Gümüşhane

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Gümüşhane's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and menemen. After breakfast, stroll through Gümüşhane's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful Ottoman-era architecture. Visit the Gümüşhane Museum to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy some local specialties at a quaint restaurant, trying dishes like kuymak or manti. Afterward, head to the nearby St. John the Baptist Church, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the ancient stone bridges and traditional houses dotted throughout the city.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy café to sip on Turkish tea while enjoying the view of the mountains. Later, take a leisurely walk along the streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Gümüşhane. Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional wines paired with delicious kebabs.

day 2
Adventure in the Zigana Mountains
morning
:

Set out early for a day in the Zigana Mountains, known for their breathtaking landscapes. After a hearty breakfast, prepare for a hike through the lush trails, surrounded by pine forests and spectacular views. Don't forget to pack some snacks and bottled water to keep your energy up during the hike.

afternoon
:

During the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the mountains, taking in the crisp fresh air. After lunch, continue your hike to the summit for panoramic views that stretch across the valleys below. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife along the way!

evening
:

As the day winds down, descend from the mountains and head back to Gümüşhane. Relax at your accommodation before heading out for dinner, where you can indulge in hearty local cuisine. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a warm atmosphere at a local eatery.

day 3
Exploring the Karaca Cave
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café to fuel up for a visit to the Karaca Cave, one of Turkey's most impressive natural wonders. After breakfast, travel to the cave, where you will be greeted by stunning stalactites and stalagmites that date back thousands of years. Guided tours are available to give you insight into the cave's geological significance and history.

afternoon
:

After exploring the cave, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local trout dishes, a specialty of the region. Following lunch, take a leisurely hike around the area to enjoy the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. Capture the beauty of the natural surroundings with your camera as you walk along the tranquil paths.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head back to Gümüşhane and take some time to relax at your accommodation. For dinner, try a traditional Turkish pide at a local eatery, enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Afterward, stroll through the streets, where you can find shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.

day 4
Visit to the Historic Silver Mine
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in fresh pastries and Turkish coffee. Then, make your way to the historic silver mines of Gümüşhane, where you can learn about the mining history that once thrived in this region. Guided tours will take you deep into the tunnels, showcasing the impressive engineering and history behind the silver mining industry.

afternoon
:

After your underground adventure, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby village of Süleymaniye, known for its charming stone houses and traditional architecture. Take time to interact with the locals, who often share their stories and traditions.

evening
:

As night falls, return to Gümüşhane and unwind in a local tea house, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and sampling various herbal teas. For dinner, try a traditional dish such as kebab or stuffed grape leaves at a popular local restaurant. Reflect on the day's discoveries while enjoying the vibrant ambiance of Gümüşhane's nightlife.

day 5
Exploring the Historical Monuments
morning
:

After a filling breakfast, set off to explore Gümüşhane's historical monuments, starting with the iconic Gümüşhane Castle. The castle offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes, making it a perfect spot for photos. Spend some time wandering through the ruins, imagining the stories they hold.

afternoon
:

For lunch, savor local flavors at a nearby café, perhaps trying a traditional soup or a hearty meat dish. Afterward, visit the nearby historical Mosque of Liva, where you can admire its intricate architecture and peaceful gardens. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local markets, where you can find unique handmade crafts and local delicacies. For dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in local dishes, and try the famous Gümüşhane pastries for dessert. End your evening with a relaxing walk under the stars, immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the town.

day 6
Cultural Insights at Local Villages
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, then head out to one of the nearby villages such as Kürtün or Torul. These villages offer a glimpse into rural life in Gümüşhane, where you can interact with friendly locals and learn about their customs. Explore the charming streets and admire the traditional stone houses in the area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a village restaurant, sampling home-cooked meals made from fresh, local ingredients. After lunch, participate in a craft workshop, such as weaving or pottery, where you can create your own souvenir to take home. Engage with local artisans and gain insight into their crafting techniques and traditions.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Gümüşhane and enjoy a warm dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your cultural experiences of the day. Try a local specialty like Gümüşhane pilaf, rich with flavors and aromas. End the night with a visit to a local café for dessert, where you can enjoy baklava paired with a strong cup of Turkish coffee.

day 7
Nature Walks and Local Flora
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast in a scenic spot overlooking the mountains, enjoying the stunning view while you eat. After breakfast, head out on a guided nature walk where you can learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the Gümüşhane region. The trails are well-marked and offer opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a packed meal in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature. Post-lunch, take part in a local foraging excursion, learning about edible plants and herbs that grow in the wild. The knowledgeable guide will share tips on how to incorporate these ingredients into your cooking.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Gümüşhane and relax at your accommodation. For dinner, seek out a restaurant that offers dishes made with local herbs and vegetables to experience the flavors of the region. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the evening.

day 8
Relaxing by the Karaca Waterfall
morning
:

After a hearty breakfast, set out for a day at the picturesque Karaca Waterfall, one of the hidden gems of Gümüşhane. Enjoy the scenic drive to the waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of nature. Upon arrival, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views and take photos of the cascading water.

afternoon
:

For lunch, set up a picnic near the waterfall, enjoying the beautiful surroundings while savoring local delicacies. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the hiking trails that lead to various viewpoints of the waterfall, each offering a unique perspective. Capture the beauty of the area with your camera, and keep an eye out for local wildlife.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Gümüşhane and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with a view of the mountains. Try authentic Gümüşhane dishes and reflect on the serenity of the day spent in nature. Finish off with a leisurely evening stroll through the town, enjoying the calm atmosphere.

day 9
Local Markets and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of exploration. After breakfast, head to Gümüşhane’s bustling market, where you can find an array of fresh produce, spices, and local handicrafts. Engage with the friendly vendors, sampling olives, cheeses, and other local delicacies as you browse.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a market stall or a nearby restaurant, where you can taste local dishes made with fresh ingredients from the market. After lunch, participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Gümüşhane dishes, guided by a local chef. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the flavors and techniques of Turkish cuisine.

evening
:

As evening approaches, dine on the dishes you prepared during the cooking class, enjoying the fruits of your labor. Share stories with fellow travelers and locals over a communal dinner, celebrating the culinary traditions of Gümüşhane. After dinner, consider visiting a local tea house to enjoy a relaxing cup of tea or a sweet dessert.

Discover Gümüşhane

Read more in our Gümüşhane 2025 Travel Guide.

Gümüşhane Travel Guide