Things To Do
in Erbaa
Erbaa is a green, agricultural town in Samsun Province set along rolling hills and the Yesilırmak River. Its friendly markets, modest mosques, and family-owned eateries offer a slice of rural Turkish life with seasonal harvests. The surrounding landscapes invite relaxed exploration, from riverside strolls to forested hills ideal for short hikes.
Visitors are greeted with warm hospitality and a sense of timeless Anatolia as they uncover local crafts and flavors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Erbaa's historic center. Visit the Erbaa Grand Mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture, where you can admire its intricate details and serene atmosphere. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast, complete with fresh bread, olives, and tea.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the rich history of Erbaa by visiting the Erbaa Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from ancient civilizations. After exploring, take a scenic walk along the river, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps spot local wildlife. Wrap up your afternoon by visiting a local artisan shop to pick up unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant, sampling regional specialties such as kebabs and gözleme. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the lively streets as locals gather for evening tea and conversation. End your day by relaxing at a café, sipping on a cup of Turkish coffee while soaking in the ambiance.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading out to the nearby mountains for a refreshing hike. The breathtaking landscapes of the Aladağlar National Park await you, where you can explore lush forests and stunning rock formations. As you hike, keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area.
After a rewarding morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the serene sounds of the forest. Continue your exploration by venturing to higher elevations for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Spend some time taking photographs and appreciating the peace that the mountains offer.
Return to Erbaa in the early evening, where you can unwind at your accommodation. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local eatery, savoring dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. As night falls, consider visiting a local tea house to experience traditional Turkish hospitality and perhaps engage in a game of backgammon with the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $1-2 |
| 🧺Grocery staple (milk, bread, eggs) per day | $3-6 |
| 🌐Internet (monthly, 10 Mbps+) | $25-35 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Rich agricultural landscapes and seasonal markets
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale tourist facilities
- Transportation options can be more sparse than in bigger cities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerededir?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is it?
- "Bunu Türkçe açıklayabilir misiniz?" - Can you explain this in Turkish?
- "İyi günler" - Good day
- "Hocam/bayan" - Sir/Ma'am (polite form for addressing someone)
Places to Visit in Erbaa
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the river valley with farm fields and distant hills, especially appealing at sunrise or sunset.
A vantage point for capturing the town’s skyline, traditional architecture, and local life.
Timber-framed and stone houses that showcase rural Turkish vernacular architecture.
Candid early-morning scenes of vendors, fishers, and market activity with soft morning light.
Food in Erbaa
Erbaa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich cornmeal and cheese medley cooked until it forms a gooey, savory pancake-like dish; a breakfast or late-evening staple in many lokantas.
Must-Try!
A tangy yogurt- and grain-based soup that’s perfect for cooler evenings and widely available in local eateries.
Seasonal small fish prepared fried or grilled; offered in some restaurants and markets when fresh.
A hearty wheat and meat porridge served on special occasions and at traditional venues.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, dairy, cheeses, and local snacks from nearby farms.
Seasonal vendors along the river offering grilled corn, roasted chestnuts, tea, and simple bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'Merhaba' (hello) is common; handshakes are typical among men, with politeness and eye contact.
Dress modestly; remove shoes when required and ask for permission before taking photos inside mosques.
Hosts may invite you to share tea; accepting a small offering is courteous and expected as a sign of gratitude.
Use the right hand for giving and receiving; avoid public displays of anger or confrontation in crowded settings.
Safety
Tipping in Erbaa
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, leave around 5-10% if service is not included. Small tips for cafe or bar staff are appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards, especially in towns. Keep some Turkish lira for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor photography and village visits. Pack light layers and a light rain jacket.
Warm to hot days with occasional humidity; bring sun protection and water. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activities.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage and harvest activity; ideal for scenic drives and walks.
Cool to cold with possible snow in higher areas; dress in layers and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.
Erbaa at Night
Hiking in Erbaa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside path with farmland views and gentle slopes; suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Short to moderate hike offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Forest trail with shade, birdsong, and occasional wildlife; well-marked and peaceful.
Airports
How to reach Erbaa by plane.
Primary gateway to the region; approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive to Erbaa depending on traffic and route.
Alternative option with longer transfer times to Erbaa; offers seasonal and regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Turkish with a strong agricultural community; diverse but smaller minority groups are present in the region.
Primarily domestic travelers seeking rural scenery, markets, and short nature getaways.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally; expect local matches and a strong community following.
Occasionally featured in cultural gatherings and festivals in rural areas.
Popular among locals along the Yesilırmak River and in nearby natural areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erbaa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most lokantas can accommodate vegetarian diets by offering dishes like grilled vegetables, cheese-based dishes, salads, and tarhana-based soups.
Some places can offer vegan options; communicate clearly about dairy and meat and request simple vegetable dishes when possible.
Ask about cross-contamination; opt for plain grilled vegetables, fish, and rice-based sides when available.