Things To Do
in Fındıklı

Fındıklı is a charming coastal town located in the Rize Province of Turkey, known for its stunning natural beauty and lush tea gardens. Nestled between the Black Sea and the majestic mountains, it offers a serene escape for visitors looking to explore its rich culture and history. The town is famous for its tea production and boasts a vibrant local market scene.

With warm hospitality and picturesque landscapes, Fındıklı is an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coastal Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely walk along the Fındıklı coastline, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and beautiful views. Visit the local tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a seaside café and then head to the Fındıklı Museum to discover the town's history and culture. Spend some time exploring the local market where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant known for its seafood and then take a stroll along the beach, watching the sunset over the Black Sea.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local bakery, then take a hike in the nearby Kaçkar Mountains, known for their breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local tea house to relax and enjoy some traditional Turkish tea. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby villages and experiencing the local way of life.

evening
:

Head back to Fındıklı for dinner at a popular restaurant, followed by a visit to a local café for some Turkish coffee and desserts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$8
Cup of Turkish Coffee$2
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
🏨Night in a Hotel$40
🍏1 kg of Apples$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Friendly locals and warm hospitality.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent or reliable.
  • Language barrier can be an issue for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Fındıklı

Visit one of these nice places.

Fındıklı Beach

A scenic spot perfect for capturing the sunset over the Black Sea, with beautiful views of the coastline.

Tea Gardens

Lush green tea fields that create a stunning backdrop for photography, especially in the early morning light.

Kaçkar Mountains

Majestic mountain scenery that offers countless opportunities for breathtaking landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fındıklı

Fındıklı offers a delightful culinary experience with a range of local dishes that reflect the rich flavors of the Black Sea region.

Fındıklı Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a local specialty, typically served with lemon and a side of salad.

Must-Try!

Laz Böreği

A traditional pastry made with layers of dough and filled with cheese or spinach, unique to the Laz people.

Çay

Turkish tea, a staple beverage enjoyed throughout the day, often served in small tulip-shaped glasses.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fındıklı Market

A bustling local market where visitors can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fındıklı experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). The region receives significant rainfall throughout the year, particularly in late autumn and winter, contributing to its lush greenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when greeting someone. It is polite to greet with 'Merhaba' (Hello).

Dress Code

Dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Hospitality

If offered food or drink, it is polite to accept, as refusing can be seen as impolite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fındıklı is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are accessible, and it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health and safety.

Tipping in Fındıklı

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand for small vendors and markets is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and hikes.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for beach activities, but it can get crowded during the peak tourist season.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, ideal for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold and snowy in the mountains, offering opportunities for winter sports, but be prepared for chilly weather.

Nightlife Guide

Fındıklı at Night

Fındıklı has a relaxed nightlife scene, with several cafes and bars that offer a cozy atmosphere to unwind. Many establishments feature live music, especially during the summer months, and locals often gather for socializing in the evenings. While the nightlife is not as vibrant as in larger cities, it provides a charming and friendly environment for visitors to enjoy.

Hiking in Fındıklı

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Çamlıhemşin Hiking Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys, suitable for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.

Ayder Plateau Trail

This trail leads to the famous Ayder Plateau, known for its lush greenery and hot springs, making it a perfect destination for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Fındıklı by plane.

Rize-Artvin Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Fındıklı, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the nearest option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fındıklı is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the coastal promenade provides a pleasant walking route along the beach. However, some areas may have steep inclines, particularly when heading towards the tea gardens or mountainous regions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Laz People

The Laz are an ethnic group native to the region, known for their unique language and rich cultural traditions.

Turkish Nationals

The majority of the population consists of Turkish nationals, who contribute to the vibrant culture and hospitality of Fındıklı.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Fındıklı, with local teams playing in regional leagues and many residents passionately supporting them.

Tea Picking

While not a conventional sport, tea picking is an important seasonal activity that involves competition among locals for the best harvest.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Fındıklı is generally light, with most locals relying on walking or bicycles for short distances. Public transportation is available but may not run as frequently as in larger cities. Visitors can expect a relaxed driving environment, but caution is advised on narrow and winding roads, especially in rural areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fındıklı.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; be sure to ask about options when dining out.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes may be available, but it's advisable to check with the restaurant beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Fındıklı is adequate, with a local hospital and several clinics available for basic medical services. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals can be found in nearby Rize. It is recommended for travelers to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide