Things To Do
in Borçka

Borçka is a picturesque town situated in the Artvin Province of northeastern Turkey, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between lush mountains and the serene Borçka Lake, the town offers breathtaking landscapes ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The local population is warm and welcoming, making it a charming destination for tourists seeking tranquility.

With its unique blend of nature and tradition, Borçka is an enchanting getaway for those looking to explore the Black Sea region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Borçka Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore and take in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the local Borçka Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region, followed by lunch at a nearby café serving traditional dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll through the town to experience its charming atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Embark on a hiking trip to the nearby Karagöl (Black Lake), surrounded by lush greenery and perfect for photography.

afternoon
:

Return to Borçka for a leisurely lunch, then visit the Borçka Nature Park for a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.

evening
:

Wind down with a traditional Turkish tea at a local café, enjoying the serene ambiance of the town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Fast Food Combo$5
🚌Local Bus Fare$1
🏨Night in a Hotel$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery with outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Public transport may not be frequent.
  • Language barriers may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Borçka

Visit one of these nice places.

Borçka Lake

A stunning turquoise lake surrounded by mountains that provides a perfect backdrop for photography.

Karagöl Nature Park

Known for its mysterious beauty, the park features dense forests and serene lake views, ideal for nature photography.

Local Village Scenes

Capture the essence of rural life with photographs of traditional wooden houses and local farmers at work.

Culinary Guide

Food in Borçka

Borçka offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich local flavors and traditional dishes. Must-try local dishes include local trout and various vegetable stews that highlight the region's fresh produce.

Borçka Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a popular dish in the Black Sea region, often served with a side of fresh salad.

Must-Try!

Mıhlama

A cheesy cornmeal dish, typically prepared with local butter and served hot.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Borçka Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, homemade jams, and regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Borçka experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter can drop to as low as -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is frequent throughout the year, especially in spring and autumn, contributing to the lush greenery of the region.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is the common greeting; it's polite to make eye contact and smile.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual wear is acceptable in most other places.

Hospitality

If invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift such as sweets or flowers.

Safety Guide

Safety

Borçka is generally a safe town for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached easily, and locals are typically helpful.

Tipping in Borçka

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants; rounding up is also appreciated in cafés and bars.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but cash is preferred in local markets and smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and hikes.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for water activities at Borçka Lake, though occasional rain showers can occur.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, providing stunning scenery for photography and peaceful hikes.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snowfall, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland, perfect for cozy retreats.

Nightlife Guide

Borçka at Night

Borçka's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and cafés offering live music and traditional Turkish performances. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. While there are no nightclubs, the locals enjoy spending evenings outdoors, socializing with friends and family.

Hiking in Borçka

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Karagöl Trail

A scenic trail leading to Karagöl Lake, known for its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.

Çamlık Hiking Route

This route offers a moderate hiking experience through lush forests, perfect for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Borçka by plane.

Artvin Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Borçka, Artvin Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers heading to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Borçka is a walkable town with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. The compact layout allows for easy exploration on foot, and the scenic streets offer a pleasant walking experience. However, some hilly areas may require good walking shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kafkas People

The Kafkas people, known for their vibrant culture and traditions, make up a significant part of Borçka's demographic.

Local Farmers

Many residents are local farmers who maintain traditional agricultural practices, contributing to the town's economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a widely popular sport in the region, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans.

Hiking

Due to the region's stunning landscapes, hiking is a favored activity, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Borçka is generally light, with most people using cars or walking to get around. Public transportation includes local buses that connect the town with nearby areas, but schedules may vary. It's advisable to check the local timetable for bus services.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Borçka.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check ingredients as some may contain meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Borçka are adequate, with a local hospital and several clinics available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals can be found in nearby Artvin. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide