Eastern Karadeniz Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Eastern Karadeniz with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Eastern Karadeniz

Eastern Karadeniz, located in the Black Sea region of Turkey, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by travelers. This region boasts stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Karadeniz

Here are some must-visit destinations in Eastern Karadeniz:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum
  • Ataturk’s Mansion in Trabzon
  • Sumela Monastery in Macka district
  • Rize Museum of Ethnography
  • Rize Castle

Natural Attractions of Eastern Karadeniz: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Uzungol Lake in Trabzon
  • Firtina Valley in Rize
  • Ayder Plateau in Rize
  • Zigana Pass
  • Huser Plateau in Artvin

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Karadeniz

Eastern Karadeniz offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some popular routes include:

  • Camlihemsin Ayder Yaylasi Trekking Route
  • Firtina Vadisi Trekking Route
  • Karagol Sahara Plateau Trekking Route
  • Zigana Mountain Trekking Route

Best Things to Do in Eastern Karadeniz: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Eastern Karadeniz:

  • Take a boat tour around Uzungol Lake
  • Visit traditional tea houses and taste local tea
  • Go rafting in Firtina River
  • Explore the Sumela Monastery
  • Taste local dishes and treats like Hamsikoy Butter Cookies and Laz Boregi

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Karadeniz

Day 1 - Explore Trabzon and visit the Hagia Sophia Museum and Ataturk’s Mansion

Day 2 - Visit Uzungol Lake and take a boat tour

Day 3 - Visit the Sumela Monastery and explore the surrounding area

Day 4 - Go on a hiking tour in Firtina Valley and enjoy the natural beauty

Day 5 - Take a day trip to Rize Castle and Museum of Ethnography

Day 6 - Explore the Ayder Plateau and enjoy traditional Turkish baths

Day 7 - Visit Artvin and explore the Huser Plateau

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Karadeniz

Eastern Karadeniz is known for its delicious local cuisine and traditional teas. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hamsikoy Butter Cookies
  • Laz Boregi
  • Trabzon Pidesi
  • Kuymak with honey

Local Beverages

  • Black Sea Tea
  • Rize Tea
  • Ayder Tea

Where to Stay in Eastern Karadeniz: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some accommodation options to consider in Eastern Karadeniz:

  • Rize Green Hotel
  • Sis Hotel Trabzon
  • Hotel Inan Kardesler in Artvin
  • Guesthouse Kral Turk in Camlihemsin

What to Buy in Eastern Karadeniz: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring back home, consider items like:

  • Traditional Turkish tea sets and glasses
  • Locally-made honey
  • Handmade wooden crafts and souvenirs
  • Rize tea and Ayder tea

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Karadeniz

The local residents of Eastern Karadeniz take pride in their cultural heritage and traditions. It is respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and the locals appreciate it when visitors take an interest in their customs and way of life.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Karadeniz

The best time to visit Eastern Karadeniz is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April or November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Karadeniz

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and tea
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Take part in local customs and traditions
  • Respect the natural environment

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the locals or their beliefs
  • Litter or harm the natural environment
  • Underestimate the difficulty of hiking or outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Karadeniz

Eastern Karadeniz is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is always wise to take precautions. Carry your essential documents and valuables with you at all times and avoid carrying large sums of cash. Be vigilant in crowded areas and keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Eastern Karadeniz

The tap water in Eastern Karadeniz is generally safe to drink, but it is best to stick to bottled water to avoid any potential health risks. Make sure to pack any necessary medication and get travel insurance before your trip.

Getting to Eastern Karadeniz: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Karadeniz

Trabzon Airport is the closest airport, located approximately 10 km from the city center. Other airports in the area include Ordu Giresun Airport, Erzurum Airport, and Batumi International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Eastern Karadeniz

Trabzon bus station and Rize bus station have frequent connections to other cities in Turkey.

Other Options

Renting a car or motorbike is a popular option for exploring Eastern Karadeniz, but it is important to note that the roads can be narrow and winding in some areas.

How to Get Around in Eastern Karadeniz

Taxis are available in major cities, but the most convenient way to get around the region is by renting a car or motorbike. Make sure to have an international driver’s license and review any driving regulations before hitting the road.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Karadeniz: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some nearby destinations worth considering:

  • The city of Erzurum
  • The city of Batumi in Georgia
  • The Cappadocia region of Turkey
  • The Mount Nemrut National Park in Adiyaman

Conclusion

Eastern Karadeniz is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. From its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your trip today and discover this hidden gem for yourself!

A hamlet with traditional local architecture up on lush and misty Kaçkar Mountains/Pontic Alps A hamlet with traditional local architecture up on lush and misty Kaçkar Mountains/Pontic Alps Lake Uzungöl. Lake Uzungöl. 2300}} asl, southeast of Rize 2300}} asl, southeast of Rize The Pontic Mountains separate the region from the inland The Pontic Mountains separate the region from the inland


    Giresun
    Sürmene