Things To Do
in Giresun

Giresun is a picturesque coastal city located on the Black Sea region of Turkey, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich history. It is famous for its lush green hills, tea plantations, and the historic Giresun Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. The region is also known for its agricultural products, particularly hazelnuts, which are a significant part of the local economy.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and outdoor activities amidst the serene backdrop of the Black Sea.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Giresun's Culture and History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Giresun Castle, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the Black Sea.

afternoon
:

Visit the Giresun Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region, followed by a stroll in the city center to experience local shops and cafes.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Giresun dishes, and take a leisurely walk along the waterfront.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Giresun Mountains, where you can explore beautiful trails through lush forests and enjoy nature.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local tea plantation to learn about tea production and enjoy a tasting session.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local tea house or cafe, enjoying the ambiance and possibly some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$8
Coffee$2
🍔Fast food combo$5
🚌Public transportation ticket$0.50
🛒Groceries for a week$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet / Hayır" - Yes / No

Places to Visit in Giresun

Visit one of these nice places.

Giresun Castle

Offers stunning panoramic views of the Black Sea and the city, ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes.

Kale Park

A beautifully landscaped area near the castle, perfect for nature and architectural photography.

Giresun Harbor

Capture the vibrant life of the harbor, with fishing boats and the scenic coastline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Giresun

Giresun offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.

Giresun Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Giresun Pidesi

A local flatbread topped with various ingredients, typically including minced meat and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Mısır Unu Köftesi

Corn flour dumplings that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with yogurt.

Giresun Hazelnuts

Renowned for their quality, these hazelnuts are used in many local dishes and snacks.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Giresun Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food vendors offering traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Giresun has a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in summer can reach 25°C (77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). The region receives significant rainfall throughout the year, especially in spring and autumn, contributing to its lush greenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common when greeting someone, and it is polite to address people with their titles.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect for older individuals is important in Turkish culture, often involving standing when they enter a room.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Giresun is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Giresun

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if the service is good.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many establishments. ATMs are available in the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a wonderful time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers, with opportunities for swimming and sunbathing along the Black Sea.

Autumn

The foliage changes to beautiful fall colors, creating picturesque landscapes for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cool temperatures and occasional snow can create a serene atmosphere, though some outdoor activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Giresun at Night

Giresun's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a mix of tea houses, cafes, and a few bars. Locals often gather in tea gardens to socialize, and there are occasional live music performances in various venues. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Giresun

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kümbet Plateau

A scenic hiking area located about an hour from Giresun, offering stunning views and lush landscapes.

Çamburnu Nature Park

A beautiful area for hiking with diverse flora and fauna, along with trails that lead to breathtaking coastal views.

Airports

How to reach Giresun by plane.

Giresun Airport (GZR)

Located approximately 30 km from the city center, Giresun Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Giresun is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short distance. The coastal promenade is also a pleasant area for walking, offering beautiful views of the sea. However, some areas, particularly those leading up to the castle, can be steep and may require a bit more effort to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Giresun's population consists of Turkish locals, primarily engaged in agriculture, fishing, and tourism.

Tourists

Visitors from various regions, including domestic tourists from other parts of Turkey and international travelers, come to explore Giresun's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Giresun, with local clubs and community matches attracting enthusiastic fans.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with many local courts available for recreational play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Giresun is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses and dolmuş (shared taxis), which are affordable and cover various routes within the city and its surroundings.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Giresun.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, especially those involving vegetables and legumes.

Gluten-Free Options

Corn flour-based dishes are common, providing gluten-free alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Giresun are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Emergency services are accessible, and there are pharmacies throughout the city. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide