Things To Do
in Çayeli

Çayeli is a charming coastal town located in the Rize Province of Turkey, known for its lush green tea plantations and stunning Black Sea views. The town has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by both local traditions and historical trade routes. Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the region.

Çayeli also serves as a gateway to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Çayeli
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Çayeli Tea Gardens to learn about the tea production process and enjoy a fresh cup of local tea.

afternoon
:

Head to the Çayeli Castle, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the town and the Black Sea.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional dishes while watching the sunset over the sea.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby mountainous region, experiencing the natural beauty and fresh air of the Black Sea region.

afternoon
:

Visit the local fish market to see the daily catch and interact with local fishermen.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out in the town, experiencing local music and perhaps visiting a tea house for some traditional entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍵Cup of Local Tea$1
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$3
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality from locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood and tea.
  • Limited nightlife options for those looking for vibrant scenes.
  • Language barrier as English is not widely spoken.
  • Public transportation may be limited compared to larger cities.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Çayeli

Visit one of these nice places.

Çayeli Castle

A historical site offering stunning views of the town and the Black Sea, perfect for scenic photography.

Tea Plantations

Lush green landscapes ideal for capturing the beauty of tea cultivation.

The Black Sea Coast

Picturesque beaches and coastal scenery, particularly during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Çayeli

Çayeli offers a delightful culinary experience with its fresh seafood, local tea, and traditional Turkish dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Çayeli Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a popular dish along the Black Sea coast, served with lemon.

Must-Try!

Çayeli Kebabı

Local kebab variations often made with fresh lamb or chicken, marinated with local spices.

Mısır Ekmeği

Cornbread, a staple in the Black Sea region, often served with meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Çayeli Fish Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Local Street Vendors

Various street vendors selling snacks like simit (sesame bread) and roasted chestnuts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Çayeli experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year, peaking in autumn, making the region lush and green.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, greeting them politely and using formal language.

Dress Modestly

While Çayeli is relatively liberal, modest dressing is appreciated, particularly in more traditional areas.

Hospitality

Accepting offers of tea or food is common; it’s considered rude to refuse.

Safety Guide

Safety

Çayeli is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Traveling in groups at night and avoiding isolated areas is recommended.

Tipping in Çayeli

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming landscapes make it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists to the beaches and tea gardens, but it can also be crowded.

Autumn

Beautiful fall colors in the tea plantations and a more tranquil atmosphere, ideal for hiking.

Winter

Cool temperatures and occasional snowfall, perfect for cozy indoor activities and enjoying hot tea.

Nightlife Guide

Çayeli at Night

Çayeli's nightlife is relatively low-key but charming, with local tea houses and cafes that come alive in the evening. Some spots feature live music, especially traditional Turkish folk music. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals often enjoy gathering for tea and conversation rather than loud nightlife scenes.

Hiking in Çayeli

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zigana Mountain Trails

A series of trails offering stunning views and varying difficulty levels, ideal for all hiking enthusiasts.

Kaçkar Mountains

A popular hiking destination with breathtaking scenery, suitable for experienced hikers looking for adventure.

Airports

How to reach Çayeli by plane.

Rize-Artvin Airport

Approximately 30 km from Çayeli, this airport offers domestic flights, making it accessible for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Çayeli is moderately walkable, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but some areas may have steep inclines. Exploring the town on foot is the best way to experience local life.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents work in agriculture, particularly in tea and hazelnut cultivation.

Fishing Community

The fishing community plays a vital role in the local economy, providing fresh seafood to markets and restaurants.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport among locals, with various teams and community matches.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling events are often held, showcasing local talent and culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Çayeli is generally light, but can become congested during peak tourist seasons. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis (dolmuş), which are affordable and convenient for getting around the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Çayeli.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask for specific preparations.

Halal Food

Food in Çayeli is predominantly halal, but it's advisable to confirm with the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are available in Çayeli, including local clinics and hospitals. For serious medical issues, larger hospitals are located in nearby cities like Rize. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide