7 Days Exploring Trabzon Rize and Artvin Itinerary

Begin your second day with a trip to Uzungöl, one of Trabzon's most famous natural attractions. The serene lake surrounded by lush green mountains is perfect for a morning walk or boat ride. Don't forget to capture some photos of this picturesque spot.

After enjoying Uzungöl, make your way to Sümela Monastery, perched on a steep cliff face in Altındere National Park. This ancient Greek Orthodox monastery offers not only spiritual insight but also panoramic views of the surrounding forested mountains. Have lunch at Sümela Cafe & Restaurant, which offers great views and delicious local cuisine.

Return to Trabzon city center and spend your evening exploring Boztepe Hill for panoramic views over Trabzon city as it lights up at night. Enjoy dinner at Kalender Lokanta, where you can savor traditional Black Sea dishes while overlooking the city.

Travel from Trabzon to Rize (approximately 1 hour). Start your day with a visit to Ziraat - Botanik Tea Garden where you can learn about tea cultivation and enjoy panoramic views over Rize while sipping on freshly brewed tea.

Next, head towards Fırtına Valley for an adventurous afternoon filled with activities like rafting or zip-lining amidst lush greenery and flowing rivers. Stop by Dere Cafe for lunch; it's well-known for its riverside setting and local delicacies.

In the evening, explore Rize Castle which offers stunning sunset views over the city and sea. Conclude your day with dinner at Lale Lokantası, famous for its regional specialties such as Muhlama (a cheesy cornmeal dish) and fresh seafood.

Begin your day with a visit to the Rize Museum, housed in a historic Ottoman mansion. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and culture, with exhibits ranging from traditional costumes to ancient artifacts. After exploring the museum, take a short walk to the nearby Rize Clock Tower for some great photo opportunities.

In the afternoon, embark on Rize: Ayder Highland Village & Tea Tasting Private Day Trip. This tour will take you through the scenic Ayder Highlands where you can enjoy stunning natural scenery and taste some of the best tea in Turkey. Have lunch at Ayder Doğa Alabalık, known for its fresh trout dishes.

Return to Rize city center and spend your evening at the bustling Pazar district. Explore local shops and markets, and enjoy dinner at Çayeli Lokantası, which is famous for its regional specialties such as hamsi (anchovies) and lahana sarması (stuffed cabbage leaves).

Travel from Rize to Artvin (approximately 2 hours). Start your day with a visit to Karagöl-Sahara National Park, one of Artvin's most beautiful natural attractions. The park is home to stunning lakes, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a leisurely hike around Karagöl Lake and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Artvin: Macahel Valley & Maral Waterfall Tour awaits you in the afternoon. This tour will take you through the picturesque Macahel Valley where you can explore traditional villages and marvel at the majestic Maral Waterfall. Have lunch at Macahel Green Roof Restaurant, which offers delicious local cuisine with a view.

Return to Artvin city center and spend your evening exploring Atatepe Hill for panoramic views over Artvin city as it lights up at night. Enjoy dinner at Yıldız Restaurant, where you can savor traditional Black Sea dishes while overlooking the city.

Artvin: Borçka Karagöl Lake & Barhal Church Tour kicks off your day with a visit to Borçka Karagöl Lake, another stunning natural attraction in Artvin. The serene lake surrounded by lush green mountains is perfect for a morning walk or boat ride. Afterward, head towards Barhal Church, an ancient Georgian Orthodox church that offers not only spiritual insight but also panoramic views of the surrounding forested mountains.

Artvin: Cehennem Deresi Canyon & Ardanuç Castle Tour awaits you in the afternoon. This tour will take you through Cehennem Deresi Canyon where you can enjoy adventurous activities like hiking amidst lush greenery and flowing rivers. Stop by Ardanuç Cafe for lunch; it's well-known for its riverside setting and local delicacies.

Return to Artvin city center and spend your evening exploring Hatila Valley National Park for more panoramic views over Artvin city as it lights up at night.Enjoy dinner at Hatila Lokantası,where you can savor traditional Black Sea dishes while overlooking Hatila Valley.

Start your final day with a visit to the Mençuna Waterfall, one of Artvin's most stunning natural attractions. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene atmosphere perfect for a morning hike. Enjoy the refreshing mist from the waterfall and take some memorable photos.

In the afternoon, head to the Artvin Livane Castle, an ancient fortress that provides panoramic views of the Çoruh River and surrounding mountains. Explore the castle ruins and learn about its historical significance. Have lunch at Livane Restaurant, known for its delicious local dishes and scenic views.

Conclude your trip with a relaxing evening at Atatepe Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Artvin city. Reflect on your journey while savoring dinner at Atatepe Cafe, which offers a variety of traditional Black Sea dishes in a cozy setting.