Things To Do
in Of
Of is a tranquil Black Sea town in northeast Turkey, where pine-clad hills meet a rocky coastline. The town blends traditional stone houses with a lively fishing culture and welcoming locals. Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby valleys, plateaus, and coastal trails.
Visitors are drawn to fresh seafood, Laz heritage influences, and panoramic views that accompany a relaxed pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Trabzon Airport and take a scenic drive to the charming town of Of, known for its picturesque landscapes and lush greenery. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy your first taste of traditional Turkish breakfast with fresh bread, olives, and local cheese. Stroll through the streets, soaking up the serene atmosphere and friendly locals.
Visit the stunning Of Mosque, an architectural gem surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful ambiance. Explore local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and sample delicious local treats like Trabzon's famous Akçaabat meatballs. End your afternoon with a visit to the nearby Çaykara district, renowned for its beautiful tea gardens.
Savor a quiet dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish from the Black Sea. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the calm riverside, experiencing the tranquility Of has to offer. Conclude your day by enjoying a cup of Turkish tea under the starry skies.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike in the stunning Kachkar Mountains. The trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, and you'll have the opportunity to encounter diverse flora and fauna. Embrace the fresh mountain air as you trek through pristine landscapes.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the majestic peaks and lush valleys. Spend the afternoon visiting the ancient ruins of the area, learning about the rich history and culture that defines this region of Turkey. Capture stunning photographs as every angle reveals a new masterpiece of nature.
Return to Of and refresh at your accommodation. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery, where you can try authentic regional dishes like corn bread and savory stews. Reflect on your day’s adventures while seated by the fire, enjoying warm hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $9-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1.5-3 |
| 🚶Public transport (one-way) | $0.6-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-70 |
| 🧺Grocery staple | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Black Sea coastline and lush mountains
- Warm, hospitable locals and affordable prices
- Fresh seafood, distinctive Laz culture
- Good base for exploring northeast Turkey
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Some English may be limited outside tourist spots
- Hilly terrain and narrow streets can be challenging to navigate
- Seasonal crowds and weather can affect outdoor plans
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Nerede bulabilirim?" - Where can I find?
- "Banyo nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Yardım edin lütfen" - Help please
Places to Visit in Of
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient ruins overlooking the harbor with expansive views of the Black Sea and the town below.
Golden-hour glow over the water, with boats and fishermen framed by pine silhouettes.
Cobblestone lanes and weathered façades offer classic Black Sea architecture photography.
Food in Of
Of Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed anchovies with olive oil, garlic, and herbs; a seasonal staple served in many seaside spots.
Must-Try!
A rich fondue of local cheese and cornmeal, typically served hot with bread.
A savory pastry filled with potato or cheese and herbs, reflecting Laz culinary influence.
Rice cooked with anchovies and aromatics; a regional favorite often found in fish taverns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, cheeses, and pastries; great for a quick bite or to assemble a picnic.
Grilled corn, simit, borek pastries, and fried fish bites along the promenade—perfect for a casual tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Merhaba' and maintain friendly, respectful conversation; dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites.
Always ask for permission before photographing people or private interiors.
Safety
Tipping in Of
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included; rounding up the bill is common in casual spots.
Turkish Lira is widely used; many places accept credit cards, especially in towns; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with occasional tropical showers; best time for beach visits and outdoor dining, but expect crowds on weekends.
Mild days with cooler evenings; sea breezes and autumn harvest markets create comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration.
Cool and rainy with occasional fog; snowfall is possible in the surrounding hills but coastal areas stay relatively mild.
Fresh and lively with blooming flora; great for hiking, photography, and tasting fresh market produce.
Of at Night
Hiking in Of
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular highland trail with evergreen forests and waterfall scenery; accessible via day trips from Of.
Rugged ridge with panoramic views and fresh mountain air; suitable for moderate day hikes.
Forest loop with streams and shaded paths; ideal for a peaceful half-day hike near the coast.
Airports
How to reach Of by plane.
Major international gateway for the region; typically a 2–3 hour drive to Of depending on traffic and routes.
Regional airport serving the eastern Black Sea region; shorter transfer distance to Of but fewer international connections.
Secondary regional airport offering domestic flights and convenient links to some parts of the Black Sea coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant nationality in the area, with strong local customs and family-oriented culture.
A recognized cultural group with distinct language and traditions, contributing music, cuisine, and crafts to the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local clubs and informal play throughout town.
Fishing, boating, and coastal recreation are integral to daily life along the Black Sea.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Of.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include vegetable meze, lentil soup, stuffed peppers, and mushroom dishes; ask for egg and dairy substitutions if needed.