Things To Do
in Hizan
Hizan is a highland district in Bitlis Province, Turkey, surrounded by rugged mountains and green valleys. The town blends rural charm with a long history, evident in its mosques, traditional houses, and markets. Life here moves at a slower pace, inviting visitors to enjoy tea, hospitality, and scenic walks.
In winter, snow-capped peaks transform the landscape into a quiet, picturesque retreat.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Hizan under crisp mountain air and feel the gentle breeze brushing your face. Settle into a cozy guesthouse nestled among narrow streets lined with stone façades. Let the rhythmic calls to prayer drifting from the old mosques welcome you to the city’s pace.
Head to the bustling local bazaar where vendors display colorful kilims, aromatic spices, and fresh produce. Sample freshly baked pide and simit as you negotiate friendly prices with shopkeepers. Listen to the murmur of locals bartering, and let the vibrant atmosphere ignite your senses.
As dusk falls, venture to a family-run lokanta to savor keşkek, a creamy wheat and meat porridge cooked for hours. Sip hot apple tea while sharing stories with your hosts under glowing lanterns. End the evening with a leisurely stroll through softly lit alleys and the distant echo of folk music.
Hike up the winding path to Hizan Castle perched on a rocky hill overlooking the town. Feel centuries of history beneath your feet as you explore its ancient battlements and moss-covered walls. Capture panoramic views of the surrounding valleys shimmering in the morning light.
Continue wandering through the castle’s inner chambers and hidden passageways, imagining the echoes of past defenders. Chat with a local guide who shares legends of legendary sieges and brave warriors. Pause to rest on a vantage point, savoring the scent of wildflowers carried on the breeze.
Return to town as the castle silhouette turns gold at sunset, casting long shadows over red-tiled roofs. Find a cozy teahouse where locals gather for çay and clove-scented hookah. Lose yourself in the gentle hum of conversation and the delicate swirl of flavored smoke.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day (bread, fruit, dairy) | $5-12 |
| 🚍Local transit ticket (one-way) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic mountain landscapes and tranquil rural towns
- Warm hospitality and authentic regional cuisine
- Relatively low crowds compared to tourist hotspots
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts
- Limited direct flight options and fewer English-speaking services
- Smaller selection of nightlife and Western-style amenities
- Some rural areas have modest infrastructure and longer travel times
- Seasonal weather can affect road access in winter
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Burası nerede?" - Where is this place?
- "Yardım edebilir misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Hizan
Visit one of these nice places.
Rugged stone walls perched above the town with dramatic viewpoints, especially photogenic at sunrise or golden hour.
Wide valley views with orchards, forests, and distant mountains; excellent for landscape shots and silhouettes.
Narrow lanes, wooden balconies, and traditional architecture provide texture-rich urban photography opportunities.
Food in Hizan
Hizan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flaky, layered pastry from the Bitlis region, usually served with kaymak or cream and a drizzle of honey.
Must-Try!
A hearty wheat and meat stew, slow-cooked until creamy, commonly served during family gatherings and special occasions.
Slow-cooked lamb or beef served with flatbread and yogurt; a rich staple in the highland kitchen.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market selling fresh produce, honey, nuts, cheeses, and smoked meats; try gözleme and other simple street bites between stalls.
Casual spots offering gözleme, simit, and ayran—great for a quick, flavorful bite after a day of exploring.
Seasonal honey, dried apricots, figs, and walnuts typical of the region, perfect for a picnic or souvenir.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Merhaba' and a handshake or a nod; address elders with courtesy. Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in private or family settings.
Eat with the right hand and avoid pointing; sharing food is common in social meals.
Safety
Tipping in Hizan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; in restaurants rounding up or leaving 5-10% when service charge isn’t included is common. Small tips in cafes (1-2 TRY) are common for good service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming orchards; layers are wise as mornings can be cool. Great time for city walks and markets.
Warm days with cool evenings in the highland. Occasional showers; carry water and sun protection when hiking.
Harvest season brings colorful landscapes and crisp air. Perfect for scenic drives and photography.
Snow can blanket the region, with some routes affected by weather. Winter sports and cozy dining experiences abound; dress warmly.
Hizan at Night
Hiking in Hizan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop through pine forests and alpine meadows with open views of surrounding peaks.
Riverside path along a canyon with small cascades and shaded sections; suitable for a half-day hike.
A cultural hike linking villages with terraced fields and traditional stone houses, offering photography opportunities and local insights.
Airports
How to reach Hizan by plane.
A major regional hub with connections to Istanbul and Ankara; typically reached by road or domestic flights via larger cities.
An alternative regional airport with connections to major Turkish cities; requires road transfer to reach Hizan.
Smaller regional airport serving nearby areas; access to Hizan usually via road travel and longer transfer times.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population in Bitlis Province; cultural and linguistic influences are evident in daily life.
Predominant ethnic group in the region with Turkish as the primary language in education and administration.
Smaller communities contributing to the area’s cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Turkey, enjoyed in local clubs and informal matches.
Traditional wrestling has regional roots and is celebrated in rural communities.
In snowier months, activities like snowshoeing or winter hiking draw visitors to higher elevations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hizan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most restaurants, including lentil soup, vegetable stews, fresh salads, and dairy-based dishes; communicate meat-free preferences clearly.