A new study has revealed the cheapest destinations in Turkey for those looking to travel on a budget, with many destinations that travellers may be completely unaware of that have amazing hiking trails for both beginners and advanced hikers.
The research, conducted by travel company Istanbul Tickets and Tours, analysed various cost metrics, such as flights, hotels, and dining out in Turkish cities before calculating a score out of 100 for each one. The cities were then ranked to determine which ones are the cheapest to visit.
The cheapest destination is Çorum, with a final score of 83.04. Çorum has many hiking opportunities that cater to both beginner and experienced skill levels. The best time to hike here is in the spring or autumn months, when the weather is milder. The Devletoğlanı region offers scenic views suitable for moderate-level hikers, and the Sıklık Nature Park is a great spot for casual hikers and families.
Tourists can treat themselves to a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant for around £8.80 and the average hotel price for two people sharing a room will set you back about £50 per night.
In second place is Aksaray, with a final score of 81.74. Aksaray offers hikers dramatic landscapes and historical sites to explore, such as the Sultanhanı Caravanserai Area, which follows ancient trade routes. For a challenge, hikers can attempt the Hasandağı Mountain, which takes around eight to 10 hours to climb and descend.
For a local beer, travellers need to pay £1.43, or £1.32 for an imported beer. A hotel here has a nightly rate of £39.95 and a one-way ride on local transportation will cost £0.31.
Edirne takes third place, with a final score of 81.42. The nearby Gala Lake National Park is home to more than 200 species of birds, making it great for a scenic hike to do some birdwatching. A return flight here costs £70.90 and you can grab a meal at McDonalds for £5.06.
In fourth place is Gebze, with a final score of 80.71. Gebze is rich in wildlife and nature, making this a perfect hiking destination, as well as being great for all-season hiking. The Kuzuyayla Nature Park has an array of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds, with gorgeous forest trails. A three-course meal for two people costs £13.20 and you can grab a local beer for £1.21.
Tarsus claims fifth place, with a final score of 71.85. The surrounding landscapes are great for hikers, including spots like the Tarsus Şelalesi and the Karboğazı Canyon. You can book a hotel for £54.81 per night and enjoy a meal at an inexpensive restaurant for £3.30.
Sixth place is taken by Elazığ, with a final score of 71.47. The mountainous landscape offers hikers excellent trails, such as Harput Castle and the Munzur Mountains. Tourists can treat themselves to a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant for £20.90 and a local beer for £1.54.
Konya is in seventh place, with a final score of 71.46. As a lesser-known destination for hikers, the trails here are less crowded. The Meke Crater Lake is great for photography and the Tınaztepe Cave is perfect for those looking for an adventure. A one-way ride on local transportation will cost just £0.26 and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs £4.40.
In eighth place is Kırıkkale, with a final score of 70.68. Kırıkkale is also not commonly associated with hiking, so it has tranquil routes such as Beylik Village and the Kızılırmak River. Two people can enjoy a three-course meal for only £11.00 or order a beer for £1.10.
Kayseri takes ninth place, with a final score of 70.55. Valleys and mountains make this a great hiking destination, with trails for experienced hikers around Mount Erciyes and moderate trails in the Soğanlı Valley. A hotel here has a nightly rate of £68.85 and a one-way ticket on local transportation is £0.40.
Finally, Samsun takes tenth place, with a final score of 70.37. Samsun’s natural beauty offers opportunities for all levels of hiking ability. The Çakırbey Plateau can range from easy to moderate difficulty, and the Canik Mountains are better for more experienced hikers. An imported beer will set you back £1.87 and a hotel costs £55.46 each night.
Magdalena Petrusic, from Istanbul Tickets and Tours, said: “Turkey has many amazing cities that tourists can explore without breaking the bank, ensuring they can enjoy travelling without worrying about a strict budget. The data reveals which Turkish cities budget travellers, students looking for a cheap trip, or families looking to plan a summer holiday should add to their bucket list. Some of these destinations are not commonly known for their hiking opportunities but offer beautiful landscapes and exciting challenges for those who want to explore somewhere new.”
