How to get to Sivas

When planning a trip to Sivas, you are journeying into the very heart of Central Anatolia, where the heritage of the Great Silk Road weaves harmoniously with the rhythm of modern life. This historic city in Turkey, renowned for its unique monuments of Seljuk architecture and therapeutic thermal springs, is easily accessible to travelers thanks to a well-developed transport network. You can reach the city in various ways: from a quick flight or a comfortable ride on a high-speed train to a scenic road trip through mountain passes.

The fastest way to reach the region is by taking a direct flight to Sivas Airport (Nuri Demirağ), located just a few kilometers from the city limits. The modern terminal handles regular flights from the country's major metropolises, ensuring a comfortable and efficient arrival for tourists year-round.

If tickets for direct flights are sold out, you can consider alternative options by flying into neighboring cities. The nearest air hubs are located in the historic city of Tokat (about 75 km away) and picturesque Amasya. Some travelers also choose to fly to coastal Ordu to then enjoy an overland journey, although this route will take significantly more time.

Rail connections to the city of Sivas have reached a new level of quality thanks to the launch of the high-speed line (YHT). Now, you can get here from the capital in a matter of hours, enjoying the speed and comfort of modern carriages, making the train one of the most attractive transport options.

Additionally, the city is one of the key stops on the famous "Eastern Express" (Doğu Ekspresi), which traverses the entire country. This journey is particularly popular in winter, when the windows offer mesmerizing views of snow-covered Turkey, turning the travel itself into a unique adventure.

Bus travel remains a reliable and budget-friendly classic for exploring Turkey. Comfortable coaches run regularly to Sivas from almost every corner of the country, offering passengers a high standard of service, including Wi-Fi and snacks en route.

Even if you arrive in neighboring regions, such as Tokat or Amasya, finding a convenient connecting service is effortless. A bus trip is an excellent opportunity to witness the changing landscapes of Anatolia without the distraction of driving.

Traveling by car allows you to explore the region at your own pace. The shortest route leads from the city of Tokat: the distance is about 107 km, which usually takes no more than 1.5–2 hours of relaxed driving on quality roads.

If you are departing from the city of Amasya, prepare to spend about 3 hours on the road, covering a distance of 218 km. For travelers driving from the Black Sea coast, for example from Ordu, the journey will be longer and more scenic — about 4.5 hours (nearly 300 km), but the views of the mountain passes are definitely worth the time spent.

Sivas is a city with deep traditions and a climate that is rugged yet beautiful. To ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth preparing for local specifics in advance.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. Winters here are cold and snowy, so a warm jacket and comfortable footwear are essential. Summers are hot, but evenings can be cool; opt for modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
2. Transport. It is convenient to get around the city by taxi or local minibuses (dolmuş). They are inexpensive and run along all major routes.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Turkish Lira. Cards are accepted in hotels and major restaurants, but always carry cash for purchases at bazaars and small shops.
4. Health. Drink only bottled water. Pharmacies (Eczane) are easy to find throughout the city, with duty pharmacies operating 24/7.
5. Communication. Russian is rarely spoken here, and English is mostly spoken by the younger generation. Learning a couple of phrases in Turkish ("Merhaba" — hello, "Teşekkürler" — thank you) will greatly endear you to the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Be sure to remove your shoes when entering a mosque or a private home. Sivas values tradition, so politeness and modesty are highly appreciated here.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph locals, especially women, without their explicit permission. Also, avoid consuming alcohol in public places outside of restaurants.
8. Unique Souvenir. Pay attention to silver items and the famous handmade Sivas knives — these are the main pride of local artisans.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel like a welcome guest and fully enjoy the hospitality of ancient Anatolia.