Artvin Travel Guide

In the easternmost part of the Eastern Black Sea region, near the border with Georgia, lies a lush green area with an incredible panorama stretching to the horizon, where clouds weave delicately like carpets or kilims beneath your feet. What sets this place apart from other natural sites is the fact that its nature remains untouched, and its cultured people adamantly advocate for preserving Artvin just as it is.

Artvin, with its rugged Çoruh River dividing the city, lush green forests reflecting all the characteristics of the Black Sea climate, and the harmonious blend of blues and greens creating natural beauty, along with a history spanning over 6,000 years, has become one of the most popular destinations in recent years.

Maintaining its ancient vitality, Artvin not only boasts a rich history but also offers many natural wonders rarely found in other cities. With its high and verdant mountains, crater lakes, rivers, and lush plateaus, Artvin has become the favorite destination of recent years.

The moment you arrive in Artvin, you are engulfed by the intertwined harmony of nature and the pristine air, making you forget the hustle and bustle of big cities. With its abundant tourist potential, Artvin has been on a steady rise in recent years, welcoming numerous domestic and foreign tourists throughout the year. Consequently, the number of accommodation facilities in Artvin is increasing.

Most Artvin hotels are nestled amidst nature, surrounded by lush green trees. Whether you prefer staying in the city center or in surrounding towns, you can find accommodations. Generally, Artvin hotels offer bed and breakfast services and stand out with their wooden architecture that blends seamlessly with nature. Modern amenities can also be found in these nature-based accommodations.

Artvin hotels showcase the various shades of green, immersing guests in the beauty of nature, and their price options are quite reasonable, catering to every budget. Moreover, hotel prices do not vary by season; they remain consistent throughout the year.

Artvin, with its history spanning thousands of years and still preserving its ancient vitality, offers a combination of historical richness and numerous natural beauties not commonly found in every city. Upon arriving in Artvin, you are immediately embraced by the harmonious blend of nature and the pristine air, causing you to forget the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Most of the bungalows and mountain houses in Artvin are nestled amidst nature, surrounded by lush green trees. While you can find accommodations in the city center and surrounding towns, we don't recommend staying in the city center.

What to Do in Artvin? 

When you arrive in Artvin, you should first plan a nature walk and rafting. The must-see place in Artvin is the Çoruh River with its raging waters. You can take a walk along the river or, better yet, go on a rafting tour. This excitement cannot be missed. Artvin is also famous for its highland festivals held at certain times of the year, where you can visit green paradises such as Bilbilan, Sahara Plateau, Kaçkar Mountains Tourism Center, Arsiyan, and Mersivan plateaus.

Other recommendations include Barhal Creek, Hatila Stream, Maçahel Stream, and our country's highest waterfall, Ciro Falls, and Mencuna Falls. You can also participate in thrilling activities like horseback nature walks and jeep safaris. If you enjoy climbing, you can plan a trip to the Kaçkar Mountains. For fishing and hiking, you can choose the waterfalls and streams of the city.

Alternatively, before reaching Karagöl, you can visit Balıklıgöl by detouring from Veliköy. It's located within Pınarlı village at an elevation that could be considered a highland. Although not as large as Karagöl, it's worth seeing for its road, view, and refreshing water.

There are also national parks and nature parks under protection within the city. You can visit and spend a wonderful day surrounded by nature at Sahara-Karagöl National Park in Şavşat, Hatila Valley National Park, Yıldızgölü, Maçahel-Gorgit Nature Park, and Protection Area.

I have separately written about Borçka in another article. Click here for the Borçka Travel Guide! The Macahel region, which extends beyond the borders of Turkey to Georgia, immediately comes to mind. You must see the village of Camili here and definitely visit the wooden-style mosque in the village of İremit. There's also a marvel of nature in Macahel: Maral Waterfall, a place worth seeing and even experiencing. It's advisable to immerse yourself in its ice-cold water. And another wonder of nature: Karagöl. Stop by the shack in the Efeler village in Macahel, a corner of paradise.

You can stay at Pona Trout Facilities, Arsiyan Plateau, and Boğa Lake, or Meşeli Village Sıla Pension.

Heba Plateau must be seen... Bazgiret village and plateau are magnificent... Include Balık Gölü in Pınarlı village on your list too.

Also, make sure to see Yavuzköy in Şavşat, try to see Laşet and Seyir hills, and watch the sunset from Seyir hill.

Artvin, a magnificent city of the Black Sea, harbors many natural and historical beauties that you must see. Therefore, a short vacation may not be enough for you. You should start with the castles of Artvin first. You should see Artvin (Livana) Castle, Şavşat Castle, Ardanuç (Gevhernik) Castle, and Ferhatlı Castle with their architectures dating back centuries. In Ardanuç, there's also the Hell Creek Canyon, which you must see.

Gorgit Plateau, Adagül Plateau, or Beyazsu Plateau can be your choice.

Here's a suggestion for you: if you want to see the view of a lifetime and see all of the Black Sea and Kaçkar Mountains from one place, go to Yukarı Koyunlu village in Şavşat! It takes about 25 minutes from Şavşat, and when you reach the village, ask to see Sadavala, which has a Georgian name, and see it. In our opinion, it's one of the places that must be seen before you die.

Karagöl

What to Enjoy Besides Eating in Artvin! 

Stop by Orme Tostçusu in Fındıklı on the way from Rize to Artvin and don't continue your journey without tasting their toast made from rib meat and a mixture of 20 spices!

Have coffee in Laşet. Have tea at Kocabey Barracks with a view. Try melted cheese at Yavuzköy lookout hill, and have tea and toast at Şartul.

Since you've come this far, you can try Georgian cuisine, which offers a different taste. Cabbage rolls, known as Karalahana sarma, çadi, which is also known as corn bread, trout in butter, speckled fish, and macahel honey (chestnut honey is recommended) are among the flavors associated with Borçka. Also, Georgian chicken, syrupy silor dessert, and cottage cheese soup can be tasted from the neighboring cuisine. In Ardanuç district, I recommend you try the Shish Kebab at the Famous Dede Kebab Restaurant, which Vedat Milor has also visited. A small note: the doner runs out around 1 pm.

Don't leave without trying the pide of two sisters, teachers, in the bazaar in Şavşat! And Yusufeli is the place where fifty shades of green are found in that region. Stop by the trout farm facility on the way to Artvin on the exit.

How to Get to Artvin? 

Today, it's possible to reach Artvin by bus from most cities. Regular bus services are available almost every day. If you prefer to travel by plane, the nearest airport to Artvin is located in Kars, approximately 200 kilometers away. For those who prefer the railway, the situation is the same. The nearest train station is in Kars or Erzurum. If you want to come by private car, here are some road information for you: 

• The distance between Istanbul and Artvin is approximately 1300 kilometers and takes about 18 hours.
• The distance between Erzurum and Artvin is approximately 200 kilometers and takes about 4 hours.
• The distance between Bursa and Artvin is approximately 1300 kilometers and takes about 18 hours.
• The distance between Samsun and Artvin is approximately 565 kilometers and takes about 8 hours.
• The distance between Ankara and Artvin is approximately 980 kilometers and takes about 13 hours and 45 minutes.
• The distance between Eskişehir and Artvin is approximately 1225 kilometers and takes about 16 hours and 40 minutes.

 What to Buy from Artvin? 

Artvin's handmade local souvenirs made with craftsmanship are quite beautiful. You can find these in the bazaar near historical and touristic places, in shops in the city center, and in the covered bazaar. You can buy a rug for yourself or your loved ones with handwoven or machine-woven patterns reflecting the culture of the region. You can find handmade souvenirs, decorative items made of wood carving or carved from tree bark. You can buy copper and clay pottery. Alternatively, you can find jewelry, scarves, or traditional headscarves and blankets. You can also purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, homemade pasta, and preserves made by local women at the neighborhood market during your vacation.

Giresun

Located on the enchanting coast of the Black Sea, Giresun is a city that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and rich history. Known as the capital of hazelnuts, Giresun is one of Turkey's hidden paradises, with its green meadows, tranquil lakes with crystal clear waters, and unique flavors. With its historical fabric, cultural heritage, and warm-hearted people, Giresun is a Black Sea gem waiting to be discovered, offering a new adventure at every turn. Every corner of this city blends the traces of the past with the unique beauty of nature. When you step into Giresun, you will find yourself in a fairy-tale land where history and nature embrace each other.

Places to Visit in Giresun

One of the city's most important landmarks, Giresun Castle is located on a hill overlooking the city center. From the castle walls, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Black Sea and soak up the historic atmosphere. Inside the castle, you can also have fun at concerts and events held during the summer months.
Giresun Island, the only inhabitable island in the Black Sea, is famous for its mythological stories and natural beauty. You can reach the island by boat tour and explore its historical ruins and nature trails.
Zeytinlik Neighborhood, one of the areas that best preserves the historical texture of Giresun, attracts attention with its stone mansions and narrow streets dating back to the Ottoman period. You can take a walk among the historical houses and travel back in time.
Kümbet Yaylası, an ideal place for those who want to discover the natural beauty of Giresun, is one of the most popular spots for highland tourism. In the highlands, you can go on nature walks, stay in highland houses, and enjoy local delicacies.
Mavi Göl, famous for its natural beauty, is located in the Dereli district of Giresun. The lake offers a peaceful environment with its turquoise color and surrounding natural beauty. You can have a picnic around the lake and enjoy nature.
Kulakkaya Plateau is one of the places that best reflects the enchanting nature and peaceful atmosphere of the Black Sea Region. This plateau, located in the Dereli district of Giresun, is approximately 45 kilometers away from the city center.

With its natural beauty, clean air, and peaceful environment, it is one of the must-visit destinations for nature lovers. Looking down from the highlands of Kulakkaya, the view of the hills and valleys disappearing into the misty clouds is breathtaking. These unique landscapes are also a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.
For those seeking to spend time immersed in the tranquility and peace of nature, Kuzalan Waterfall is a true paradise. You can picnic around the waterfall, swim in its cool waters to escape the oppressive summer heat, and capture unique shots for nature photography enthusiasts.

Where to Eat in Giresun?

You can also taste pide, a famous delicacy of the Black Sea Region, in Giresun. Giresun pide is famous for its thin dough and generous toppings. You can try this delicacy at pide restaurants in the city center. Places such as “Fındıkzade Pide” and “Meşhur Karadeniz Pidecisi” are especially recommended.
Hamsi, an indispensable delicacy of the Black Sea, also holds an important place in Giresun. You can find this delicacy, prepared in various ways such as hamsi tava and hamsi buğulama, at fish restaurants in the city. Restaurants such as “Balıkçı Mustafa” offer fresh hamsi dishes.
Karalahana sarması, one of the beloved flavors of the Black Sea cuisine, is also frequently consumed in Giresun. Thinly rolled black cabbage leaves are stuffed with rice and spices and cooked. You can find this delicacy in local restaurants.
Giresun holds an important place in Turkey's walnut production. Therefore, walnut-based desserts are quite popular in Giresun. You can try desserts such as hazelnut baklava and hazelnut paste at pastry shops in the city. “Giresun Fındık Evi” is a good choice for these desserts.
Cornbread, one of the traditional flavors of the Black Sea Region, is also frequently consumed in Giresun. This bread, which is especially preferred at breakfast and with meals, can be found in bakeries in the city.

How to Get to Giresun?

Giresun is a city located in the Black Sea Region and can be reached by several different transportation options. Here are the recommended transportation options for traveling to Giresun:
Air: If you want to fly to Giresun, you can land at Giresun Airport. The airport is located approximately 25 km from the city center. Direct flights to Giresun are available from major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya.
Road: If you wish to travel to Giresun by bus, many bus companies operate routes to Giresun. Bus transportation to Giresun is available from cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Trabzon, and many others. Buses heading to Giresun arrive at the bus terminal in the city center.
Private Vehicle: If you wish to travel to Giresun by private vehicle, it is approximately 900 km from Istanbul, 700 km from Ankara, and 100 km from Trabzon. The Black Sea Coastal Road is the most commonly used route to Giresun, and this journey takes an average of 11-12 hours.
Railway: If you wish to travel to Giresun by train, you can use the trains departing from Trabzon Airport. However, train services are quite limited, and there are no direct train services to Giresun.
Choosing the most suitable transportation option to travel to Giresun will make your journey more enjoyable.

Trabzon

The pearl of the Black Sea, Trabzon is a world unto itself with its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. This magical city, where green and blue embrace, offers every visitor an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking to explore historical structures or find peace in the tranquility of nature, Trabzon has something for everyone. This magnificent city, where natural beauty, history, and flavor converge, is a place filled with unforgettable memories for everyone.

