14-Day Black Sea Adventure: A Journey into the Heart of Lush Plateaus

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey stretching from the lush green mountains of the Black Sea to its cloud-kissed plateaus? This 14-day Black Sea adventure will captivate you with its natural beauty, thousands of years of history, and rich cultural heritage. Starting from Samsun and extending through Sinop, Amasra, Safranbolu, Kastamonu, Çorum, Ordu, Giresun, Trabzon, Rize, and the hidden plateaus of Artvin and Rize, this comprehensive itinerary will help you create the most beautiful memories of your life.

Black Sea Tour Route: Cities, Nature, and Plateaus

Route: Samsun → Sinop → Amasra → Safranbolu → Kastamonu → Çorum → Samsun → Ordu → Giresun → Trabzon → Rize → Artvin → Rize Plateaus → Trabzon

Start Point: Samsun Çarşamba Airport End Point: Trabzon Airport

DAY 1: Arrival in Samsun – The Gateway to the Black Sea

We begin your Black Sea adventure in Samsun, a city of profound historical significance in Turkish history. Upon arrival, we visit the iconic Atatürk Monument. Afterwards, we explore the Bandırma Ferry Museum, commemorating Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s arrival in Samsun to launch the Turkish War of Independence. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing walk along the scenic Black Sea coast and experience the city’s warm, welcoming ambiance.

Overnight stay: Samsun

DAY 2: Sinop – Fortress Walls and Coastal Heritage

After breakfast, we drive along the scenic coastline to Sinop, one of the most naturally protected harbors on the Black Sea. Here, we explore the imposing Sinop Fortress and visit the Historical Sinop Prison, once home to famous Turkish writers and political prisoners. Spend the afternoon wandering the old town’s narrow streets and enjoy fresh seafood at a local waterfront restaurant.

Overnight stay: Sinop

DAY 3: Amasra – A Hidden Gem of the Black Sea

We travel to Amasra, a charming seaside town nestled between green hills and the deep blue sea. We cross the historic Roman bridge and explore Amasra Castle and Fatih Mosque. Take time to relax on the beach or stroll through the lively harbor. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner of locally caught fresh fish.

Overnight stay: Amasra

DAY 4: Safranbolu – A Journey Through Ottoman Times

We head inland to Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Visit landmarks such as Cinci Han and the historical bazaars filled with artisan shops and the sweet aromas of saffron. Discover the town’s old mansions and sample traditional desserts flavored with local saffron.

Overnight stay: Safranbolu

DAY 5: Kastamonu & Çorum – Echoes of Ancient Civilizations

We begin the day by exploring the historical center of Kastamonu. After visiting Kastamonu Castle and other historical structures in the city, we arrive in Çorum, a city bearing the traces of centuries, in the evening. We stay overnight in Çorum and rest for the next day.

Overnight stay: Çorum

DAY 6: Çorum – Exploring Hattusa, The Hittite Capital

Today, we set out to explore one of Turkey's most significant ancient heritage sites: Hattusa, the former capital of the Hittite Empire. In this ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, we walk among monumental gates, temple ruins, and ancient inscriptions. We journey into the mysterious world of the Hittites, witnessing the grandeur of a forgotten civilization. In the evening, we return to Samsun for an overnight stay near the coast.

Overnight stay: Samsun

DAY 7: Ordu – Panoramic Vistas Above the Sea

We travel east to Ordu, a coastal city framed by lush hills and the sea. Enjoy a scenic cable car ride up to Boztepe Hill for panoramic views of the city and coastline. Afterwards, stroll through the lively city center and discover the local culture and cuisine.

Overnight stay: Ordu

DAY 8: Giresun – The Island of Legends

We drive to Giresun, a city famed for its hazelnuts and coastal beauty. Take a boat trip to Giresun Island, the only island along Turkey’s Black Sea coast, steeped in mythology. Later, visit Giresun Castle for spectacular views and explore the city’s historic core.

Overnight stay: Giresun

DAY 9: Trabzon – Imperial Legacy and Historical Texture

We arrive in Trabzon, a city with a rich Byzantine and Ottoman past. Visit the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon, known for its stunning frescoes, and the elegant Atatürk Pavilion set amid gardens. Spend the rest of the day exploring Trabzon’s bustling bazaars and historic neighborhoods.

Overnight stay: Trabzon

DAY 10: Uzungöl & Ayder Plateau – Nature’s Masterpieces

We take a day trip into the Kaçkar Mountains, starting with Uzungöl, a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by pine forests. Continue to Ayder Plateau, known for its picturesque wooden houses, thermal springs, and mountain views. Enjoy peaceful nature walks and the fresh mountain air.

Overnight stay: Trabzon or local plateau hotel

DAY 11: Rize – Tea Gardens and Mountain Greenery

We continue east to Rize, the heart of Turkey’s tea industry. Visit a tea plantation and factory to witness the tea-making process firsthand. Enjoy a cup of locally brewed tea while overlooking terraced plantations. Sample local dishes such as muhlama and fresh Black Sea fish.

Overnight stay: Rize

DAY 12: Artvin – Journey into the Wild Northeast and Karagöl

After Rize, we proceed towards the dramatic landscapes of Artvin. We arrive in Artvin, home to towering mountains and lush valleys. We visit Karagöl (Black Lake) in the Şavşat region; a peaceful alpine lake ideal for nature walks and photography. Later, we explore the city center of Artvin, perched on steep slopes.

Overnight stay: Artvin

DAY 13: Exploring Rize Plateaus – A Day Above the Clouds

Today, our route leads us into the heart of the Black Sea, to plateaus hidden among the clouds. We set out to explore Rize's magnificent Kaçkar Plateaus (e.g., Pokut, Sal, Huser, or Elevit Plateaus, to be determined based on weather and road conditions). Offering scenery like a postcard with their lush nature, wooden plateau houses, and unique views, you can enjoy nature walks, fresh air, and local delicacies here. This day will be one of the highlights of your Black Sea plateau tour.

Overnight stay: Rize or a hotel/pension in the plateau region

DAY 14: Return to Trabzon and Departure

After breakfast, we leave the last beauties of the Black Sea behind and head towards Trabzon. Depending on your flight time, you can enjoy some final shopping or a coffee break in Trabzon. Afterwards, you will be transferred to Trabzon Airport, where your Black Sea tour, full of unforgettable memories, comes to an end.

End of Tour