Things To Do
in Varto
Varto is a district in the Mus Province of eastern Turkey known for its natural beauty and historical sites. The district is situated on the upper Euphrates River and surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Varto has a rich cultural heritage with historical structures such as ancient mosques and old Armenian churches.
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with hazelnuts, grains, and fruits being the main crops grown in the region.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the ancient Varto Castle, exploring its impressive walls and panoramic views. Take your time to appreciate the historical significance of this landmark.
Visit the local museum to learn about the rich culture and heritage of Varto. Afterward, take a stroll through the town to admire traditional architecture and local shops.
Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant. Wrap up your day by taking a leisurely walk through the town square and soaking up the atmosphere.
Head to the surrounding mountains for a refreshing morning hike. The fresh air and beautiful scenery will invigorate your spirits.
Pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch amidst nature. Spend time exploring the trails, observing local wildlife and snapping some photos.
Return to the town and relax at a café. Enjoy a cup of Turkish tea while watching the sunset over the mountains.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history with numerous historical sites.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and lakes.
- Cooperative and welcoming local community.
- Cost of living is relatively low compared to larger cities in Turkey.
- Access to local markets and fresh produce.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Fewer educational institutions and job opportunities than larger cities.
- Inadequate infrastructure and public transportation.
- Harsh winter climate that may not be suitable for everyone.
- Potential for political instability in the region.
Best Activities in Varto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning Munzur Mountains and enjoy scenic hiking trails, fresh air, and beautiful landscapes.
Experience an exhilarating adventure by rafting on the Murat River, surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Immerse yourself in the serene nature of Munzur Valley by camping and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Varto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Varto
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape, this historical site provides a picturesque backdrop for capturing memorable photos.
Sonsuz Castle is known for its stunning views and offers a great vantage point for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of Varto and its surroundings.
Food in Varto
Varto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Varto is known for its succulent kebabs, prepared with marinated meats and grilled to perfection. Visit local kebab houses like Kahraman Kebap Salonu to savor this iconic dish.
Must-Try!
Kürt Böreği, a savory pastry filled with spiced meat or cheese, is a must-try. Indulge in this delicacy at pastry shops such as Varto Lezzet Evi.
Tereyağlı Kuru Dolma, a specialty dish featuring dried eggplant or pepper stuffed with a flavorful rice and meat mixture, can be savored at local eateries like Meşhur Berçiçek Restoran.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the bustling Varto Friday Market, where you can sample an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, and spices. Engage with street vendors offering traditional snacks like Simit (sesame bread rings) and Midye Dolma (stuffed mussels).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Varto, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate titles and greeting them first when entering a room.
Hospitality is highly valued in Varto, and it is customary to offer guests food and drink as a sign of welcome and generosity.
When visiting mosques or other religious sites in Varto, it is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Varto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Varto, Turkey, tipping is not mandatory, but it is usually appreciated in restaurants and for other services. A typical tip is around 5-10% of the total bill.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Varto, Turkey. Some businesses may accept credit or debit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially in more rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Varto, Turkey is during spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are blooming with flowers. Expect cultural festivals and outdoor activities.
Summer (July to August) is a good time to visit Varto if you enjoy warm weather. Expect lively street markets and outdoor events.
Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. Expect harvest festivals and outdoor adventures.
Winter (December to February) is ideal for snow sports enthusiasts. Expect traditional winter celebrations and cozy indoor activities.
Varto at Night
Hiking in Varto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful mountain range located near Varto, offering various trails for hikers with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
This plateau features lush greenery and diverse flora, making it an ideal spot for day hikes and nature walks.
A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, providing a serene hiking experience along its shores.
These mountains offer more challenging trails, perfect for experienced hikers looking for adventure and breathtaking panoramas.
A well-known hiking location with easier trails suitable for families, featuring scenic views and picnic areas.
Aiports
How to reach Varto by plane.
Located approximately 170 kilometers from Varto, Erzurum Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Around 220 kilometers from Varto, Van Ferit Melen Airport operates domestic flights and is the main airport serving Van Province.
Situated approximately 110 kilometers away, Muş Airport primarily hosts domestic flights.
Located about 260 kilometers from Varto, Diyarbakır Airport has domestic and some international flights.
Approximately 300 kilometers from Varto, this airport handles primarily domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Varto, with a rich cultural heritage and language.
A significant ethnic group in the region, contributing to the overall demographic composition.
A smaller minority group with historical ties to the region.
A group closely related to the Kurdish population, with their own distinct language.
Includes smaller communities of various ethnic backgrounds with no significant presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Varto, played by many local teams and enjoyed by fans throughout the region.
Basketball has a growing following in Varto, with community courts and local leagues contributing to its popularity.
Traditional wrestling is a cultural sport in Varto, with local events often celebrated and attended by many.
Volleyball is popular among schools and youth, with many playing casually and in competitive settings.
Running and athletics are popular among the youth, with various local events and competitions encouraging participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Varto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can opt for dishes like grilled meats, rice pilaf, and fresh salads, readily available at restaurants and cafes throughout Varto.