Things To Do
in Çerkeş

Çerkeş is a charming town located in the Karabük Province of Turkey, known for its rich history and traditional architecture. Nestled in the Black Sea region, it serves as a gateway to the lush landscapes of the area. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests and hills, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Visitors can enjoy a slower pace of life while exploring local culture and cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Çerkeş
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Çerkeş Castle, an ancient structure that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce and local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a family-owned restaurant, where you can taste traditional dishes and perhaps enjoy some live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided hike in the nearby forests to appreciate the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the region.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Çerkeş and its surrounding areas.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely stroll through the town square, followed by a visit to a café for some Turkish tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
🛒Groceries (per week)$40
🏨Hotel (per night)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may be infrequent.
  • Some areas may lack English signage.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Güle güle" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Çerkeş

Visit one of these nice places.

Çerkeş Castle

An ancient castle offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills, perfect for sunset photography.

Local Market

Capture the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the local market, filled with fresh produce and local crafts.

Historic Streets

Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses, ideal for capturing the essence of Çerkeş.

Culinary Guide

Food in Çerkeş

Çerkeş is a delightful culinary destination, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich traditions of the region.

Çerkeş Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Börek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Must-Try!

Köfte

Grilled meatballs made from minced meat and spices, typically served with rice and salad.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Çerkeş Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Çerkeş is characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are mild with moderate rainfall. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F). The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common among men, while women may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual attire is acceptable in most public places.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before eating and to finish everything on your plate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Çerkeş is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings.

Tipping in Çerkeş

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred in many local establishments; however, credit cards are widely accepted in larger businesses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F); perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, with cooler temperatures; ideal for photography and exploring the countryside.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with occasional snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Çerkeş at Night

Çerkeş has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few local bars and cafés where you can enjoy a drink and socialize. The atmosphere is generally laid-back, and many places close early, making it ideal for those looking for a quiet evening rather than a bustling nightlife.

Hiking in Çerkeş

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kozlu Valley Trail

A scenic trail that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the valley, suitable for all skill levels.

Çerkeş Nature Park

A well-maintained park with various trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Çerkeş by plane.

Zonguldak Airport

Located approximately 100 km from Çerkeş, it serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for international travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Çerkeş is fairly walkable, with most attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The town is small and compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are available in most areas, although some streets may be narrow.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Nationals

The majority of the population consists of Turkish nationals, who are known for their hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Kurdish Community

There is a significant Kurdish community in Çerkeş, contributing to the town's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Çerkeş, with many local teams and community matches taking place.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling is also a part of local culture, with events held during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Çerkeş is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options include minibuses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Çerkeş.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Turkish cuisine includes a lot of meat, you can find vegetarian options such as stuffed peppers and lentil soup.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Çerkeş are basic but adequate for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, larger hospitals can be found in nearby cities like Safranbolu. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide