Bingöl is a small provincial city in eastern Turkey, nestled among the rugged Taurus mountains at approximately 1,100 metres elevation. Known for its pristine river valleys, ancient fortress ruins, world-renowned mountain honey, and the dramatic Göynük Canyon, Bingöl offers authentic eastern Anatolian culture well off the standard tourist trail.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Bingöl Balı (Mountain Honey)
World-renowned wildflower honey from high-altitude hives; varieties include çiçek balı (wildflower), kekik balı (thyme), and karakovan balı (black hive, darker and stronger). Best bought at the Saturday market or from producers directly.
Price: TRY 300–800/kg (~$9–$25 USD/kg)
Where: Saturday market; Bingöl Kapalı Pazarı; roadside producers on D885
Kete Böreği (Local pastry)
Flaky pastry filled with walnuts or spices, a Bingöl speciality. Buy fresh at Burcu Börek in the bazaar area.
Price: TRY 30–60 per piece (~$0.90–$1.85 USD)
Where: Burcu Börek, Çarşı Mah. No. 10
Hand-woven kilim pieces
Small flat-weave rugs and decorative pieces from local villages; natural dyes.
Price: TRY 500–5,000 (~$15–$154 USD)
Where: Genç district old bazaar and occasional market stalls
Dried mountain herbs
Thyme (kekik), sage (adaçayı), and other highland herbs used in teas and cooking.
Price: TRY 30–80/bag (~$0.90–$2.50 USD)
Where: Weekly market, spice stalls in covered market
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Bingöl Kapalı Pazarı (Covered Market)
Fresh produce, local cheese, spices, household items
Where: City centre
Hours: Mon–Sat 08:00–19:00
Bingöl Haftalık Pazar (Weekly Market)
Mountain honey, seasonal produce, herbs, textiles
Where: Near bus terminal
Hours: Wednesday and Saturday 07:00–14:00