Perched in the foothills of a towering extinct volcano in the heartland of Turkey, Kayseri is an economic powerhouse and home to some of the country’s most cherished Seljuk and Ottoman monuments. Museums and historic buildings stand alongside industrial factories, interspersed with colourful street bazaars and lively cafes.

Snow-capped Mount Erciyes draws Kayseri adventurers for trekking and alpine sports, while water enthusiasts embrace the nearby Zamanti River for rafting and tubing excursions. Narrow ancient lanes curve through the city’s Covered Bazaar, a short distance from historic Kayseri Castle and the Museum of Seljuk Civilisation, a restored 13th-century hospital and seminary now housing a magnificent collection of Seljuk art, history and culture. Visitors are welcome to tour the Seljuk-era Mahperi Hunat Hatun complex, now thriving with artisan shops and cafes as well as an important mosque and functioning Turkish bath.

With its location in central Turkey, Kayseri connects seamlessly with other major metropolitan areas via rail service, cars and bus lines. Within the city, a light-rail system provides modern and efficient transportation, along with extensive bus routes. Rental cars are available for the 30-minute drive to the ski centre at Mount Erciyes.

The origins of Kayseri Castle reach deep into the past, planned and built under the reign of Roman Emperor Gordian III, who ruled from 238 AD to 244 AD. Rebuilt about 300 years later under Byzantine Emperor Justinian, it eventually had its present incarnation in the 13th century by Seljuk Sultan Alaattin Keykubat. Tourists can explore the inner castle and wander through the ruins of the outer castle.