Things To Do
in Borçka
Borçka is a green, forested town in northeastern Turkey, tucked between the Pontic Mountains and the Black Sea coast. It serves as a gateway to the Karagöl-Sahara National Park and the Camili (Macahel) Biosphere Reserve, drawing hikers and nature lovers year-round. The town is renowned for its Laz-influenced cuisine, friendly locals, and a tranquil pace that suits slow travel.
Surrounding valleys, rivers, and dramatic viewpoints create a memorable base for exploring Artvin Province.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Borçka Karagöl Nature Park, where the serene lake reflects the surrounding lush forests. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, taking in the fresh air and the vibrant colors of nature. Capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera as the morning sun casts a golden glow over the scenery.
After a delightful picnic lunch by the water, embark on a hiking trail that leads deeper into the forest. As you explore, keep an eye out for local wildlife and the various plant species that thrive in this rich ecosystem. The peaceful ambiance and the sounds of nature create a perfect backdrop for a memorable afternoon.
Return to Borçka town and unwind at a local café with a view of the lake. Savor delicious Turkish tea and sample some traditional pastries while you reflect on your day. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of colors, providing a mesmerizing end to your day.
Begin your day by visiting the vibrant Borçka market, where you can experience the local culture and mingle with the friendly vendors. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Turkish delicacies. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up some unique souvenirs and practice your bargaining skills.
After exploring the market, head to a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch featuring local specialties. Engage with the locals and learn more about their customs and traditions as you savor your meal. Post-lunch, consider taking a guided walking tour of the historic sites in Borçka, including charming old houses and mosques.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot near the town square to watch the locals go about their evening routines. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere while enjoying a glass of ayran, a refreshing yogurt drink. The day wraps up beautifully as you witness a stunning sunset over the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (budget) | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Local market item | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and easy access to national parks
- Warm hospitality and unique Laz culture
- Budget-friendly travel compared to Western Europe
- Limited nightlife and shopping compared to bigger cities
- Some areas require a car to reach hiking trails and viewpoints
- English availability can be limited in rural spots
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
Places to Visit in Borçka
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the emerald lake framed by forested slopes, especially stunning at sunrise.
A picturesque dam and valley with water reflections and dam-side pathways for sunset shoots.
Ancient pine and beech forests with dappled light, ideal for macro and landscape photography.
Historic bridges along streams, perfect for long-exposure shots and rural vernacular architecture.
Food in Borçka
Borçka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal Black Sea hamsi fried in oil, commonly enjoyed with rice or corn ekmek; often found in seaside or riverside eateries near Borçka.
Must-Try!
A rich cheese and cornmeal melt served bubbling hot with bread; a signature comfort dish of the Laz region.
A traditional Laz pastry often filled with cheese or potatoes; a popular snack in markets and teahouses.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where locals sell hazelnuts, honey, greens, and seasonal produce; street snacks like corn soup and gozleme are common.
Casual stalls offering fresh corn bread, fish sandwiches, and lokma desserts along the riverside.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake; use Turkish phrases like Merhaba (hello) and Teşekkür ederim (thank you).
Dress modestly when visiting mosques; remove shoes when entering homes or certain religious sites; ask before taking photos of people.
Guests are often offered tea or coffee; it’s polite to accept a small refreshment and engage in light conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Borçka
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, if a service charge isn’t included, leave about 5-10% for good service. For guides or drivers, a small tip is appreciated.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; some rural places may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity; occasional showers in the mountains. Perfect for lake walks, longer hikes, and outdoor meals by the water.
Misty mornings and colorful valleys as the leaves change; carving through cooler evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures.
Cool to cold with some snow at higher elevations; road conditions can be variable; great for quiet landscapes and cozy teahouse visits.
Fresh greens and blooming wildflowers; ideal for birdwatching and forest trails as wildlife activity increases.
Borçka at Night
Hiking in Borçka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy loop around the lake with forest views and several viewpoints.
Forest trails through pine and beech with chances to see wildlife.
Scenic valley route with overlooks toward the Çoruh River and surrounding peaks.
Airports
How to reach Borçka by plane.
Main regional gateway; about 150–180 km by road to Borçka with bus or car options.
Newly opened airport serving the region; approximately 100–150 km away; connections to major Turkish hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous to the Black Sea region; Laz language and culture influence local cuisine and traditions.
Main linguistic group, with many residents bilingual in Turkish and Laz or Hemshin dialects.
Smaller communities contribute to the cultural mosaic of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed in towns and schools; local matches and gatherings are common in the evenings.
The surrounding mountains attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Trout streams and rivers provide relaxed angling in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Borçka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can navigate by ordering corn-based dishes like muhlama, bean stews, soups, salads, and pide with cheese; request vegetable-only options when ordering.