Things To Do
in Giresun
Giresun is a coastal city on the Black Sea in northern Türkiye, backed by the Pontic Mountains. It blends green hills, a working harbor, and a slow-paced maritime vibe with a strong hazelnut legacy. Its historic center centers on the 16th century Giresun Castle and a scenic waterfront promenade.
Visitors enjoy green landscapes, fresh seafood, markets, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Giresun Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. As you wander through its ancient walls, soak in the panoramic views of the Black Sea and the lush green hills surrounding the town. After exploring the castle, stroll down to the historic streets of Giresun, where you can admire Ottoman-era architecture and local shops.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant, savoring local delicacies such as Giresun's famous pistachios and fish dishes. Afterward, visit the Giresun Museum to delve into the region's rich history, showcasing artifacts from the ancient Greek and Roman periods. Take a walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and the vibrant atmosphere of the harbor.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot at a seaside café to enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee. Watch the sunset over the Black Sea, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a magical backdrop. Finish the day with a casual stroll through the bustling streets, where you can experience local music and culture.
Head to the beautiful Giresun Beach early in the morning to enjoy the sun and the gentle sound of the waves. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy shores, collecting seashells and taking in the stunning views of the Black Sea. For those looking for adventure, consider renting a jet ski or trying out paddleboarding to kickstart your day with some adrenaline.
After a fun-filled morning, grab a light lunch at a beachside café, where you can taste fresh seafood and local salads. Once reenergized, dive into some water sports like windsurfing or banana boat rides, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to make the most of their beach day. As the sun reaches its peak, take a break and lounge on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the lively beach atmosphere.
As dusk falls, find a beachfront restaurant to indulge in a delicious dinner while listening to the sound of the waves. Opt for a seafood feast, featuring the catch of the day, and pair it with a glass of local wine. End your day with a peaceful walk along the beach under the starlit sky, embracing the serene ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich hazelnut culture and coastal scenery
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Proximity to nature and easy day trips
- Delicious seafood and fresh coffee culture
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Some attractions and services are seasonal
- Public transportation can be slower outside the city center
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede otobüs durağı?" - Where is the bus stop?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Can you speak English?
Places to Visit in Giresun
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic viewpoints over the old town and harbor from the hilltop ruins; especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Classic coastal lighthouse with the Black Sea as a backdrop; great for long-exposure sea shots.
Bustling waterfront with boats, fruit stalls, and fishing activity; ideal for street photography and candid locals.
Walkable sea views along the waterfront with whitewashed houses and green hills beyond.
Food in Giresun
Giresun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried anchovies seasoned with lemon and herbs, a Black Sea staple commonly found along the harbor.
Must-Try!
Cheese and butter melted into cornmeal, a hearty coastal favorite often enjoyed with bread.
Freshly caught fish and shellfish grilled to order, best enjoyed at seaside restaurants.
Desserts and snacks featuring hazelnuts, including roasted nuts and hazelnut pastes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market stalls selling hazelnuts, dried fruit, bread, and seasonal produce; great for grazing and picking up snacks.
Street vendors offering quick bites such as simit, grilled seafood, and light meze plates along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and polite eye contact are common; guests are offered tea or coffee in many settings; modest dress is respectful when visiting mosques or religious sites.
Remove shoes before entering mosques; dress modestly and keep voices low inside; photography may be restricted in some areas.
Ask permission when photographing people, especially in markets or interiors; when in doubt, be courteous and respectful.
Safety
Tipping in Giresun
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good; rounding up the bill is common. For guides and drivers, a modest tip is customary if the service is satisfactory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; some smaller vendors and markets may prefer cash. Contactless payments are common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with regular sea breezes; seas can be calm in the mornings and choppy in the afternoons. This is peak season for coastal activities, seafood, and markets; bring sunscreen and light clothing.
Milder days and crisper evenings; hazelnut harvest season begins, bringing markets to life with nuts and confections. Occasional rain is possible; layers recommended.
Cool and wet with occasional snow in the hills; many outdoor options shrink but the city remains lively with indoor cafes and markets. Pack a warm coat and waterproof footwear.
Refreshing with frequent showers and blooming greenery; great for hiking and street photography with soft light. Waves of green hills and coastal scenery are particularly photogenic.
Giresun at Night
Hiking in Giresun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby forested hills offer accessible day hikes with sea views and lush greenery.
Airports
How to reach Giresun by plane.
Located about 60-70 km from central Giresun; primarily domestic flights with connections to Istanbul and Ankara; road transfer takes about 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Located about 140-170 km from Giresun; serves international and domestic routes; typically connected by road or bus travel to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group making up the city’s population with a strong local culture and hospitality.
A cultural group present in the wider region, contributing to regional music, language influences, and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played locally; many kids and adults participate in neighborhood leagues.
Common in schools and community centers; occasional local tournaments.
Longstanding coastal activity with fresh catches sold in markets and restaurants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Giresun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include meze plates, grilled vegetables, lentil soup, salads, legumes, and dairy-based dishes; communicate clearly and ask for simple preparations.