Things To Do
in Horasan

Horasan is a small district located in the eastern part of Turkey, known for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is surrounded by lush hills and offers a glimpse into traditional Turkish life. The area is famous for its historical sites and is a gateway for exploring the larger region of Eastern Anatolia.

Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and experience authentic Turkish cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Horasan
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can find fresh produce and traditional crafts. Afterward, explore the historical sites, including the ancient Horasan Castle.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby village of Kars, where you can see traditional Turkish architecture and enjoy lunch at a local eatery. Spend the afternoon hiking in the beautiful hills surrounding Horasan.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll through the main square to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit a local pottery workshop to learn about traditional crafts and try your hand at making pottery. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a café.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the area's historical mosques and churches, learning about their significance in the local culture. Have lunch at a street food stall to taste local delicacies.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant and experience a Turkish folk dance performance, immersing yourself in the region's rich cultural traditions.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$7
Coffee$1.50
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Hotel night$30
🍺Beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Warm and welcoming locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some areas may have language barriers.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes

Places to Visit in Horasan

Visit one of these nice places.

Horasan Castle

A historic castle set on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially stunning at sunset.

Kars Village

A picturesque village with charming houses and traditional architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of rural Turkey.

Local Market

A bustling market filled with vibrant colors and lively interactions, ideal for candid photography of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Horasan

Horasan offers a delightful culinary experience with traditional Turkish flavors that reflect the region's agricultural bounty and cultural diversity.

Horasan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kuzu Tandir

Slow-cooked lamb served with rice and vegetables, known for its tender texture and rich flavor.

Must-Try!

Manti

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Horasan Local Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and various spices, along with street vendors selling simit (sesame bread) and kebabs.

Climate Guide

Weather

Horasan experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F). 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 firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and it's polite to maintain eye contact.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, as a sign of respect.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. Also, using your right hand for eating is preferred.

Safety Guide

Safety

Horasan is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached at 112, and it's recommended to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Horasan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and beautiful, with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot, but it's perfect for hiking and exploring the natural parks. Early morning or late afternoon activities are recommended.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, ideal for photography and hiking.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow in the mountains, creating a picturesque landscape, but be prepared for freezing temperatures.

Nightlife Guide

Horasan at Night

Horasan's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a few local cafés and tea houses that offer a relaxed atmosphere. Some restaurants may have live music on weekends, allowing visitors to enjoy traditional Turkish songs. The main square comes alive in the evenings, where locals gather to socialize.

Hiking in Horasan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Palandoken Trail

A popular hiking trail located about an hour's drive from Horasan, offering stunning views and varying difficulty levels suitable for all hikers.

Karakaya Nature Park

This park features well-marked trails and scenic routes ideal for day hikes, providing opportunities to see local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Horasan by plane.

Erzurum Airport (ERZ)

Located approximately 50 km from Horasan, Erzurum Airport is the nearest airport, providing domestic flights and some international connections. It offers a convenient option for travelers coming to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Horasan is a walkable town, especially in the central area where most attractions, cafés, and restaurants are located. The streets are generally safe, and walking offers a chance to soak in the local atmosphere. However, some attractions may require a short drive or public transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurds

The Kurdish community is significant in Horasan, contributing to the cultural diversity and local traditions.

Turkmen

The Turkmen population also plays a vital role in the area, with their unique customs and practices enriching the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a highly favored sport in Horasan, with local teams competing in regional leagues and many residents passionately supporting their teams.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling, or 'Yağlı Güreş,' is popular, especially during local festivals, showcasing cultural heritage and athleticism.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Horasan is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes minibuses that connect various parts of the district, though schedules may vary, and having some flexibility in timing is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Horasan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat stock in soups and sauces.

Halal Food

Most local eateries serve halal food as it aligns with the predominant cultural practices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Horasan are basic but adequate for minor ailments. There are local clinics and a small hospital. For more serious conditions, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Erzurum, which offer better medical services.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide