7 Best Day Trips From Kırıkkale [2026]

Name: Kırıkkale, Turkey
Address: TR

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.

Top day trips

Handpicked excursions within easy reach.

80 km

Ankara – Turkey's Capital

Bus from Kırıkkale terminal (every 30–60 min, 80–120 TRY / ~$2.40–$3.60 USD one-way)

30 km

Kalecik – Wine Country and Castle

Dolmuş from Kırıkkale center (30–40 TRY / ~$0.90–$1.20 USD one-way, hourly); taxi round trip ~150–200 TRY (~$4.50–$6 USD)

110 km

Kırşehir – Cacabey Mosque and Ahi Evran

Bus from Kırıkkale terminal to Kırşehir (several daily, 130–170 TRY / ~$3.90–$5.10 USD one-way, ~2 hrs)

60 km

Sulakyurt Forest and Nature Reserve

Bus from Kırıkkale terminal to Sulakyurt (2 daily, 07:30 and 12:00; 70–90 TRY / ~$2.10–$2.70 USD one-way, ~2 hrs)

70 km

Keskin – Historical District and Crafts

Bus from Kırıkkale terminal to Keskin (several daily, 60–80 TRY / ~$1.80–$2.40 USD one-way, ~1.5 hrs)

80 km

Çerikli Thermal Springs

Bus to Keskin then local taxi to Çerikli (50–80 TRY / ~$1.50–$2.40 USD); or taxi direct from Kırıkkale (round trip 350–500 TRY / ~$10.50–$15 USD)

70 km

Hirfanlı Reservoir – Watersports and Picnic

Private car or taxi only (round trip 300–400 TRY / ~$9–$12 USD); no direct public bus

Day trip tips

Make the most of your excursions.

Tip

Start early — most popular day-trip destinations get crowded by mid-morning.

Tip

Check return transport times before you leave — missing the last train or bus can be costly.

Tip

Carry water, snacks, and layers — weather and food options can be limited at smaller destinations.