Things To Do
in Arhavi

Arhavi is a picturesque town located in the northeastern part of Turkey, along the Black Sea coast. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage. The town offers a unique blend of traditional Turkish architecture and modern amenities, making it a charming destination for travelers.

Surrounded by mountains and the sea, Arhavi is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to experience authentic Turkish culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Arhavi
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bread, olives, cheese, and tea. After breakfast, visit the Arhavi Castle for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

afternoon
:

Head to the Arhavi Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes.

evening
:

Take a stroll along the Black Sea coast, watching the sunset over the water. End your day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh fish and mezes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby mountains, exploring the scenic trails and enjoying the natural beauty. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Visit a local tea garden to learn about tea production in the region. Enjoy a traditional tea tasting experience.

evening
:

Return to Arhavi for a cultural evening, visiting a local art gallery or attending a performance showcasing traditional Turkish music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$5
🍞Loaf of bread$1
🥕Kilogram of vegetables$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and scenery.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be sparse.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Arhavi

Visit one of these nice places.

Arhavi Castle

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the Black Sea, perfect for sunset photography.

Black Sea Coast

The beautiful coastline with its dramatic cliffs and serene beaches provides stunning backdrops.

Local Tea Gardens

Lush green tea plantations create picturesque landscapes that are great for capturing the essence of the region.

Culinary Guide

Food in Arhavi

Arhavi offers a delightful culinary experience, with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich flavors of the Black Sea region. From fresh seafood to traditional mezes, food lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Arhavi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a staple dish in the Black Sea region, typically served with a side of salad.

Must-Try!

Kuymak

A creamy cornmeal dish made with local cheese, often enjoyed for breakfast.

Mıhlama

A cheesy, buttery dish made from cornmeal, perfect as a starter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Arhavi Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheese, and street food.

Street Vendors

Look for vendors selling simit (sesame bread) and roasted chestnuts, popular snacks among locals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Arhavi experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summers (June to August) can see temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) with high humidity, making it ideal for beach activities. Winters (December to February) are milder, averaging around 10°C (50°F), with occasional rainfall. Spring and autumn (March to May and September to November) are pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), perfect for outdoor exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

It is important to show respect to elders, often by greeting them first and using polite language.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local neighborhoods, particularly in rural areas.

Hospitality

Turkish people are known for their hospitality; it’s polite to accept offers of tea or snacks when visiting homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Arhavi is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as securing valuables and staying aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are generally helpful.

Tipping in Arhavi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants. Tipping taxi drivers is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming nature make spring a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers; expect lively coastal areas and a variety of fresh seafood.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create a picturesque setting for hiking and exploring nature.

Winter

Mild winters in Arhavi may bring occasional rain; this period is less crowded, ideal for a quiet escape.

Nightlife Guide

Arhavi at Night

Arhavi's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a few local bars and cafes offering a cozy atmosphere. Many locals enjoy socializing in tea gardens or seaside restaurants in the evening. Occasionally, you might find live music events or small cultural performances in town.

Hiking in Arhavi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kaçkar Mountains National Park

A stunning national park offering diverse trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, with breathtaking views.

Pirinçlik Plateau

A popular hiking destination known for its beautiful meadows and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Arhavi by plane.

Artvin Airport (AJI)

Located about 40 km from Arhavi, Artvin Airport offers limited domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers visiting the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Arhavi is a compact town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, and the flat coastal area is accessible. However, some hilly areas may require more effort to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Turks, who maintain traditional lifestyles and customs.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international backgrounds come to Arhavi for its natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular in Arhavi, with local teams and clubs often engaging in matches.

Hiking

Given the region's beautiful landscapes, hiking is a favored activity among both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Arhavi is generally light, with the main roads connecting to neighboring towns and cities. Public transportation consists of minibuses that operate frequently, making it easy to travel within the region. Biking and walking are popular alternatives for getting around the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Arhavi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian upon request, and there are various vegetable-based mezes.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional bread is common, some restaurants offer gluten-free alternatives. Always ask before ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Arhavi is facilitated by local clinics and a small hospital offering essential services. For more specialized care, residents typically travel to larger cities like Artvin. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical costs abroad.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide