Usak

Before you go

Prepare yourself for a region that blends historical depth with modern life. While the name "Aegean" suggests coastal proximity, you will find the climate more characteristic of the Anatolian interior. You can explore an ancient weaving center famous for its distinctive rug style, which has become such a recognized term in English that it is used to describe these specific textiles globally.

You can experience a vibrant atmosphere in the city center where a student population creates a noticeable buzz. Beyond its textile heritage, you will find a landscape shaped by modern industries including food products and bathroom tiles.

Getting there

You can reach Uşak by air via two nearby airports. Flights from Istanbul land at Zafer Airport, where you can catch a shuttle bus to the city. Alternatively, Adnan Menderes Airport offers a wider range of destinations; however, note that the local airport in Uşak is reserved for private aviation and flight training.

For rail travel, regional trains connect Izmir Basmane to Uşak via Manisa, Turgutlu, and Alaşehir. A different line runs from Izmir toward Konya, passing through Afyonkarahisar and Akşehir. If you prefer by road, the city sits on the D300/E96 highway. You can also reach the destination by bus from Izmir, with routes connecting to major hubs like Eskişehir, Ankara, and Istanbul. Upon arriving at the intercity bus terminal, you can take a dolmuş to reach the town center.

Getting around

You will find the center of the city easy to navigate on foot due to its flat and compact layout. While a fleet of public minibuses serves the outlying suburbs, these are unlikely to be necessary for your travels within the main area.

If you choose to explore by vehicle, note that while the sides of main streets are marked as no parking zones, these signs are frequently ignored throughout the day. You may find it easier to secure a space by seeking out the side alleys. For a lively experience, walk along the pedestrianized northern half of İsmet Paşa Caddesi, a bustling thoroughfare heading north from the highway overpass.

Where to stay

You can choose from several accommodations that offer different atmospheres depending on your preference for location and character. For a central stay with convenient parking, you might choose the clean facilities of Blaundus Otel or Grand Hotel Uzcan. If you prefer a more unique experience, Dülgeroğlu Oteli offers rooms arranged around the courtyard of a converted han near the Grand Mosque, providing a charming but aged atmosphere.

Other options provide different levels of convenience:

• Anemon Uşak Otel provides a smart and friendly environment.
• Ramada offers a basic stay located near the main highway, which is convenient for motorists despite potential street noise.

Food & drink

Explore the local flavors along İsmet Paşa Cd, the city's primary dining strip. You can sample Tarhana, a traditional thick soup made from fermented and dried flour and vegetables that serves as an early predecessor to instant soups. For a hearty meal, try a Dona, which is a sticky and substantial döner wrap. If you are looking for late-night options, visit the area near Atatürk Blv to enjoy various soups such as lentil, chicken, or offal served with toasted bread and greens.

For your evening plans, head to the local establishments on İsmet Paşa Cd. You can find a spot that offers live music on Saturday nights to round out your experience.

What to see and do

Explore the historical heart of the city where you can wander through Old Town to see neoclassical mansions, a small bazaar, and historic mosques. Nearby, the Grand Mosque dates back to the late Germiyanid period, while the nearby Kırık Minare Mosque offers a more modest architectural style. You can also visit the Atatürk Heykeli monument or explore various local sites including Alparslan Camii, Boduroğlu Camii, Karakıran Camii, Kurşunlu Camii, and the Hocalı Katliamı Anıtı.

For a deeper look into the region's heritage, visit several museums: the Archaeological Museum features three floors of exhibits ranging from the Paleolithic era to the Lydian kingdom; the Carpet Museum showcases locally-made carpets; the City History Museum covers history into modern times; and the Atatürk and Ethnography Museum is housed in a former merchant's house. If you travel further out, you can see the ruins of the Roman settlement at Sebaste, the Phrygian Cılandras Bridge, or the deep canyons of Ulubey and Taşyaran Valley. Other notable sites include the ancient Greek settlement of Blaundus, situated on a peninsula-like landform, and the Seljuk-era Çataltepe Bridge.

Three days in Usak

Day one, you begin your journey in the heart of the city. You can explore the local area and walk along Paşa Caddesi to experience the atmosphere of the district.

Day two, you can delve deeper into the local culture. You might enjoy a bowl of Tarhana or Dona while exploring the sights near the Grand Mosque.

Day three, you spend your final day wandering through the streets. You can take in the surroundings and experience the unique character of Uşak before your departure.