Things To Do
in Bitlis
Bitlis is a historic city in eastern Turkey perched amid mountains and valleys with a long, storied past. Its skyline features ancient fortifications, mosques, and traditional timber houses that reflect a layered cultural heritage. The city blends Kurdish and Turkish influences in its food, crafts, and market life, giving visitors a sense of living history.
Bitlis serves as a gateway to the region’s scenic countryside, offering hillside viewpoints, centuries-old architecture, and welcoming tea houses for slow, flavorful exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Bitlis Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Van. After exploring the castle’s historical remnants, take a leisurely stroll through the old town to appreciate traditional Ottoman architecture. Don't forget to stop by a local café for refreshing breakfast with traditional Turkish tea and baked goods.
In the afternoon, visit the historic Ahlat Seljuk Cemetery, known for its unique gravestones and stunning scenery. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region by exploring the nearby Ahlat Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Seljuk period. Wrap up the day by wandering through the peaceful gardens around the cemetery, perfect for reflection and relaxation.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to indulge in Bitlis's famous Wolka dish, a must-try traditional meal. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather, sharing stories and laughter over dinner. Conclude your evening with a walk along the lakefront, enjoying the shimmering reflections of the stars in the water.
Start early and embark on a memorable hike in the stunning landscapes surrounding Bitlis, such as the Mutki district, known for its natural beauty. Pack a small picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot during your trek, soaking in the tranquil sounds of nature. This morning will invigorate you, setting a calming tone for the rest of the day.
After your hike, dive into local culture by visiting one of the towns within Bitlis Province, such as Tatvan, where you can visit local markets. Spend time chatting with friendly merchants and sampling tasty local snacks, learning about Bitlis’s agricultural products. Before the day wraps up, take a quick visit to the historic castle of Tatvan for more breathtaking views.
As evening falls, return to Bitlis and explore the local nightlife. Head to a traditional tea house where you can sample herbal teas and socialize with the locals. Enjoy the ambiance and charm of the town as the lights begin to twinkle, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites further exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚇One-way local transportation | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Hotel (1 night, mid-range) | $25-60 |
| 🧈Milk (1 liter) | $0.60-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Stunning mountain scenery nearby
- Authentic regional cuisine and markets
- Relaxed pace with friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Smaller city feel may mean fewer direct services
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede oturuyor?" - Where do you live?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Bitlis
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop vantage point with sweeping views of the city, surrounding mountains, and valleys—ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Photogenic lines of historic wooden homes on hillside streets, conveying a sense of the city’s architectural heritage.
Historic religious architecture framed by bustling market life, offering strong contrast between shadow and light in late afternoon.
Natural overlook where the river and valley meet the built environment, perfect for landscape shots and quiet reflections.
Food in Bitlis
Bitlis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous layered pastry baked with sesame and butter, often served with kaymak or cream and enjoyed fresh from the bakeries.
Must-Try!
A milk-based dessert variation topped with pistachios or syrup, reflecting local dairy traditions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market where you can taste dried fruits, nuts, fresh produce, cheeses, and local breads, with small stalls offering hot snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings (Merhaba, Selam) and respectful interactions are valued; dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes where required.
Ask before photographing people or domestic interiors; avoid intrusive shot angles in residential areas.
Turkish hospitality is strong—accept tea or coffee when offered as a sign of courtesy and engage in patient, friendly conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Bitlis
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; leave 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included. Small tips to guides, drivers, and cafe staff are appreciated but not expected.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; larger shops and hotels may take credit/debit cards, but smaller eateries often prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool evenings; mountains provide relief from heat, and sudden afternoon showers are possible. Perfect time for outdoor city walks and hill views.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; autumn colors paint the hills and valleys, offering excellent photography opportunities.
Cold and often snowy, especially in higher elevations; some roads can be icy or wind-blanketed, but the quiet beauty is compelling for those prepared for chilly conditions.
Moderate temperatures with blooming landscapes; a good time for combining city visits with short day hikes and market visits.
Bitlis at Night
Hiking in Bitlis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging alpine hike in a nearby mountain area offering expansive views, appropriate gear, and planned starting points from Bitlis region.
Gentle to moderate trails around the castle hill area, suitable for a scenic daytime outing and cityscape photography.
Rural trails through the Hizan district’s foothills—great for day treks and observing rural landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Bitlis by plane.
Primary regional airport with domestic flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and other Turkish cities; taxi or bus connections to Bitlis are available.
A secondary regional airport within a few hours’ drive; provides domestic flights and onward connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population speaks Kurdish (Kurmanji or Zazaki variants) alongside Turkish; local customs reflect a blend of influences.
A large Turkish-speaking community contributing to daily life, markets, and hospitality.
Smaller minority groups live in the broader region; respectful inquiry about local customs is advised when engaging with diverse communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local clubs and casual matches in and around Bitlis.
In season, nearby mountains offer opportunities for snow-related activities such as light skiing and snowshoeing, depending on conditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bitlis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat or dairy; look for vegetable stews, lentil dishes, and bread with olive oil. When ordering, request ayran (yogurt drink) on the side and confirm no meat stock in sauces.