Things To Do
in Susuz
Susuz is a small town in northeastern Turkey, set among rolling hills and rural plains. It blends Ottoman-era charm with a rugged landscape, offering a calm retreat from busier cities. The town serves as a gateway to Ardahan Province's uplands and lakes, with a welcoming local scene.
Visitors can enjoy hearty regional cuisine and easy day trips to nearby natural and cultural highlights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Susuz, where the breathtaking landscapes immediately captivate your senses. After checking into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies. Spend some time strolling through the quaint village, absorbing the serene atmosphere.
Join a guided tour to explore the ancient ruins nearby, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and artifacts of the region. Have lunch at a traditional restaurant and indulge in the flavors of Turkish cuisine. As you walk back to the village, take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Dine at a charming eatery where the ambiance reflects the local culture, sampling dishes unique to Susuz. After dinner, participate in an evening gathering with locals, enjoying traditional music and stories. End your night stargazing, as the clear skies of Susuz provide a perfect backdrop for celestial observations.
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sipping on freshly brewed Turkish tea. Visit a nearby artisan workshop to witness skilled craftsmen at work, creating beautiful handmade goods. Engage with the artists and learn about their techniques and stories.
Take part in a traditional cooking class where you will learn to prepare popular regional dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you eat your creations for lunch. In the afternoon, stroll through the local market, mingling with vendors and sampling homemade treats.
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with unparalleled views of the sunset over the mountains. This is also a perfect opportunity to try some notable local wines. Conclude your day by unwinding at your accommodation or participating in a community event if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚍Local transportation (bus/taxi) | $2-7 per ride |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel | $20-40 per night |
| 🧺Groceries for a few days | $10-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic landscapes; friendly locals; affordable travel in a rural setting; easy day trips to Ardahan and Kars.
- Limited nightlife and international cuisine; basic tourist infrastructure in some areas; winter travel can be challenging due to snow.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Burası neresi?" - Where is this place?
Places to Visit in Susuz
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive winter scenes and tranquil summer reflections for wide landscape shots.
A scenic commute through pine forests and rolling hills, perfect for road-trip photography.
A quintessential rural bridge that shines in golden hour.
Colorful stalls and candid life with early-morning light.
Food in Susuz
Susuz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich cheese and cornmeal melt typical of the Black Sea region, sizzling in a clay or cast-iron pan.
Must-Try!
Skewered meat grilled over charcoal, served with bread and yogurt.
Turkish dumplings served with garlicky yogurt and tomato sauce.
Poached eggs on yogurt with butter, chili flakes, and sour cream.
Fresh dairy products paired with a refreshing yogurt drink.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce stalls with local herbs, dairy, and baked goods.
Savory flatbreads hot off the griddle, perfect for a quick lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or nod is common; use respectful forms of address.
Guests are welcomed with tea; accepting offers is polite.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques; remove hats and talk quietly.
Safety
Tipping in Susuz
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; you can round up at smaller cafes.
Turkish Lira is the primary currency; credit/debit cards accepted in larger places; cash is common in smaller shops; ATMs are available in Ardahan and Kars regions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and budding landscapes; bring light layers and be prepared for showers.
Warm to hot days; carry water and sunscreen; occasional thunderstorms in the afternoon.
Cool air and fall colors; great for hiking and photography; nights begin to cool.
Cold and snowy; roads can be icy; pack warm clothing, boots, and plan for slower travel.
Susuz at Night
Hiking in Susuz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highland routes with panoramic views and pine forests.
Seasonal trails along the lake with seasonal scenery and bird life.
Airports
How to reach Susuz by plane.
Main airport serving the region; about 140-170 km from Susuz; connections to Istanbul and Ankara; transport options include taxi or bus.
Regional airport serving eastern Turkey; longer drive to Susuz but available connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Turkish residents with a rural, family-oriented culture; minority communities include Kurdish and Azerbaijani groups in the broader region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular across towns and schools; local games are common on weekends.
Occasional local festivals feature oil-wrestling style competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Susuz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include mantı (with vegetable filling or no meat), grilled vegetables, cheese dishes, and ayran; always confirm ingredients with the cook.