for example, the "Fırat Express" train, running between the cities of Adana and Elazığ with a stop in Malatya. From the station, you can easily reach the central districts by taxi or local bus.

Bus services in the region are excellently developed, connecting Malatya with neighbouring provinces via frequent and comfortable trips. The journey from Elazığ will take no more than two hours, as the cities are separated by only about 100 kilometres of scenic highway. Approximately the same amount of time will be spent on the trip from Adıyaman, located 85 kilometres to the south, making these routes ideal for spontaneous trips.

If you are departing from the legendary Şanlıurfa, be prepared to spend about four hours on the road, enjoying views of the Anatolian steppes over a distance of 220 kilometres. Most intercity buses arrive at the main terminal MAŞTİ, from where it is easy to get to the city centre via free service shuttles or taxis. Turkish carriers are famous for their high level of service, often offering passengers tea, coffee, and snacks right in the cabin.

Travelling by car through Eastern Anatolia will gift you unforgettable views of mountain ranges and spacious valleys. Closest to the destination is Elazığ: the distance of about 100 kilometres along the D300 highway can be comfortably covered in an hour and a half. The picturesque route from Adıyaman, lying to the south, will take a little more time — about two hours for a distance of 85–100 kilometres.

If you are driving from Şanlıurfa, the 220-kilometre road will take approximately three and a half to four hours, opening up a panorama of steppe landscapes. A taxi ride between these cities is possible but will be costly due to the long distances, so many travellers prefer to rent a car for greater freedom of movement. The quality of the road surface on the region's main highways is high, making driving pleasant and safe.

Preparing for your trip to Malatya will help avoid minor inconveniences and allow you to focus on your experiences. We have collected useful recommendations for you that will make your stay in this hospitable region of Turkey as comfortable and safe as possible.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is continental, so your wardrobe depends on the season. Summer is hot and dry — choose light natural fabrics, headwear, and sunglasses. Winters can be snowy and cold, so a warm jacket and waterproof footwear are mandatory. Evenings can be cool even in the warm season, so a windbreaker or sweater will not be superfluous.
2. Transport: The public transport system in the city is well-developed and includes buses and modern trambuses (a type of trolleybus). For fare payment, it is most economical to purchase a top-up Malatya Kart at special kiosks. Taxis are available everywhere, but always ensure the driver switches on the meter upon boarding.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Turkish Lira. Major hotels, shopping centres, and supermarkets accept bank cards without issues. However, for purchases at bazaars, paying fares in dolmuşes (minibuses), or having tea in small cafes, be sure to carry small denomination cash. It is best to exchange money at official exchange offices (Döviz).
4. Health and Safety: The city is considered calm and safe for tourists, but standard precautions are advisable. Pharmacies (Eczane) are frequently found, and duty pharmacies operate around the clock. Drinking tap water is not recommended — it is better to buy bottled water to avoid digestive issues.
5. Communication: The main language is Turkish. Few people know English, mostly staff at large hotels or students. We strongly recommend downloading an offline translator on your smartphone. Knowing a couple of phrases in Turkish ("hello", "thank you") will help you build rapport with the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Eastern Anatolia is more traditional than the coastal resorts. When visiting mosques and private homes, be sure to remove your shoes. It is better to dress modestly for walks around the city, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.
7. What to Avoid: Do not refuse a offered glass of tea — this is a gesture of sincere hospitality, and refusal may offend the host. Also, avoid photographing local residents, especially women, without their explicit permission.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to visit the specialized market Şire Pazarı. Malatya is the world capital of apricots, and here you will find hundreds of varieties of dried apricots and sweets made from them. Bargaining when buying souvenirs at the market is not only allowed but encouraged.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to easily navigate the city and feel confident in any situation. May your introduction to the culture and traditions of Eastern Anatolia go smoothly and leave only the warmest memories.