Things To Do
in Ordu
Ordu is a tranquil Black Sea city in northern Turkey framed by pine-clad hills and a long waterfront. It is famous for hazelnuts and fresh seafood, with a laid-back atmosphere that invites easy exploration. The harbor and coastal promenades are perfect for strolls, while nearby plateaus offer refreshing nature escapes.
The city's warm hospitality blends Ottoman and Pontic influences, making it feel welcoming to all visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ordu and check into your hotel to get settled. Start your exploration with a leisurely breakfast at a cafe overlooking the scenic Black Sea. Take a stroll along the beautiful coastal promenade to soak in the refreshing ocean breeze.
Visit the Ordu Boztepe, accessible by a picturesque cable car ride that offers panoramic views of the city. Explore the local shops and eateries at the top, enjoying traditional Turkish delicacies. Spend some time admiring the striking landscape and perhaps take a few memorable photos.
Enjoy dinner at one of the seafood restaurants along the coast, where fresh catch is served daily. As the sun sets, walk along the shore to experience a magical view of the colors reflecting off the water. End your day with a relaxing coffee at a nearby cafe, digesting the day's experiences.
Wake up early and visit the Ordu Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the area. The museum's diverse exhibits provide insight into the region's past, including archaeological artifacts and traditional clothing. Afterward, walk around the vibrant streets to enjoy a hearty Turkish breakfast.
Take a trip to the picturesque Uzunisa Village, known for its lush green surroundings and charming houses. Engage with the locals and perhaps join them for a small cooking class featuring traditional Ordu dishes. Spend a relaxed afternoon hiking the nearby trails to enjoy the stunning natural beauty.
Return to the city and experience a traditional Turkish night at a local restaurant with live music and dance performances. Indulge in a variety of mezze and finish your meal with a sweet dessert like baklava. Reflect on your day's adventures while enjoying the lively evening atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea (regular) | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $0.80-2.00 |
| 🏠Apartment rent (1 BR, city centre) | $250-450 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic Black Sea coastline
- Rich hazelnut heritage and markets
- Relaxed pace with friendly locals
- Good base to explore nearby plateaus and nature
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for some
- Seasonal weather can bring frequent rain and humidity
- Tourist infrastructure is smaller outside peak season
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is it?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check, please
- "İyi günler" - Good day
Places to Visit in Ordu
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic lookout above Ordu offering sweeping views of the coastline and city below.
The pedestrian walkway along the Black Sea with boats, colorful houses, and sunset backdrops.
Highland meadow and pine forest scenery, ideal for sunrise and landscape photography.
Narrow lanes and traditional stone houses near the harbor, especially photogenic at golden hour.
Food in Ordu
Ordu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich cheese–butter cornmeal pancake melted together and served hot; a quintessential Black Sea comfort dish.
Must-Try!
Seasonal fried anchovies served with lemon, parsley, and bread—summer coastal staple.
A flaky pastry associated with the broader Black Sea region, often found in seafront eateries.
Thin, crisp corn bread that pairs perfectly with fish and honey.
Traditional yogurt drink and strong black tea, served throughout the day.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh hazelnuts, seafood, herbs, and local snacks; sample raw nuts and enjoy a quick fish sandwich from nearby stalls.
Walk the harbor for quick bites like balık ekmek (fish sandwich) and midye dolması (stuffed mussels) during warmer days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact; greet with a warm smile.
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and ask before taking photos.
It is polite to accept tea or coffee offered by locals as a sign of hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Ordu
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically add a service charge; otherwise 5-10% is common for good service.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; credit/debit cards and mobile wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with sporadic rain; bring sun protection and light layers. Evenings by the water are comfortable and lively.
Milder days with cooler nights; hazelnut harvest creates seasonal markets and festive ambience.
Rainy and relatively mild for the region; expect cloud cover and coastal fog; pack a waterproof jacket.
Greener landscapes, blooming flowers, and pleasant temperatures—great for outdoor activities and photography.
Ordu at Night
Hiking in Ordu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highland area with pine forests, pastures, and scenic viewpoints ideal for day hikes.
Gentle hillside trails near the city offering city views and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Ordu by plane.
Small, modern airport near Gülyalı serving domestic routes and some international links; best reached by taxi or hotel shuttle from central Ordu.
Regional hub with more flight options; typical drive of around 2.5-3 hours to Ordu via coastal roads.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main demographic group with regional dialects and traditions.
Historical influences in the region with distinct customs and language connections.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally, with local clubs and matches in nearby towns.
Coastal communities engage in fishing, boating, and occasional water activities along the Black Sea.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ordu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable dishes (zeytinyağlılar), meze platters, and grain-based dishes; ask for no meat or broth and ask about legumes, greens, and cheese options.