Things To Do
in Turhal

Turhal is a charming district located in the Tokat Province of Turkey, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Turhal boasts several historical sites, including ancient ruins and traditional Ottoman architecture.

With its friendly locals and vibrant culture, Turhal is an ideal destination for those looking to explore authentic Turkish life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Turhal's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Turhal Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

afternoon
:

Explore the local museum to learn about Turhal's history and then stroll through the town's charming streets, stopping by local shops.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Turkish restaurant and enjoy local delicacies, followed by a leisurely walk through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the nearby nature reserve for a morning hike, enjoying the lush landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a local tea garden to relax and enjoy traditional Turkish tea while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural event if available, or enjoy a quiet evening in a local café with traditional music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Cup of Turkish coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride within town$5
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🚌Bus ticket to Tokat$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • Public transportation options can be limited.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Hesap lütfen" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Turhal

Visit one of these nice places.

Turhal Castle

An ancient fortress offering stunning views of the landscape, perfect for capturing the essence of the region.

Nature Reserve

A serene spot with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature photography.

Local Bazaar

A vibrant market scene filled with colors and local life, providing great opportunities for candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Turhal

Turhal offers a delightful culinary experience with a range of traditional dishes and local flavors that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Turhal Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kuzu Tandir

Slow-cooked lamb that is tender and flavorful, often served with rice or flatbread.

Must-Try!

Turhal Pide

A local variant of Turkish pizza, topped with various ingredients such as minced meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Turhal Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Turhal experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summers (June to August) can see temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) can drop below freezing, often accompanied by snow. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality

Turkish people are known for their hospitality; it's polite to accept offers of tea or coffee when visiting.

Dress Modestly

While Turhal is relatively liberal, modest dress is appreciated, especially in rural areas.

Greetings

A handshake is common, and it’s polite to greet everyone with a smile.

Safety Guide

Safety

Turhal is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings. It's advisable to stay informed about local customs and regulations.

Tipping in Turhal

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; round up for small services like taxis.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in larger establishments; ensure to carry some cash for markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this season perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and dry, with temperatures soaring; ideal for early morning hikes and evening strolls.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage provide a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, winter offers a quieter experience, but be prepared for chilly weather.

Nightlife Guide

Turhal at Night

Turhal's nightlife is quite subdued compared to larger cities, but you can find cozy cafes and a few bars that offer local drinks and live music. Most locals prefer to socialize in open-air tea gardens or at friends' homes. During weekends, some cafes host cultural events or performances, providing a taste of local traditions.

Hiking in Turhal

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kızılkaya Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

Çamlıbel Nature Walk

A peaceful walk through a forested area, ideal for families and those looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll in nature.

Airports

How to reach Turhal by plane.

Tokat Airport (TJK)

Located approximately 30 km from Turhal, Tokat Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Turhal is relatively walkable, with a compact town center that makes it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, and the streets are generally safe and well-maintained, making it a pleasant experience for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Locals

The majority of the population is ethnically Turkish, with a rich tradition of hospitality and cultural practices.

Students and Professionals

Turhal is home to a growing number of students and professionals, especially due to its educational institutions and local businesses.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Turhal, with local teams and matches being a significant part of the community's social life.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling events are celebrated in the region, showcasing local talent and attracting spectators.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Turhal is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation includes local buses and minibusses, which connect Turhal with nearby towns and cities, but schedules may vary. Biking can also be a pleasant way to explore the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Turhal.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check if meals are prepared with meat broth.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, fresh vegetables and fruits are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Turhal are available through local clinics and hospitals. While basic medical care is accessible, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health services. In case of serious medical emergencies, larger cities like Tokat offer more comprehensive healthcare facilities.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide