Things To Do
in Bayburt
Bayburt is a small, historic city perched above the Çoruh River valley in northeast Turkey. It blends ancient fortress walls with a laid-back town atmosphere, offering dramatic mountain scenery and a rich scroll of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture. The surrounding Pontic Mountains provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor adventures, while the friendly locals welcome curious travelers.
With a compact center and a growing cultural scene, Bayburt makes for a relaxed off-the-beaten-path stop in the Black Sea region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the historic streets of Bayburt, where ancient stone buildings and vibrant local markets create a picturesque setting. Visit the Bayburt Castle, perched atop a hill, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Take time to grab a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and feta cheese.
In the afternoon, visit the Bayburt Museum, where you can explore intriguing exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, enjoying the serene atmosphere and lush greenery. Stop by the local shops to pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the unique heritage of Bayburt.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Turkish restaurant where you can indulge in a delicious dinner of regional specialties like kuymak and manti. Enjoy the ambiance filled with the sounds of local musicians as they play traditional Turkish melodies. Conclude your evening with a walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the charm of Bayburt at night.
Begin your day by hiking up to Bayburt Castle, an ancient fortress that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. As you explore the castle grounds, learn about its historical significance and the various civilizations that have occupied the area throughout the centuries. Capture breathtaking photographs of the fortress against the backdrop of the clear morning sky.
After descending from the castle, enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby park, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Spend the afternoon visiting the historical mosques in the city, including the Ulu Mosque, where you can admire intricate architectural details. Engage with local residents and learn about their stories and traditions as you explore the city's vibrant culture.
For dinner, head to a local eatery known for its delicious kebabs and freshly baked pide. Experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality as you share a meal with locals and perhaps even join in a lively conversation. After dinner, take a stroll through the bazaar, where you can sample local sweets and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🧋Cup of tea or coffee | $1-2 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range per night) | $40-70 |
| 🚌Local transportation (day pass) | $3-7 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly for two) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic fortress town with scenic mountain backdrop
- Friendly locals and traditional cuisine
- Compact center easy to explore on foot
- Budget-friendly with affordable food and lodging
- Good base for exploring surrounding natural areas
- Limited nightlife and some services may be sparse
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and icy roads
- Fewer international direct flights; requires connections
- Language barrier outside of tourism spots in some cases
- Smaller tourist infrastructure compared to larger Turkish cities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I am well, thank you
- "Bura Bayburt mu?" - Is this Bayburt?
Places to Visit in Bayburt
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient fortress walls perched above the town with sweeping views over the Çoruh River valley.
A cluster of traditional stone houses and narrow alleys that reflect regional architecture.
Riverside views with bridges and rapids, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.
Food in Bayburt
Bayburt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A melting cheese and cornmeal dish, often enjoyed with bread; a Bayburt/Black Sea staple that's perfect for chilly evenings.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings typically filled with spiced meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
A hearty bulgur pilaf cooked with meat and vegetables, a staple in many regional kitchens.
Lentil soup seasoned with herbs and often finished with a squeeze of lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can sample fresh produce, dairy, bread, and regional snacks.
Simit (sesame bread) with strong Turkish tea along the streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite handshakes, a smile, and phrases like merhaba (hello) and teşekkür ederim (thank you).
Dress modestly in religious sites; remove shoes where required; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Bayburt
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and cafes; rounding up or giving 5-10% is typical.
Cash (Turkish Lira) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in towns; some rural spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; occasional rain. Best for hiking and city strolling.
Warm days but cooler at higher elevations; pack layers and sun protection.
Brisk air, colorful foliage, great for photography and market visits.
Cold and snowy; some roads may be icy; ideal for snowy landscapes but plan for limited outdoor access.
Bayburt at Night
Hiking in Bayburt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested trails with viewpoints over the Çoruh Valley and surrounding villages.
Easy to moderately challenging walks along the river with scenic crossings.
Airports
How to reach Bayburt by plane.
A regional airport about 180-230 km from Bayburt, offering domestic flights and some international connections via Istanbul or Ankara.
A smaller regional airport with limited domestic flights.
A larger regional airport farther away with more frequent connections to Istanbul and Ankara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly ethnic Turkish, with a mix of Sunni and Alevi communities; the city is small and close-knit.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common spectator sport and community leagues; local clubs participate in regional events.
Popular in the Pontic Mountains and river valleys with scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bayburt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
How to navigate as a vegetarian in this location.