Okay, so first up I'll share my Turkish itinerary and my Turkish extravaganza was Bayburt, this underrated gem in northeastern Turkey.
Bayburt: Starting the Adventure with a Cultural Bang
I kicked off my journey with a bang, or rather a strong Turkish coffee, at a quaint local café smack in the center of Bayburt. The breakfast was a lavish spread—think heaps of olives, cheese, fresh bread, and that perfectly brewed tea. It cost me around ₺30, which is a steal for the amount and quality.
Post breakfast, I strolled over to Bayburt Castle. I mean, you can't miss it; it's right there, looming over the city like an old guardian. And guess what? It's free! The panoramic views from up there were absolutely worth the climb. I could see miles of unspoiled terrain—it felt like stepping back in time.
Lunch was an affair to remember at a traditional Turkish restaurant near the castle. I dove headfirst into some delectable kebabs and tried baklava that melted in my mouth. Costing around ₺60, it was a perfect midday feast.
The afternoon called for some adventure, so I headed to Çımağıl Cave, which was about a 20-minute drive from the city center. For just ₺10, I explored stalactites and stalagmites that have been around way longer than any of us. Surreal!
I wrapped up the day with an evening stroll and a bit of shopping at Çoruh Park. The crafts were intricate and beautiful—couldn't help but snag a couple of souvenirs.
Adıyaman: Ancient Marvels and Culinary Delights
The journey from Bayburt to Adıyaman was a bit of a stretch. I took a bus because it was way cheaper than flying from Trabzon, and honestly, the landscapes en route were breathtaking. It set me back about 150 TRY, but those 12 hours flew by with all the scenic views.
In Adıyaman, my first stop was Mount Nemrut at sunrise. This place is unreal—you're literally walking among massive ancient statues as the sun lights up the sky. Entrance was just about $7, but the experience was priceless.
Lunch at Mustafa'nın Yeri was a hearty affair with delicious Turkish kebabs for just around $4. Honestly, for the taste and portion, it was a steal.
The afternoon was spent wandering through the less-touristy Perre Ancient City. For just $2, I explored an ancient Roman cityscape that most tourists overlook. It’s a hidden gem!
Van: Nature, Cats, and Castles
Next up, Van. I opted to fly because after that long bus ride to Adıyaman, my patience for long road trips was wearing thin. The flight from Adıyaman was around $30—quick and comfy.
Van is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Van Castle was my first stop, costing only about ₺10 for a ticket. The views of Lake Van from the castle were just majestic.
I couldn't miss Akdamar Island, where the Holy Cross Church is adorned with intricate carvings. The ferry and entry fees were nominal, but the art and history were rich.
The local specialty, Van Balığı, was my pick for lunch by the lake. It’s a must-try fish found only in Lake Van, and it tasted as fresh as the waters it came from.
Bitlis: Ending on a Historical High Note
The journey from Van to Bitlis by bus was relatively shorter and easier on the wallet, costing me about 90 TL. Bitlis, with its serene landscapes and rich history, was the perfect end to my trip.
I started with a visit to the Ahlat Museum, which was super cheap at about $2. The Seljuk Cemetery nearby was also fascinating and free!
Nemrut Crater Lake was a highlight—its stunning beauty made for the best photos of the trip, and guess what? No entry fee!
The last day was all about Bitlis's local cuisine. Lunch was a traditional Turkish stew at a local eatery—flavors that brought a comforting end to my travel tale.
Final Thoughts
This journey through Turkey's lesser-known spots was a whirlwind of culture, history, and breathtaking nature thanks to Travel007 for an excellent generated itinerary. From the castles of Bayburt to the ancient wonders of Adıyaman, the cultural richness of Van, and the historical depths of Bitlis, each place had its unique charm. The experiences were diverse, the food was phenomenal, and the people were incredibly welcoming. Turkey, you have my heart!
23rd April, 2024