Things To Do
in İliç

İliç is a small town situated in the eastern part of Turkey, within the Erzincan Province. Known for its serene natural beauty and historical significance, İliç is often visited for its hot springs and picturesque landscapes. The town is surrounded by mountains and is located near the Euphrates River, offering visitors opportunities for outdoor activities.

With a rich cultural heritage, İliç is a hidden gem for those looking to explore authentic Turkish life away from the bustling tourist spots.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore İliç
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the İliç Hot Springs, renowned for their therapeutic properties. Enjoy a relaxing soak and take in the scenic surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the local İliç Castle, which offers panoramic views of the town and the Euphrates River. Explore the nearby market for unique local crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the riverbank.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby mountains, taking in the beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Explore the local museum to learn about İliç's history and cultural artifacts, including ancient relics from the region.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a traditional dinner, followed by enjoying a local performance or cultural event, if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Ride$5
🛒Groceries (Weekly)$30
🏨Hotel (per night)$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Less crowded compared to major tourist destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some language barriers with English speakers.
  • Fewer amenities compared to larger cities.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in İliç

Visit one of these nice places.

İliç Hot Springs

Capture stunning photos of the thermal pools surrounded by lush greenery and mountains.

İliç Castle

A perfect location for panoramic shots of the town and the Euphrates River, especially during sunset.

Euphrates River

A picturesque backdrop for landscape photography, particularly during the golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in İliç

İliç offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culture of eastern Turkey.

İliç Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebab

A classic Turkish dish made of marinated meat, grilled to perfection and often served with rice and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Manti

Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat, served with yogurt and a spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

İliç Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks like gözleme (stuffed flatbread).

Climate Guide

Weather

İliç experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop to -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone, and it is polite to greet everyone in a group.

Dress Modestly

While İliç is more relaxed than larger cities, dressing modestly, especially in rural areas, is appreciated.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is a significant part of Turkish culture; always greet them first in social settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

İliç is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take usual precautions. Avoid wandering alone at night in less populated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in İliç

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards. ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Expect warm weather perfect for enjoying the hot springs and hiking, but avoid the midday sun.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the countryside.

Winter

Cold winters may bring snowfall, creating a picturesque landscape; however, some outdoor activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

İliç at Night

The nightlife in İliç is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Local cafes and restaurants may offer traditional music and dance performances on weekends, providing a glimpse into Turkish culture. While there are no major nightclubs, locals enjoy gathering in tea houses and parks for relaxed socializing.

Hiking in İliç

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Keban Dam Trail

A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of Keban Dam and the surrounding mountains, perfect for all levels of hikers.

Karasu Valley Trail

An intermediate trail that winds through lush landscapes, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach İliç by plane.

Erzincan Airport (ERC)

Located approximately 80 km from İliç, Erzincan Airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for international travel connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

İliç is relatively walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town's layout encourages walking, and pathways along the river provide scenic strolls. However, be prepared for some hilly areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurdish Community

A significant demographic in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditions of İliç.

Turkish Nationals

The predominant group in İliç, preserving traditional Turkish customs and lifestyles.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a beloved sport in İliç, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling events are occasionally held, showcasing the cultural heritage of the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in İliç is minimal, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Public transportation options are limited, but local minibuses connect İliç with nearby towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting İliç.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including stuffed peppers and salads. Always ask about ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Turkish cuisine includes bread, there are gluten-free options available, especially in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in İliç is limited to local clinics and hospitals. For more serious medical needs, larger cities like Erzincan are recommended, which have well-equipped hospitals. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide