Things To Do
in Çorum
Çorum is a provincial city in north-central Turkey known as a gateway to major Hittite archaeological sites such as Hattusa and Alacahöyük. The city blends Anatolian agricultural life with a compact urban center where traditional bazaars and modern shops coexist. Çorum is especially famous for its roasted chickpeas (leblebi) and hearty regional dishes like İskilip dolması.
The surrounding countryside offers rolling hills, river valleys and accessible day-trip trails for history and nature lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Çorum Fortress, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Wander through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the traditional Ottoman architecture. Stop by a local café to savor a traditional Turkish breakfast, complete with olives, feta cheese, and fresh bread.
After lunch, head to the Hattusa Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore the ancient ruins of the Hittite capital. Marvel at the impressive city walls, temples, and the famous Lion's Gate. Spend some time in the on-site museum to learn more about the fascinating history of this ancient civilization.
Return to Çorum for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try the famous Çorum leblebi (roasted chickpeas) and other regional specialties. Take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. End your evening with a cup of Turkish tea at a local tea house, mingling with the locals and enjoying the warm hospitality.
Begin your day at the Çorum Bazaar, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Take your time to explore the colorful stalls, interacting with local merchants and sampling delicious street food. Don’t miss the chance to buy some unique souvenirs, such as traditional textiles and pottery.
After a refreshing lunch at a nearby café, visit the Çorum Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into the region's rich history. The museum houses artifacts from the Hittite period and offers fascinating insights into Çorum's ancient civilizations. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you stroll through the museum's exhibits.
For dinner, indulge in some authentic Turkish kebabs at a popular local restaurant. As the sun sets, take a walk along the banks of the river, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bakery to try fresh baklava or other traditional desserts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local bus / dolmuş fare | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $1.50-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Hittite archaeological heritage (Hattusa, Alacahöyük) within easy reach
- Distinctive local cuisine and famous leblebi snacks
- Affordable prices and authentic small-town Turkish life
- Accessible base for exploring Central Anatolian landscapes and villages
- Limited nightlife and English-language services compared with big cities
- Public transport options to remote sites can be infrequent, requiring a car
- Winter weather can make travel to some outdoor sites difficult
- Fewer tourist amenities (guided tours, signage) than major tourist hubs
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "İngilizce biliyor musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Çorum
Visit one of these nice places.
The UNESCO Hittite capital with monumental gates (like the Lion Gate and Sphinx Gate), rock reliefs and panoramic ruin fields — sunrise and late afternoon light are excellent for dramatic shots.
Ancient hilltop site with reconstructed features and royal tomb displays; wide views over the surrounding farmland and atmospheric dawn/mist photos.
Displays of Hittite artifacts, inscriptions and replicas that make for detailed close-up photography of ancient reliefs and objects.
Streets, bazaars and tea gardens provide candid urban life photos; evening lights and local cafés create intimate scenes.
River views, bridges and local fishing spots offer tranquil landscape and lifestyle photography opportunities.
Food in Çorum
Çorum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted chickpeas that are a signature snack of Çorum — sold in various flavors from plain to salted and coated; available at shops and market stalls throughout the city.
Must-Try!
A traditional Çorum-style stuffed rice and meat dish from the İskilip district, cooked slowly in a large pot; try it at regional lokantas and during special meals.
A ceremonial wheat-and-meat stew, often served at weddings and festivals — rich and filling, found in traditional eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can buy fresh produce, spices, dried fruits and local leblebi; try simit, börek and gözleme from street vendors nearby.
Small stalls and shops around the city center selling roasted nuts, dried fruits and regional snacks — perfect for tastings and souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common in urban areas; in more conservative settings women may prefer verbal greetings. Show respect to elders, remove shoes when entering private homes, and use formal titles when appropriate.
When visiting mosques, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), remove shoes, and be quiet during prayer times. Women should carry a scarf to cover their heads if entering a mosque.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and in rural villages. Avoid photographing inside active prayer services without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Çorum
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: leave around 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, round up fares for taxis, and give small change for hotel porters and housekeepers. For small purchases and tea, tipping isn't required but an extra coin is polite.
Turkish lira (TRY) is the local currency; credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and shops, but carry cash for markets, small vendors and rural areas. ATMs are available in the city center; notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summers are hot and dry (June–August), with daytime temperatures often in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F). Wear sun protection, light clothing and carry water; early-morning archaeological visits are more comfortable. Expect local festivals and busier weekends.
Autumn (September–November) brings mild days and cooler evenings, great for hiking and photography with golden colors across the hills. This is an excellent shoulder season for outdoor exploring and visiting sites without summer heat.
Winters are cold and can be snowy (December–February), with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Some rural roads and archaeological sites may be harder to reach; dress in layers and check travel conditions if driving.
Spring (March–May) is pleasant with blooming countryside, moderate temperatures and occasional rain — ideal for hiking, birdwatching and visiting open-air sites as they come alive after winter.
Çorum at Night
Hiking in Çorum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails link the ruins and hilltops around Hattusa offering varied terrain, ancient ruins and views across the plain — bring good footwear and water.
Short scenic walks around the archaeological mound and nearby farmland, suitable for gentle hikes and photography.
Undulating countryside with rural tracks and viewpoints — good for day hikes and experiencing village life and panoramic views.
Riverside paths and country lanes that follow the river valley, ideal for relaxed hikes, birdwatching and seasonal wildflowers.
Airports
How to reach Çorum by plane.
A small regional airport near the city (limited or seasonal flights). Services can be limited so check current schedules; transfers by taxi or car to the city take a short time.
About 1–1.5 hours drive northeast of Çorum depending on route — offers domestic flights and is a practical alternative for air travelers without direct Çorum connections; shuttle or car rental options are available.
Major international airport approximately 2–3 hours by car from Çorum; frequent flights and car rental services make it a common gateway for international travelers visiting Çorum and the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population are ethnic Turks with deep Anatolian roots and strong local cultural traditions.
Large portion of the province population lives in villages and small towns engaged in agriculture — these communities maintain traditional lifestyles and seasonal rhythms.
Hitit University brings a visible student population that contributes to local cafés, cultural events and a modest youthful nightlife.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport locally with amateur and semi-professional clubs; local matches are community events and can be fun to attend.
Wrestling has deep roots in Anatolian culture and is popular in rural parts of the province during festivals and competitions.
Hitit University and local clubs support athletics, basketball and indoor sports, providing community sports activities and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Çorum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with big cities; ask for vegetable stews, menemen (egg and tomato), lentil soup and salads, and plenty of bread and mezes in restaurants.
Vegan travelers should plan ahead: soups are often meat-based and dairy is common. Markets provide fresh produce and legumes, and some restaurants can adapt dishes if you explain dietary needs in Turkish.
Bread and bulgur are staples; gluten-free options are not widespread. Bring snacks if you have strict intolerance, and learn to request no bread/croutons when ordering.