Things To Do
in Bartın
Bartın is a compact Black Sea city where a winding river meets green hills, creating a relaxed coastal-town atmosphere. The old town centers around the Bartın River, with cafes, markets, and a laid-back pace. Nearby are beaches, coves, and the historic harbor of Amasra just a short drive away.
Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, scenic viewpoints, and easy access to nature and cultural sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bartın and settle into your charming accommodation. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverside, soaking in the fresh air and delightful views. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring menemen and fresh bread.
Spend the afternoon exploring the historical Bartın Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Wander through the town center to visit local shops and artisan stalls, picking up unique handcrafted souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant serving authentic regional cuisine, such as pide or kebab.
As the sun sets, head to a waterfront eatery for dinner, where you can savor fresh fish grilled to perfection. After your meal, take a evening walk along the river promenade, watching the charming lights of the town come to life. End your day with a traditional Turkish tea at a local teahouse, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Take a short day trip to Amasra, a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites. Start your visit with breakfast at a seaside café, enjoying the view of the Black Sea. Explore the ancient Genoese castle and take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding coastline.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the sandy beaches or participating in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. Try some local specialties for lunch, such as mackerel grilled on the beach or fresh seafood dishes. Stroll through the charming streets of Amasra, visiting local galleries and shops dedicated to traditional crafts.
Return to Bartın and enjoy a casual dinner at a cozy family-run restaurant. Spend the evening at a local bar trying raki, a traditional Turkish drink, paired with meze. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bartın’s nightlife or relax at your accommodation with a book.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transit day pass | $2-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30-60 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Casual, friendly atmosphere and easy access to nature
- Strong seafood and Black Sea cuisine
- Compact town feel with walkable center
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Occasional rain; shoulder seasons can be chilly
- Some sites are a short drive away and require transport
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Hesap, lütfen" - The check, please
- "İyiyim teşekkürler" - I'm good, thank you
Places to Visit in Bartın
Visit one of these nice places.
Fishing boats, stone walls, and golden light over calm water.
Riverside views with old town rooftops and bridges, especially during sunset.
Forest canyons and panoramic overlooks within the Küre range.
Food in Bartın
Bartın Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy yogurt and grain soup that’s a comforting starter across the region.
Must-Try!
Steamed anchovies with oil, garlic, and herbs, a seaside specialty.
Layered pastry with cheese, potatoes, or spinach for a savory treat.
Meat or wheat-based dishes common in Black Sea cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, fish, cheeses, and street snacks.
Seafood stalls and regional sweets near the harbor; try grilled fish or midye dolma.
Freshly baked mısır ekmeği (cornbread) enjoyed with honey or kaymak.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'Merhaba' or 'Selam' is polite; shakes hands with adults; expect a warm, courteous tone.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques; remove shoes and cover shoulders; respect prayer times.
Queue and queue etiquette are common; avoid causing disruption in busy markets.
Safety
Tipping in Bartın
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service is good and not included in the bill.
Turkish Lira widely used; cards are accepted in towns, cash is handy for markets and rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes; humidity can be high; great for beach trips and sunset photography.
Mild days with colorful foliage; rains begin later in the season.
Cool and wet; some coastal attractions quieter, but city museums are open.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hikes and outdoor markets.
Bartın at Night
Hiking in Bartın
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest paths, canyons, and viewpoints within the Küre mountains.
Coastal trails around the harbor with sea views.
Airports
How to reach Bartın by plane.
Closest airport to Bartın; 60-90 minutes by road, with domestic flights.
Major international hub; long transfer by road or domestic flight if connecting via Istanbul.
Another large hub with connections; further by road but accessible by domestic flight.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish families and retirees, plus students and coast workers.
Tourists from Turkey and international travelers exploring Black Sea coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport in the region; local clubs and pickup games.
Coastal lifestyle includes fishing, swimming, and coastal boat trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bartın.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in most places; ask for sebze yemeği (vegetable dish) or zeytinyağlılar (olive oil based).
Many grilled fish, salads, and vegetable dishes can be gluten-free; ask about bread and cross-contact.