Great Weekend Routes Close to Trabzon
Trabzon is a city in the eastern Black Sea region that stands out with its historical and natural beauties. Cities that are close and easily accessible to Trabzon attract attention with their rich cultural heritage, natural beauties and unique features.
Rize
A hidden gem waiting to be discovered with its nature, history, and flavors, Rize offers a mystical Black Sea atmosphere and unforgettable memories. How about a journey to Rize to experience a unique world of lush landscapes and local culture?
Ayder Plateau
Ayder Plateau is one of Rize's most famous tourist attractions, known for its magnificent nature, hot springs, and traditional plateau houses. Here, you can take nature walks, enjoy the thermal springs, and experience the local plateau culture up close.
Fırtına Valley
Located in the Ardeşen district, Fırtına Valley is a favorite among rafting enthusiasts. You can enjoy rafting in the Fırtına River, or spend time trekking and camping amidst the valley’s lush nature.
Zil Castle
Zil Castle is a historic fortress built on a steep cliff in Fırtına Valley, thought to date back to the 14th century. It offers visitors a breathtaking view and is ideal for both history and nature lovers.
Pokut Plateau
This plateau, seemingly floating above the clouds, offers unique scenery. The wooden houses and surrounding nature make it a perfect spot for photography. You can also explore the area's natural beauty with scenic hikes.
Anzer Plateau
Home of the famous Anzer honey, Anzer Plateau is a great spot to enjoy natural beauty, purchase local products, and relax in the fresh air. Anzer honey is one of the region’s special flavors and is a must-try.
Rize Castle
Located in the city center, Rize Castle is ideal for those wanting to explore the city’s historical texture. With Byzantine-era walls and a magnificent city view, the castle offers a blend of history and nature.
Çamlıhemşin
Çamlıhemşin is a district famous for its natural beauty, including historic stone bridges, arch bridges, and picturesque plateaus that resemble postcards. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these stunning moments. You can also visit the local villages to get a closer look at regional culture.
Ovit Plateau
Located in the İkizdere district, Ovit Plateau is one of Turkey's highest plateaus. You can explore the rich flora of the Black Sea region and enjoy hiking in the cool plateau air. In winter, it becomes an ideal place for snow sports.
Kaçkar Mountains National Park
The Kaçkar Mountains National Park is perfect for nature walks, mountaineering, and camping. It’s home to Turkey's fourth-highest peak, Kaçkar Mountain, and boasts rich plant life and wildlife.
Palovit Waterfall
Palovit Waterfall is one of Rize's most spectacular waterfalls, cascading down from a height of 15 meters. It’s an excellent spot for cooling off, especially in the summer.
What to Eat in Rize
Laz Böreği: A sweet pastry made with thin layers of dough and custard, similar to baklava. Try it at Lale Lokantası.
Rize Kavurma: A flavorful dish made by roasting meat with special spices. Liman Lokantası is one of the best places to try it.
Muhlama: A popular cornmeal and cheese dish from Rize, best enjoyed at Sini Yöresel Yemek Lokantası. Made with plenty of butter and cheese, muhlama is especially popular at breakfast.
Stuffed Black Cabbage: Prepared by wrapping a mixture of rice and ground meat in black cabbage leaves. Çayeli Lahana Sarma Evi is known for serving this dish at its best.
Anzer Honey: Known for its health benefits, Anzer honey is one of Rize’s prized products. You can taste and buy this honey in Anzer Village.
Anchovies: A symbol of the Black Sea, anchovies are best enjoyed in Rize. Balıkçı Hüseyin is popular for its fresh and crispy fried anchovies.
Rize’s Famous Buttered Pide: Especially delicious in İkizdere, where the İkizdere Pidecisi is an ideal place to try this local specialty.
Stir-Fried Pickled Beans: A unique dish from Rize, made by stir-frying pickled green beans. Osman Usta's place is known for serving this dish at its best.
Where to Stay in Rize: https://www.boutiquesmallhotels.com/rize-hotels
Giresun
Located on the enchanting coastline 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 gems, with its lush green plateaus, crystal-clear lakes, and unique flavors. The city's historical texture, cultural heritage, and warm-hearted people offer a different discovery at every turn, making it a Black Sea pearl waiting to be explored. In this city, every corner holds traces of the past and the unmatched beauty of nature. When you step into Giresun, you'll find yourself in a fairy tale world where history and nature embrace each other.
Giresun Castle
One of the city’s most important landmarks, Giresun Castle, is located on a hill that dominates the city center. From the castle’s walls, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Black Sea and feel the historical atmosphere. During the summer, concerts and events held within the castle provide an enjoyable experience.
Giresun Island
Giresun Island, the only habitable island in the Black Sea, is famous for its mythological stories and natural beauty. You can reach the island via boat tours and explore its historical ruins while enjoying nature walks.
Zeytinlik Neighborhood
Zeytinlik Neighborhood, one of the best-preserved historical areas of Giresun, stands out with its Ottoman-era stone mansions and narrow streets. Walking among the historical houses offers a journey back in time.
Kümbet Plateau
Ideal for those who want to explore Giresun's natural beauty, Kümbet Plateau is one of the most popular destinations for plateau tourism. In the plateau, you can hike, stay in traditional houses, and enjoy local delicacies.
Mavi Göl (Blue Lake)
Famous for its natural beauty, Mavi Göl (Blue Lake) is located in Giresun’s Dereli district. The lake, with its turquoise color and surrounding natural wonders, creates a peaceful environment. You can picnic around the lake and enjoy nature.
Kulakkaya Plateau
One of the best places to experience the enchanting nature and peaceful atmosphere of the Black Sea region, Kulakkaya Plateau is located in Giresun’s Dereli district, about 45 kilometers from the city center. With its natural beauty, fresh air, and serene atmosphere, it is a favorite destination for nature lovers. The breathtaking view of the mountains and valleys disappearing into mist from the highlands of Kulakkaya is a must-see. These unique landscapes are also a haven for photography enthusiasts.
Kuzalan Waterfall
For those who want to spend time in the tranquility and peace of nature, Kuzalan Waterfall is like a paradise. You can picnic around the waterfall, swim in the cool waters, and escape from the oppressive summer heat. Nature photographers can also capture amazing shots here.
What to Eat in Giresun
Giresun Pide: A famous dish of the Black Sea region, you can also taste Giresun’s version of pide, known for its thin dough and generous toppings. You can try this flavor at pide shops in the city center, with "Fındıkzade Pide" or "Meşhur Karadeniz Pidecisi" being recommended.
Hamsi: The Black Sea's indispensable fish, hamsi, also holds a special place in Giresun. You can find various preparations like fried hamsi or steamed hamsi in the city's fish restaurants. "Balıkçı Mustafa" is one of the restaurants that serves fresh hamsi dishes.
Karalahana Sarma: A beloved dish from Black Sea cuisine, karalahana sarma is frequently consumed in Giresun. This dish consists of cabbage leaves filled with rice and spices, then wrapped and cooked. You can find this dish at local restaurants.
Hazelnut Sweets: As Giresun is a significant producer of hazelnuts in Turkey, hazelnut-based sweets are very popular here. You can try hazelnut baklava, hazelnut paste, and other sweet treats in the city’s bakeries. "Giresun Fındık Evi" is a great place to enjoy these desserts.
Cornbread: A traditional Black Sea dish, cornbread is often eaten in Giresun, especially for breakfast or alongside meals. You can find this bread at bakeries throughout the city.
Where to Stay in Giresun https://www.boutiquesmallhotels.com/giresun-hotels
Artvin
For those wishing to embrace the lush nature of the Black Sea, walk adventure-filled trails, and find peace in villages rich with history, Artvin is a true paradise. Located in Turkey’s northeastern corner, near the Georgian border, this enchanting city awaits discovery with its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. From plateaus atop mountain peaks to rivers coursing through deep valleys, Artvin offers countless exploration opportunities for nature lovers and adventurers. In this city, each corner has its own charm, and you’ll feel as if time has stopped while nature envelops your spirit.
Karagöl-Sahara National Park
Karagöl, a lake surrounded by lush forests, is located in the Borçka district. Sahara Plateau, famous for its plateau festivals, is in the Şavşat district. The national park is ideal for nature walks, camping, and picnicking.
Macahel (Camili) Region
Recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, Macahel is an area of unique natural beauty near the Georgian border. This region is known for its rich flora and fauna, traditional wooden houses, and authentic lifestyle.
Çoruh River
One of the fastest-flowing rivers in the world, the Çoruh River is popular with rafting enthusiasts. Rafting tours along the river provide an adrenaline-packed experience.
Karçal Mountains
The Karçal Mountains offer magnificent views and challenging trails for mountaineers and trekking enthusiasts. The vistas from the mountain peaks provide unforgettable moments, especially for photography lovers.
Şavşat Karagöl
Located in Şavşat, Karagöl is a serene lake surrounded by forests. You can enjoy walks around the lake, go fishing, or have a picnic in this peaceful setting.
Mençuna Waterfall
Situated in the Arhavi district, Mençuna Waterfall is one of the area’s most impressive natural attractions. A short nature walk leads to the waterfall, where the cool waters and surrounding greenery offer a sense of tranquility.
Barhal Church
Located in Altıparmak Village of Yusufeli, Barhal Church is a historic structure from the 10th century. Now used as a mosque, this church reflects the rich history of the region.
Dolishane Church
About 15 km from Artvin city center, Dolishane Church was built in the 10th century and is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture. It is now used as a mosque.
Atatepe
Near the city center, Atatepe is home to Turkey’s largest Atatürk statue. From this hilltop, you can enjoy stunning views of Artvin and capture fantastic photos.
Hell Creek Canyon
Located in Yusufeli, Hell Creek Canyon is one of Turkey's narrowest canyons and a perfect spot for nature walks and adventure lovers.
Kafkasör Plateau
About 10 km from Artvin city center, Kafkasör Plateau is famous for its annual bullfighting festival. The plateau's fresh air and natural beauty offer a peaceful experience for visitors.
Maral Waterfall
Situated in the Macahel region, Maral Waterfall cascades down from a height of about 63 meters, making it one of the area’s most spectacular waterfalls.
What to Eat in Artvin
Kaygana: A traditional Black Sea dish, usually eaten at breakfast. Doğa Restaurant is an ideal place to try this delicacy.
Çılbır: An egg dish prepared with yogurt and butter. İkizdere Lezzet Durakları is one of the best places to taste this traditional dish.
Stuffed Rib (Kaburga Dolması): A dish made with ribs stuffed with rice, meat, and spices. Pınarbaşı Et Lokantası serves this delicacy at its finest.
Where to Stay in Artvin: https://www.boutiquesmallhotels.com/artvin-hotels
Ordu
Ordu, one of the Black Sea region’s provinces blessed with natural beauty, offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its rich nature, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine. This city, where green meets blue, is a paradise for nature lovers with its plateaus featuring every shade of green, a pristine, clear sea, and breathtaking views.
Boztepe
Boztepe, located in the city center, offers one of the best views of Ordu. Situated on a high hill, this area is ideal for those who want to admire both the cityscape and the stunning nature of the Black Sea.
Çambaşı Plateau
Famous for its fresh air and natural beauty, Çambaşı Plateau welcomes visitors nearly all year round. With its wooded areas, walking trails, and natural ponds, it provides a tranquil environment.
Ordu Castle
The historic Ordu Castle is a symbol of the city and an essential stop for those wanting to delve into Ordu’s history and culture. Positioned on a high point, the castle captivates visitors with its historic ambiance.
Perşembe Plateau
Perşembe Plateau is one of Ordu’s most popular plateaus, offering breathtaking views. Here, visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking by natural ponds, and sampling local delicacies.
Ulubey Canyon
Ulubey Canyon is one of Ordu’s stunning natural attractions and among the largest canyons in the Black Sea region. It is an excellent spot for hiking and nature sports.
What to Eat in Ordu
Fresh Pea Pancake (Taze Bezelye Kayganası): A popular dish in Ordu. Try it at Ordu Kervansaray Lonaktası.
Chard Fritters (Pazı Mücveri): A favorite in Black Sea cuisine. Sample it at Körfez Köfte Ordu.
Breakfast: Fatsalı Hünkar Restaurant in Dolunay offers a delightful breakfast with a seaside view. Be sure to also try their famous pide at the city center locations.
Dinner by the Sea: Rıhtım Lounge in Dolunay is recommended for a dinner of rakı and seafood or an enjoyable evening meal right by the sea.
Karadeniz-Style Beef Shank (Dana İncik Haşlama): A must-try dish at İstasyon Fatsa.
Where to Stay in Ordu: https://www.boutiquesmallhotels.com/ordu-hotels
