Things To Do
in Varto
Varto is a quiet district town in Muş Province, Eastern Anatolia, perched on a plateau with mountain silhouettes in the distance. It thrives on agriculture and rural life, and visitors are welcomed with simple hospitality and authentic local flavors. The surrounding countryside offers a glimpse into traditional Anatolian life, with orchards, fields, and stone architecture lending character to the town.
Expect a slow-paced but genuine Turkish experience away from the major tourist crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy fresh simit, olives, and strong tea. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of Varto, taking in the unique architecture that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visit the historic Varto Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area and a glimpse into the town's storied past.
After lunch at a local eatery, visit the Varto Museum to explore artifacts that showcase the local history and culture. Spend some time wandering the bustling marketplace, where you can shop for handmade crafts and local delicacies. Engage with friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that Varto's market offers.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a dinner of regional specialties, including lamb dishes and fresh vegetables. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of nature. End your day with a cup of Turkish coffee at a local café, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before setting out on a trekking adventure through the scenic hills surrounding Varto. Follow well-marked trails that lead you through lush forests and offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora native to the region.
Stop for a packed lunch at a beautiful viewpoint, where you can savor your meal while soaking in the stunning landscape. Continue your trek, discovering hidden waterfalls and serene spots perfect for photographs. Engage with local shepherds or villagers you may encounter, learning about their way of life and the natural resources of the area.
Return to Varto in the early evening, where you can refresh yourself with a traditional bath at a local hammam. Enjoy a dinner that features seasonal ingredients, perhaps trying the famous Varto yogurt as a side dish. Conclude your day with storytelling around the dinner table, sharing tales of your trek and the experiences you encountered.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet destination with authentic rural charm
- Warm hospitality and opportunities to observe local life
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist-oriented amenities
- Longer travel times to larger cities and services
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede bu?" - Where is this?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check, please
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Varto
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow stone streets and traditional houses provide atmospheric shots, especially in the early morning light.
A vantage point offering sweeping views of the town, farmland, and distant mountains; ideal for sunrise and sunset photography.
Quiet courtyard scenes with soft light and architectural details perfect for contemplative photos.
Pastoral landscapes with fields, farmers, and livestock—great for wide-angle countryside photography.
Food in Varto
Varto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasoned meatballs from the Muş region, typically served with a tomato-based sauce and bulgur or rice, found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Tiny Turkish dumplings with yogurt and garlic sauce; widely available in restaurants around Varto.
A dessert featuring locally dried apricots and fragrant nuts, showcasing Muş’s apricot heritage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market where locals buy produce, dairy, breads, and seasonal specialties; a great place to sample fresh eye-catching bites and observe everyday life.
Casual bites such as gözleme, borek, simit, and ayran available around market hours; ideal for a quick, tasty snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a friendly 'Merhaba' (hello). A handshake or light nod is common; when visiting homes, bring a small gift or flowers if appropriate.
Dress modestly and remove shoes when required. Avoid disruptive behavior in mosques and respectful photography only with permission.
Always ask before photographing people or private property; many locals are welcoming but appreciate courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Varto
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service is not included. For cafes and tea houses, small coins or rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places in Varto support card payments. ATMs are available in town and nearby markets; inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card holds.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with extended sunshine. Hydration is essential; plan outdoor photos and hikes for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days and golden fields; ideal for scenic drives, village visits, and photography with warm tones.
Cold with potential snowfall; some rural roads may be icy. Pack warm clothing and consider driving with care.
Relatively wet but verdant; blossoms and fresh greenery create vibrant landscapes and pleasant walking conditions.
Varto at Night
Hiking in Varto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic short hike offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding fields.
Gentle trail along a local river with pasture and farm scenery.
Forested loop trail suitable for a half-day walk with shade and birds.
Airports
How to reach Varto by plane.
Domestic flights serving Muş Province; typically accessed by road from Varto in about 1-2 hours.
Domestic flights with broader options; longer drive from Varto but useful for wider connections.
Serves international and domestic flights; farther from Varto but an additional option for travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Turkish and Kurdish communities with a rural, agricultural way of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed at local clubs and in schools; community events and matches are common.
Occasional local events and school competitions reflecting regional sports culture.
When conditions permit, opportunities for basic winter activities in surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Varto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include lentil or chickpea dishes, vegetable stews, salads, and yogurt-based sides. When ordering, ask for dishes without meat broths and clarify ingredients to avoid meat-based stocks.