One of Trabzon's landmarks, the Hagia Sophia Museum is a church dating back to the Byzantine period, built in the 13th century. Hagia Sophia was an important religious center during the Middle Ages and served as the center of the city's Christian community. The building stands out for its Byzantine architectural features. In particular, the frescoes and mosaics inside are important examples of Byzantine art. With its architectural beauty and historical significance, it is a popular destination for visitors.
Trabzon Castle, one of the city's important defensive points throughout history, is now one of the city's most important symbols. Located on a high hill in the city center, the castle offers a magnificent view of the sea. The castle has been used by different civilizations throughout history. You can explore the historical and architectural beauty of the castle and enjoy the magnificent sea view.
One of Trabzon's most famous natural beauties, Uzungöl is a magnificent crater lake. Surrounded by lush forests, Uzungöl captivates visitors with its clear and cool waters. Located at the foot of high mountains, this natural lake dazzles with its changing colors as the light reflects off its surface.

Located at the foot of high mountains, this natural lake dazzles with its colors that change with the reflection of light. Especially in autumn, the trees around the lake turn yellow and red, creating a magnificent view. You can walk around the lake, enjoy the fresh air, and capture unique photo opportunities.
Located in the district of Maçka, Sümela Monastery is carved into a rock face and set in a natural landscape. The monastery consists of many structures, including a main church, chapels, cells, a library, and a guesthouse, all carved into the rock. The interiors of the structures are decorated with frescoes and contain important examples of Byzantine art. Sümela Monastery is of great value both architecturally and artistically.
Located in the Akçaabat district of Trabzon, this Atatürk Mansion is a historic building where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk stayed during his visits to Trabzon. Today, it can be visited as a museum. The mansion reflects the traditional Trabzon house architecture. Visitors can learn about Atatürk's visits to Trabzon, see objects and items from the period he lived in, and relax in the mansion's garden while enjoying the view of the Black Sea.

Located on a hill overlooking the city center, Boztepe offers a magnificent view of the city. When you come to Boztepe, you can enjoy the city view and take photos. Being here at sunset or sunrise is particularly breathtaking. The view, adorned with the city lights, mesmerizes viewers.
This museum, which showcases the city's history and cultural heritage, has a rich collection. Ethnographic artifacts, archaeological finds, and works of art are all on display here.

Where to Eat in Trabzon?

Trabzon pide is famous for its thin dough and generous fillings. It comes in varieties such as minced meat, cheese, and egg. You can try this delicacy at pide restaurants in Akçaabat, Beşikdüzü, and Vakfıkebir.
One of Trabzon's most famous meat dishes is Akçaabat Köftesi. Made from well-kneaded minced meat, this köfte is served with spicy ezme and yogurt. Nihat Usta, Cemil Usta, and Körfez Restaurant are among the best places to try this dish.
Laz Böreği is a sweet pastry made with thinly rolled phyllo dough layered with muhallebi. The rice pudding and pastry shops in Hamsiköy are ideal places to try this dessert.
4-When you think of the Black Sea, the first thing that comes to mind is anchovy. Anchovy can be consumed in many different ways, such as steamed anchovy, fried anchovy, and anchovy pilaf. Balıkçı Kahraman and the fish restaurants in Hamsiköy are ideal for eating anchovy.
Black cabbage is one of the staples of the Black Sea cuisine. You can try these delicacies at local restaurants in the center of Trabzon and in Çarşıbaşı.
Trabzon bread, also known as Vakfıkebir bread, is a bread baked in stone ovens, with a crispy outside and a soft inside. You can buy this bread from bakeries in Vakfıkebir.
Hamsiköy sütlacı is one of Trabzon's famous desserts. You can try this delicious dessert at the sütlacı shops in Hamsiköy.

Kuymak or mıhlama, corn flour, butter This omelet-like dish made with eggs, flour, and milk is often found on the menus of local breakfast restaurants in Trabzon. It is a Black Sea dish made with Trabzon cheese. The historic Kalkanoğlu Pilavcısı and local restaurants in Akçaabat are ideal places to try this delicacy.
Kaygana is an important part of Trabzon's breakfast culture. This omelet-like dish made with eggs, flour, and milk is frequently found on the menus of local breakfast spots in Trabzon.

Rize

Rize, the pearl of the Black Sea, is a city where you can encounter nature in its purest form, see a thousand shades of green, and witness the dance of blue and green. As the tea capital of Turkey, Rize attracts thousands of visitors every year not only for its tea but also for its magnificent nature, historical, and cultural riches. For a peaceful retreat in the serene atmosphere of Ayder Plateau, a refreshing dip in the cool waters of Palovit Waterfall, and adventure-filled moments along the Fırtına River, your next destination should be Rize.

Ayder Plateau is one of Rize’s most famous tourist spots. It's known for its lush green forests, bubbling streams, and alpine meadows filled with colorful wildflowers. With its stunning nature, thermal springs, and traditional highland houses, Ayder charms every visitor. You can enjoy scenic hikes, relax in the hot springs, and experience the local highland culture.

Fırtına Valley, located in the Ardeşen district of Rize, is a paradise for rafting enthusiasts. Here, you can go rafting on the Fırtına River and engage in nature-focused activities like trekking and camping in the valley’s lush green landscape.

Zil Kale is a historic castle perched on a steep cliff within the Fırtına Valley. Thought to have been built in the 14th century, it offers breathtaking views and is a must-visit for both history and nature lovers.

Pokut Plateau, sitting above the clouds, offers stunning panoramic views. The wooden houses and the surrounding nature are perfect for photography lovers. You can also take scenic walks to explore the untouched beauty of the region.

Anzer Plateau is famous for the renowned Anzer honey. Here, you can enjoy the natural beauty, shop for local products, and relax in the fresh mountain air. Anzer honey is one of the region’s most treasured flavors—definitely worth a taste.

Rize Castle, located in the city center, is a great spot for exploring the city’s historical background. With its Byzantine-era walls and panoramic city view, it provides a unique blend of history and nature.

Çamlıhemşin is a district known for its natural beauty. Its stone arch bridges, scenic plateaus, and quaint mountain villages resemble scenes from a postcard. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture every moment. Visiting the authentic villages will also give you a closer look at the local culture.

Ovit Plateau, located in the İkizdere district of Rize, is one of Turkey’s highest plateaus. You can explore the rich Black Sea flora and enjoy refreshing hikes in the cool mountain air. In winter, the plateau becomes a prime location for snow sports.

Kaçkar Mountains National Park is ideal for hiking, mountaineering, and camping. Home to Turkey’s fourth highest peak, Kaçkar Mountain, the park is rich in both plant life and wildlife, making it a nature lover’s dream.

Palovit Waterfall is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Rize. Cascading from a height of 15 meters, it’s a perfect spot to cool off, especially during the summer months.

Where to Eat in Rize?

Laz böreği is a sweet pastry made with muhallebi (a type of pudding) between layers of phyllo dough, similar to baklava. You can try this delicacy at Lale Restaurant.
Rize kavurması is a delicious dish made by roasting meat with special spices. Liman Restaurant is one of the best places to enjoy this dish.
Muhlama is Rize's famous cheese and cornmeal dish. Sini Yöresel Yemek Restaurant is a great place to try muhlama. Made with plenty of butter and cheese, muhlama is especially popular for breakfast.
Karalahana sarması is a dish made by wrapping rice and minced meat filling in black cabbage leaves. Çayeli Lahana Sarma Evi makes this dish in its most delicious form.
Anzer honey is one of Rize's famous and special honeys. You can taste and purchase these honeys in Anzer Village. Anzer honey also has many health benefits.
Hamsi, the symbol of the Black Sea, can be tasted in its most delicious form in Rize. Balıkçı Hüseyin is one of the popular places that serves fresh and crispy hamsi tava.
Rize's famous buttered pide is made exceptionally well, especially at the pide shops in İkizdere. İkizdere Pidecisi is one of the ideal places to taste this delicacy.
Fried pickled beans are a specialty of Rize. Osman Usta's Place is where this dish is prepared best. Made by frying pickled beans, this dish offers a unique flavor experience.

How to Get to Rize?

Rize is accessible from every city in our country. For those who want to come by bus, direct bus services are available from almost everywhere.
For those who prefer to travel by sea, ferry services to Rize are available from Istanbul, especially during the summer months.
For those who prefer to travel by road in their own vehicles, here is some information about the routes:

• The distance between Trabzon and Rize is approximately 80 kilometers and takes about 1 hour.
• The distance between Ankara and Rize is approximately 820 kilometers and takes about 10 hours.
• The distance between Samsun and Rize is approximately 405 kilometers and takes 5 hours and 10 minutes.  
• The distance between Istanbul and Rize is approximately 1,150 kilometers and takes 13 hours.  
• The distance between Bursa and Rize is approximately 1,160 kilometers and takes 13 hours and 20 minutes.