Things To Do
in Köprüköy
Köprüköy is a small rural district in Erzincan Province, Eastern Anatolia, perched on a high plateau. Its landscapes are characterized by rugged mountains, stone houses, and shepherd trails that wind through green valleys. Life here moves at a slow pace, shaped by agriculture, local hospitality, and seasonal rhythms.
The area rewards visitors with striking viewpoints, traditional Anatolian cuisine, and a glimpse into rural Turkish village culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up early to witness the first light spill over the dramatic Köprüköy Canyon Bridge. Enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll along the Karasu River and capture photographs of the soaring stone arches. Engage with local fishermen as they cast their nets and share stories of the canyon’s history.
Hike the marked trail that winds through the canyon’s rugged cliffs and lush valleys. Pause at scenic overlooks to savor a packed lunch of fresh gözleme and ayran drawn from a nearby village. Meet a local guide who explains the region’s geology and traditional bridge-building techniques.
Return to town as the sun sets behind the rocky outcrops, painting the canyon walls in fiery hues. Dine at a cozy riverside café, sampling regional lamb kebabs and stuffed eggplant. Wind down with a cup of strong Turkish tea while the bridge lights create a serene nighttime panorama.
Drive to the nearby Dedegöl village and start a gentle hike through terraced fields and walnut orchards. Stop at a traditional stone house where a local artisan demonstrates carpet weaving techniques passed down through generations. Savor homemade simit and chestnut honey with village elders as you learn about their way of life.
Participate in a hands-on workshop to weave your own small kilim under the guidance of a master weaver. Enjoy a rustic lunch of savory manti dumplings and pickled vegetables prepared by village families. Take a leisurely walk along cobblestone lanes, admiring centuries-old wooden door carvings and courtyard fountains.
Join villagers around a roaring fire for an authentic rural dinner featuring slow-cooked lamb and seasonal salads. Listen to folk musicians perform local ballads accompanied by bağlama and hand percussion. Share stories under a starlit sky before retiring to a charming guesthouse.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-2 |
| 🧀Local cheese or dairy (1 lb) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (1 night) | $15-35 |
| 🚍Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic landscapes and strong hospitality
- Low-cost rural base for Eastern Anatolia exploration
- Limited nightlife and amenities in Köprüköy
- Longer travel times to major attractions and airports
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Burası nerede?" - Where is this place?
- "İyi günler" - Good day
Places to Visit in Köprüköy
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic rural bridge with stone arches that reflects in the water at dawn.
Narrow lanes with traditional stone houses, flour-dusted courtyards, and contented livestock.
Panoramic views across the valley with shepherds and terraced fields.
Open meadow fringed by hills, perfect for sunset portraits.
Food in Köprüköy
Köprüköy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tiny dumplings filled with seasoned meat, served with garlicky yogurt and a drizzle of butter and paprika.
Must-Try!
A warming soup made from fermented yogurt, grains, and vegetables, perfect for cooler evenings.
Slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, traditionally served with a dollop of butter.
Village-style flatbread baked in a stone oven, often enjoyed with cheese or olives.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly bazaar where locals sell dairy, greens, dried fruits, honey, and bread.
Historic market in the province center featuring meat, cheese, herbs, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite Turkish greeting is merhaba. Use please (lütfen) and thank you (teşekkür ederim).
Remove shoes before entering homes; dress modestly and follow mosque etiquette when visiting.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural settings.
Safety
Tipping in Köprüköy
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated; guides and drivers also expect small tips.
Cash in Turkish lira is widely accepted; many places in towns accept credit/debit cards, but carry some cash for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool days with blooming wildflowers; bring light layers and a rain jacket.
Hot days and cool nights; stay hydrated and seek shade in the afternoons.
Mild days with colorful foliage; great for hiking and photography.
Cold with possible snowfall; prepare for icy roads and warm layers.
Köprüköy at Night
Hiking in Köprüköy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hike offering sweeping valley views.
A circular route along the river with seasonal wildflowers.
Airports
How to reach Köprüköy by plane.
Closest airport; domestic flights to Istanbul and Ankara; transfer by road to Köprüköy.
Regional hub with more flight options; longer drive.
Larger airports within a few hours' drive for some travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Turkish residents, many involved in farming and animal husbandry; tightly knit communities.
A mix of younger families and older residents with strong hospitality traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and schools organize games.
In winter, nearby higher-altitude resorts like Erzurum Palandöken see activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Köprüköy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, look for lentil or vegetable stews, mercimek çorbası, bulgur salads, and yogurt-based dips; clearly ask for no meat.