Things To Do
in Refahiye

Refahiye is a charming district located in the eastern part of Turkey, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. Nestled in the mountainous region of the Eastern Anatolia, it offers visitors a serene environment and a glimpse into traditional Turkish village life. The area is characterized by its historical architecture and warm hospitality of the locals.

Refahiye is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural parks and hiking trails.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Refahiye Museum to learn about the region's history and traditions.

afternoon
:

Explore the picturesque village of Refahiye, visiting local markets and shops selling handmade crafts and textiles.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant, sampling local dishes, and end the evening with a stroll through the charming streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a short hike to the nearby Kızılkaya Plateau, taking in the stunning views of the mountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the natural springs in the area and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. If time permits, explore the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Return to Refahiye for dinner at a local eatery, then relax at a café while enjoying the evening ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$7
Coffee$2
🏨Hotel Night$30
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1
🍞Loaf of Bread$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable costs of living.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may not be frequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Refahiye

Visit one of these nice places.

Kızılkaya Plateau

A breathtaking viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Refahiye Village Center

Capture the essence of village life with its charming architecture and friendly locals.

Natural Springs

Beautiful natural springs surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Refahiye

Refahiye's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Turkish flavors and local specialties that reflect the region's agricultural richness.

Refahiye Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kuzu Tandir

Slow-cooked lamb, tender and flavored with local herbs.

Must-Try!

Manti

Turkish dumplings often served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Pide

Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients including cheese, meat, and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Refahiye Market

A local market where fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods can be found.

Street Kebab Stalls

Try delicious kebabs and grilled meats from local street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Refahiye experiences a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Winters can drop below freezing, especially in December and January, while summers see temperatures rising above 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; use the right hand for greetings and giving items.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

Respect Meal Times

Meals are important social events; avoid rushing through meals and enjoy the company.

Safety Guide

Safety

Refahiye is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid remote areas at night.

Tipping in Refahiye

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in many establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and sunny, ideal for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful foliage create a picturesque landscape.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall, great for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Refahiye at Night

Refahiye has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few local cafes and tea houses where residents gather to socialize. While there are no major nightclubs, you can find local spots that offer live music and traditional performances. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it an excellent place for casual evening outings.

Hiking in Refahiye

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kızılkaya Trail

A moderately challenging trail that takes hikers through stunning mountain vistas and lush forests.

Çamlıca Hill Hike

A scenic hike suitable for all levels, offering beautiful views of Refahiye and its surroundings.

Airports

How to reach Refahiye by plane.

Erzincan Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Refahiye, Erzincan Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections, making it the most accessible gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Refahiye is a small town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore at a leisurely pace. The streets are generally safe and pedestrian-friendly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Villagers

Predominantly Turkish, the local villagers maintain traditional lifestyles and customs.

Students

A small population of students attend local schools and bring a youthful energy to the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a widely loved sport in Turkey, with local teams having a strong following.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is a cultural sport in Turkey, often featured in local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Refahiye is generally light, with minimal congestion. Public transportation options include minibusses and shared taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Refahiye.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Halal Food

Most food served in Refahiye is halal, but confirming with restaurant staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Refahiye are basic, with a few clinics and a small hospital. For major medical needs, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Erzincan. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide