Things To Do
in Çerkeş
Çerkeş is a quiet town in central Turkey, nestled in rolling plains along the Kızılırmak River. It offers a warm rural atmosphere, with friendly locals, traditional farmhouses, and easy access to nature. The surrounding countryside is ideal for short hikes, village visits, and experiencing authentic Anatolian life away from the larger tourist hubs.
Visitors come to unwind, taste hearty Central Anatolian cuisine, and explore a relaxed side of Turkey.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the Çerkeş Castle, a historical site that offers panoramic views of the region. As you walk through the ruins, take a moment to imagine the life of those who once inhabited this fortress. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional Turkish pastries and strong tea.
After lunch, explore the traditional bazaars of Çerkeş where you can shop for handmade crafts and local delicacies. Engage with local artisans to learn about their crafts and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. Don't forget to try some fresh local olives and cheeses while wandering through the market.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to indulge in a delightful Turkish dinner, featuring dishes like kebabs and mezes. The ambient atmosphere of the establishment will make for a perfect end to your day. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, enjoying the serene night and perhaps catching a glimpse of locals gathering for evening tea.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby forests, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Birds chirp cheerfully as you traverse the trails, offering a refreshing escape into nature. Enjoy a peaceful picnic breakfast amidst the trees, filled with local fruits and pastries.
Return to Çerkeş for lunch and then visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase artifacts from different eras. Dive deeper into the local artistic scene by visiting galleries featuring works by local artists.
As evening falls, find a cozy café to sip on Turkish coffee while watching the sun dip below the horizon. The relaxed ambiance makes it an ideal spot to unwind and reflect upon your day's adventures. Consider joining a local music night to experience traditional folk performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥖Groceries for a week | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-8 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic rural atmosphere with friendly locals
- Easy access to nature and scenic river landscapes
- Affordable food and lodging compared to larger cities
- Pleasant day trips to nearby villages and natural areas
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Language barrier possible in rural areas
- Fewer large-scale attractions or museums compared to bigger cities
- Some roads can be challenging in winter weather
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is it?
- "Beni anlar mısınız?" - Do you understand me?
- "İyi günler" - Good day
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
Places to Visit in Çerkeş
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, tranquil views along the river with reed beds and early-morning light perfect for landscape photography.
Golden-hour photos of traditional stone architecture and narrow lanes give a sense of rural Anatolia.
Panoramic vantage point over fields and distant hills, ideal for sunset shots.
Water reflections and easy angles for sunset or blue-hour photography.
Food in Çerkeş
Çerkeş Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Charcoal-grilled lamb kebap served with bulgur, peppers, and a spoon of garlicky yogurt on the side.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked wheat and meat dish common in Central Anatolia, best tasted in family-run eateries.
Tiny dumplings topped with garlic yogurt and paprika oil, a comforting staple across the region.
A tangy, fermented-dried-yogurt soup with vegetables and herbs; a warming starter in cooler months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering fresh produce, local cheeses, honey, and homemade preserves; try fresh bread, olives, and locally produced dairy.
Simple, quick bites such as gözleme, grilled köfte, roasted corn, and simit—perfect for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple ‘Merhaba’ (Hello) is appreciated; handshake is common in formal settings, and close friends may kiss on the cheek in some circles.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes if asked in homes; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Hosts may offer tea or coffee; accepting politely is customary as a sign of appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Çerkeş
Ensure a smooth experience
A standard 5-10% tip is appreciated in restaurants if service is good. Small tips to hotel staff and guides are common but not obligatory.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted in local markets and small eateries; many restaurants and shops also accept cards, and contactless payments are increasingly common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming fields, and plenty of easy outdoor walks; soft light for photography and village visits.
Warm days; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activities.
Harvest time with golden light and colorful fields; comfortable temperatures for hiking and short drives.
Cold, with occasional snow; some roads can be slippery; indoor meals and cafés are cozy refuges after chilly walks.
Çerkeş at Night
Hiking in Çerkeş
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside loop with opportunities for birdwatching and photography along the banks.
A broader network of forested trails suitable for day hikes and cooler-summit views, reachable within a short drive.
Gentle climbs offering panoramic views of plains and distant hills; ideal for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Çerkeş by plane.
Main international airport serving Ankara; about 120-160 km from Çerkeş, depending on route and traffic.
Regional airport serving Sivas; farther from Çerkeş but an option for some itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the population, with strong rural and agrarian ties.
A mix of older residents and younger families involved in farming, small businesses, and service sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town; local teams and school leagues keep fields busy on weekends.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games and local tournaments occur seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Çerkeş.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seasonal vegetables, legumes, and dairy-based dishes are common; clearly ask for meat-free options and avoid stock-based broths if needed.