Things To Do
in İskilip
İskilip is a historic town in Çorum Province, nestled on gentle hills in inland northern Anatolia. Its streets reveal a tapestry of Ottoman-era architecture, stone houses, and a slow-paced, friendly atmosphere. The town sits along the Kızılırmak river basin, offering rural scenery, markets, and nearby nature escapes.
Visitors can sample regional flavors, explore ancient sites, and use İskilip as a gateway to rural Turkey.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in İskilip and check into your charming guesthouse, where you'll be welcomed with traditional Turkish hospitality. After settling in, take a leisurely walk around the historic streets to get acquainted with the beautiful architecture. Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and local delicacies.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying the famous İskilip Tava, a regional specialty. Spend the afternoon exploring the İskilip Castle, where panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside await. Capture stunning photographs and immerse yourself in the area’s rich history.
As the sun sets, join the locals at a nearby café for a cup of çay (tea) and engage in conversation with friendly residents. Explore the town's night charm, illuminated by soft lights and a tranquil atmosphere. Wind down your evening with a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Ulu Mosque, where you can admire intricate designs and experience the local spiritual ambiance. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying freshly baked pastries and robust Turkish coffee. Take some time to explore the nearby streets adorned with local crafts and souvenirs.
Head to the İskilip Archaeological Museum for a deeper understanding of the region’s past and its archaeological treasures. Afterward, participate in a traditional Turkish cooking class where you can learn to prepare classic dishes using local ingredients. Savor the fruits of your labor for lunch with your cooking group.
After a delightful meal, stroll through the picturesque parks that surround the town, taking in the evening air and natural beauty. Consider joining a local group for a folk dance event, where you can learn traditional dances and meet new friends. Finish your night with a dessert of baklava and coffee, reflecting on your experiences so far.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
| 🛒Grocery staples (weekly) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and authentic Anatolian culture
- Affordable prices and generous hospitality
- Relaxed pace of life and scenic countryside
- Limited nightlife and public transit options
- Smaller selection of international dining and conveniences compared to larger cities
- Seasonal weather can be hot in summer and cold in winter
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I am well, thank you
- "Burası nerede?" - Where is this place?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is it?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in İskilip
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruins perched above the town offering panoramic views of the rooftops and surrounding hills, especially atmospheric at dawn or dusk.
A street lined with well-preserved stone houses showing traditional Anatolian architecture and characterful textures.
A riverbank viewpoint with wide skies and golden-hour light over the water and gentle farmland beyond.
Colorful morning market scenes with traders, textiles, and fresh produce—great for candid street photography.
Food in İskilip
İskilip Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted chickpeas—crunchy, savory snacks that are widely sold at markets and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and a drizzle of peppery butter, a regional favorite in many eateries.
Thin, stuffed flatbread filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes and cooked on a griddle.
A tangy, warming soup made from fermented yogurt and grain; a comforting starter in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, dairy, legumes, and seasonal snacks; great for sampling everyday flavors.
Roasted chestnuts, simit, grilled gözleme, and ayran stalls near the market area—perfect for a quick bite while wandering.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a warm verbal greeting; use the right hand for gestures and handing objects; modest dress in religious or traditional settings.
Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites; avoid loud public displays of affection in conservative settings.
Be mindful during Ramadan or religious events; removing shoes when entering homes is appreciated; ask permission before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in İskilip
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up bills or leave 5-10% in restaurants if service is good and not already included. Tea houses and small cafés typically do not expect tips.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards in towns, especially in larger restaurants and hotels. ATMs are common in the town center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with intense sun. Hydrate, wear a hat, and seek shade during peak afternoon hours; evenings are pleasant for strolls.
Mild temperatures and harvest season. Ideal for hikes and outdoor photography; pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Cold with potential snowfall. Some outdoor sites may be less accessible; layer up and enjoy cozy cafés and dinners.
Temperatures are comfortable and landscapes bloom; a great time for walking, markets, and outdoor exploration.
İskilip at Night
Hiking in İskilip
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside route with open fields and occasional woodland; suitable for easy to moderate walks and photo stops.
Short to mid-length loops through nearby woodlands offering shade and viewpoints over the countryside.
Airports
How to reach İskilip by plane.
Major international and domestic hub; roughly a 2–3 hour drive to İskilip depending on road conditions.
Regional airport with some domestic connections; a longer drive from İskilip than Ankara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Multi-generational households are common, contributing to a warm, community-centered atmosphere.
Young people study in regional centers and contribute to seasonal activity in markets and cafes.
Farmers and laborers form a significant portion of the local economy and daily life.
Longstanding residents with strong ties to traditions and local history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and casual matches in town and nearby villages.
Regional traditional sports are celebrated in rural areas and during local festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting İskilip.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-based mezze, lentil soups, data-friendly dishes, and ask for meat-free stock or broths; many traditional dishes can be adapted.