Things To Do
in Artvin

Artvin is a picturesque city located in northeastern Turkey, surrounded by lush green mountains and steep cliffs. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, it offers a blend of rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities. The city is home to traditional wooden houses and ancient castles, creating a unique charm that attracts visitors year-round.

With its vibrant local culture and breathtaking scenery, Artvin is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Artvin
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Artvin Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. After exploring the castle, head to the local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit the Atatürk Plaza for some relaxation and people-watching, then stroll through the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can try regional specialties, followed by a leisurely walk along the riverbank to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a short drive to the stunning Borçka Karagöl Nature Park, where you can enjoy a morning hike around the lake and take beautiful photographs.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a picnic lunch in the park and spend some time relaxing in nature. Later, visit the nearby village of Macahel, known for its traditional wooden houses.

evening
:

Return to Artvin and have dinner at a restaurant that offers local fish dishes. End the day with a visit to a tea garden to unwind with a cup of Turkish tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚍Public transportation ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel night$30
🛒Grocery shopping for a week$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Breathtaking natural scenery
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation can be sparse
  • Language barrier may exist
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Artvin

Visit one of these nice places.

Artvin Castle

An ancient castle offering stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, perfect for capturing breathtaking landscapes.

Borçka Karagöl

A picturesque lake surrounded by lush forests, ideal for nature photography.

Macahel Valley

A stunning valley with traditional wooden houses set against a backdrop of mountains, great for capturing the local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Artvin

Artvin offers a delightful culinary experience characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of unique local dishes and beverages that reflect the region's rich heritage.

Artvin Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a popular dish in the Black Sea region.

Must-Try!

Kara Lahana Sarması

Stuffed cabbage leaves with rice and spices, a traditional dish.

Mısır Unu Çorbası

Corn flour soup, known for its comforting flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Artvin Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food like gözleme (stuffed flatbread).

Climate Guide

Weather

Artvin experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal seasons for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, averaging around -5°C (23°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, followed by a friendly smile.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is polite to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Turkish culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Artvin is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, common safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. It's advisable to be cautious when hiking in remote areas and to stay on marked trails.

Tipping in Artvin

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; however, rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially in rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for exploring nature, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant fall colors, particularly in the forests, providing excellent photography opportunities.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, attracting visitors for winter sports and the serene beauty of the snowy landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Artvin at Night

Artvin's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Most venues are casual, with a few local bars and tea houses where you can enjoy traditional music. The nightlife mainly revolves around socializing with friends and family, often over dinner or tea rather than loud clubs.

Hiking in Artvin

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Macahel Valley Trail

This trail offers stunning views of the Macahel Valley and takes you through lush forests and traditional villages.

Borçka Nature Park Trails

Various trails in Borçka Nature Park cater to different skill levels, providing breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding nature.

Airports

How to reach Artvin by plane.

Trabzon Airport

Located approximately 100 km from Artvin, Trabzon Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Artvin is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. However, the hilly terrain can make some areas challenging to navigate on foot. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some steep inclines.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurdish Population

Artvin has a significant Kurdish population, contributing to the region's cultural diversity.

Georgian Community

A historic Georgian community resides in Artvin, particularly in the villages, adding to the area's cultural richness.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a widely popular sport in Artvin, with local teams often playing in regional leagues.

Hiking

Due to the region's mountainous terrain, hiking is a popular recreational activity among locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Artvin is generally light, especially in comparison to larger cities. Public transportation options include local buses and dolmuş (shared taxis), which are affordable and convenient for getting around. However, renting a car is also a good option for exploring the surrounding natural areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Artvin.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, but it’s advisable to communicate your preferences.

Gluten-Free Options

Some traditional dishes are gluten-free; however, cross-contamination can occur, so inform the staff of allergies.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Artvin has a public hospital and several private clinics offering a range of healthcare services. Emergency medical services are available, but in case of severe medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Trabzon for specialized care. Travelers are recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide