Things To Do
in Tekkeköy
Tekkeköy is a coastal district in Samsun Province along the Black Sea, where green hills meet a working shoreline. It blends archaeological sites with modern farming communities and scenic river valleys. The area serves as a calm gateway between the city buzz of Samsun and nature-filled day trips the surrounding countryside offer.
Accessible by road from central Samsun, Tekkeköy makes a convenient base for a relaxed Black Sea itinerary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bread, olives, and a variety of cheeses. After breakfast, head to the fascinating Tekkeköy Caves, where you can marvel at the unique rock formations and ancient historical significance. Spend some time exploring the cave system, taking in the natural beauty and learning about the area's archaeological importance.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves traditional Turkish dishes, sampling local specialties such as gözleme and kebabs. Afterward, visit the nearby Tekkeköy Archaeological Site to gain insights into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region. Spend the afternoon wandering through the site, taking photographs, and absorbing the rich history surrounding you.
As the sun begins to set, head to a local waterfront to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline. Choose a cozy seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in freshly caught seafood while listening to the gentle waves. Cap off your evening with a delightful dessert, such as baklava or künefe, while watching the stars twinkle over the Black Sea.
Start your day with a refreshing swim at the Tekkeköy Beach, where the gentle waves welcome you for a rejuvenating morning. After your swim, relax on the sandy shores, soaking up the sun while sipping on a traditional Turkish tea. Consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from the water's perspective.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachside café offering delicious snacks like fried calamari and fresh salads. Spend the afternoon trying your hand at windsurfing or jet skiing, with local instructors available to guide you through the process. Enjoy the thrill of riding the waves and feel the adrenaline rush while taking in the stunning views of the Black Sea.
As the day winds down, enjoy a picturesque sunset on the beach, capturing the moment with photos. Choose a beachside restaurant for dinner, where you can savor grilled fish accompanied by local mezes. Relax with a refreshing drink as the evening unfolds, perhaps listening to live music under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚕Taxi 1km | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏠Rent 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $250-450/month |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Samsun with easy access to larger amenities
- Rich Black Sea cuisine and fresh seafood
- Mix of ancient sites, green hills, and coastal scenery
- Relaxed pace and welcoming local culture
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to a major city
- Some attractions may have limited English information
- Weather can be humid; higher rainfall in shoulder seasons
- Public transport options within the district can be limited
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is it?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The bill, please
- "Burası nerede?" - Where is this place?
Places to Visit in Tekkeköy
Visit one of these nice places.
A long waterfront stretch ideal for golden-hour photos of the sea, boats and the string of seaside cafés.
Rugged rock formations and ancient stonework provide strong textures and dramatic shadows.
A small bridge over a tranquil river with reflections, perfect for silhouette shots.
Panoramic views across green hills toward the coast, especially striking at dawn or dusk.
Food in Tekkeköy
Tekkeköy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Delicately steamed anchovies with tomatoes and herbs, a flagship Black Sea classic.
Must-Try!
A rich, velvety cheese and butter melt served with cornmeal bread; perfect for dipping.
A multilayered pastry filled with cheese or potatoes, emblematic of the Pontic culinary tradition.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh fish, olives, cheeses, vegetables and regional snacks—great for sampling street foods.
Simit, midye dolma (stuffed mussels), gözleme and fresh ayran along the promenade, especially lively in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet with 'Merhaba' and maintain polite eye contact in conversations.
Dress modestly and remove shoes where required; women may be asked to cover heads in mosques.
Tea is a social centerpiece—accept and enjoy; conversations often begin or pause over a cup of tea.
While appreciated, tipping is not obligatory beyond customary practices in restaurants and cafés.
Safety
Tipping in Tekkeköy
Ensure a smooth experience
In many places a 5-10% tip is customary if not already included; small tips for bar or café service are appreciated but not obligatory.
Turkish Lira is standard; most venues accept cash and cards (Visa/Mastercard). Contactless payments are common, and ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with sea breezes; afternoons can be sunny and crowded near the coast. Hydration and sun protection are essential.
Mild temperatures with occasional showers. Colors turn vibrant; great for outdoor photography and light hiking.
Cool and wet with occasional cool sunny days. Layered clothing is recommended; some outdoor spots may be less crowded.
Moderate temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for hiking, markets, and exploring village life.
Tekkeköy at Night
Hiking in Tekkeköy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal hike with sea views and rolling headlands, suitable for a half-day trek.
A shaded route through pine/oak forests and gentle ridges offering cool air in summer.
Low-to-moderate difficulty along riverbanks with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Tekkeköy by plane.
Main regional airport serving Samsun; about a 20–40 minute drive to Tekkeköy depending on traffic. Regular domestic flights connect to Istanbul and other Turkish cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish-speaking communities with Muslim-majority traditions; diverse urban and rural demographics include families and working-age residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across the region with local club games and casual play on coastal fields.
Common in schools and community centers; local leagues and pick-up games occur seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tekkeköy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on vegetable-based dishes, cheeses and salads; request olive oil and yogurt sauces to enhance flavor.