Artvin, Turkey 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Artvin, Turkey

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

• Arrival: Fly into Trabzon Airport (TZX) or Batumi Airport (BUS) in Georgia, which is closer to Artvin than Istanbul.
• Transportation: Take a taxi or bus from the airport to Artvin city center ( approx. 4 hours).
• Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Karahan or Artvin Park Hotel, both centrally located.
• Things to Do:
  • Explore the old town, including the historic clock tower and narrow streets.
  • Visit the Artvin Ethnography Museum to learn about the region’s history and culture.
  • Enjoy traditional Turkish tea and coffee at a local café.

Day 2: Natural Wonders

• Breakfast: Try some local pastry and cheese at Kafeterya, a cozy café.
• Things to Do:
  • Visit the stunning Karaca Cave, a natural wonder with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Take a scenic drive to the Çoruh River Valley, known for its rafting opportunities and picturesque views.
  • Hike in the Kaçkar Mountains National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna.

Day 3: Cultural Experiences

• Breakfast: Savor some traditional Turkish breakfast at Sütçüoğlu Pide.
• Things to Do:
  • Attend a traditional Turkish music and dance performance at the Artvin Cultural Center.
  • Visit the historic Hatila Valley National Park, featuring ancient ruins and natural beauty.
  • Explore the vibrant bazaar, where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Day 4: Adventure Activities

• Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Çınar Pide.
• Things to Do:
  • Go rafting or kayaking in the Çoruh River Valley, an adrenaline-packed experience.
  • Take a horseback ride through the scenic countryside with Artvin Horse Riding Tours.
  • Try paragliding or zip lining for breathtaking views of the region.

Day 5: Relaxation and Leisure

• Breakfast: Treat yourself to some delicious pastries at Pazar Pide.
• Things to Do:
  • Unwind at the thermal springs in Arhavi Thermal Resort, a relaxing getaway.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Çoruh River and enjoy the scenery.
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the local markets, where you can find unique souvenirs.

Day 6: Historical Landmarks

• Breakfast: Savor a traditional Turkish breakfast at Sahil Pide.
• Things to Do:
  • Visit the ancient Artvin Castle, a historic fortress with stunning views.
  • Explore the Dereiçi Fortress, another impressive historical landmark.
  • Stop by the Artvin Atatürk House Museum, dedicated to Turkey’s founding father.

Day 7: Departure

• Transportation: Take a taxi or bus back to Trabzon Airport (TZX) or Batumi Airport (BUS) for your departure flight.
• Tips and Reminders:
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially in the mountains.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or attending cultural events.
  • Try some of the local cuisine, including corn bread, anchovies, and traditional Turkish delight.

Additional Tips:

• Language: While many locals speak Turkish, you may also encounter people speaking Georgian, Laz, or other regional languages. English is not widely spoken, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic Turkish phrases.
• Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
• Safety: Artvin is generally a safe region, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Things of Interest:

• Festivals and Events: Artvin hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Artvin Summer Festival and the Çoruh River Rafting Festival.
• Outdoor Activities: The region offers numerous opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits.
• Local Cuisine: Be sure to try some of the local specialties, including corn bread, anchovies, and traditional Turkish delight.