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There are great many things to do in Turkey, and so are in Ardahan.
Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains like a hidden gem, Ardahan beckons with its untouched natural beauty.
From snow-capped peaks to tranquil lakes, Ardahan offers an outdoor playground for those who seek adventure or just want to revel in the serenity of nature.
Whether you crave hiking trails that offer stunning panoramic views or authentic cultural experiences, Ardahan has something for everyone.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ardahan:
1. Lake Çıldır
Lake Çıldır is Turkey’s second-largest freshwater lake and sits at an altitude of 1,959 meters in the province of Ardahan in eastern Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
In winter, the lake freezes, creating a vast and stunning white landscape that’s perfect for ice skating, ice fishing, and skiing.
Don’t miss: If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the chance to witness the vibrant annual festival where locals race horses, ski, and sled on the frozen lake.
Insider travel tips: – Consider hiring a local guide to explore the lake and its surroundings.
2. Ardahan Castle
Ardahan Castle is a medieval fortress located in the city of Ardahan in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the castle’s ruins and explore its towers, walls, and gates. The castle has a commanding view of the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot for taking photos.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the castle’s underground tunnels, which were used for defense and contain fascinating architectural details.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Ardahan Castle is in the late afternoon, when the light is optimal for photography.
3. Çıldır Stone Church
Çıldır Stone Church is a historic church located in the Çıldır district of Ardahan province in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stone walls and ruins of the ancient church while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat ride on Lake Çıldır, the largest lake in eastern Turkey, located just a few kilometers from the church.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring warm clothing as the weather can be quite chilly, even in the summer months.
Also, consider visiting the nearby Çıldır Armenia-Turkey border crossing, which offers a unique glimpse into the region’s complex history and cultural heritage.
4. Eski Bayazıt Mosque
A historic mosque located in Ardahan, Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the unique blend of architectural styles, featuring both Ottoman and Seljuk influences. The mosque is known for its large dome and intricate tile work.
Don’t miss: Take a close look at the calligraphy decorating the exterior of the mosque and check out the elaborately decorated mihrab inside.
Insider travel tips: If possible, try to visit during prayer times to witness the mosque in use and hear the beautiful call to prayer.
It’s also worth exploring the surrounding neighborhood, which is full of charming Ottoman-era houses.
5. Çıldır Equestrian Center
Çıldır Equestrian Center is a horse riding facility located in the scenic Ardahan province of Turkey.
What to see or do: The center offers horseback riding experiences through breathtaking landscapes, including the vast Çıldır Lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Visitors can take horse riding lessons, go on tours, or even participate in equestrian competitions.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take in the panoramic view of the lake while trotting through the countryside. The sunset rides are especially spectacular.
Insider travel tips: – Dress warmly, even in summer, as the Ardahan region can get quite chilly.
6. Hanak Hatun Tomb
Hanak Hatun Tomb is a historical tomb located in the Hanak district of Ardahan province in Turkey.
What to see or do: The tomb is a small, square-shaped building made of stone and brick with a dome-shaped roof. Visitors can explore the inside of the tomb and marvel at the intricate details in the architecture and decorations.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of Hanak Hatun, a respected female figure who played an important role in the region’s history.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
7. Kura River
Kura River is a major waterway that flows for more than 1,500 miles through Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.
What to see or do: The river offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes characterized by steep bluffs, rolling hills, and dense forests.
Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive along the riverbanks, go fishing for trout, or explore the waterway on a riverboat tour.
Don’t miss: For adventure seekers, the Kura River is a prime spot for kayaking and rafting. The river rapids offer exciting and challenging terrain for water sports enthusiasts.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the Kura River is during the summer months between May and September when temperatures are warmer.
Camping is permitted in designated areas, but visitors should come prepared and bring all necessary supplies. It is also recommended to hire a local guide for outdoor activities to ensure safety and an authentic experience.
8. Dört Kilise Church
A historic church located in the Çamlıyamaç village of Ardahan province in northeastern Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate and well-preserved carvings on the exterior walls of the church. Explore the interior and observe the unique architectural features of the building.
Enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings of the church.
Don’t miss: The beautifully carved Khachkars, a traditional Armenian stone marker, located in the churchyard.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the church is located on a hill and involves some walking. Also, hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the church and the region.
9. Ardahan Museum
Ardahan Museum is a small museum located in the city center of Ardahan, Turkey.
What to see or do: The museum displays various historical artifacts and cultural items related to the region’s history, including traditional clothing, jewelry, weapons, household objects, and manuscripts.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the impressive collection of handmade carpets and kilims from Ardahan and the surrounding areas.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is open every day of the week except Mondays.
10. Akbaba Ski Resort
A popular ski resort located in the city of Ardahan, Turkey.
What to see or do: Ski on the well-maintained slopes, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and enjoy the winter sports activities available in the resort.
Don’t miss: The chance to try some local cuisine at the resort’s restaurants and cafes.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring warm clothing and proper ski gear as the temperatures can drop significantly. Also, consider staying in one of the nearby hotels or guesthouses to fully enjoy the ski resort experience.
11. Çıldır Ski Resort
Çıldır Ski Resort is a small ski area located near the town of Çıldır in the province of Ardahan, Turkey. It is situated on the slopes of the Köse Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
What to see or do: The ski resort has three different slopes suitable for skiing and snowboarding, ranging from beginner to advanced level.
Visitors can also explore the area on a snowmobile or try their hand at ice fishing on the frozen Çıldır Lake.
Don’t miss: The chance to witness the incredible natural beauty of the area, including the frozen Çıldır Lake which is the second largest lake in Eastern Anatolia.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Çıldır Ski Resort is between December and March when the snow cover is at its thickest.
12. Çıldır Lake National Park
A national park in Ardahan, Turkey, known for its picturesque lake and natural beauty.
What to see or do: Take a boat tour of Çıldır Lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Explore the park’s rich flora and fauna by hiking one of the many trails, or go fishing for local fish species such as the Çıldır trout.
You can also visit nearby shepherd camps and learn about the traditional lifestyle of the local people.
Don’t miss: The annual “Çıldır Lake Winter Festival” which takes place in late January or early February, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the lake in winter and witness traditional winter sports such as horse-riding on frozen lake or sledging.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the summer months (June-September) for optimal weather and lush green landscapes. Camping is allowed in the park, but please make sure to obtain proper permits and take care of the environment.
13. Ardahan Fortress
Ardahan Fortress is an ancient castle located in the city center of Ardahan, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the fortress, including the walls, towers and gates. The castle offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The impressive stone architecture of the castle, particularly the tower known as Cevdet Paşa Kulesi.
Visitors can also learn about the history of the fortress, which dates back to the Roman era and has been occupied by various civilizations throughout history.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the fortress sits on a hill and requires some climbing. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant.
There is no entrance fee and the site can be easily accessed by public transportation or taxi.
14. Göktaş Stone Bridge
Göktaş Stone Bridge is a historic bridge located in the province of Ardahan in Turkey. It was built during the medieval era and is considered an important architectural marvel.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the Çıldır River. The intricate stonework on the bridge is also worth admiring.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take photos of the bridge during sunset, as it offers truly spectacular views.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the Göktaş Stone Bridge during the summer months, as it can be quite cold and snowy during the winter.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the bridge can be slippery. Additionally, bring a camera with you to capture the beauty of the surrounding area.
15. Ardahan Grand Mosque
Ardahan Grand Mosque is a stunning mosque located in the town of Ardahan, Turkey.
What to see or do: The mosque boasts impressive Ottoman-era architecture, featuring a dome-shaped roof and intricate ornamentation. Visitors can admire the grandeur of the mosque from the outside or venture inside to observe the beautiful interior.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the intricate calligraphy and tile work that add to the mosque’s beauty and splendor.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
It’s also a good idea to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the mosque is less crowded and the lighting is particularly beautiful.