About Gümüshane
Gümüşhane, nestled in Turkey's northeastern Black Sea region, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking dramatic landscapes, rich history, and authentic cultural immersion. The province's name, meaning 'Silver House,' hints at its historical significance as a mining center during the Ottoman era. Today, visitors are drawn to its breathtaking natural beauty, dominated by the Pontic Mountains, deep valleys, and pristine plateaus (yaylas) like Kazıkbeli and Zigana, perfect for hiking, photography, and experiencing traditional transhumance. The stunning Karaca Cave, with its extraordinary stalactite and stalagmite formations, is a must-see geological wonder. History enthusiasts can explore the ruins of the Byzantine-era Santa Harabeleri (Santa Ruins) and the Ottoman-era Tomara Waterfall, once powering silver workshops. Gümüşhane offers a serene escape from crowded tourist trails, where you can savor local specialties like pestil (fruit leather) and köme (a walnut-based sweet), and experience the warm hospitality of its communities in towns like Torul and Kürtün. It's a destination where dramatic alpine scenery meets layers of history, offering a uniquely tranquil and rewarding Anatolian adventure.
Things to do in Gümüshane
1-Day Mt. Huangshan Tour with Optional Hongcun & Xidi Village
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 1,422
5.0 (45)
3-Day Private Huangshan Tour: Hongcun Village & Overnight on Mt Huangshan
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 8,495
5.0 (13)
Hongcun Ancient Village Half-Day Private Tour from Huangshan
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 1,366
5.0 (7)
Private Photography Day Tour of Huangshan Yellow Mountain
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 2,595
5.0 (6)
Private Huangshan 4-Day Tour to Visit Yellow Mountain and Hongcun Village
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 10,062
5.0 (5)
2-Day Huangshan Private Tour: Yellow Mountain and Xidi Ancient Village
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 4,833
5.0 (3)
Mount Huangshan Highlights Group Tour -No Shopping
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 2,261
5.0 (2)
All inclusive Huangshan summit&Hongcun village 1 day private tour
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 4,420
5.0 (2)
1 Day Mt Huangshan(Yellow Mountain) Group Tour-No Shopping
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 1,903
5.0 (1)
4 Days Huangshan Private Tour: Mt.Huangshan & Rural Experience at Local Villages
Huangshan, Eastern China
One Day Car Rental from Tunxi hotels to Yellow Mountain and Return
Huangshan, Eastern China
Mountain Huangshan Enthralled
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 6,658
5.0 (1)
All-Inclusive Private Tour: Huangshan Mountain Exploration With Round-Trip Cable Car
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 3,622
5.0 (1)
Huangshan Yellow Mountain Private Day Tour with Cableway Ride
Huangshan, Eastern China
From GHS 2,306
5.0 (1)
Huangshan Railway Station Private Arrival Transfer to City Area
Huangshan, Eastern China
Travel Tips for Gümüshane
Getting Around
The most flexible way to explore Gümüşhane is by private car or rental car, essential for reaching remote plateaus, villages, and natural sites. Inter-city buses (coaches) connect Gümüşhane city to Trabzon, Erzurum, and other provinces. Within towns, local minibuses (dolmuş) operate on set routes but are infrequent in rural areas. Taxis are available in the city center; negotiate or confirm the fare before departure. There are no ride-hailing apps like Uber. For hiking destinations, joining a local tour from Trabzon or hiring a local guide is recommended. Roads are well-signposted in Turkish.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit is from late May to September. June to August offers the warmest and most stable weather for hiking, exploring plateaus, and visiting Karaca Cave. July and August are peak seasons on the plateaus. September provides pleasant temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. Winters (December-March) are harsh, with heavy snowfall, making many mountain roads impassable but offering opportunities for winter sports on the Zigana Pass. Spring (April-May) is lovely but can be rainy and muddy.
Local Customs
Gümüşhane is a conservative region. Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages, religious sites, or rural areas (avoid shorts and sleeveless tops). Hospitality is highly valued; it's common to be offered tea or food. Accepting such offers is polite. A simple 'Teşekkür ederim' (Thank you) is appreciated. Tipping is not obligatory but customary: round up taxi fares, leave 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included. Always remove shoes when entering a local home. Be respectful when photographing people, especially women and the elderly; always ask for permission first. Friday prayers are important; be discreet around mosques at that time.
Safety Information
Gümüşhane is generally a safe and low-crime province. However, exercise standard precautions: secure valuables, especially in crowded areas or on public transport. Road safety is a primary concern; mountain roads can be narrow, winding, and challenging, especially in winter (November-April) due to ice, snow, and fog. Drive cautiously, preferably during daylight. Avoid remote hiking trails alone; inform someone of your plans. There are no specific no-go areas, but it's wise to respect local customs in rural villages. Petty scams are rare, but always agree on taxi fares beforehand. The region is seismically active; familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures.
Health Information
Medical facilities in Gümüşhane are limited compared to major cities. The Gümüşhane State Hospital is the primary public facility for emergencies and basic care. For serious conditions, transfer to larger hospitals in Trabzon or Erzurum may be necessary. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel health insurance. Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis) should be up-to-date. Consider tick-borne encephalitis vaccination if planning extensive hiking or rural stays in forested areas during spring and summer. Tap water is not recommended for drinking; opt for bottled water. Be prepared for altitude changes if visiting high plateaus.
Languages Spoken
Turkish
Quick Facts
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
₺
₺
Timezone
Europe/Istanbul +03:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+90
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
141,000
Area
6575 km²
Government
Provincial government under a centrally appointed Governor (Vali), with an elected Provincial Council.
ISO Code
29