Things To Do
in Pazar
Pazar is a small town in northeastern Turkey that sits among green hills and tea fields along the Black Sea coast. It is part of Rize Province and serves as a welcoming base for exploring nearby forests, rivers, and upland plateaus. The area blends Laz cultural influences with warm Turkish hospitality, especially in markets and riverside cafés.
Visitors come to stroll markets, sample fresh seafood, and set out on easy hikes or longer treks in Kaçkar National Park.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Pazar and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Turkish pastries and teas. Take a stroll around the charming town to acclimate yourself and soak in the local culture.
Explore the local market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs to take home. Enjoy a lunch of fresh fish at a riverside restaurant, relishing the views of the lush surrounding landscape.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Turkish restaurant for dinner. Savor delicious mezes and grilled meats while enjoying traditional music and hospitality. Before retiring for the night, take a peaceful walk by the river, watching the stars twinkle over the tranquil town.
Take an early trip to the nearby Black Sea coast, enjoying the scenic drive along the lush green hills. Spend your morning swimming in the crystal-clear waters or lounging on the sandy beaches. Don’t forget to indulge in a local breakfast at a beachside café with fresh fruit and honey.
After a morning of relaxation, try your hand at some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Have lunch at a beach tavern, enjoying the fresh catch of the day served with local side dishes. Spend the afternoon exploring the coastal cliffs and taking stunning photos of the breathtaking views.
As the evening approaches, return to Pazar for a delightful dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Taste the freshness of the sea with dishes prepared in traditional Turkish style. Cap off the night with a calming sea view as you enjoy a Turkish tea on the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-50 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and authentic Black Sea cuisine
- Easy access to Kaçkar National Park and Fırtına Valley
- Relaxed pace with a strong market culture
- Scenic tea terraces and mountain viewpoints
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Smaller towns may have fewer English speakers
- Some rural facilities rely on cash; card acceptance can vary
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Nereye gidiyorsunuz?" - Where are you going?
- "Burası nasıl gidilir?" - How do I get there?
- "Oturabilir miyim?" - May I sit here?
Places to Visit in Pazar
Visit one of these nice places.
Mist over the river and lush green banks create dramatic lighting for landscape and river photography.
Early morning light on wooden houses and the winding river offers tranquil, characterful shots.
Terraced tea fields with rolling hills provide classic panoramic shots of the Black Sea region.
Alpine meadow vistas framed by pine forests and distant mountains; a staple for landscape photography.
High altitude viewpoints along the approaches to Kaçkar National Park for dramatic mountain photography.
Food in Pazar
Pazar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried anchovies served with cornmeal batter, a classic Black Sea staple best enjoyed at coastal or riverfront eateries.
Must-Try!
A rich cheese and cornmeal fondue cooked in butter, typically enjoyed with bread for a hearty breakfast or late supper.
Rice baked with anchovies in a flavorful stock, a traditional and beloved local dish.
A savory pastry filled with cheese and herbs, reflecting Laz culinary influences in the region.
Corn bread baked with local ingredients, widely found in markets and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market where you can find fresh fish, tea, hazelnuts, and seasonal produce from nearby farms.
Street stalls offering quick bites like corn on the cob and fried local snacks along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting with Merhaba is common; a handshake or a light kiss on both cheeks in familiar circles may occur in social settings.
Dress modestly in public spaces and remove shoes when visiting mosques; ask before taking photos of people, especially elders or in intimate settings.
Accept invitations to tea or meals when offered, as sharing food is a sign of hospitality and respect.
Safety
Tipping in Pazar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common if a service charge is not included.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries. Many restaurants and hotels in Pazar also accept debit or credit cards, but carrying some cash is useful in rural settings.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with high humidity and frequent rain showers; great for hikes and river activities, but be prepared for sudden downpours and cooler evenings in the mountains.
Lush green landscapes and blooming tea fields; trails can be muddy after rain, so wear waterproof footwear and bring a light jacket.
Clear skies and golden hills; pleasant hiking conditions, though evenings turn chilly as weather cools.
Cool to cold with snow in higher elevations; some mountain roads can close; cozy cafés and hot tea become the main comforts.
Pazar at Night
Hiking in Pazar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails through pine forests with opportunities to cross rope bridges and reach viewpoints.
High altitude trails offering alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and panoramic mountain scenes.
Accessible hikes through forests to scenic plateau views and cascading streams.
Airports
How to reach Pazar by plane.
Newly developed regional airport offering domestic flights; typically drives of about 1.5 to 2 hours to Pazar depending on routing.
Larger international-capable airport about 170-200 km from Pazar; connected by highway and bus services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of ethnic Turkish and Laz residents, with Laz cultural influence visible in language, music, and cuisine.
A family-oriented town with a steady influx of visitors in warmer months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A very popular pastime and spectator sport across Turkey, including the Black Sea region.
Active engagement with the region's rivers and coastal waters is common for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pazar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
The region centers on fish and dairy, but you can find lentil soups, grilled vegetables, stuffed peppers, and corn breads. Ask for olive oil or butter and request meat-free options in most restaurants.