Things To Do
in Tortum
Tortum is a small town in Erzurum Province, nestled along the Çoruh River and framed by rugged highland scenery. The centerpiece is the dramatic Tortum Waterfall and canyon, surrounded by pine forests and alpine meadows. The town exudes warm Turkish hospitality and serves as a gateway to scenic hikes and rural village life.
Nearby ruins, viewpoints, and the Tortum Dam offer additional vistas and seasonal markets that reveal the region’s timeless Anatolian character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tortum and check into your accommodation, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to get a feel for the local atmosphere and culture. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, soaking in the views of the lush landscape.
Visit the stunning Tortum Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Turkey, and enjoy the vibrant greenery that surrounds it. Spend some time hiking the nearby trails, discovering hidden spots where you can take extraordinary photographs. After exploring, indulge in a hearty Turkish lunch at a local restaurant featuring fresh, regional ingredients.
As the sun sets, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking colors reflecting off the waterfall and surrounding mountains. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local eatery, sampling traditional dishes like kebabs and mezes accompanied by Turkish tea. End the evening with a peaceful walk by the lake, embracing the tranquility of the natural setting.
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Tortum Castle, perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the town and river below. Wander through its ruins, imagining the stories held within its old stone walls. After exploring, enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a local spot featuring fresh bread and cheeses.
Take a guided tour of the nearby Tortum Church, a beautiful historical site with stunning frescoes that tell the tale of its past. Later, enjoy a picnic lunch in a nearby park, surrounded by locals and cherished visitors alike. Spend some time browsing local craft shops where you can purchase unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
Savor a delightful dinner at a riverside restaurant, where the sound of flowing water accompanies your meal. Try the local fish dishes, freshly caught from the river. Conclude the day with a traditional Turkish dessert like baklava or künefe, enjoyed under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $1.5-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and camera-ready landscapes
- Warm hospitality and affordable prices
- Gateway to canyon and lake adventures with few crowds
- Rich Erzurum region cuisine and cultural heritage
- Limited nightlife and dining variety in the immediate town
- Winter access can be challenging due to snow and icy roads
- Remote location means some services are modest or seasonal
- Public transport options are fewer; a car is helpful
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
- "Bir kahve alabilir miyim?" - Can I have a coffee?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "Hesabı alabilir miyim?" - Can I have the check?
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "İstersen Türkçe konuşabilir miyiz?" - Can we speak Turkish?
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
Places to Visit in Tortum
Visit one of these nice places.
Instantly iconic, with multiple overlooks offering dramatic shots of the waterfall and mist on clear days.
Calm, reflective waters and the dam’s structure provide striking compositions, especially at dawn or dusk.
Long, sweeping views across the canyon with pine forests and emerald pools; great for panoramic landscapes.
Photogenic traditional architecture and winding lanes that convey rural Turkish life.
Food in Tortum
Tortum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A skewered lamb dish iconic to Erzurum, best enjoyed at traditional kebap shops with flatbread and ayran.
Must-Try!
Turkish dumplings filled with meat and topped with yogurt and garlic oil; widely available in regional eateries.
A slow-cooked wheat and meat dish, often served for special occasions and in rural restaurants.
Lentil soup, a comforting staple found in most cafes and family kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce stalls, dairy products, dried fruits, and simple street snacks like gözleme and simit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting such as 'Merhaba' is standard. Handshakes are common among adults; wait for a natural pause to speak.
Hospitality is important; accepting tea or coffee when offered is customary. Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional venues.
Eat at a comfortable pace; use right hand for most social and dining interactions; compliments to the cook are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Tortum
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. 5-10% at restaurants is common; small tips for cafe staff are customary in rural areas.
Turkish Lira is widely used; many places accept debit/credit cards in towns, but some rural spots are cash-only. ATMs are available in larger villages and Erzurum.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with refreshing highland breezes. Expect long daylight hours; carry water and sun protection when hiking the canyon trails.
Cold and snowy; some roads may be icy or partially closed. Pack warm clothing and plan indoor activities or day trips to Erzurum for dining and museums.
Mild temperatures with blooming flora; ideal for gentle hikes and photography along riverbanks and lakes.
Crimson and gold foliage; cool days and crisp nights, perfect for scenic drives and leaf-peeping walks.
Tortum at Night
Hiking in Tortum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along the canyon edge with panoramic views of waterfalls, forests, and the river valley.
Easy to moderate lakeside walk offering tranquil views of the dam and surrounding scenery.
Shaded routes through pine and mixed forests, suitable for spring and autumn walks.
Airports
How to reach Tortum by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic and seasonal international flights; good connections to Istanbul and Ankara, with onward road or air links to Tortum.
Second regional option, farther away but accessible by road; useful if routing through northeastern Turkey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Turkish locals living in a rural setting, with traditional family structures and hospitality at the forefront.
Small communities with historical ties to the Erzurum region; visible influences in local crafts, music, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local interest in clubs and pickup games during warmer months.
Palandöken and other Erzurum-area resorts offer skiing and snowboarding during winter; day trips can be combined with Tortum visits.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tortum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find lentil soups, börek, grilled vegetables, and dairy-based dishes; ask for meat-free options and avoid animal fats if desired.