Amasra
,Amasra is a beautiful coastal town located on the Black Sea coast of Turkey. It is famous for its charming old town, stunning beaches, and ancient historical sites. Visitors can explore the remains of a Venetian castle, visit the picturesque harbor, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
With its relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Amasra is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Amasra Beach Bliss
morning
:Start your day with a relaxing time at Amasra Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the sea breeze. Don't forget to grab a light breakfast at a seaside café to energize your morning.
afternoon
:Take a leisurely stroll along the coastline and explore the unique rock formations. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant with breathtaking sea views.
evening
:Wind down by watching the sunset over the Black Sea while enjoying a delicious seafood dinner. Sample local dishes like grilled fish and meze at one of the charming waterfront eateries.
Historical Amasra
morning
:Visit the ancient Amasra Castle to explore its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of the town. Take your time to wander through the narrow alleys and admire the local architecture.
afternoon
:Stop by the Amasra Museum to see artifacts that showcase the rich heritage of the region. Afterward, relax with a cup of Turkish tea at a local café.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant specializing in local cuisine. Try the famous Amasra salad, a must-have for any visitor.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural scenery with coastal views and lush green landscapes.
- Rich history with ancient ruins and historical architecture, including Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
- Delicious sea food and local cuisine featuring fresh fish and regional specialties.
- Charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals and a laid-back lifestyle.
- Access to beautiful beaches and opportunities for water activities like swimming and boating.
Bad
- Limited accessibility to major cities and transport options can be sparse.
- Tourism can be seasonal, leading to quieter periods in the off-season.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
- Potential for overcrowding during summer months when tourists flock to the area.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities, affecting amenities and services.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Amasra Forest
Explore the scenic hiking trails in the Amasra forest that offer breathtaking views of the natural landscape and the Black Sea.
Beach Activities
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports at the beautiful beaches of Amasra, such as the popular İnkumu Beach.
Boat Tours
Take a boat tour around Amasra and its surrounding islands to experience the stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters.
Historical Site Exploration
Visit historical landmarks such as the Amasra Castle and the Byzantine ruins, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
Fishing
Engage in fishing activities in the sea or along the rivers, a traditional pastime in Amasra known for its fresh catch.
Camping
Set up a campsite in the lush nature around Amasra, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors.
Cycling
Ride along the coastal roads and through the scenic paths in and around Amasra, perfect for cycling enthusiasts.
Photographic Tours
Capture the picturesque views of the sunset over the Black Sea, the charming town, and its vibrant nature perfect for photography lovers.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Amasra with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Amasra Castle
An ancient castle offering panoramic views of the Black Sea and the charming town of Amasra. It’s an ideal spot for capturing the sunset.
Bird's Paradise (Kuş Cenneti)
A scenic viewpoint that provides stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and the Amasra coastline, perfect for nature photography.
Cekiciler Beach
A beautiful beach with clear waters and rocky cliffs that create a picturesque setting for photos, especially during golden hour.
Amasra Harbor
The harbor area is lively with boats and local life, offering unique opportunities for street photography and capturing the essence of the town.
Toplar Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse located on a cliff providing an elevated perspective of the Amasra bay, popular for breathtaking views and photography.
Kozcağız Stream
A tranquil spot with lush greenery and flowing water, perfect for capturing natural beauty and serene landscapes.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Laz böreği
A savory pastry filled with cheese, parsley, and a hint of black pepper, baked to golden perfection. Must-try at Çeşmi Cihan, a popular local bakery.
Must-Try!
Hamsi pilavı
An iconic dish of Amasra, featuring freshly caught anchovies delicately layered over seasoned rice. Savor this classic at Balıkçılar Çarşısı, a renowned seafood restaurant.
Karadeniz pidesi
A boat-shaped flatbread topped with regional ingredients such as ground beef, cheese, and eggs. Indulge in this unique treat at Kaptanlar Pide Salonu, a beloved local pide joint.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Amasra better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Amasra Pazarı
Explore the bustling Amasra market to discover a myriad of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Don't miss the stalls offering freshly grilled fish sandwiches, a street food favorite.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly
In Amasra, as in many parts of Turkey, dressing modestly is appreciated, particularly when visiting religious sites. It's advisable to avoid overly revealing clothing.
