Things To Do
in Tortum
Tortum is a picturesque town located in Eastern Turkey, known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is famous for its impressive Tortum Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in the country. Tortum is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and hikers.
Visitors to Tortum can also explore the historic Tortum Bridge, a symbol of the town's rich cultural heritage.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Tortum Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder. Take a leisurely walk around the area to enjoy the scenery and snap some beautiful photos.
Head to Tortum Lake for a relaxing picnic by the water. You can also rent a small boat to explore the lake and its surroundings.
Wrap up your day with a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant. Savor local dishes while enjoying the view of the sunset over the lake.
Begin with a hiking adventure in the nearby Tortum Valley. The trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
After your hike, visit local artisan shops to pick up handicrafts and unique souvenirs. Engage with the artisans to learn about their crafts.
Dine at a restaurant that offers local delicacies. Try the regional specialties for an authentic taste of Tortum.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountainous regions and scenic views.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, attracting tourists and researchers.
- Warm climate, making it an attractive destination for outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban centers in Turkey.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Access to healthcare facilities may be less comprehensive than in major cities.
- Public transportation options may be limited, making personal vehicles a necessity.
- Infrastructure development might not be as advanced as in larger urban areas.
- Tourist seasons can lead to overcrowding in certain areas.
Best Activities in Tortum
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Tortum Valley, offering breathtaking views of the landscape and the Tortum Waterfall.
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing at Tortum Lake, known for its abundance of fish and peaceful surroundings.
Set up camp near the stunning Tortum Waterfall and experience the beauty of nature under the stars.
Capture the stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and vibrant natural features of the region.
Observe various bird species in their natural habitat, particularly around Tortum Lake and the surrounding areas.
Visit nearby villages to experience the rich culture and traditions of the local communities, including traditional crafts and foods.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tortum with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tortum
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.
A serene lake with crystal-clear waters and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes.
A picturesque valley offering a vast expanse of natural beauty, including lush meadows and stunning mountain vistas.
Food in Tortum
Tortum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A succulent kebab dish prepared in a clay pot, slow-cooked to tender perfection with a medley of spices and vegetables. It's a must-try for meat lovers. You can savor this dish at Restaurant Seyir Terası, known for its authentic Testi Kebab.
Must-Try!
A savory boat-shaped flatbread filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables, baked in a wood-fired oven. Indulge in this local favorite at Hamsiköy village, famous for its skilled pide-makers who have perfected the art of creating these delicious treats.
A traditional Turkish breakfast item, resembling a pancake, made with flour, eggs, and milk. It's often served with local honey or kaymak (clotted cream). You can enjoy an authentic Kaygana at local breakfast spots like Kahvalti Evi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Tortum Market to discover an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, and dried fruits. You can also sample street food delights like Simit (circular bread with sesame seeds) and roasted chestnuts from street vendors in the market area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Tortum, it is customary to greet with a smile and a polite handshake. It is important to address individuals with their titles and surnames until invited to use their first names.
When dining with locals, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal. Additionally, it is considered respectful to express appreciation for the food, and leaving a bit of food on your plate can signify that you have eaten enough.
In more conservative areas of Tortum, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should consider wearing dresses or skirts that cover the knees, while men should avoid wearing shorts.
Safety
Tipping in Tortum
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tortum, Turkey, tipping is generally considered a sign of appreciation for good service. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In cafes and for taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or leaving small change is also appreciated, though not mandatory. Tipping in hotels for bellboys or housekeepers is common as well.
Payment practices in Tortum typically include cash transactions, as it is still widely used in local markets and smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger restaurants or hotels, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors or rural areas. Additionally, digital payment methods are steadily gaining popularity among younger residents.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Tortum, Turkey, as the weather is pleasant and the landscape is in full bloom with colorful wildflowers. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
During the summer, Tortum experiences warm temperatures, making it suitable for activities like swimming and boating in the Tortum Lake. However, it can get crowded with tourists during this time.
Autumn brings about a beautiful display of fall foliage in Tortum, offering stunning views for nature enthusiasts. The temperatures start to cool down, and it's a great time for photography and scenic drives.
Winter in Tortum can be cold and snowy, particularly in the mountainous areas. However, it also offers opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The town may be less crowded during this season.
Tortum at Night
Hiking in Tortum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural site featuring one of the highest waterfalls in Turkey, surrounded by lush greenery and hiking trails.
Offers scenic hiking routes with stunning views of the valley and the chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
A high plateau perfect for hiking, with lush green hills, rivers, and a chance to see traditional wooden houses.
A protected area with various hiking options, showcasing local wildlife and diverse ecosystems.
Known for its unique landscape, Sahara Hill provides hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Aiports
How to reach Tortum by plane.
The nearest international airport located approximately 60 km from Tortum, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
A small airport located about 70 km from Tortum that primarily serves domestic flights.
An international airport situated around 150 km from Tortum, offering flights to several destinations in Turkey and abroad.
Located about 200 km from Tortum, this airport provides access to both domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Tortum, representing the majority population.
A significant ethnic minority in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity of Tortum.
Includes smaller communities such as Arabs, Circassians, and others who reside in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Tortum, often played in local fields and parks, with community clubs participating in regional competitions.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth in Tortum, with local teams competing in various amateur leagues.
Volleyball is frequently played in schools and community centers, attracting both male and female participants.
Running is a popular activity in Tortum, supported by the region's natural beauty, with many residents participating in local races.
Traditional wrestling, a cultural sport, is practiced during local festivals and events, showcasing regional heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tortum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Turkish cuisine heavily features meat, many local restaurants and cafes in Tortum offer appetizing vegetarian and vegan dishes such as stuffed grape leaves (Dolma) and Eggplant Imam Bayildi.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can relish gluten-free variations of iconic Turkish treats like Baklava and Kadayif, available at select dessert shops and cafes.