Things To Do
in Akçakoca

Akçakoca is a picturesque coastal town located on the Black Sea coast of Turkey, known for its stunning beaches and rich natural beauty. The town is famous for its historic sites and vibrant local culture, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. It boasts a charming harbor, lush green hills, and delicious seafood, offering visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Akçakoca is also renowned for its olive oil production and is a great place to experience authentic Turkish hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Akçakoca
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Akçakoca Beach, where you can relax by the sea and enjoy the morning sun. Afterward, head to the Düzce River for a scenic walk along the riverbank.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Akçakoca Castle for panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh fish caught from the Black Sea.

evening
:

Stroll through the town center, exploring local shops and cafes. End your day with dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the beach.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Sazlıca Nature Park, where you can explore beautiful trails and enjoy the lush surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the local olive oil museum to learn about the traditional olive oil production in the region. Enjoy lunch at one of the nearby cafes.

evening
:

Return to the town for dinner at a popular meyhane (tavern), where you can enjoy live music and traditional mezes while soaking in the local atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10-$20
🍕Street Food Snack$2-$5
Coffee$2
🏨Hotel Night$30-$70
🚕Taxi Ride$5-$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Can be crowded during peak summer season
  • Limited public transport options
  • Some attractions may have limited operating hours in winter
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Akçakoca

Visit one of these nice places.

Akçakoca Beach

A stunning beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Akçakoca Castle

Offers a panoramic view of the town and coastline, ideal for architectural and landscape shots.

Sazlıca Nature Park

A lush green area with beautiful trails and scenery that makes for great nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Akçakoca

Akçakoca offers a delightful culinary experience with its fresh seafood, local olive oils, and traditional Turkish dishes. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to taste the region's specialties.

Akçakoca Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Fish

Freshly caught fish grilled to perfection, often served with lemon and herbs.

Must-Try!

Zeytinyağlı Enginar

Artichokes cooked in olive oil, a typical appetizer of the region.

Manti

Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat, served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Fish Market

A vibrant market where you can buy fresh fish directly from local fishermen.

Street Kebab Stalls

Many stalls offer delicious kebabs and other street food options, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Akçakoca experiences a temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers (June to August) can reach temperatures of up to 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) are cooler, averaging around 5-10°C (41-50°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and dress modestly, especially in religious sites.

Hospitality

Turks are known for their hospitality; it's polite to accept offers of tea or coffee.

Table Manners

It is considered polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Safety Guide

Safety

Akçakoca is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid isolated places at night. Emergency services are accessible, and it’s always good to keep emergency contact numbers handy.

Tipping in Akçakoca

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It’s customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot weather perfect for beach activities; however, it can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for hiking and exploring local culture.

Winter

Cold and rainy, with fewer tourists; some attractions may have limited hours.

Nightlife Guide

Akçakoca at Night

Akçakoca has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous beachfront bars and clubs. Visitors can enjoy live music, traditional Turkish music, and dance performances at local taverns. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Akçakoca

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yeniköy Hiking Trail

A scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the Black Sea and surrounding forests.

Çamlık Trail

A moderate trail that winds through pine forests, ideal for a day hike in nature.

Airports

How to reach Akçakoca by plane.

Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO)

Located approximately 130 km from Akçakoca, this small airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest option for air travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Akçakoca is a walkable town, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance. The flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, be mindful of traffic when crossing roads, especially near busy areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population consists of Turkish locals who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

During the summer months, tourists from various countries flock to Akçakoca, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in the region, with local teams regularly playing matches.

Water Sports

Activities such as sailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing are popular due to the coastal location.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Akçakoca is generally light, but the main roads can become congested during peak tourist seasons. Public transportation options include local minibuses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Akçakoca.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but options may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Akçakoca include local clinics and a small hospital. For emergencies, it is advisable to visit larger hospitals in nearby cities like Düzce. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide