Things To Do
in Şavşat
Şavşat is a verdant mountain town in Artvin Province, tucked between pine forests and the rugged Caucasus foothills. It sits along the Çoruh River and near the emerald waters of Karagöl Nature Park, offering a tranquil escape from busier tourist routes. The town blends Laz and Turkish heritage, with friendly locals, rustic guesthouses, and traditional markets.
In every season it serves as a gateway to dramatic landscapes, ancient stone bridges, and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small Şavşat bus station or airport and transfer to a cozy boutique guesthouse nestled in wooden architecture. Unpack and savor a cup of local black tea on the terrace while soaking in panoramic views of lush green valleys. Feel the fresh mountain air rejuvenate you as you watch morning light dance across pine-covered slopes.
Take a leisurely stroll through the village center to admire traditional wooden houses with ornate balconies. Drop into a neighborhood teahouse for Turkish coffee and simit while chatting with friendly locals about daily life. Browse a small handicraft shop for handwoven scarves and cedarwood souvenirs.
Dine at a family-run restaurant serving freshly caught trout and cheesy muhlama under a wooden canopy. Toast with a glass of homemade fruit rakı as the sun dips behind the mountains. End the night relaxing on your terrace beneath a star-filled Artvin sky.
Set off early for a scenic drive to Karagöl Lake, nestled high in the Artvin mountains. Watch wisps of morning mist rise from the glassy water as the sun peeks over spruce forests. Capture reflections of the surrounding peaks before heading out on the lakeside trail.
Hike the tranquil loop path around Karagöl, passing through dense pine and fir groves. Pause for a picnic of fresh bread, local cheese, olives, and seasonal fruit beside the shore. Listen to birdsong and the gentle lapping of water against moss-covered rocks.
Return to Şavşat and unwind in a traditional hammam to soothe tired muscles after your hike. Enjoy a steaming scrub and massage in marble chambers as scented steam fills the air. Later, share stories with fellow travelers over a warm cup of apple tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🧀Local cheese or snacks | $2-5 |
| 🚌Public transport ride (short distance) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with lakes, forests, and mountains
- Genuine small-town feel with Laz and Turkish culture
- Close access to nature parks like Karagöl
- Limited tourist infrastructure in off-peak seasons
- Mountain roads can be challenging in winter
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Neredesin?" - Where is it?
Places to Visit in Şavşat
Visit one of these nice places.
Emerald lake framed by pine forests; best light at dawn and dusk for reflections and tranquil scenes.
Rugged river gorge with steep slopes and dramatic rock formations; ideal for wide-angle shots.
Historic arches set against the backdrop of mountains, especially atmospheric in the golden hours.
Picturesque lanes with whitewashed walls and timber details, capturing regional architecture.
Food in Şavşat
Şavşat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sizzling cheese and cornmeal porridge cooked at the table; best enjoyed with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A flaky, savory pastry often filled with cheese or potatoes, commonly found in bakeries and markets.
Fresh river trout seasoned with herbs and lemon, frequently served at riverside eateries.
Local chestnut or flower honey paired with strong Turkish tea—an everyday staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, honey, and village crafts; great for snacking and picking up souvenirs.
Gözleme, simit, and fried fish sandwiches along market streets and riverfronts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Merhaba' and a friendly nod or hand shake; address elders with courtesy terms like 'Bey' or 'Bayan'.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or private settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; be respectful in rural communities and avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Şavşat
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist-focused places; typical range is 5-10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit/debit cards are common in larger establishments; some smaller venues may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flora; pack a light rain jacket for showers and variable temperatures.
Pleasantly cool compared to coastal areas; carry a hat and sunscreen for daytime; you may encounter occasional rainstorms.
Clear skies and colorful foliage; evenings grow chilly, so bring a warm layer.
Cold with snow at higher elevations; some mountain roads may be icy or closed; ensure proper winter tires and clothing.
Şavşat at Night
Hiking in Şavşat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Well-marked loops around the emerald lake with forest scenery.
Scenic overlooks along the river with dramatic geology.
Airports
How to reach Şavşat by plane.
Regional hub about a few hours' drive away; well-connected international and domestic flights.
Newer facility serving the region; closer to Şavşat than Trabzon.
Georgian airport a few hours away; longer drive but feasible for regional trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A prominent cultural group in the region with distinct language and traditions.
Main population; mix of rural families and town residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and informal matches in parks; a common pastime in the community.
Many forested trails and ridge routes accessible from the town.
River and lake fishing opportunities with seasonal rules to follow.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Şavşat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available, including vegetable stews, salads, and pita/pide with cheese or mushrooms; inform staff in advance for egg-free choices.