Black Sea Guide

No matter where you go along the Black Sea coast, you'll inevitably find yourself struck by the same feelings and thoughts: "This land is where green meets blue, joy meets serenity." The Black Sea region is located along the northern coastline of Turkey. It is the rainiest region in the country and also the area where fishing is most developed. These features have played a defining role in shaping the region. Throughout the area, you'll encounter lush forests in various shades of green, towering mountains veiled in mist, rich history, and vast plateaus. The Black Sea's climate is mild, so you can visit at any time of year, though even in summer, there may be rain on two days a week.

The people of the Black Sea are intelligent and joyful. Perhaps it's due to the harsh waves of the sea, but they can also be a bit temperamental. All of these traits are part of the natural character of the people. You'll often see these wonderful individuals chasing their livelihoods or contributing to their hometowns with passion. In cities like Artvin, Rize, and Trabzon, and throughout the Eastern Black Sea, the plateau culture is highly developed. When visiting the region, make sure to visit plateaus like Ayder, Potuk, and Sal in Rize, Karagöl in Artvin, Perşembe in Ordu, and Maçka and Kiraz Plateau in Trabzon. And remember, you can’t leave the Black Sea without answering the age-old question: "Is it fish or hamsi?" Be sure to visit a hazelnut orchard during harvest season, observe the joyful workers, and enjoy their company before leaving.

The Black Sea region isn't just about plateaus. Especially in the western part of the region, you’ll find beautiful ski resorts like Ilgaz, and you can also enjoy water sports on its roaring rivers. Moreover, nearly every part of the Black Sea region offers hundreds of places for camping and picnicking. Alongside all these natural wonders, the region is home to the remnants of many civilizations, as both colonies and various kingdoms once thrived here. In short, when you visit the Black Sea, you'll be immersed in nature, local flavors, and history.

It’s impossible to capture the vast beauty of the Black Sea in just a few words, but we've put together a mini list of things you absolutely must do when you visit. We hope it will inspire you.

Here’s our list of must-do activities in the Black Sea.

• Definitely visit a plateau.
• Enjoy fish, Akçaabat meatballs, and vegetable dishes.
• Try rafting and go on a nature walk.
• Go camping.
• Visit historical sites like Sümela Monastery, Atatürk Mansion, Sinop Prison, and the Samsun National Struggle Open-Air Museum.
• Take photos at Uzungöl and Karagöl.
• Sit at a regular café, have tea, and chat with the lively locals.
• Pick hazelnuts.
• Experience the unique atmosphere of Ilgaz Mountains, and explore the Western Black Sea.
• Enjoy the view from the cable car in Ordu.
• Visit the northernmost point of Turkey, Karaburun in Sinop.

For accommodation recommendations, be sure to check out our Black Sea Region Hotels page.