Black Sea Holidays

Turkey's Black Sea Region

Stretching from the shores of the Black Sea and encompassing the plains of central Anatolia, this interesting region of Turkey is the setting for both a collection of the country’s best preserved Ottoman towns as well as the location of the nation’s capital city of Ankara.

With a visible Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influence on the culture, architecture and cuisine, grand monasteries and mosques, Seljuk-era caravanserais, abundant orchards, mountains, lakes and charming coastal towns, the Black Sea region is little-visited compared to other areas of Turkey and has a low-key, relaxed atmosphere. Located on an historic trading route, the beautifully preserved Ottoman town of Safranbolu is a delight. Explore the remarkable old town – there are close to 800 half-timbered houses to see – then head to historic Amasra which was mentioned in the Iliad and overlooks the Black Sea coast.

From Safranbolu it is possible to drive west to Kastamonu, a treasure trove of bazaars, old hammams, fountains and ancient homes, and from here continue south to visit the rock-cut tombs of Amasya, the Hittite archaeological remains at Hattusa, UNESCO protected Yazsilikata and the Seljuk capital Sivas. Pettitts Travel have over 35 years’ experience in planning tailor-made holidays to Turkey and cultural tours to the Black Sea region.

Holiday Ideas for Turkey's Black Sea Region

5 DAYS

Istanbul City Break

from £1100 - £1450
per person

10 DAYS

Classical Turkey

from £3445
per person

11 DAYS

The Hidden Heritage of Turkey's Ottoman Empire

from £3850
per person

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When to visit Turkey's Black Sea Region

In contrast to much of Turkey, the Black Sea region has a largely damp and humid climate and, consequently, it can be considerably cooler here than many other areas of the country. Northerly winds and mountains to the south of the coast create ideal meteorological conditions for rainfall, mist and fog but, as a side effect, the region is also lush and green with higher altitudes inland boasting meadows and forest, wildflowers and crystal-clear lakes and rivers. Although rain can occur at any point throughout the year, the best time to visit the Black Sea region is summer when, despite the occasional shower, temperatures are warm, sometimes hot, with it not uncommon for it to average around 25°C. The months of spring and autumn are usually overcast with a greater risk of rainfall whilst winters are colder still. At this time of year rain should be expected most days whilst in mountain areas snow can occur but is usually quick to melt during the day.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

BEST TIME

GOOD TIME

LOW SEASON

OFF SEASON

This is a general overview suggesting when to travel in the country. Please note that this may not directly apply to any specific itinerary or region.

What to do in Turkey's Black Sea Region

A diverse area that extends from the eastern borders of Istanbul all the way to the Caucasus, the Black Sea region of Turkey is unlike any other part of the country. A home to ancient civilisations, maritime trading communities, coastal villages, historic towns and scenic landscapes, the Black Sea deftly demonstrates the diversity of this vast country. Highlights include the charming Ottoman town of Safranbolu with its quaint half-timbered merchant homes and cobbled streets. Safranbolu is also a base from which to visit the relaxed port town of Amasra which occupies an idyllic position. Heading inland and east, cross undulating green hills and rivers, passing fields of sunflowers and abundant orchards to Amasya, taking time to stop on the way in picturesque Kastamonu. The historic city of Amasya is dramatically located in the Yesilirmak Valley and surrounded by rock-cut tombs of the kings of Pontus. A fascinating place in which to spend a couple of days, from Amasya it is also possible to visit the ancient Hittite ruins of Hattusa and Yazsilikata – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.