Things To Do
in Çilimli

Çilimli is a charming town located in the Düzce Province of Turkey, surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes. Known for its rich history and warm community, it offers a unique glimpse into traditional Turkish life. The town is an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the region, including nearby lakes and rivers.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, local cuisines, and the friendly atmosphere that Çilimli has to offer.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Çilimli
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Çilimli town square to enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café. Try simit (sesame bread) and çay (tea) while observing local life.

afternoon
:

Explore the peaceful surroundings of Lake Aygır, where you can take a leisurely walk or relax by the water. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant known for its kebabs and mezes, and finish your day with a stroll through the town's streets to soak in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Düzce Natural Park for a morning hike, enjoying the fresh air and stunning views of the forested hills.

afternoon
:

Return to Çilimli and visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for fresh produce and handmade goods.

evening
:

End your trip with a meal at a restaurant that serves regional specialties and join locals for a traditional music night for an authentic experience.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$8-15
Coffee$1-3
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🛒Groceries for a week$30-50
🏨Hotel per night$25-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable costs of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • English may not be widely spoken, making communication challenging.
  • Fewer tourist facilities compared to bigger destinations.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet" - Yes

Places to Visit in Çilimli

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Aygır

A picturesque lake surrounded by woods, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Çilimli Town Square

The heart of the town, filled with vibrant life and traditional architecture.

Düzce Natural Park

Stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Çilimli

Çilimli offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes. From savory kebabs to sweet desserts, the town is a paradise for food lovers.

Çilimli Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Köfte

Juicy meatballs made from minced meat and spices, often served with rice and salad.

Must-Try!

Mantı

Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat, served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Pide

Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients, similar to pizza, and baked in a stone oven.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Çilimli Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and homemade delicacies.

Street Simit Stands

Small stands selling simit, a popular Turkish snack, often enjoyed with tea.

Climate Guide

Weather

Çilimli experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Spring and autumn are mild, making these seasons the most enjoyable for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, with heavier precipitation in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, followed by a friendly smile.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Çilimli is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take the usual precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure.

Tipping in Çilimli

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards, especially in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers can be warm and sunny, ideal for hiking and enjoying the lakes.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors, especially in the forests, and is great for photography.

Winter

Winters can be cold, with occasional snow, creating a picturesque landscape ideal for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Çilimli at Night

Çilimli's nightlife is laid-back, with a few cafes and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. Most locals prefer socializing in small groups, enjoying tea and conversation rather than a bustling nightlife scene. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to mingle with residents.

Hiking in Çilimli

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kuzuoğlu Trail

A scenic trail that winds through lush forests, suitable for all skill levels.

Melen River Trail

A beautiful hiking route alongside the Melen River, known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Çilimli by plane.

Düzce Airport

The nearest airport, about 30 km away, offers limited domestic flights but provides access to larger airports in Istanbul.

Getting Around

Walkability

Çilimli is a walkable town, with most attractions, cafes, and shops located within a short distance from each other. The streets are generally safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Çilimli, attracted by its peaceful environment and good schools.

Retirees

The town is also home to retirees who appreciate the slow pace of life and natural surroundings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Çilimli, with local teams and enthusiasts actively engaging in matches.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with several courts available for community use.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Çilimli is generally light, with minimal congestion. Public transportation includes local buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, making it easy to travel without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Çilimli.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like stuffed peppers and salads.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but fresh salads and grilled meats are usually safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Çilimli includes local clinics and pharmacies. For more serious medical conditions, residents often travel to larger cities such as Düzce for specialized care. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide