Things To Do
in Akçakoca
Akçakoca sits on the Black Sea coast in Turkey's Düzce Province, a tranquil town known for its long beaches, pine forests, and friendly local life. It blends a laid-back fishing-village atmosphere with accessible nature and a touch of regional culture. The town's promenade, cafe culture, and sea views make it ideal for a relaxed coastal break.
Visitors can explore historic waterfronts, nearby forests, and easy day trips into the surrounding hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the charming streets of Akçakoca’s historic center, where you can admire the traditional Ottoman architecture. Stop by the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce and homemade pastries. Don't forget to visit the iconic Akçakoca Castle, which offers stunning views of the Black Sea.
After lunch at a cozy café, continue your exploration by visiting the Düzce Museum, which showcases the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbor, soaking in the coastal views and watching local fishermen at work. As the afternoon sun shines, consider stopping at a local shop to pick up handcrafted souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes while listening to the gentle waves. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the beach promenade, feeling the cool breeze and watching the stars appear in the sky. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a local bar, mingling with friendly locals.
Start your beach day early by heading to the pristine shores of Akçakoca Beach, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. Rent a sunbed and umbrella for a relaxing morning, and take a refreshing dip in the sea to wake up your senses. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying out some water sports, like jet skiing or banana boating.
After soaking up the sun, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, enjoying grilled fish and fresh salads while overlooking the ocean. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, reading a book, or beachcombing for unique shells. If you're up for it, join a group for a fun beach volleyball game with fellow visitors.
As the day winds down, watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a perfect backdrop for your evening. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beach bar, where you can sip on cocktails and enjoy live music. Spend the rest of the evening dancing on the sand or participating in a beach bonfire with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚶Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Hostel dorm bed | $15-25 per night |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal beauty and easy access to nature
- Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
- Friendly locals and great seafood
- Relatively affordable compared to major cities
- Limited nightlife options
- Smaller town amenities
- Seasonal crowd in summer
- Hilly streets can be challenging for some walkers
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede bu?" - Where is this?
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check, please
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "İsminiz ne?" - What is your name?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Konuşuyor muyuz İngilizce?" - Do you speak English?
- "Yardıma ihtiyacım var" - I need help
Places to Visit in Akçakoca
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse offers sweeping views over the Black Sea, best at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful fishing boats and narrow streets provide charming foregrounds for morning light.
Elevated viewpoint above the town with panorama of coastline and hills.
Dramatic sea cliffs and waves, ideal for dramatic seascapes at golden hour.
Food in Akçakoca
Akçakoca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught anchovies lightly fried or grilled and served with warm corn bread and lemon.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish wrapped in soft flatbread with herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
Stuffed mussels with rice, herbs and spices, a coastal staple sold by vendors near the harbor.
Slow-cooked wheat and chickpeas in a hearty, comforting dish sometimes found in taverns.
Local corn bread accompanied by ayran, a salty yogurt drink.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal fruit, vegetables, honey, and small bites from seaside stalls near the harbor.
Grilled fish, squid, fresh simit, and warm corn bread sold along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is common; use courteous titles when addressing strangers; a light kiss on the cheek may occur among friends.
In towns and mosques dress modestly; shoulders and knees covered for religious sites.
Turkish hospitality is important—accept invitations to tea or meals when offered.
Safety
Tipping in Akçakoca
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5-10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory; round up at cafes. Cash tips are common but cards are widely accepted.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with sea breezes; peak crowds on weekends. Bring sun protection and swimwear; water is refreshing.
Akçakoca at Night
Hiking in Akçakoca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate coastal hike with sea views and rocky coves.
Shaded trails through pine and oak trees with occasional viewpoints.
Moderate trek with sweeping vistas of the Black Sea region and Düzce plain.
Airports
How to reach Akçakoca by plane.
Small regional airport about 110-120 km from Akçakoca with flights to Istanbul and Ankara; drive or bus connections available.
Major gateway to Turkey; around 180-200 km away by road; transfer options include bus or car.
A longer option about 420 km away; useful for domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families, retirees, and seasonal workers; many speak Turkish with regional dialects.
Summer vacationers from Istanbul, Ankara and other cities bring a temporary influx of tourists.
A handful of foreign visitors and long-term residents attracted by the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime with local clubs and enthusiastic fans.
Traditional and recreational fishing along the coast and river mouths.
Active summer sports on the beaches.
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boat tours are available seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Akçakoca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, opt for vegetable meze, grilled vegetables, corn bread, and egg dishes; request olive oil instead of butter and confirm no meat-based stock.