Malatya is the world capital of the apricot and the closest gateway to the legendary Mount Nemrut. From Istanbul you can fly direct to Malatya (MLX) with Turkish Airlines, Pegasus and AJet in about 1 hour 55 minutes. The area is surrounded by the UNESCO World Heritage site of Arslantepe Mound, sprawling apricot orchards and the dramatic landscapes of the Euphrates valley. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons to visit.
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See flights to Malatya →When to visit Malatya
Spring and autumn offer the most balanced weather; summer (June-July) is ideal for those who want to see the apricot harvest. The Nemrut summit is accessible roughly from May to October.
Things to do in Malatya
Mount Nemrut giant statues
The 2,000-year-old colossal stone heads built by King Antiochus of Commagene await you on a 2,150-metre summit. The sunrise and sunset views are unforgettable, and Malatya is the closest base for reaching this UNESCO wonder.
Arslantepe Mound (UNESCO)
Home to one of the world's oldest known palace complexes and the earliest swords, Arslantepe was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021. Its roughly 6,000-year-old layers open a window onto human history.
Apricot orchards
Malatya supplies a huge share of the world's dried apricots. The orchards, cloaked in white blossom in spring and laden with golden fruit in summer, are the city's signature. During harvest you can sample fresh and dried apricots at local markets.
Battalgazi (Old Malatya) and the Great Mosque
North of the modern centre, Old Malatya (Battalgazi) offers a journey into the past with its historic walls, caravanserais and the 13th-century Seljuk Great Mosque. The mosque is admired for its tilework and monumental portal.
Levent Valley
With its red and grey rock walls, Levent Valley is like an open-air geology museum, perfect for hiking and nature photography. The layered canyon cliffs and the stream running through them form one of Malatya's most striking natural landscapes.
Sultansuyu Stud Farm
Founded in 1865, the historic Sultansuyu Stud Farm is one of Turkey's oldest horse-breeding centres. Its broad green grounds, plane trees and thoroughbred horses make for a peaceful stroll and photo stop.
Flights from Turkey to Malatya
Malatya Airport (MLX) lies about 26 km from the city centre and is reached by direct flights from Istanbul. Turkish Airlines, Pegasus and AJet operate regular services on this route, with a flight time of about 1 hour 55 minutes.
Malatya FAQ
How do I pay for a Malatya flight package?
You can spread the cost of your Malatya flight package with Suso over 3 to 24 months. No credit card limit is required; the financing is provided as a consumer loan by our partner institution.
How far is Malatya Airport from the city centre?
Malatya Airport (MLX) is about 26 km from the city centre. You can reach the centre easily by airport shuttle, taxi or rental car.
Which airlines fly from Istanbul to Malatya?
You can fly direct from Istanbul to Malatya with Turkish Airlines, Pegasus and AJet. The flight takes about 1 hour 55 minutes.
Buy now, pay later flights to Malatya
Fly now, pay later. Plan your trip, pay over up to 24 months. One click at checkout sets up the plan, no credit card limit needed.
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