Things To Do
in Kelkit

Kelkit is a charming district located in the Gümüşhane Province of Turkey, nestled within the stunning landscapes of the Eastern Black Sea region. The town is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, with numerous ancient structures and beautiful natural scenery. Surrounded by lush mountains and rivers, Kelkit offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Its friendly local community adds warmth to the experience, making it a delightful destination to explore.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kelkit Castle, where you can explore its ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the town.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history of the region and its cultural significance, followed by a stroll through the town center to experience local life.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant, savoring local dishes while enjoying live folk music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a nature hike in the surrounding mountains, taking in breathtaking views and encountering diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Kelkit River for some relaxing time by the water, where you can have a picnic or go fishing.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local café for dessert and coffee, experiencing the warmth of Turkish hospitality.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1
🏨Hotel Night$30
🛒Grocery Shopping$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be infrequent.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Yardım edebilir misiniz?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Kelkit

Visit one of these nice places.

Kelkit Castle

An iconic landmark offering stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes, perfect for landscape photography.

Kelkit River

The tranquil waters of the river, framed by lush greenery, make for serene and picturesque photographs.

Local Market

Capture the vibrant colors of fresh produce and the bustling atmosphere of the local market.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kelkit

Kelkit offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich variety of local dishes that reflect the region's agricultural heritage and traditions.

Kelkit Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kuymak

A traditional dish made with cornmeal and melted cheese, often enjoyed for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Güveç

A slow-cooked stew made with meat and vegetables, served in a clay pot.

Mısır Ekmeği

Cornbread that is a staple in local diets, often served with meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kelkit Market

A vibrant local market where vendors sell fresh produce, meats, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kelkit experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone, and it's polite to greet with 'Merhaba' (Hello).

Hospitality

Accepting offers of food and drink is a sign of respect; always express gratitude.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kelkit is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take common precautions such as securing personal belongings and being aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to have travel insurance and familiarize oneself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Kelkit

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants, and rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, 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

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and hikes.

Summer

Warm weather allows for river activities and picnics; however, it's advisable to stay hydrated.

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold weather may bring snowfall, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Kelkit at Night

Kelkit's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a focus on local cafés and tea houses where residents gather to socialize. While bars are limited, some restaurants may feature live music on weekends, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Evening strolls along the river are also popular, offering a serene way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Kelkit

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Çakırgöl Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for experienced hikers.

Kızılacak Trail

An easier, family-friendly hike that leads to beautiful picnic spots along the river, ideal for casual walkers.

Airports

How to reach Kelkit by plane.

Gümüşhane Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Kelkit, this small airport offers limited domestic flights and serves as the closest air travel option.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kelkit is a relatively walkable town, with most local attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance of each other. The town center features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Kelkit's population are Turkish citizens, many of whom engage in agriculture and traditional crafts.

Visitors

Tourists from both domestic and international backgrounds visit Kelkit, drawn by its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Kelkit, with local teams participating in regional leagues and matches attracting community support.

Wrestling

A traditional sport in Turkey, wrestling events are celebrated in Kelkit, showcasing local talent and cultural pride.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kelkit is generally light, with most residents using personal vehicles or walking to their destinations. Public transportation options, such as minibuses, are available but may have limited schedules. The town's layout makes it relatively easy to navigate without heavy traffic congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kelkit.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Turkish cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of local dishes.

Gluten-Free

Caution is advised, as many local breads and meals contain gluten; however, corn-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Kelkit is adequate, with local clinics and hospitals providing basic medical services. For more serious health issues, larger hospitals in nearby cities are accessible. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide