Malatya City Guide
General Information about Malatya
Malatya is a historic city in Eastern Anatolia, known worldwide as the “Apricot Capital of the World.”
As of 2024, its population is around 800,000.
Throughout its history, Malatya has hosted many civilizations including the Hittites, Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans.
The Aslantepe Mound, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals one of the earliest examples of organized government in human history.
Economically, Malatya is famous for its dried apricot exports, as well as agriculture, industry, and trade. The city also plays a key role in regional culture, education, and transportation.
The climate is continental with hot summers and snowy winters.
Places to Visit in Malatya
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Aslantepe Mound: UNESCO-listed archaeological site dating back to 5000 BC.
- Battalgazi (Old Malatya): Ancient settlement with Roman walls, mosques, and caravanserais.
- Yeni Mosque: 19th-century Ottoman mosque known for its elegant architecture.
- Malatya Museum: Displays artifacts from prehistoric to modern times.
- Beşkonaklar Ethnography Museum: Restored traditional houses representing local lifestyle.
- Somuncu Baba Tomb (Darende): A sacred Sufi site visited by thousands annually.
- Hasan Gazi Tomb & Grand Mosque: Key religious and historical monuments.
Natural Attractions
- Levent Valley: Offers breathtaking views from a 240-meter-high glass terrace.
- Günpınar Waterfall: A natural wonder located in Darende district.
- Turgut Özal Nature Park: Green space for recreation and family picnics.
- Karagöz Lake & Sultansuyu Stud Farm: Ideal for nature lovers and horse enthusiasts.
- Mount Nemrut: Although in neighboring Adıyaman, it’s easily accessible from Malatya.
Culture and Life
Malatya hosts the International Malatya Film Festival and the Apricot Festival, attracting visitors from around the world.
Universities and cultural centers make the city a lively and artistic destination.
Malatya Intercity Bus Terminal
The Malatya Intercity Bus Terminal is 5 km from the city center. It’s a modern transport hub connecting the east and west of Turkey.
Daily buses operate to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana, Kayseri, Gaziantep, and Diyarbakır.
Facilities include cafes, ticket offices, rest areas, and parking lots.
What to Eat in Malatya
- Paper Kebab (Kağıt Kebabı): Meat and vegetables baked in parchment paper.
- Analı Kızlı (Stuffed Meatballs): Bulgur and minced meat dish with chickpeas.
- Sırın (Yogurt Pastry): Thin dough served with garlic yogurt.
- Stuffed Apricots (Kayısı Tatlısı): Dried apricots filled with walnuts and cream.
- Malatya Kömbesi: Spiced local bread.
- Cherry Leaf Dolma: Sour, aromatic stuffed leaves unique to the region.
- Apricot Pilaf: Sweet-savory rice dish made with local apricots.
How to Get to Malatya
- By Bus: Frequent services from all major Turkish cities.
- By Road: Ankara–Malatya 660 km (~7 h), Istanbul–Malatya 1100 km (~12 h), Gaziantep–Malatya 320 km (~4 h).
- By Air: The Malatya Erhaç Airport (30 km) offers daily flights to major Turkish cities.
- By Train: Malatya is a stop for long-distance express trains like the Eastern Express.
Bus Companies Operating in Malatya
- Kamil Koç
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Öz Elazığlılar Turizm
- Seç Turizm
- Lider Adana Turizm
- Malatya Zafer Turizm
