Things To Do
in Çankırı
Çankırı sits on the inland plain of central Anatolia, bordered by forests and the Kızılırmak River. The town blends medieval stones, traditional markets, and a friendly, slow-paced rhythm that invites easy exploring. Its history unfolds from ancient fortresses to Ottoman-era mosques, all connected by narrow lanes and welcoming tea houses.
A short drive away, Ilgaz Mountain offers year-round outdoor opportunities that show a different side of Çankırı’s landscape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Çankırı Castle, perched atop a hill offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Wander through the ancient stone walls and immerse yourself in the rich history of this fortress dating back to Roman times. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh bread, olives, and regional cheeses.
Stroll through the charming streets of Çankırı, stopping by the historical Great Mosque of Çankırı, known for its unique architecture and intricate tile work. Visit the Çankırı Archaeological Museum to learn about the region's fascinating past through its extensive collection of artifacts. Treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at a restaurant serving local specialties, such as Çankırı döner and gözleme.
As the sun sets, head to a local tea garden to relax and enjoy a traditional Turkish tea while mingling with the locals. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the town as people gather to socialize and share stories. Finish your day with a stroll along the riverbank, taking in the tranquil beauty of the evening sky.
Begin your day early with a drive to Ilgaz Mountain National Park, where the fresh mountain air invigorates your spirit. Hike one of the scenic trails, surrounded by lush forest and the sounds of nature, reaching viewpoints that reveal breathtaking panoramas. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, listening to the melodic chirping of birds.
Spend the afternoon exploring the park's diverse flora and fauna, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography. Visit the charming Ilgaz Ski Resort area, where you can take in the beauty of the snow-capped peaks, even in off-season. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains.
As the day winds down, return to Çankırı and indulge in a dinner featuring local lamb dishes at a traditional restaurant. Share your day's adventures with fellow travelers or locals, exchanging stories over a warm meal. End your evening with a peaceful walk through the town, soaking in the atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🚆Local transportation (one-way) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (2 people, per night) | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly basket) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and welcoming locals
- Proximity to Ilgaz Mountain for year-round outdoor activities
- Affordable costs and relaxed pace
- Accessible city center with walkable streets
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Smaller tourist infrastructure compared to bigger cities
- Occasional language barriers in more remote spots
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bu nerede?" - Where is this place?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Yemek için sipariş etmek istiyorum" - I would like to order food
- "Hava nasıl?" - How's the weather?
- "Suyu lütfen" - Water please
Places to Visit in Çankırı
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fortress ruins perched above the town with sweeping views, ideal for sunset silhouettes and cityscape photography.
Long riverside walks along the Kızılırmak with bridges, fishermen, and seasonal greenery—great for wide river photos and reflections.
Narrow lanes and weathered stone façades offer intimate street scenes and architectural textures.
Food in Çankırı
Çankırı Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tiny dumplings topped with garlicky yogurt and a tomato-pepper sauce; a regional specialty best sampled in traditional eateries or home-style cafes.
Must-Try!
A rich, tangy soup made from tarhana (fermented yogurt and grain powder) often served as a warming starter.
Meat and vegetables cooked quickly in a large sac pan, a popular rustic dish in local restaurants.
Flatbread filled with vegetables or cheese; ask for vegetarian fillings and check for cross-contamination if gluten-free.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh produce, cheeses, dried herbs, and daily snacks; perfect for people-watching and tasting seasonal treats.
Mobile vendors offer gözleme, simit, borek, and ayran—great for a quick, flavorful bite while wandering the streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or brief nod is common; address people with proper titles and show appreciation with polite phrases.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove hats inside mosques and speak softly in these spaces.
Turkish hospitality is central—accept offered tea or coffee when visiting homes or cafes.
Eating is often a social activity; wait for everyone to be served before starting and use right-hand etiquette for passing dishes.
Safety
Tipping in Çankırı
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if service isn’t included. Small tips to taxi drivers or hotel staff are appreciated but not obligatory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; great for outdoor walks and photography along the river and in parks.
Warm to hot days; plan early morning and evening outings; bring water and sun protection.
Cooling days with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives to Ilgaz and forest trails.
Cold with potential snow in Ilgaz; a great time for winter sports in the mountains and cozy indoor dining in town.
Çankırı at Night
Hiking in Çankırı
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highland path with panoramic views, forest scenery, and seasonal wildlife; suitable for moderate hikers.
Easy to moderate riverside trails offering tranquil water views and farmland scenery.
Scenic canyon hikes to the west of Çankırı with shaded passages and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Çankırı by plane.
Main gateway for international and domestic flights; reachable by road in about 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic.
Regional airport offering domestic connections; typically a longer drive to Çankırı but serves as an alternative option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish with a mix of families, students, and long-time urban and rural residents.
Visitors attracted by history, markets, and Ilgaz’s natural landscapes; a growing number of domestic travelers year-round.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local pastime with community leagues and casual games in parks and schoolyards.
Skiing and snowboarding in season; Ilgaz Mountain is the regional hub for winter sports.
Seasonal outdoor events and demonstrations reflect regional traditions and athletic culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Çankırı.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Local vegetarian options include tarhana-based soups, vegetable dolma, gözleme with cheese and greens, and meze plates; communicate clearly to avoid meat stock and clarify yogurt toppings if dairy-sensitive.