Greet with respect
When meeting locals, a polite greeting is important. A handshake is common among men, while women might prefer a nod or smile. Use 'Merhaba' for 'Hello' as a friendly greeting.
Consider dining etiquette
When dining, it's customary to wait for the host to invite you to start eating. Also, showing appreciation for the food and complimenting the cook is a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Amasra with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Amasra, Turkey, tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes, typically ranging from 5% to 10% of the bill. While not obligatory, leaving a small tip is appreciated by staff who provide good service. In other service sectors, such as taxis and hotels, small tips for drivers or hotel staff are also common.
Payment
Payment for goods and services in Amasra can be made using cash or credit cards. Many establishments accept major credit cards, though it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller restaurants or shops. Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency, and travelers may find that prices are often negotiable in bazaars or local markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Amasra.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) in Amasra is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flora. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the coastline, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Expect fewer crowds and vibrant landscapes.
Summer
Summer (June to August) sees warm to hot weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This is peak tourist season, ideal for beach activities, swimming, and festivals. Expect bustling markets, lively atmosphere, and plenty of sun.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) offers comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists as the summer crowd dissipates. Ideal for enjoying local cuisine and cultural activities. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with beautiful fall foliage.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Amasra is cool and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While it is off-peak tourist season, visitors can experience local life more intimately and enjoy the coastal views without the crowds, although some attractions may be closed.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Amasra Coastal Hiking Trail
A scenic trail that runs along the beautiful coastline of Amasra, offering stunning views of the Black Sea and access to various beaches and hidden coves.
Bozköy Plateau
Located a short distance from Amasra, this plateau offers various hiking paths through lush forests and a chance to experience local flora and fauna.
İnkumu Beach Trails
A series of trails leading from the famous İnkumu Beach area, providing opportunities for both hiking and enjoying the beach life.
Çakraz Beach Trail
This hiking route takes you along the cliffs overlooking Çakraz Beach, featuring breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Kozceğiz Nature Park
A nature park located near Amasra, with various hiking paths through forests, alongside rivers, and up to panoramic viewpoints.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Amasra through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Amasra by plane.
Zonguldak Airport (ZCLE)
Located approximately 83 km from Amasra, Zonguldak Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Bartın Airport (ZBRT)
Located about 37 km from Amasra, Bartın Airport is a small airport that primarily serves domestic flights.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
Located around 300 km from Amasra in Istanbul, it is one of the major international airports in Turkey.
Istanbul Airport (IST)
Approximately 350 km from Amasra, Istanbul Airport is one of the largest international airports in the world.
Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)
Located about 380 km from Amasra, this airport serves international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Turkish
The predominant demographic group in Amasra, representing the majority of the population.
Kurdish
A smaller minority group present in Amasra, reflecting the broader Kurdish presence in Turkey.
Circassian
Another minority group in Amasra, with historical ties to the region.
Georgian
A minor demographic group that has historical roots in the Amasra area.
Other Ethnicities
Includes various smaller groups and individuals of mixed or other ethnic backgrounds.
The Soul of Amasra
Discover the essence of Amasra through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Amasra, with local teams participating in regional leagues and a strong community following.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys a significant fan base in Amasra, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.
Wrestling
Traditional Turkish wrestling, known as 'Yağlı Güreş', is practiced in Amasra, often showcased during local festivals.
Volleyball
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and local clubs, with community tournaments frequently held.
Water Sports
Given its coastal location, Amasra offers opportunities for water sports such as swimming, sailing, and surfing.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Amasra has a strong focus on seafood, many restaurants and cafes also provide excellent vegetarian and vegan choices, such as stuffed grape leaves, muhlama (cheese fondue), and various mezze options.
Gluten-free Options
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free dishes like grilled fish, dolma (stuffed vegetables), and rice-based dishes, widely available across Amasra's dining establishments.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Amasra with these cultural adventures.
