Things To Do
in İspir
İspir is a picturesque town in Erzurum Province set along the Çoruh River, surrounded by rugged mountains and forests. It blends traditional Anatolian hospitality with a rugged, outdoor-friendly landscape that invites exploration. The town functions as a gateway to nearby valleys and historical sites, offering a slower pace away from Turkey’s busier tourist hubs.
In all seasons, İspir rewards visitors with scenic views, fresh mountain air, and authentic local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the İspir Castle, a stunning fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Take your time to wander through its ancient walls and learn about its rich history. Enjoy a lovely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the İspir Archaeological Museum to immerse yourself in regional artifacts and exhibits that highlight the area's unique heritage. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can provide insight into the fascinating stories of İspir's past. Later, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets, marveling at the traditional architecture.
Cap off your day by indulging in a hearty dinner at a local restaurant. Sample authentic Turkish cuisine, such as köfte and gözleme, while mingling with friendly locals. As the sun sets, take a peaceful stroll along the banks of the river, enjoying the sound of nature and the beauty of the evening sky.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for an exciting hiking adventure in the nearby mountains. Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a guided trek through breathtaking trails with diverse flora and fauna. The fresh air and stunning vistas will invigorate your spirit and prepare you for an exhilarating day.
After navigating the trails, find a perfect spot for a scenic picnic lunch surrounded by nature's beauty. As you recharge, take in the peaceful sounds of the wilderness and share stories with fellow trekkers. Post-lunch, continue your hike, exploring hidden waterfalls and taking stunning photographs of your adventure.
Return to İspir in the evening, where you can share your day's experiences with fellow travelers. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery, reflecting on the beauty you encountered during your hike. End the day by relaxing in a cozy café, sipping on tea or Turkish coffee as you watch the stars twinkle in the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-28 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚎Public transit or local dolmuş ride (short trip) | $0.5-2 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Çoruh River scenery and surrounding mountains
- Low tourist crowds and authentic local culture
- Good value for money in accommodation and meals
- Wide range of outdoor activities (rafting, hiking, winter sports nearby)
- Limited nightlife and well-developed tourist infrastructure
- Distance to major international gateways
- Seasonal road conditions in winter can be challenging
- Healthcare facilities in town are basic; more serious care requires travel to Erzurum
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Günaydın" - Good morning
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Havaalanına nasıl giderim?" - How do I get to the airport?
Places to Visit in İspir
Visit one of these nice places.
sweeping valley views with the Çoruh curving through the valley; best at sunrise or sunset for soft light.
Historic stone bridge crossing the Çoruh; reflections in the water create classic composition opportunities.
Simple, tranquil mosque courtyard with traditional textures and light, ideal for atmospheric shots.
Food in İspir
İspir Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Signature Erzurum dish: tender lamb skewered and slow-roasted, typically served with lavash and onions. A must-try for meat lovers.
Must-Try!
Beef or lamb sautéed on a flat pan with peppers and onions, often enjoyed with bread and yogurt.
A traditional Erzurum breakfast dish made with cheese, flour, and butter; rich, comforting, and filling.
Fresh, thin flatbread served with mezze or stews, perfect for scooping up sauces and dips.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering seasonal produce, dairy products, breads, and small snacks typical of the region.
Casual stalls along the Çoruh where you can sip Turkish tea, sample simit, and chat with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and 'Merhaba'; use respectful language in conversations and remove shoes when entering some homes.
In religious sites, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is expected; dress conservatively in rural areas.
Ask permission before photographing people or religious spaces; respect private property and market vendors' requests.
Safety
Tipping in İspir
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service; 5-10% in restaurants is common, rounding up in informal settings is appreciated.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; some places accept credit cards; ATMs are common in town; keep small bills for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming fruit trees; light layers and a compact umbrella are handy.
Warm days with cool evenings; stay hydrated and wear sun protection; occasional afternoon showers in the mountains.
Cooler air and colorful foliage; perfect for scenic hikes and long scenic walks.
Cold with snowfall possible; road conditions can be challenging; pack warm clothing and consider winter tires or chains.
İspir at Night
Hiking in İspir
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic river gorge hike with viewpoints and natural beauty; moderate difficulty and best in spring or autumn.
High-altitude trails offering expansive valley views; more suitable for experienced hikers during the warmer months.
Airports
How to reach İspir by plane.
Main regional gateway; roughly 110-150 km from İspir via mountain roads; domestic flights with some seasonal international connections.
Alternative regional gateway about a several-hour drive; limited international service.
Coastal airport in the Black Sea region; longer road trip from İspir but an option for certain itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish-speaking residents with a Sunni Muslim cultural influence; small seasonal workers and visitors contribute to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across towns in the region; local matches and amateur leagues are common.
Nearby Erzurum slopes (e.g., Palandöken) attract winter sports enthusiasts; day trips from İspir are feasible in season.
Popular in spring and summer with guided trips and safety-focused outfitters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting İspir.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include lentil soups, stuffed peppers, grilled vegetables, cheeses, and pide; communicate dietary needs clearly to kitchen staff.