Kırıkkale is a mid-sized industrial city and province in Central Anatolia, situated approximately 80 km northeast of Ankara along the Kızılırmak River. Known primarily for its defense and steel industries — home to the MKEK (Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi Kurumu) complex — the city offers an authentic glimpse into modern Turkish working-class life away from tourist crowds. The surrounding province features rugged river valleys, historic castles, and natural areas perfect for off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Höşmerim (local sweet cheese dessert)
Price: 80–200 TRY (~$2.40–$6 USD) per box
Where: Kırıkkale Tatlıcısı on Meydan, or direct from Balışeyh district
Kalecik Karası wine (from nearby Kalecik)
Price: 150–400 TRY (~$4.50–$12 USD) per bottle
Where: Wine shops on Cumhuriyet Caddesi or Kalecik town
Local honey (bala)
Price: 100–300 TRY per jar (~$3–$9 USD)
Where: Wednesday/Saturday markets and bazaar shops
Handwoven textiles (kilim, sofra bezi)
Price: 200–800 TRY (~$6–$24 USD)
Where: Bazaar shops, Keskin district
Dried herbs and spices
Price: 20–80 TRY per 100g (~$0.60–$2.40 USD)
Where: Weekly markets and spice shops in Çarşı Mahallesi
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Kırıkkale Wednesday Market (Çarşamba Pazarı)
Fresh produce, dried goods, spices, clothing
Where: City Center
Hours: Wednesday 06:30–16:00
Kırıkkale Saturday Bazaar
Seasonal fruits, local cheese, homemade preserves, textiles
Where: City Center
Hours: Saturday 06:30–16:00