Destination guideTürkiye
29 Things to Do in Bingöl (2026)
Bingöl, located in the Upper Euphrates region of Eastern Anatolia, possesses a history that intersects with the Assyrian, Urartian, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. The city's name, meaning "Thousand Lakes," refers to the numerous glacial lakes situated on the surrounding Bingöl Mountains. ### Historical Heritage and Architecture The architectural landscape of Bingöl is characterized by modern reconstruction necessitated by seismic activity in 1971 and 2003. Historically, the city center was known as Çapakçur.
Updated September 13, 2026 · 29 places verified against live place data
- 29 spots
- 11 must-try dishes
- Researched September 2026
- 24 sources
The short answer
- Start with Zağ Mağaraları/ Kerrayê Zax (Merkez), Çır Şelalesi (Naman) and Floating Isles Natural Monument (Yüzenada), the places the research led with.
- For food, Mastuva and Löl (Bingöl Böreği) lead the must-try list; the full list of places to eat is on the Bingöl food guide.
- The best time to visit Bingöl is during late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) for pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the floating islands and nature trails.
29 places worth your time in Bingöl
Things to see and do
Zağ Mağaraları/ Kerrayê Zax
A multi-story complex of ancient rooms and galleries carved directly into a sheer cliff face overlooking the Murat River.
- Zağ Mağaraları/ Kerrayê ZaxA multi-story complex of ancient rooms and galleries carved directly into a sheer cliff face overlooking the Murat River.
Merkez, Kuşburnu Köyü Yolu, 12000 Kuşburnu/Bingöl, Türkiye
Çır Şelalesi
Falling from a massive 100-meter-high rock formation known as Çir Taşı, this waterfall drops 50 meters into a valley of dark, lichen-covered stone.
- Çır ŞelalesiFalling from a massive 100-meter-high rock formation known as Çir Taşı, this waterfall drops 50 meters into a valley of dark, lichen-covered stone.
Naman, 12400 Yenibaşlar/Bingöl, Türkiye
Floating Isles Natural Monument
This unique natural monument features three independent islands of soil and vegetation that float and drift across a crater lake.
- Floating Isles Natural MonumentThis unique natural monument features three independent islands of soil and vegetation that float and drift across a crater lake.
Floating Isles Natural Monument, Yüzenada, 12702 Hazarşah/Solhan/Bingöl, Türkiye
Buban Peri Bacaları
A geological marvel formed over centuries by wind and flood erosion, these 'fairy chimneys' consist of pointed rock formations and tall columns carved into the volcanic tuff.
- Buban Peri BacalarıA geological marvel formed over centuries by wind and flood erosion, these 'fairy chimneys' consist of pointed rock formations and tall columns carved into the volcanic tuff.
2FPH+Q4, 12300 Oğuldere/Bingöl, Türkiye
ZaZa Gaming Hub - İnternet & Playstation
Taking place on September 18-19, 2026, at the Bingöl Municipality Square, this cultural festival is a vibrant celebration of Zaza heritage.
- ZaZa Gaming Hub - İnternet & PlaystationTaking place on September 18-19, 2026, at the Bingöl Municipality Square, this cultural festival is a vibrant celebration of Zaza heritage.
Selahattin Eyyubi Mahallesi, Palamut Cd. No:7/A, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Bingöl Üniversitesi Termal Kaplıca Tesisleri
A premier destination for health tourism, this thermal facility offers therapeutic mineral-rich waters known for their healing properties.
- Bingöl Üniversitesi Termal Kaplıca TesisleriA premier destination for health tourism, this thermal facility offers therapeutic mineral-rich waters known for their healing properties.
Bingöl-Erzurum Yolu 22.Km, Ilıca, 12400 Ilıcalar/Bingöl, Türkiye
İsfahan Bey Camii
Constructed in the early 16th century during the Akkoyunlu period, this mosque is the sole remaining historical structure in the city center.
- İsfahan Bey CamiiConstructed in the early 16th century during the Akkoyunlu period, this mosque is the sole remaining historical structure in the city center.
Bahçelievler, Eski Saray Cd. No:123, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Bingol University
The main gateway to the university campus serves as a significant architectural monument, specifically stylized to reflect Seljuk-era motifs.
- Bingol UniversityThe main gateway to the university campus serves as a significant architectural monument, specifically stylized to reflect Seljuk-era motifs.
Selahaddin-i Eyyubi, Üniversite Caddesi No:1, 12000 Merkez/Bingöl, Türkiye
Bingol Airport
The domestic terminal building is a striking example of modern infrastructure, featuring a distinctive protective steel canopy that follows the rhythm of the concrete-frame structure.
- Bingol AirportThe domestic terminal building is a striking example of modern infrastructure, featuring a distinctive protective steel canopy that follows the rhythm of the concrete-frame structure.
12000 Çeltiksuyu/Bingöl, Türkiye
Bingöl Üniversitesi Selahaddin-i Eyyubi Kütüphanesi
A centerpiece of the modern university campus, this library (also known as the Selahaddin-i Eyyubi Kütüphanesi) is a contemporary facility featuring a multi-story design with glass-heavy facades that maximize natural.
- Bingöl Üniversitesi Selahaddin-i Eyyubi KütüphanesiA centerpiece of the modern university campus, this library (also known as the Selahaddin-i Eyyubi Kütüphanesi) is a contemporary facility featuring a multi-story design with glass-heavy facades that maximize natural light.
Selahaddin-i Eyyubi, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
SEBETERİAS KALESİ
Located on a strategic hill near the Genç district, this fortress (also known as Dara-Hini Castle) dates back to the Persian era, specifically the 7th century BC.
- SEBETERİAS KALESİLocated on a strategic hill near the Genç district, this fortress (also known as Dara-Hini Castle) dates back to the Persian era, specifically the 7th century BC.
Yenişehir, D950, 12000 Genç/Bingöl, Türkiye
Floating Islands Natural Monument
Located in Solhan, this site features a dedicated visitor infrastructure surrounding the unique 'Floating Islands' of Turna Lake.
- Floating Islands Natural MonumentLocated in Solhan, this site features a dedicated visitor infrastructure surrounding the unique 'Floating Islands' of Turna Lake.
Yüzenada, 12702 Hazarşah/Solhan/Bingöl, Türkiye
Bingol university convention center
This modern multi-purpose facility serves as the primary cultural and artistic hub for the city. It hosts a continuous rotation of scientific and art exhibitions, including student showcases and professional galleries.
- Bingol university convention centerThis modern multi-purpose facility serves as the primary cultural and artistic hub for the city. It hosts a continuous rotation of scientific and art exhibitions, including student showcases and professional galleries.
Selahaddin-i Eyyubi, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Bingöl Elsanatları ar_ge derneği
This cultural center is dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of traditional Bingöl handicrafts.
- Bingöl Elsanatları ar_ge derneğiThis cultural center is dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of traditional Bingöl handicrafts. It showcases authentic local products such as hand-woven wool rugs, traditional woodwork.
opet arkası, Saray, Bayındır Cd. no 3, 12000 Merkez/Bingöl, Türkiye
Bingöl Hesarek Kayak Merkezi
Dikme, 12000 Dikme/Bingöl, Türkiye
Where to eat
See the full Bingöl food guide: where to eat and what to order.
Sogukçeşme Kavurma 1965 AZİZ KOÇ Şube -3
An iconic culinary institution established in 1965, this restaurant is the definitive place to experience 'Bingöl Kavurması' (braised lamb).
- Sogukçeşme Kavurma 1965 AZİZ KOÇ Şube -3An iconic culinary institution established in 1965, this restaurant is the definitive place to experience 'Bingöl Kavurması' (braised lamb).
Bingöl Merkez Temel Yapı Karayolari Karsisi, Saray, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Ciğerci Osman
A local favorite for grilled meats, this restaurant is renowned for its expertly prepared liver skewers and traditional Turkish kebabs.
- Ciğerci OsmanA local favorite for grilled meats, this restaurant is renowned for its expertly prepared liver skewers and traditional Turkish kebabs.
Yenişehir, Genç Cd. No:98, 12000 Merkez/Bingöl, Türkiye
Soğuk Çeşme Kavurma 1965 AZİZ KOÇ (Doğan Dinlenme Tesisi) Şube -1
- Soğuk Çeşme Kavurma 1965 AZİZ KOÇ (Doğan Dinlenme Tesisi) Şube -1Known for: Bingöl Kavurması. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Bingöl Kavurması
Soğuk Çeşme, 12400 Çobantaşı/Bingöl, Türkiye
Lava Közde Et Döner
Distinguished by its method of cooking meat over live oak coals rather than electric heaters, this eatery offers a smoky and tender version of the classic doner kebab.
- Lava Közde Et DönerDistinguished by its method of cooking meat over live oak coals rather than electric heaters, this eatery offers a smoky and tender version of the classic doner kebab.
İnönü, Kültür Cd. 93/C, 12000 merkez/Bingöl, Türkiye
Yado Çeşmesi Et Lokantası Restaurant
Located slightly outside the main city hub near a historic spring, this restaurant is a destination for those seeking traditional 'kuyu kebabı' and regional meat dishes.
- Yado Çeşmesi Et Lokantası RestaurantLocated slightly outside the main city hub near a historic spring, this restaurant is a destination for those seeking traditional 'kuyu kebabı' and regional meat dishes.
Saray, Bingöl - Elazığ Yolu 8. Km, 12000 Topalan/Bingöl, Türkiye
Şahin Künefe
Specializing in the crispy, cheese-filled pastry known as künefe, this dessert spot is a local institution for late-night sweets.
- Şahin KünefeSpecializing in the crispy, cheese-filled pastry known as künefe, this dessert spot is a local institution for late-night sweets.
Şehit Mustafa Gündoğdu, Çilem Sk. No:11, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Meshur Sidki Usta Tatlilari
A cornerstone of the local dessert scene, this pastry shop is the go-to location for 'Bingöl Kadayıfı' and various syrupy Turkish treats.
- Meshur Sidki Usta TatlilariA cornerstone of the local dessert scene, this pastry shop is the go-to location for 'Bingöl Kadayıfı' and various syrupy Turkish treats.
Yenişehir, İnönü Cd. No:13, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Beşyol Firini
Part traditional bakery and part breakfast hall, this venue is defined by the aroma of fresh dough and stone-baked breads.
- Beşyol FiriniPart traditional bakery and part breakfast hall, this venue is defined by the aroma of fresh dough and stone-baked breads.
Şehit Mustafa Gündoğdu, 12010 Bingöl, Türkiye
Van Kahvaltı Sarayı Bingöl
Bayarsa Apartmanı, Karşıyaka, Zeki Ergezen Bulvarı 23/A, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
BİNGÖL TAVA ve KAHVALTI BAHÇESİ
Elmalı, Aşağı, Bingöl Merkez, Aşağı, 12400 Elmalı/Merkez/Bingöl, Türkiye
Soğuk Çeşme
Known for: Bingöl Kavurması. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Soğuk Çeşme, Çobantaşı/Bingöl, Türkiye
Shops and markets
KALİUM ALIŞVERİŞ MERKEZİ
A well-established commercial complex that provides a comprehensive shopping experience with a focus on family needs and diverse retail options.
- KALİUM ALIŞVERİŞ MERKEZİA well-established commercial complex that provides a comprehensive shopping experience with a focus on family needs and diverse retail options.
Şehit Mustafa Gündoğdu, Üniversite Caddesi UYDUKENT, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Piesta Park Avm
Yenişehir, Genç Cd., 12000 Merkez/Bingöl, Türkiye
Yari Yeralti Çarşisi
Yenişehir, Hükümet Cd. No:41, 12000 Bingöl, Türkiye
Researched by Varedelo
Planning notes for Bingöl
Must-try foods in Bingöl
- MastuvaA quintessential Bingöl dish, this thick, porridge-like meal is prepared by continuously stirring rice or bulgur into buttermilk (ayran) until it reaches a dense consistency. It is traditionally served in a large bowl with a hollowed-out center filled with sizzling melted butter and dried mint.
- Löl (Bingöl Böreği)A rich, multi-layered pastry that is a staple of local celebrations. It features thin hand-rolled dough filled with a savory mixture of roasted meat (kavurma), local curd cheese (çökelek), and onions. The pastry is rolled into a spiral and baked until the exterior is golden and crisp while the inside remains tender.
- Gömme (Zerfet)A traditional 'buried' bread dish where a thick, unleavened dough is baked under a metal cover topped with hot embers. Once cooked, the bread's center is carved out, crumbled, and mixed with a generous amount of garlic-infused yogurt and hot clarified butter before being stuffed back into the crust.
- Bingöl KavurmasıRegarded as the 'capital of kavurma,' Bingöl's version uses meat from goats or lambs raised on the high-altitude pastures of the Bingöl Mountains. The meat is slow-cooked in its own fat with only salt, resulting in an exceptionally tender and flavorful dish often served in specialized local restaurants like Soğukçeşme.
- Sorina PelA comforting dough-based dish consisting of thin sheets of yufka bread that are rolled, sliced into bite-sized pieces, and arranged vertically in a tray. It is then drenched in a warm garlic yogurt sauce and topped with a drizzle of hot butter and red pepper flakes.
- Tutmaç ÇorbasıA hearty, ancient Turkic soup that remains a winter favorite in Bingöl. It is made with hand-cut noodles (erişte), green lentils, and chickpeas in a creamy yogurt base, typically enriched with small pieces of kavurma and flavored with burnt mint butter.
Trip guide
Bingöl İl Kültür ve Turizm MüdürlüğüBingöl İl Kültür ve Turizm MüdürlüğüOfficial website of the Bingöl Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, providing information on the region's historical, cultural, and natural attractions.
Where to eat in Bingöl: the dishes and their linked places.
When to visit Bingöl
- The best time to visit Bingöl is during late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) for pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the floating islands and nature trails. Winters are extremely harsh with heavy snowfall, making it a prime destination for skiing at Hesarek Resort but difficult for general sightseeing. Peak tourism occurs during the summer months and the winter ski season, while the shoulder seasons offer the best balance of manageable weather and fewer crowds.
Getting around Bingöl
- Air Travel (Bingöl Airport) Bingöl Airport (BGG) is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center, offering regular direct flights from Istanbul and Ankara via Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. Shuttle services and taxis are available at the terminal to transport passengers into the city.
- Intercity Bus and Road The Bingöl Intercity Bus Terminal connects the province to major Turkish cities like Elazığ, Erzurum, and Diyarbakır through frequent daily routes. Travelers can also reach the city by car via the D300 highway, which serves as a primary east-west transit corridor in Eastern Anatolia.
- Local Public Transit and Taxis Within the city, transportation is primarily handled by municipal buses and 'dolmuş' (shared minibuses) that cover major neighborhoods and university routes.
Things to know before you go
- Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees to respect the conservative local culture of this eastern province.
- Always accept the first glass of tea offered by shopkeepers or locals, as declining can be perceived as dismissive of their hospitality.
- Carry sufficient cash in Turkish Lira, as smaller establishments and local transport in Bingöl may not always accept credit cards.
- Remove your shoes before entering a local home and avoid showing the soles of your feet when sitting on floor cushions.
What’s new in Bingöl (September 2026)
- 12 Bingöl Spor vs. MKE Ankaragücü: A major 2nd Lig football match taking place today, September 13, 2026, at Bingöl City Stadium.
- Bingöl University 'Year of Production': The university is currently implementing a 2026-wide initiative focusing on transforming academic research into industrial production and local economic value.
- 8th Bingöl National Short Film Festival: An upcoming cultural event scheduled for September 28 to October 2, 2026, featuring screenings and competitions.
- New Educational Infrastructure: The recent completion and opening of 15 new schools and 220 classrooms across Bingöl as part of the 2026 regional education expansion.
Research receipt
How this Bingöl guide was researched
- Live web search, 14 of 14 research areas completed.
- Places verified against real place data — address, hours and coordinates come from the place record, not the article.
- Researched September 2026. A newer build for Bingöl replaces this page automatically.
Sources checked
Planning questions
What is Bingöl known for?
Bingöl, located in the Upper Euphrates region of Eastern Anatolia, possesses a history that intersects with the Assyrian, Urartian, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. The city's name, meaning "Thousand Lakes," refers to the numerous glacial lakes situated on the surrounding Bingöl Mountains.
What should I eat in Bingöl?
Start with Mastuva, Löl (Bingöl Böreği), Gömme (Zerfet), and Bingöl Kavurması. Each dish on this page lists the places known for it.
When is the best time to visit Bingöl?
The best time to visit Bingöl is during late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) for pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the floating islands and nature trails. Winters are extremely harsh with heavy snowfall, making it a prime destination for skiing at Hesarek Resort but difficult for general sightseeing.
How do I get around Bingöl?
Bingöl Airport (BGG) is located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center, offering regular direct flights from Istanbul and Ankara via Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. Air Travel (Bingöl Airport); Intercity Bus and Road; Local Public Transit and Taxis.
How many places are on this Bingöl map?
29 places, each with an address, hours where known, and a line on why it was picked. The map in the app shows them by status so you can walk to the nearest one.
How was this Bingöl guide researched?
Live web research across 14 research areas, cross-checked against real place data, citing 24 sources. Researched September 2026.