Things To Do
in Hizan

Hizan is a charming district located in the Bitlis Province of Turkey, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled amidst the mountains, it offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. The area is predominantly rural, with agriculture being a significant part of local life, and features a variety of historical sites reflecting its diverse past.

Visitors can experience the warmth of local hospitality and explore the unique traditions of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Hizan
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Hizan Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area and learn about the castle's history.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and taste some fresh produce. Then, explore the nearby village of Kato, renowned for its traditional architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional dishes, followed by a leisurely stroll through the village to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike in the beautiful mountains surrounding Hizan, taking in the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the region's history and cultural heritage. Participate in a traditional cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a café with live music, experiencing the local nightlife and social culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$8
Coffee$1.50
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$0.50
🛒Groceries for a Week$25
🏨Night at a Hotel$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and beautiful hiking trails.
  • Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality from locals.
  • Affordable costs of living and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent in rural areas.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Hizan

Visit one of these nice places.

Hizan Castle

A stunning historical site that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing the beauty of the region.

Kato Village

A picturesque village with traditional stone houses and scenic backdrops, ideal for capturing authentic rural life.

Mount Nemrut

Famous for its monumental statues and ancient ruins, this site offers spectacular sunrise and sunset photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hizan

Hizan offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique local flavors and traditional dishes, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the region.

Hizan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Köfte

Spiced meatballs made from ground meat, often served with rice or bread.

Must-Try!

Çörek

A traditional Turkish pastry that can be filled with various ingredients like cheese or minced meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hizan Market

A bustling local market offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods, perfect for tasting local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hizan experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry, with temperatures averaging between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, and it's polite to greet everyone in a group.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas; women should cover their shoulders and knees.

Hospitality

Accepting offers of food or drink is a sign of respect; it’s polite to at least try what is offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hizan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's advisable to stay updated on weather conditions, especially during winter months, as snow may affect travel plans.

Tipping in Hizan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants; however, rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's advisable to carry cash for local markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and ideal for outdoor activities, with blooming flowers and green landscapes.

Summer

Summer can be hot but is great for hiking and exploring nature, with clear skies and long daylight hours.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snowfall, providing opportunities for winter sports and scenic snowy landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Hizan at Night

Hizan has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few local cafes and restaurants offering live music and traditional entertainment. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, allowing visitors to enjoy local culture while socializing with residents. Most nightlife activities are centered around food and music, making it a cozy experience rather than a vibrant club scene.

Hiking in Hizan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Ararat Trail

A challenging hike offering stunning views of Mount Ararat, suitable for experienced hikers.

Hizan Nature Park Trail

A family-friendly hiking trail through beautiful forests and meadows, ideal for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Hizan by plane.

Bitlis Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Hizan, Bitlis Airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hizan is a relatively walkable district, with essential services and amenities located within walking distance in the town center. However, the surrounding rural areas and mountains may require transportation for exploration. Sidewalks are available in urban areas, but some unpaved paths exist outside the main roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurdish Community

The majority of Hizan's population is Kurdish, contributing to a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Turkish Community

A smaller but significant Turkish population coexists, adding to the cultural diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport among locals, with community matches often held, bringing people together.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling is celebrated in the region, with local competitions and events throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hizan is generally light, with most local movements being by foot or bicycle. Public transportation consists mainly of minibuses and shared taxis, which may have infrequent schedules. Roads to neighboring towns and cities may vary in quality, so it's advisable to check conditions before traveling.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hizan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask the restaurant staff for options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Access to healthcare in Hizan is available through local clinics and a hospital; however, advanced medical care may require traveling to larger cities like Bitlis. Pharmacies are available for basic health needs, but it's advisable to carry a personal first aid kit for minor injuries.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide