Things To Do
in Göle
Göle is a small highland town in northeastern Turkey on a broad plateau near the Georgian border. It blends pastoral agriculture with a slow-paced rural culture, where stone houses, mosques, and market life define daily life. Winters are long and snowy, while summers are short and mild, creating a dramatic and changing landscape throughout the year.
Visitors can sample traditional foods at the town market, explore nearby valleys, and experience warm Turkish hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in one of Göle's local cafes, where you can savor traditional Turkish pastries and strong coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the town to admire its charming architecture and vibrant flowers. Don't forget to visit the local market, filled with fresh produce and handcrafted goods, to get a feel for the local culture.
In the afternoon, consider visiting the nearby Lake Göle for some picturesque views and outdoor activities. You can rent a small boat or simply enjoy a picnic by the lakeside while taking in the serene surroundings. As the sun begins to lower, capture the stunning reflections on the water, a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts.
As the evening descends, dine at one of Göle’s traditional restaurants, indulging in local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Enjoy the warm atmosphere as locals gather for dinner, sharing stories and laughter. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the town to admire how it transforms under the soft evening lights.
Start your day with a visit to the Göle Cultural Center, where you can learn about the local history and traditions through exhibits and workshops. Engage with friendly locals who are eager to share their stories and customs, immersing yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Göle. Don't miss the morning tea sessions, which are a great way to connect with the community.
Next, explore the nearby villages, taking a guided tour that highlights the unique architecture and lifestyles of the region. Capture stunning photographs of the countryside as you pass through lush fields and quaint farms. Enjoy a light lunch at a local eatery, where you can try regional specialties prepared by the villagers.
In the evening, attend a traditional dance performance or music event to experience the local art scene. Set in a cozy venue, you'll be captivated by the rhythms and melodies of Turkish folklore. Wrap up your night with a cup of herbal tea while mingling with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥖Bread and groceries (weekly) | $3-6 |
| ☕Tea or coffee in a café | $1-2 |
| 🚍Local transportation (bus/mini-bus ticket) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️One night in a budget hotel | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life and strong hospitality
- Scenic highland landscapes and rural cultural experiences
- Direct access to traditional markets and regional foods
- Limited nightlife and few upscale dining options
- Fewer tourist services and amenities than larger cities
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and road conditions
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Nerede bu?" - Where is this?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Türkçe biliyor musunuz?" - Do you speak Turkish?
Places to Visit in Göle
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light on historic stone houses and minarets around the market square.
A vantage point above Göle offering sweeping views of the plateau and surrounding fields.
Open landscapes with reflective skies and expansive horizons; best during early morning or late afternoon light.
Food in Göle
Göle Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tiny Turkish dumplings filled with seasoned beef or lamb, typically topped with yogurt and garlic sauce, widely available in homecooked meals and local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked with meat and onions, a staple in regional meals.
Skewered grilled meat often served with yogurt and salad.
A refreshing salted yogurt drink popular with meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh dairy, cheese, produce, meat, and regional snacks.
Simple, hearty snacks such as gozleme (savory flatbread) and simit sold by vendors along the market streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; use basic Turkish salutations like 'Merhaba' (hello) and 'Lütfen' (please).
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes before entering mosques; women may be expected to cover hair in some places.
Hospitality is important; accepting tea or snacks when offered is customary and polite.
Public displays of affection are uncommon; speak calmly in public spaces and avoid loud conduct in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Göle
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (around 5-10%) are appreciated if service is not included. Rounding up the bill at casual eateries is common.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; many places in town also accept card payments, and ATMs are available in the center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler evenings; occasional showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light jacket for nights. The high plateau can feel brisk after sunset.
Mild days with fresher air and turning foliage; harvest activity in surrounding countryside; layering is key as temperatures drop at night.
Very cold with substantial snowfall possible; some roads may be icy or slow; adequate winter gear, traction devices, and a reliable vehicle are important.
Crisp mornings with gradually warming days; rain showers are common; fields and valleys come alive with wildflowers and green landscapes.
Göle at Night
Hiking in Göle
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Seasonal trails around Çıldır Lake offering expansive views of water and horizon; great for photography and wildlife watching.
Rural footpaths through valleys and hill-sides connecting villages and pastoral landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Göle by plane.
The closest major airport serving the region; about 180 km by road from Göle, with connections to Istanbul, Ankara, and other hubs.
Regional airport serving Ardahan Province; provides limited flights; often used when available, with onward road transfer to Göle.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish-speaking residents with traditional family-oriented communities.
Smaller communities contributing to regional cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team sport; local matches and community leagues are common in towns and villages.
Traditional Turkish wrestling has cultural presence in rural events and gatherings.
In snowy months, activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are enjoyed on the plateau and nearby hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Göle.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Göle, vegetarian options exist mainly as vegetable dishes, grains, dairy, and egg-based meals; communicate plainly and ask for eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, and bread dishes; many places can adapt mantı fillings to be meat-free or offer cheese pide.