Things To Do
in Fındıklı
Fındıklı is a small Black Sea town in Rize Province, perched between lush green hills and the blue coast. Its atmosphere blends Turkish hospitality with Laz influences, evident in tea gardens, wooden hillside houses, and a relaxed pace of life. The town serves as a gateway to the Kaçkar Mountains and the Fırtına River valley, offering easy coastal strolls and forest trails.
Throughout the year, Fındıklı rewards curious travelers with misty mornings, dramatic viewpoints, and warm, welcoming locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Fındıklı, settle into your local accommodation, which boasts stunning views of the Black Sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the coastline, breathing in the fresh sea air and admiring the region's natural beauty. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a seaside café, sampling local delicacies such as menemen and fresh honey.
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming village streets, where you can witness local artisans at work. Visit the Fındıklı Tea Gardens, where you can learn about the tea cultivation process and enjoy some freshly brewed tea. Don’t miss the chance to buy handcrafted souvenirs from local shops that reflect the culture and heritage of the region.
As night falls, dine at a local restaurant featuring freshly caught fish and other regional specialties. Engage with friendly locals who are eager to share stories about their way of life. End the day watching the sunset over the Black Sea, casting a golden hue across the water.
Begin your day with a guided hike through the lush green trails surrounding Fındıklı, where the flora and fauna delight nature lovers. Keep your camera ready to catch the breathtaking views of the hills and valleys. Breakfast can consist of local pastries packed for your hike, giving you energy for the adventure ahead.
After your hike, have lunch at a mountain lodge where you can taste regional dishes made from freshly harvested ingredients. Spend the afternoon enjoying leisurely activities such as birdwatching or simply relaxing amidst nature. Visit some of the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip or to just unwind in the serene atmosphere.
In the evening, return to Fındıklı and treat yourself to a massage or spa service to relieve sore muscles. Attend a local cultural event or festival, depending on the time of year, to experience traditional music and dance. Cap off the night savoring a dessert made with locally sourced ingredients at a cozy café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥖Groceries per day | $4-8 |
| 🚎Local transport ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery with quick access to mountains
- Warm hospitality and a relaxed vibe
- Affordable prices and easy day trips to nature areas
- Rich Laz and Turkish cultural influences
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale tourist facilities
- Occasional language barriers in smaller shops
- Rural roads can be winding and slower to travel
- Weather can be unpredictable in spring and autumn
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Neredesiniz? Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is this? Where is the bathroom?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "Türkçe biliyor musunuz?" - Do you speak Turkish?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Can you speak English?
- "Ben turistim" - I am a tourist
- "Hoş geldiniz" - Welcome
Places to Visit in Fındıklı
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide views of the Black Sea with the town’s coastline and boats silhouetted against golden skies.
Traditional wooden houses perched on the hillside with lush terraces and winding paths.
Rows of tea plants on the hillsides with terraces that lead down toward the town and coast.
Bridges and riverside trails offering reflections, greenery, and occasional mist in the valley.
Food in Fındıklı
Fındıklı Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A skillet of melted cheese blended with cornmeal, often served sizzling and paired with bread; a regional favorite found in many seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Fresh anchovies fried, grilled, or stewed, widely available along the coast and a staple of Black Sea coastal cooking.
A savory pastry filled with cheese or greens, reflecting local Laz culinary influences.
Black tea enjoyed in hillside tea gardens; order çay to experience the local tea culture and scenery.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market stalls offering hazelnuts, fresh produce, dairy, and regional snacks; a great place to sample everyday flavors.
Seaside vendors selling grilled fish, corn on the cob, and simple street treats with views of the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a cordial 'Merhaba' (Hello); show respect to elders; modest dress in rural areas; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Tea is frequently offered as a symbol of hospitality; accepting a small cup is appreciated and polite.
Safety
Tipping in Fındıklı
Ensure a smooth experience
Leaving small tips (about 5-10%) in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up at cafes and for hotel staff is common.
Cash is widely accepted, with credit/debit cards increasingly common in town and larger establishments; ATMs available in the area.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to mildly hot days with high humidity and frequent showers; coastal breezes keep temperatures comfortable but carry fog in the mornings.
Mild days with cooler evenings; vibrant green-to-gold foliage and scenic misty mornings—great for photography and hikes.
Cool, wet, and occasionally windy; snow is possible in higher elevations but coastal areas remain mild; preparation for rain is key.
Pleasant temperatures and blossoming landscapes; ideal for outdoor activities and long walks along the coast and hills.
Fındıklı at Night
Hiking in Fındıklı
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes and viewpoints in the Kaçkar range, suitable for day trips from Fındıklı and nearby towns.
Picturesque valley trails along the river with opportunities for riverside walks and short ascents.
Historic fortress area with nearby scenic trails and viewpoints overlooking forests and river gorges.
Airports
How to reach Fındıklı by plane.
Domestic flights connect the region to major Turkish hubs; roughly 1-2 hours by car from Fındıklı depending on traffic and routes.
A larger international airport about a few hours' drive along the Black Sea coast; offers more flight options than RZV.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence in the Black Sea region with distinct cultural traditions and language, contributing to local music, cuisine, and crafts.
Most residents are ethnic Turkish with Islam as the predominant faith; family-oriented and hospitality-focused culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, followed passionately by locals and visiting fans alike.
Coastal and river fishing are common recreational activities for both locals and visitors.
The Kaçkar Mountains and surrounding valleys attract hikers year-round with diverse trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fındıklı.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for vegetable or cheese-based options and enjoy fresh greens, cheeses, and breads.