Things To Do
in Cizre

Cizre, Turkey, is a historical town located in the Şırnak Province in southeastern Turkey. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a history dating back to ancient times, including notable sites from the Assyrian and Roman eras. The town is situated near the Tigris River and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Cizre is also known for its traditional hospitality and vibrant local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cizre
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cizre Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the historical significance of this landmark.

afternoon
:

Visit the Great Mosque of Cizre, an architectural marvel that showcases the region's Islamic heritage. Afterward, stroll through the local bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Tigris River, soaking in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby town of Silopi to explore the picturesque countryside. Engage in local activities such as visiting a traditional farm or enjoying a picnic.

afternoon
:

Return to Cizre and visit the Cizre Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into the region's history. Spend some time in a local café, sipping on traditional Turkish tea and enjoying the atmosphere.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or performance if available, showcasing local music or dance. Conclude your visit with a nightcap at a cozy local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$7
Cup of coffee$2
🍺Local beer$4
🚌Local transport fare$0.50
🏨Night in a budget hotel$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
  • Friendly and hospitable locals
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some travelers
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Cizre

Visit one of these nice places.

Cizre Castle

A historical site offering stunning views of the town and the Tigris River, ideal for capturing the essence of Cizre.

Great Mosque of Cizre

An architectural gem with intricate designs, perfect for those looking to capture cultural heritage in their photographs.

Tigris River

The scenic river provides a beautiful backdrop for sunset photography and captures the natural beauty surrounding Cizre.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cizre

Cizre offers a delightful culinary experience, characterized by rich flavors and traditional dishes that reflect its cultural heritage.

Cizre Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebab

Grilled meat skewers, often made from lamb or chicken, seasoned with local spices and served with flatbread.

Must-Try!

Çılbır

Poached eggs served over yogurt and topped with spiced butter, a perfect breakfast dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cizre Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cizre experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Rainfall is minimal, primarily occurring in late autumn and early spring, making these seasons ideal for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders

Always show respect to elders in the community; it is customary to greet them and show deference.

Dress modestly

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Hospitality

Accepting offers for tea or food is a sign of respect; it's considered polite to at least try what is offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cizre is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay updated on local news and avoid demonstrations or large gatherings. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas.

Tipping in Cizre

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

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

Payment methods

Cash is preferred, but some larger establishments may accept credit cards. Ensure to carry enough cash for local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming nature make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Summer

Hot and dry weather calls for early morning or late evening excursions, with plenty of water and sun protection needed.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors create a picturesque setting for photography and exploring the local culture.

Winter

Cold weather may limit outdoor activities, but it’s a good time to explore indoor cultural sites and enjoy traditional winter dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Cizre at Night

Cizre's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and tea houses. Most nightlife revolves around social gatherings in homes or communal areas, with occasional cultural events and performances. Traditional music and dance may be enjoyed in select venues, providing an authentic local experience.

Hiking in Cizre

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Cudi Trail

This trail offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is popular among locals and tourists alike.

Cizre Canyon Trail

A scenic hike along the canyon that provides opportunities for photography and wildlife observation, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Cizre by plane.

Şırnak Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Cizre, Şırnak Airport offers domestic flights and serves as the primary access point for air travel to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cizre is moderately walkable, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance of each other. The town features narrow streets that are best explored on foot, although some areas may require navigating uneven surfaces. Local transportation options are available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurdish Community

The predominant ethnic group in Cizre, the Kurdish community plays a significant role in the local culture and traditions.

Arab Community

A smaller but notable demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity of Cizre, often engaging in trade and local businesses.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in Cizre, with many local teams and a passionate fan base supporting regional matches.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is a cultural sport in the region, often celebrated during local festivals and gatherings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cizre is generally light, with local streets often crowded with pedestrians and occasional vehicles. Public transportation consists mainly of minibuses and dolmuş (shared taxis) that are reliable for getting around the town and to nearby areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cizre.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specifics as not all dishes may be meat-free.

Halal food

Most food in Cizre is halal, but confirm with restaurants if you have strict dietary requirements.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Cizre are limited, with some small clinics and a regional hospital. For serious medical issues, traveling to larger cities like Şırnak or Diyarbakır is advisable. Travelers should have health insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide