Things To Do
in Ünye
Ünye is a historic Black Sea port town in Ordu Province, known for its scenic coastline and friendly atmosphere. It blends a rugged, pine-fringed shoreline with a hilltop fortress that overlooks the turquoise water. The waterfront promenade is lined with seafood spots, cafes, and colorful boats, inviting relaxed days by the sea.
Surrounded by green hills and nearby villages, Ünye offers easy coastal walks, flavorful local cuisine, and a slower pace of life away from larger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Ünye, where you can admire the traditional Ottoman architecture. Visit the Ünye Castle, perched on a hilltop, and take in the panoramic views of the Black Sea. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring simit and çay.
After lunch, explore the charming local shops and art galleries that showcase the work of regional artists. Take a moment to relax in the central park, enjoying the lush greenery and the sounds of the nearby sea. Don’t forget to visit the historic mosques, such as the Fatih Mosque, to appreciate their intricate designs.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy a scenic walk along the coast. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner, sampling fresh seafood dishes paired with a glass of local wine. Conclude your evening by watching the sunset over the Black Sea, a truly magical experience.
Wake up early and make your way to Ünye Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand ideal for sunbathing and relaxation. Engage in some invigorating water sports, such as jet skiing or paddleboarding, as the gentle waves invite you to dive in. Take a break for a refreshing drink from one of the beachside cafés.
After lunch, continue your beach day by renting a kayak to explore the tranquil waters along the coast. If you prefer to stay on land, enjoy a game of beach volleyball or simply relax under the sun with a good book. The sound of the waves and the scent of the sea breeze will enhance your tranquil afternoon.
As evening approaches, head to a beachfront bar for a cocktail while listening to live music. The vibrant atmosphere will draw you in as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers. End your day with a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows under a starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km in city) | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Black Sea coastline with a relaxed pace
- Fresh seafood and regional Black Sea cuisine
- Historical sites like Ünye Castle and charming old town streets
- Inexpensive lodging and meals compared to larger cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale tourist facilities
- Seasonal crowds in summer and variable weather
- Hilly terrain can make some walks and driving challenging
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Bana yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is it?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Afedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Ünye
Visit one of these nice places.
A hillside fortress offering sweeping views of the harbor, sea, and town; ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography.
Active fishing boats, colorful waterfront houses, and a lively quay provide compelling compositions, especially at dusk.
Narrow lanes and traditional stone/wood houses along the coastline create charming, timeless frames.
Early morning light over the quiet harbor and misty water for moody seascapes.
Food in Ünye
Ünye Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Black Sea favorites featuring fried or grilled anchovies served with pilaf and lemon; best enjoyed at harbor-side restaurants or family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
A rich, melty cheese and cornmeal dish cooked in butter; a quintessential Black Sea comfort food often served with bread.
Variation of kuymak using local cheeses; pairs well with corn bread and pickles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh produce, fish, herbs, and regional specialties; great for sampling local flavors and buying picnic supplies.
Street vendors offer quick bites like stuffed mussels (midye dolma), grilled seafood sticks, and warm simit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; when entering shops or homes, greet politely with 'Merhaba' (hello). Showing respect to elders is valued.
In mosques and some traditional settings, modest dress is appreciated; remove shoes where required and follow any posted guidelines.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in small villages or private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Ünye
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. For taxis and small services, rounding up the fare is common. In larger establishments and hotels, a small gratuity for staff is appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and green hills; good for hiking and city strolls; occasional rain, so carry a light layer.
Warm to hot and humid with sea breezes; peak beach-going season, more crowds along the promenade and harbor cafés.
Comfortable warmth with cooler evenings; great for coastal walks and seafood dining; rainfall increases later in the season.
Cool and damp with cooler sea winds; some attractions close or operate on reduced hours; cozy cafés and nearby day trips are ideal.
Ünye at Night
Hiking in Ünye
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Highland plateau in Ordu Province with pine forests, scenic viewpoints, and seasonal hiking; popular for summer walks and winter skiing.
A scenic coastal path from the harbor area along the cliffs and beaches, offering sea views and opportunities for photography.
Airports
How to reach Ünye by plane.
Serves domestic flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and other cities; approximately a 1.5–2.5 hour drive from Ünye depending on traffic and route.
Another regional option with more international connections; typically a 2.5–3 hour drive along the Black Sea coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish residents with a strong Black Sea regional identity and hospitality, especially in coastal towns.
People with historical ties to Pontic Greek and other regional cultures, reflecting the Black Sea’s diverse history.
Communities tied to the sea and agriculture, contributing to the town’s economy and cultural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region is passionate about football; local matches and community teams are common throughout the year.
Beach activities, swimming, and boating are popular along the harbor in warm months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ünye.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most restaurants, including vegetarian meze, soups, corn-based dishes, and vegetable sides. When ordering, ask for eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, and bulgur-based dishes; many fish-focused menus can accommodate a vegetarian choice if you avoid seafood.