Things To Do
in Rize
Rize is a lush city on Turkey's Black Sea coast known for its tea culture and green hills. The surrounding slopes are planted with vast tea fields that define the landscape. The city center offers a lively waterfront, markets, and traditional Laz cuisine.
It serves as a gateway to the Fırtına Valley and the Pontic Alps, where nature and culture mingle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh cheeses, olives, and honey. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of Rize, where you can admire the unique architecture influenced by the region's rich history. Stop by the Rize Castle, perched on a hill, to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Black Sea.
Visit the Rize Museum to delve into the local culture and history, where exhibits showcase artifacts from the region's past. Afterward, explore the nearby tea gardens, learning about the tea production process and enjoying a cup of freshly brewed Turkish tea. Spend some time relaxing in the lush surroundings, taking in the vibrant green landscapes that Rize is known for.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant near the waterfront to indulge in a dinner featuring local seafood dishes. Enjoy the ambiance as the lights reflect off the water, creating a magical atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the promenade, absorbing the sounds and sights of Rize at night.
Begin your day with a visit to the famous Rize Tea Gardens, where you can witness the tea-picking process firsthand. Join a guided tour that explains the intricacies of tea cultivation and allows you to sample the freshest teas right from the source. The sweeping views of the lush hills covered in tea bushes will leave you in awe.
After a delightful tea experience, head to the nearby Çamlıhemşin district for a scenic drive through the stunning valleys. Stop for a hike in the Kaçkar Mountains, where you can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. A picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery will make for a perfect afternoon.
Return to Rize and unwind at a local café, enjoying a traditional Turkish dessert while watching the sunset. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories about your adventures. Cap off your day by visiting a nearby tea house, where you can sip tea and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $1-4 |
| 🚍1-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush green scenery and a rich tea culture
- Gateway to dramatic hiking in the Pontic Alps and Fırtına Valley
- Warm hospitality and distinctive Laz cuisine
- Coastal city with accessible markets and seaside dining
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger tourist cities
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for some travelers
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable in shoulder seasons
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Could you help me?
- "İyi akşamlar" - Good evening
- "Güle güle" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Rize
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook of the city and coastline; best at sunrise or sunset when the tea terraces glow.
Historic fortress with city views; captures the contrast between old stone and modern life along the Black Sea.
Lush alpine meadows, cedar forests, and waterfalls; iconic for wide landscape shots and vibrant greenery.
Medieval fortress perched above a deep gorge; dramatic river scenery and forested slopes provide striking compositions.
Food in Rize
Rize Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich melt of cornmeal, local cheese, and butter, traditionally served with bread. A signature Black Sea comfort dish.
Must-Try!
Fried anchovies prepared fresh at seaside eateries, often served with lemon and flatbread.
A layered pastry from Laz cuisine, typically filled with cheese or greens and lightly fried or baked.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where locals buy fish, greens, cheese, and regional specialties; great for sampling fresh produce and street snacks.
Street vendors along the waterfront offer grilled corn, simit, and small hot dishes perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a friendly greeting like Merhaba. Men and women often greet with a handshake or a nod; eye contact is valued.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques; remove shoes and speak softly. It is respectful to ask before taking photos inside sacred spaces.
Tea is central to social life; accept and offer tea as a gesture of hospitality, even if briefly. Do not rush discussions over tea.
Safety
Tipping in Rize
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip of 5-10% is customary in restaurants if service charge is not included. Leave a few lira or rounded amounts for cafe staff and taxi drivers if pleased with service.
Turkish lira is the primary currency; cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Cash is useful in markets and smaller eateries; ATMs are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with frequent showers; days are long and tea gardens are in full swing. Pack light rainwear and breathable clothing; evenings are cooler on hilltops.
Milder temperatures and colorful foliage; a great time for hiking with fewer crowds. Expect some rainy days and crisp mornings.
Cool to mild along the coast with occasional cold snaps inland; snow is possible in the highlands. Some mountain roads may be closed during heavy snowfall.
Renewed greenery and blooming flora; pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Rain can be frequent, so bring a light rain shell.
Rize at Night
Hiking in Rize
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hike through alpine meadows with scenic overlooks and waterfalls near Ayder.
Extensive valley trails along the river with lush forests and cascading viewpoints; classic for multi-hour hikes.
Historic fortress area with forested trails and dramatic canyon views; suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Rize by plane.
New regional airport serving Rize and Artvin; convenient for domestic travel and some international connections via hubs.
Major regional gateway with broader flight options; about 150-180 km from central Rize and accessible by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Black Sea ethnic group with distinct language and cultural traditions, concentrated in the Rize region.
A mix of local families, workers, and visitors who contribute to the city’s cultural tapestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played; local clubs and casual games are common throughout the year.
Popular in the Fırtına River area during appropriate seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rize.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include muhstafa style egg dishes, vegetable stews, stuffed peppers, and grilled vegetables. When ordering, confirm that no meat stock or fish sauce is used.