Things To Do
in Espiye
Espiye is a small Black Sea town in Giresun Province, Turkey, perched along a green, misty coast. It blends a working harbor, busy markets, and pine-covered hills that rise behind the town. Local life revolves around fishing, hazelnuts, and the simple pleasures of tea houses by the sea.
Visitors come to stroll the coast, sample fresh seafood, and use Espiye as a base for nearby hikes and waterfalls.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Land at Trabzon airport and take a scenic 2-hour drive to Espiye. Check into a seaside pension overlooking the Black Sea. Feel the salty breeze as you unpack and prepare for your first exploration.
Head straight to Espiye harbor and watch the colorful fishing boats bobbing along the quay. Strike up conversations with local fishermen and learn about their daily catch. Sample freshly grilled anchovies at a waterfront stall, tasting the sea in every bite.
Stroll along the newly renovated promenade as the sun dips below the horizon. Sip a cup of locally brewed tea at a seaside café and listen to the gentle lapping of waves. Let the mellow glow of harbor lights set a tranquil tone for your first night in town.
Enjoy a hearty Turkish breakfast at your pension, with olives, cheese, and homemade jam. Board a minibus bound for the lush foothills leading to Köprübaşı Waterfall. Hike along a well-marked trail, inhaling the crisp scent of pine and sounds of distant tumbling water.
Arrive at the waterfall’s base and feel the mist cool your face as the cascade thunders down. Explore hidden caves behind the curtain of water for an adventurous photo opportunity. Spread a picnic blanket on nearby rocks and feast on gözleme and fresh fruit.
Return to town for a brief rest as the sky turns pastel shades. Wander through Espiye’s historic streets and admire Ottoman-era houses bathed in dusky light. Conclude with a dinner of karalahana çorbası (collard greens soup) at a cozy local restaurant.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕️Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at casual restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚇Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush scenery and access to the coast
- Friendly locals and good value for money
- Limited nightlife and large-town amenities
- Smaller transport network may require planning
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredesin?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Bakar mısınız?" - Excuse me (to get attention)
- "Burası güvenli mi?" - Is this safe?
- "İngilizce konuşur musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Espiye
Visit one of these nice places.
The working harbor with colorful fishing boats and the way light plays on the water makes for atmospheric seascapes.
Winding coastal roads and viewpoints offer sweeping views of the Black Sea and pine-covered hills.
Narrow cobblestone lanes, traditional stone houses, and a historic mosque provide intimate street photography opportunities.
A vantage point above the town where you can shoot sunset silhouettes over the water.
Food in Espiye
Espiye Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught anchovies lightly fried and served with lemon; a staple along the Black Sea coast.
Must-Try!
A rich cheese and butter fondue served hot with cornmeal bread; a signature Black Sea comfort dish.
A layered savory pastry from Laz cuisine, available in local bakeries and cafes.
A traditional snack of cornmeal bread studded with hazelnuts, often enjoyed with tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly bazaar where you can taste fresh fish, hazelnuts, vegetables, and street snacks like simit and gözleme.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering grilled fish, mussels, and warm corn bread.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting of Merhaba or Selam is common; a handshake is typical for first meetings.
Modest clothing is appreciated in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting mosques.
Turkish hospitality is strong; accepting tea or snacks is common and courteous.
Safety
Tipping in Espiye
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service is good; rounding up the bill is common in casual places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Green hills come alive with blooming flora; mild days and fresh air make it ideal for walks and light hiking.
Warm days with coastal breezes; humidity can rise inland, but the sea stays inviting and beaches are popular.
Pleasant temperatures with gradually increasing rain; great for scenic drives and harvest-season cuisine.
Cool and wet with frequent rain; higher elevations may see snow, while the coast remains temperate enough for short outings.
Espiye at Night
Hiking in Espiye
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and ridge trails in the Küre Mountains offering panoramic sea and valley views.
Gentle to moderate hikes along the Black Sea coast with pine and beech forests.
Airports
How to reach Espiye by plane.
Nearest regional airport with domestic flights and some international connections; about 90-110 km from Espiye by road.
Major international gateway in the region; about 150-170 km from Espiye by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Turkish; many locals come from families with Laz heritage and coastal communities.
A significant portion of the local culture reflects Laz heritage with language and culinary influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches are common in town stadiums.
Coastal fishing is a common pastime and livelihood along the Black Sea.
Forest and mountain trails attract outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Espiye.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include grilled vegetables, legumes, cornmeal dishes, fresh salads, and pide; most places will accommodate special diets if asked in Turkish.