Things To Do
in Çubuk
Çubuk is a small agricultural town in Ankara Province, located northeast of the capital. It blends rural charm with easy access to Ankara’s urban amenities. The area is renowned for its apple orchards and seasonal markets, offering a quieter slice of central Anatolia.
Visitors can explore traditional village life, riverside paths along the Çubuk River, and historic mosques in a tranquil setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Çubuk Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the historic architecture that reflects the rich heritage of the area. Grab a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and homemade jams.
In the afternoon, visit the Çubuk Museum to learn about the local culture and history through its intriguing exhibits. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Çubuk River, where you can relax by the water and watch the local fishermen. Stop by a nearby market to sample local delicacies and perhaps pick up some artisanal crafts.
As evening falls, find a cozy restaurant in the historic center and indulge in a traditional Turkish dinner featuring mezes and a delicious kebab. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather to share stories and laughter. Conclude your day with a sweet treat of baklava and a cup of Turkish tea while watching the sunset over the town.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Çubuk Plateau, surrounded by lush forests and stunning views. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you trek through scenic trails, observing the diverse flora and fauna. Stop for a mid-hike snack of local fruits or nuts to fuel your adventure.
Settle down for a picnic lunch at one of the designated spots on the plateau, where you can feast on homemade sandwiches and fresh produce while basking in nature's tranquility. After lunch, explore more trails, perhaps venturing to hidden waterfalls and serene clearings. Capture memorable photographs of the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
As the sun sets, return to Çubuk and visit a local tea garden to unwind after a day of exploration. Sip on traditional Çay while enjoying the calming atmosphere and chatting with locals. For dinner, treat yourself to a hearty meal at a nearby restaurant, where you can try the region's specialties like mantı, Turkish dumplings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛒Grocery shopping (daily groceries) | $15-25 |
| 🚎Local transport (short ride or bus within town) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Ankara with easy access to city amenities
- Rich apple-producing region and scenic countryside
- Quiet, safe, and walkable town center
- Seasonal markets and authentic Turkish village life
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Rural transportation options can be basic outside town
- Weather in winter can bring icy roads and cold temps
- Some services may have limited English-speaking staff
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Günaydın" - Good morning
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is it?
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Çubuk
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil lakeside area with promenades and sunset reflections over the water.
Historic streets and Ottoman-era buildings offer charming street photography and interiors.
Springtime rows of blossoms provide vibrant colors for landscape photography.
Calm river views, bridges, and rural scenes along the water.
Elevated spots around the town give panoramic views of the plains toward Ankara.
Food in Çubuk
Çubuk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tiny Turkish dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and paprika oil.
Must-Try!
Thin pastry filled with cheese or spinach, cooked on a griddle.
Grilled meat skewers or plates, enjoyed with rice or bulgur.
Desserts featuring local apples, such as baked apples or apple dessert pastries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce stalls, with apples in harvest season and dairy products.
Simit, borek, ayran, roasted corn, and fresh fruit sold by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings in Turkish; a handshake is common between men and women who know each other.
Dress modestly in towns and when entering religious sites; remove shoes where required.
Ask for permission before photographing people; avoid taking photos in private homes without consent.
Bargaining is common in markets but done with courtesy and a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Çubuk
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many venues also accept credit/debit cards, especially in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures mild and apple trees bloom; ideal for orchard visits and photography.
Hot days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated.
Harvest season; markets fill with apples and other produce; pleasant walking weather.
Cold with occasional snow; some outdoor trails may be icy; layer up and check road conditions.
Çubuk at Night
Hiking in Çubuk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes around the reservoir with views of water and fields.
Ridge trails offering panoramic views of the plains toward Ankara.
Airports
How to reach Çubuk by plane.
Main international gateway serving the Ankara region; connections to domestic and international destinations; around 50-60 km from Çubuk by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Turkish families and farmers; a mix of commuters to Ankara and long-time locals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local teams enjoying community support.
Common in schools and community centers; casual leagues and pickup games.
Rural areas offer opportunities for horseback riding and equestrian activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Çubuk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose lentil soups, vegetable dishes, yogurt-based dips, and avoid meat broths. Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian if you ask.