Things To Do
in Suşehri

Suşehri is a traditional town in Sivas Province, eastern central Anatolia, set against a backdrop of rolling farmland and historic stone architecture. It offers a calm, village-style atmosphere with a small-town market life and friendly locals. The town serves as a gateway to rural adventures and nearby natural scenery while preserving a distinct Anatolian charm.

Visitors can experience genuine Turkish hospitality, local cuisine, and easy day trips into the surrounding countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Riverside Introduction
morning
:

Arrive in Suşehri and check into a charming local guesthouse. Savor a traditional Turkish breakfast spread with freshly baked simit and çay. Let the tranquil sounds of the Göne River set the tone for your immersive journey.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling central bazaar where merchants sell spices, dried fruits, and handmade crafts. Practice your Turkish with friendly vendors as you select local delights. Wander down narrow streets lined with Ottoman-era houses for a glimpse into daily life.

evening
:

Dine at a riverside lokanta serving fresh trout and pide. Engage in conversation with locals over a glass of ayran while watching the sunset. Cap the night with a stroll under lantern-lit bridges crossing the Göne River.

day 2
Castle and Old Town Discovery
morning
:

Walk up to the Suşehri Castle ruins perched above the town. Marvel at panoramic views over rolling hills and ancient stone walls. Imagine the fortress in its Ottoman heyday as you explore hidden chambers.

afternoon
:

Descend into the Old Town neighborhood and visit Ulu Mosque with its intricate calligraphy. Admire the well-preserved wooden balconies of traditional houses on narrow lanes. Drop into a nearby teahouse for apple tea and local sohbet.

evening
:

Head to a family-run restaurant offering regional stews like tas kebabı. Enjoy live saz music in an intimate courtyard setting. Wander back through the illuminated streets of the historic quarter to your lodging.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🧃Cup of local tea or coffee$1-2
🚍Local bus fare$0.50-1.50
🧺Market groceries (local produce)$5-15
🏨Budget hotel room per night$25-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere
  • Affordable prices
  • Rich rural scenery
  • Warm hospitality
  • Limited nightlife
  • Fewer English-speaking services
  • Transport to larger cities may require planning
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ne kadar?" - How much?

Places to Visit in Suşehri

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Streets

Narrow lanes and stone houses provide atmospheric mornings and golden hour textures.

Kızılırmak River Banks

Widely curving river views with tranquil landscapes and wildlife; great for sunset shots.

Local Mosque Minarets

Silhouettes against the Anatolian sky, especially at dawn or dusk.

Hilltop Viewpoints

Panoramic overviews of fields, town rooftops, and distant hills.

Culinary Guide

Food in Suşehri

The local cuisine blends pastoral northern Anatolian flavors with simple, hearty dishes. Expect dishes featuring lamb or beef, yogurt, legumes, and fresh bread, prepared in home-style and rustic restaurant settings. Tea is a staple beverage, often enjoyed throughout the day in cafes and homes. Seasonal produce shapes many meals, giving visitors a sense of the region’s agricultural rhythm.

Suşehri Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sivas köftesi

A regionally inspired lamb or beef kofta served with flatbread and yogurt.

Must-Try!

Lentil and vegetable soup

A hearty, warming soup common in local eateries, often enjoyed with bread.

Kebap platter

Assorted grilled meats with peppers and onions, typical of home-style cooking.

Yufka/poğaça pastries

Flaky savory pastries filled with cheese or vegetables found in bakeries and markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market Days

Weekly markets with fresh produce, dairy, herbs, and regional specialties to sample or take home.

Street Snacks

Simple fried pastries and warm bread with toppings, popular for a quick bite while exploring the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Central Anatolia experiences a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are typically mild and pleasant, while summer can bring intense sunshine and the need for hydration. The town’s elevation can moderate temperatures somewhat, especially at night.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A simple greeting like Merhaba (Hello) is widely used; handshakes are common in urban settings.

Hospitality

It is common to be offered tea; accepting a cup is a sign of courtesy and hospitality.

Safety Guide

Safety

Suşehri is generally safe for travelers. Exercise standard precautions: secure valuables in crowded areas, watch for traffic when walking near roads, and stay informed about weather and road conditions in winter. Have travel insurance and know the local emergency numbers. Be mindful of seasonal hazards such as icy sidewalks in winter and heat during peak summer.

Tipping in Suşehri

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5-10% in restaurants is common; small tips for porters or hotel staff are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards, especially in towns with tourism and larger eateries.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming countryside; ideal for walking and outdoor photography.

Summer

Hot, dry days; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Cooler air with colorful foliage; comfortable for exploration and day trips.

Winter

Cold with the possibility of snow; some trails may be icy or less accessible.

Nightlife Guide

Suşehri at Night

Suşehri offers a quiet nightlife scene focused on tea gardens, small cafes, and family-friendly venues. After-dusk activity typically centers on socializing with locals, listening to light traditional music, or attending small community events when available. Major nightlife options are limited compared to larger cities, but evenings are comfortable for relaxed conversations and stargazing in open areas.

Hiking in Suşehri

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rural ridge and farmland trails

Gentle to moderate hikes with expansive countryside views and opportunities for wildlife watching.

Kızılırmak river valley paths

Easy to moderate walking routes along the riverbank, suitable for relaxed hikes and photography.

Airports

How to reach Suşehri by plane.

Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport (VAS)

Domestic flights with limited international connections; about 1.5-2 hours by road from Suşehri.

Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)

Major international hub; a longer drive but frequent connections to international destinations.

Erzincan Airport (ERC)

Regional airport with more limited schedules; closer to Suşehri than Ankara.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable with narrow streets and compact blocks; some streets are hilly, so comfortable footwear helps. A car is convenient for exploring rural surroundings and day trips.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Turkish, with a rural community vibe and multi-generational families.

Students and families

Students from nearby towns and families who live in the area contribute to a steady community presence.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely played and followed; local teams and informal games in parks.

Traditional wrestling

Occasional regional events and gatherings; part of local cultural heritage.

Transportation

Traffic

Road travel is common; intercity buses connect Suşehri to Sivas and nearby towns. In town, traffic is light and parking is usually available, though narrow streets can slow driving during busy market days.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Suşehri.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options include lentil soups, vegetable stews, cheese pastries, and salads; request meals prepared without meat or meat broths.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are local district clinics and a provincial hospital in the region; for more specialized care, travel to Sivas city. Carry essential medications and a copy of prescriptions; confirm insurance coverage for emergencies.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide