Artvin, Turkey 4 Day Itinerary
Artvin, Turkey: A 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Artvin and Exploring the City
Places to Go
- Artvin Museum: Start your journey with a visit to the Artvin Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, including artifacts from various civilizations that have inhabited the area over time.
- İpek Park and Artvin Castle: Take a leisurely stroll at İpek Park and enjoy the beautiful views of Artvin city. Nearby lies Artvin Castle (Yusuf Paşa Kalesi), offering panoramic vistas of the town and the surrounding mountains.
- Şatiri Waterfall: About an hour’s drive from Artvin, the Şatiri Waterfall is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The waterfall offers breathtaking views and provides an excellent opportunity for photography.
Where to Eat
- Tarhun Restaurant: For authentic Turkish cuisine, head to Tarhun Restaurant, where you can sample local dishes such as İncirlik Köfte (meatballs) and Hünkar Beğendi (grilled eggplant dish).
- Kafeterya Artvin: Known for its delicious desserts, this cozy café is perfect for a sweet treat after a long day of exploring.
Where to Stay
- Hotel İpek: Centrally located in Artvin, Hotel İpek offers comfortable accommodation with excellent service and a restaurant on-site.
- Büyük Karadeniz Oteli: A short drive from the city center, this hotel boasts beautiful mountain views and features a spa and wellness center.
Things to Know
- Artvin is situated in the northeastern part of Turkey, close to the Georgian border. The region’s climate can be chilly, so pack accordingly.
- Turkish Lira (TRY) is the official currency of Turkey.
- English is not widely spoken in the region, so it may be helpful to learn a few basic Turkish phrases or have a translation app handy.
Day 2: Visit Haçıbekir Valley and Hopa Town
Places to Go
- Haçıbekir Valley: Spend your day exploring the stunning Haçıbekir Valley, home to picturesque villages, ancient churches, and lush greenery. Don’t miss out on visiting the beautiful St. George’s Church (Surp Kevork Kilisesi).
- Hopa Town: Wander around Hopa Town and soak in its unique atmosphere. Visit the historical Hopa Castle and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants serving traditional dishes like dolma (stuffed vine leaves) and pilav (rice dish).
Transportation
- Renting a car is highly recommended to get around Artvin and its surrounding areas. You can find rental services in Artvin city or book online before your arrival.
Day 3: Discover the Highlands of Artvin
Places to Go
- Şavşat District: Journey to Şavşat district, where you can visit the tranquil Yusuf-Çelebi Lake and take in the stunning mountain landscapes.
- Uludağ Mountain: Hike up Uludağ Mountain for a breathtaking view of the valleys below. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, you can also take a cable car to the summit.
Where to Eat
- Yıldız Restaurant: Located in Şavşat district, Yıldız Restaurant offers traditional Turkish dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
Day 4: Explore Surmene and Departure
Places to Go
- Surmene Town: On your last day, visit Surmene Town, known for its beautiful wooden houses and stunning natural scenery. Don’t miss the chance to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Surme Beach.
Transportation
- Make your way back to Artvin city to return your rental car before your departure.
Tips
- Pack a good pair of hiking boots for exploring the region’s scenic trails and mountainous landscapes.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites or rural villages.
- Take time to enjoy the local cuisine and engage with the friendly people of Artvin to truly experience this unique corner of Turkey.