Things To Do
in Hopa

Hopa is a charming coastal town located in the northeastern part of Turkey, nestled near the Black Sea. Known for its lush green landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Hopa serves as a gateway to nearby attractions in the Artvin province. The town is characterized by its warm hospitality, diverse cuisine, and picturesque views of both the sea and the surrounding mountains.

With a blend of modern and traditional Turkish culture, Hopa offers visitors a unique experience of natural beauty and local life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Coastal Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hopa Harbor, where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and take stunning photos of fishing boats and the coastline. Grab a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, visit the nearby Çamlıhemşin area, famous for its lush nature and traditional wooden houses. Enjoy a hike through the scenic trails and visit the picturesque Pokut Plateau.

evening
:

Wrap up your day by dining at a local fish restaurant along the coast, sampling the freshest seafood while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day by exploring the local market in Hopa, where you can find fresh produce, spices, and regional specialties. Engage with local vendors and learn about their crafts.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical sites such as the Hopa Mosque and the nearby ruins of ancient structures that reflect the town's history. Take time to appreciate the local architecture.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local café or bar to enjoy live music and mingle with locals, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Hopa at night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi (within city)$5
🍎Grocery (1 kg apples)$1
🍺Local Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • English may not be widely spoken.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Güle güle" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Hopa

Visit one of these nice places.

Hopa Harbor

A picturesque area filled with colorful fishing boats and scenic views of the Black Sea, perfect for sunset photography.

Pokut Plateau

Famous for its lush green hills and traditional wooden houses, this spot offers breathtaking panoramic views.

Çamlıhemşin Waterfall

A stunning waterfall surrounded by nature, ideal for capturing the beauty of the region.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hopa

Hopa boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects the rich culture of the region, offering a variety of local dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.

Hopa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a beloved dish in the Black Sea region, often served with a side of salad.

Must-Try!

Kara Lahana Sarması

Stuffed cabbage leaves with rice and spices, a hearty and flavorful dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hopa Bazaar

A vibrant market where you can find local fruits, vegetables, and street food snacks like gözleme (stuffed flatbread).

Climate Guide

Weather

Hopa experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in summer can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in autumn and spring.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A handshake is common when meeting someone, and maintaining eye contact shows respect.

Dress Code

Modest clothing is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating, and it’s polite to try a bit of everything served.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hopa is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as in any travel location, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are often willing to assist if you require help.

Tipping in Hopa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, though rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. ATMs are available throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to explore the outdoors, with vibrant colors in nature.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many tourists, perfect for beach activities and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

A beautiful season with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, great for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, winter offers a different charm; however, some outdoor activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Hopa at Night

Hopa's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a mix of local bars and cafes that offer live music, particularly during the summer months. Socializing often occurs in open-air venues where you can enjoy traditional music and dance. While there are not many nightclubs, the atmosphere is vibrant, especially on weekends when locals gather to unwind after a long week.

Hiking in Hopa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rize Plateau

A stunning plateau offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views and lush green landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.

Sahara Plateau

Known for its unique flora and fauna, this hiking trail provides an adventurous experience in a serene environment.

Airports

How to reach Hopa by plane.

Artvin Airport (AJI)

Located approximately 30 km from Hopa, this small airport primarily serves domestic flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers visiting the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hopa is a walkable town, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The town’s layout is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish

The majority demographic group, Turkish nationals, make up the local population, contributing to the town's cultural richness.

Georgian

A significant minority group, especially in the border area, Georgians contribute to the cultural diversity and culinary traditions of Hopa.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a highly popular sport in Hopa, with local teams and community matches frequently held.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth, with many local courts available for play and organized competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hopa is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include minibuses and taxis, which are affordable and cover key areas of the town. However, during peak tourist seasons, traffic may increase as visitors flock to the coastal areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hopa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to ask for specific preparations to avoid meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, fresh fruits, vegetables, and grilled meats are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Hopa are generally accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for both locals and visitors. Emergency services are reliable, and pharmacies are present throughout the town. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare services.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide