Things To Do
in Tunceli
Tunceli is a highland province in Eastern Anatolia known for its dramatic limestone canyons and the Munzur River. The area blends Alevi and Zazaki influences with a rugged, forested landscape and village life that feels timeless. It serves as a gateway to Munzur Valley National Park, offering pristine hiking trails, waterfalls, and trout-filled rivers.
Visitors come for trekking, nature immersion, and a slow-paced cultural experience that rewards curiosity and patience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the narrow streets of Tunceli's historic center, where ancient stone buildings whisper tales of the past. Visit the Tunceli Museum to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, complete with fresh bread, olives, and strong tea.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Munzur River, enjoying the serene atmosphere and stunning mountain views. Stop by the nearby Tunceli Castle, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city below. Afterward, indulge in a delicious lunch at a riverside restaurant, sampling local dishes like kebabs and gözleme.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy local eatery to savor a traditional Tunceli dinner, featuring regional specialties such as pırasa dolması. Engage with the friendly locals who often share stories of their town's rich culture. After dinner, stroll through the bustling streets, perhaps stopping for tea at a café as you absorb the evening atmosphere.
Kick off your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an adventure in Munzur Valley National Park. Spend your morning hiking through lush green trails, surrounded by towering mountains and vibrant flora. Keep your eyes peeled for diverse wildlife, including rare birds and other native species.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery of the park. Spend your afternoon rafting on the Munzur River, where the adrenaline rush will leave you exhilarated as you navigate through gentle rapids. This thrilling experience allows you to connect with nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes around you.
As the day winds down, return to Tunceli and freshen up at your accommodation. Treat yourself to a relaxing dinner featuring fresh fish from the Munzur River, paired with local wines. Conclude your day by sharing stories with fellow travelers or locals, soaking in the warmth of Tunceli’s hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚌Local transportation ride | $0.50-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and national park access
- Warm, hospitable local culture and unique Dersim heritage
- Delicious trout and hearty regional cuisine
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale tourist facilities
- Remote location with variable access in winter
- Smaller English-speaking presence in rural areas
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where are you?
- "Bir kahve alabilir miyim?" - May I have a coffee?
Places to Visit in Tunceli
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour canyons, waterfalls, pine forests, and wildflowers with reflections in the river.
Cliffside views of the Euphrates-Keban river gorge with the castle ruins and dramatic skies.
Wide-open plateaus, misty valleys, and sweeping panoramas above the town.
Characterful streets, old mosques, and a backdrop of snow-capped hills in winter.
Food in Tunceli
Tunceli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh river trout prepared grilled or fried, commonly found in riverside restaurants along the Munzur and within town eateries.
Must-Try!
A traditional wheat and meat dish served with yogurt or salads; widely available in local taverns and during festivals.
Turkish dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and pepper oil in many restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market where you can buy fresh vegetables, cheeses, herbs, honey, and homemade breads; great for street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; show respect to elders and religious practices; dress modestly in town and at religious sites; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Tunceli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips for taxi drivers and guides.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; expect sudden rain showers in the canyons; perfect for hiking, rafting, and trout dinners along the Munzur river.
Cold and snowy, with some roads challenging; expect snow-covered landscapes and a quiet town; great for winter photography if you’re equipped for cold and ice.
Tunceli at Night
Hiking in Tunceli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic river gorge paths with waterfalls and cedar forests; moderate to demanding hikes.
Wide grasslands and viewpoints above the town; easy to moderate hikes with panoramic views.
Forest and ridge routes offering sunset views and wildlife opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Tunceli by plane.
Small regional airport serving the province with limited connections; most travelers combine with Elazığ or Erzincan access and drive to Tunceli.
Larger regional airport with regular flights; 2-3 hour drive to Tunceli depending on weather and route.
Nearby option with occasional services; typically used as a gateway to eastern Anatolia and then by road to Tunceli.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population belongs to the Dersim community with strong Alevi traditions and Zazaki language presence; Turkish is widely spoken.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Turkey; local matches and community games are common in towns.
Munzur Valley and surrounding plateaus attract hikers and nature lovers.
In higher elevations, winter hiking and occasional snow sports occur.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tunceli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable stews, börek, cheese dishes, salads, and bread; communicate dietary needs to hosts, as many dishes are meat-based.