Things To Do
in Ardahan
Ardahan is a small city in northeastern Turkey near the Georgian border, sitting on the snowy plains of the Kars Plateau. It blends hilltop views with a historic core featuring ancient walls and mosques, set against a backdrop of forests and farmland. The region is known for its harsh winters, pastoral traditions, and accessibility to Çıldır Lake, which becomes a striking ice-field in cold seasons.
Visitors are drawn to warm hospitality, quiet streets, and easy access to nearby natural and cultural sights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Ardahan's historic center, where you'll encounter ancient stone buildings and charming streets. Visit the Ardahan Castle, perched atop a hill, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a warm cup of Turkish tea and freshly baked simit.
After lunch at a traditional restaurant, continue your exploration by visiting the Ardahan Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Wander through the local bazaar, where vendors sell handmade crafts, textiles, and fresh produce, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. As you walk, take the time to converse with locals and discover the stories behind their crafts.
As the sun begins to set, head to the banks of the Çoruh River for a peaceful evening stroll. Enjoy the serene views and the sound of the water flowing while watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink. Wrap up your day with dinner at a riverside restaurant, indulging in local dishes like kars gravyer cheese and mantı.
Wake up early and prepare for a day in the breathtaking Ardahan Highlands, known for their stunning landscapes and diverse flora. Grab your hiking gear and set off on a guided nature walk through the green meadows and rolling hills, where you can spot various bird species. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the tranquility of this untouched natural paradise.
After a refreshing picnic lunch surrounded by nature, continue your hike to the nearby Pokut Plateau, famous for its picturesque wooden houses and rich biodiversity. Spend some time exploring the area, taking photographs, and perhaps even meeting local shepherds tending to their flocks. The panoramic views from the plateau will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of Ardahan.
Return to Ardahan in the evening, where you can unwind from your day of adventure. Visit a local restaurant to try some hearty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, perhaps sampling the famous Ardahan cheese. As you enjoy your meal, reflect on the stunning landscapes you've experienced throughout the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏠1BR in city center (monthly) | $250-350 |
| 🚌Public transportation (monthly pass) | $15-25 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic natural beauty and proximity to Çıldır Lake
- Warm Turkish hospitality and food
- Quiet, less touristy than coastal cities
- Low cost of living and easy to navigate
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Seasonal weather can be harsh
- Transport connectivity outside the region may be limited
- Smaller international flight accessibility
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Ardahan
Visit one of these nice places.
Ruins atop a hill offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding plains, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Wide, reflective lake scenes in winter with ice formations; summer evenings offer tranquil water reflections.
Food in Ardahan
Ardahan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, molten cheese and cornmeal dish similar to fondue, often served with bread.
Must-Try!
Grilled lamb skewers or chops seasoned with regional herbs.
Turkish dumplings topped with garlicky yogurt and spiced butter.
A hearty yogurt- and cereal-based soup, perfect for cold days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can taste fresh produce, cheese, honey, and breads.
Try simit, baklava, borek, and gözleme in casual eateries or street stalls around the market square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; polite phrases and eye contact are appreciated; address elders with respect.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques or rural areas; remove shoes where required; avoid loud behavior in public.
Turkish hospitality is strong; accepting tea or invitations is polite and expected.
Safety
Tipping in Ardahan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included.
Cash is widely used; Turkish Lira is preferred; cards are accepted in larger establishments; keep cash handy for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very cold temperatures with frequent snowfall; Çıldır Lake becomes a popular ice field and driving may require careful preparation.
Mild temperatures with blooming fields; wildlife and birdwatching opportunities increase; rain is common.
Warm days with cool nights; ideal for hill walks and lake excursions; occasional thunderstorms.
Cooler days and colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and photography with harvest activity nearby.
Ardahan at Night
Hiking in Ardahan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hike along the lake’s edge offering expansive views of the ice field in winter and the shoreline in summer.
Short to moderate climbs with panoramic views of the Kars Plateau and nearby valleys.
Airports
How to reach Ardahan by plane.
Primary regional airport serving Ardahan; connections to Istanbul and Ankara, with road transfer to Ardahan.
Larger airport farther away with more international connections; driving or domestic flights available to major hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority in Ardahan; Turkish language and culture predominate.
Small minority communities provide cultural diversity and bilingual signs or speakers in some areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport across Turkey; local matches may be limited but fans enjoy gatherings in cafés during broadcasts.
Snow and ice activities around Çıldır Lake and higher elevations; cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are common in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ardahan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable soups, cheeses, breads, bulgur, and salads; communicate dairy and meat usage at eateries; many places can accommodate vegetarian requests.