Artvin Turkey 5 Day Itinerary

Artvin, Turkey: 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Artvin, a charming city nestled in the northeastern part of Turkey. Check-in at Hotel Karahan or similar.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Artvin Ethnography Museum to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. Afterwards, stroll along the Çoruh River and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Evening: Head to Kaleoğlu Restaurant for a delicious dinner of local cuisine, including dishes like “kaymaklı pide” (a type of Turkish pizza) and “kuymak” (a corn-based dish).
  • Tips: Don’t forget to try some local tea, called “çay”, at one of the many cafes in the city.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

  • Morning: Take a guided hike to Karagöl Lake, a stunning natural attraction surrounded by lush forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife like bears and wolves.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Artvin Atatürk Orman Çiftliği, a beautiful forest area perfect for picnics or relaxation.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Çoruh Balıkçısı, a restaurant serving fresh fish dishes.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress accordingly.

Day 3: History and Culture

  • Morning: Explore the ancient city of Arhavi, featuring ruins from the Roman and Byzantine periods. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Artvin Castle, a medieval fortress with breathtaking views of the city.
  • Evening: Dine at Kümbet Restaurant, offering a range of Turkish dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Tips: Hire a local guide to get the most out of your historical tour.

Day 4: Scenic Drives and Villages

  • Morning: Take a scenic drive to the picturesque village of Kaçkar, nestled in the mountains. Enjoy the stunning views and traditional architecture.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Bilbilan Plateau, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Evening: Return to Artvin and enjoy dinner at Çınaraltı Restaurant, serving local specialties like “muhlama” (a type of fondue).
  • Transportation: Rent a car or hire a driver for the day to make the most of your scenic drive.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city’s bazaars.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Artvin, bringing back memories of this hidden gem in Turkey.

Additional Tips and Information

  • Language: Turkish is the primary language spoken in Artvin, but many locals also speak some English. Consider downloading a translation app to help with communication.
  • Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs to withdraw cash.
  • Safety: Artvin is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Weather: Artvin experiences a humid subtropical climate with cold winters and warm summers. Pack accordingly.

Getting There

The nearest airport is Trabzon Airport (TZX), located about 150 km from Artvin. You can rent a car or take a bus/taxi from the airport to reach Artvin.

Enjoy your trip to Artvin, Turkey!