Keşap
,Keşap is a district located in the Giresun province of Turkey, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and historical sites. The district is nestled between the Black Sea coast and lush forests, offering breathtaking views to visitors. Keşap's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with its fertile lands producing various crops such as hazelnuts, corn, and tobacco.
The local culture in Keşap is rich in tradition, with warm and welcoming people who are proud of their heritage.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Keap
morning
:Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café. Enjoy a variety of cheeses, olives, and fresh bread to fuel your morning.
afternoon
:Visit the historical Keşap Castle for impressive views and a glimpse into the town's past. Take a leisurely walk around the castle grounds to appreciate the scenery.
evening
:Dine at a seaside restaurant and savor fresh fish caught that day. Relax with a sunset view over the sea while tasting local specialties.
Nature Adventures
morning
:Head to the nearby nature park for a morning hike through the rugged landscapes. Enjoy the fresh air and observe the diverse flora and fauna.
afternoon
:Pack a picnic and find a scenic spot to relax and enjoy your lunch surrounded by nature. Take plenty of pictures to remember the stunning views.
evening
:Return to town and unwind with a stroll along the waterfront. Stop for ice cream at a local shop as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Highlights
Good
- Scenic beauty with stunning views of nature and landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Access to fresh, local produce and seafood.
- A quiet, laid-back lifestyle away from bustling city life.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Job opportunities may be scarce for certain professions.
- Public transportation options might be limited.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to fluctuations in population and economy.
- Potential for isolation, especially during the off-season.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Keşap Nature Park
Explore the scenic trails of Keşap Nature Park, offering various difficulty levels and stunning views of the natural landscape.
Picnicking at Keşap Lake
Enjoy a relaxing day by the lake with family and friends, complete with picturesque spots for picnicking and outdoor games.
Fishing at the Giresun River
Try your luck at fishing in the Giresun River, which is known for its abundance of fish species and serene surroundings.
Mountain Biking Trails
Take on the challenging mountain biking trails around Keşap that cater to both beginners and experienced riders, with breathtaking views along the way.
Camping under the Stars
Set up camp in designated areas within the nature park and enjoy a night under the stars, with opportunities for stargazing and sharing stories by a campfire.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Keşap with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Keşap Castle
An ancient castle offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the town, perfect for capturing stunning photos during sunset.
Çamlık Park
A beautiful park with lush greenery and a viewpoint that overlooks the town, ideal for nature photography and leisurely walks.
Keşap Stream
A picturesque stream with charming bridges and scenic paths, providing excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Local Vineyards
Vibrant vineyards surrounding the town, offering a picturesque backdrop for photos, especially during the grape harvest season.
Atatürk Boulevard
A lively boulevard dotted with cafes and shops, perfect for capturing the essence of local life and architecture.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kuymak
A delectable dish made with cornmeal, cheese, and butter, creating a creamy and savory concoction. It's a must-try when visiting Keşap and can be found at traditional local restaurants like Kuscuoglu Lokantasi.
Must-Try!
İskender Kebab
A mouth-watering dish consisting of thinly sliced döner kebab meat placed on a bed of pide bread, topped with savory tomato sauce and creamy yogurt. Head to the famous İskender Kebap Salonu for an authentic experience.
Laz Böreği
A delectable pastry made with thin layers of dough, filled with sweet cheese or minced meat, and then baked to golden perfection. Ozturk Pide Salonu is renowned for its delightful Laz Böreği.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Keşap better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Keşap Friday Market
Every Friday, the town comes alive with this vibrant market offering a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, olives, and a tantalizing array of street food. Don't miss the opportunity to taste local delicacies and engage with the bustling atmosphere.
Simitci Ali Baba
For a delightful street food experience, seek out Simitci Ali Baba's stall, where you can savor freshly baked simit, a circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds. It's a popular on-the-go snack among locals and visitors alike.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
When greeting people in Keşap, it is common to greet with a handshake, accompanied by a friendly smile. Close friends or family may exchange hugs or kisses on the cheek. Always use polite phrases such as 'Merhaba' (Hello) and show respect for elders.
Dining Norms
If you are invited to someone’s home for a meal, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruit, as a token of appreciation. During the meal, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating first, and it’s considered respectful to finish all food on your plate.
Dress Code
In Keşap, modesty in clothing is appreciated, especially in rural areas. While casual attire is acceptable, dressing conservatively is advisable, particularly when visiting religious sites. Women should wear dresses or skirts that cover the knee, and men should avoid overly casual clothing.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Keşap with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Keşap, Turkey, tipping is not a mandatory practice but is generally appreciated in the service industry. It is common to leave a small tip at restaurants, typically rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% as a gesture of appreciation for good service. Tipping in cafés and for taxi drivers is also common, though it may be less formalized.
Payment
Payments in Keşap can be made using cash, which is widely accepted, and credit or debit cards, especially in larger establishments. Many smaller shops and local restaurants may prefer cash transactions. The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the standard currency used for all transactions. Mobile payment options are gaining popularity but may vary by location.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Keşap.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Keşap. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The landscape is lush and vibrant with blooming flowers and greenery. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the local nature.
Summer
Summer (June to August) in Keşap can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This is peak tourist season, with plenty of local festivals and events. Visitors can enjoy the warm weather, although it may be less comfortable for some. It’s a great time for visiting local beaches and enjoying outdoor dining.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is another ideal time to visit Keşap. The temperatures are moderate, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, and the crowds are usually thinner after summer. The foliage starts to change, providing beautiful scenery for photography and nature walks.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Keşap is generally mild compared to many other regions, with temperatures between 0°C and 10°C. While it may not be as lively as other seasons, this time is perfect for those who enjoy a quieter atmosphere, exploring historical sites, and experiencing local culture during the off-peak season.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Çamlık Park
A scenic park with various trails suitable for hiking, offering beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Yaylalar Plateau
Located a short drive from Keşap, this plateau offers various hiking trails through lush forests and stunning landscapes.
Köyceğiz Nature Park
A protected area with numerous hiking paths, ideal for nature lovers, featuring rich flora and fauna.
Çakırl ı Village Hiking Trails
This area provides hiking opportunities along rural tracks with views of the countryside and traditional village life.
Giresun Mountain
A bit further out, this mountain offers challenging hikes with rewarding panoramic views at the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Keşap through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Keşap by plane.
Trabzon Airport (TZX)
The nearest international airport to Keşap, located approximately 50 kilometers away from the town.
Samsun-Carsamba Airport (SZF)
An international airport located about 150 kilometers from Keşap, serving the city of Samsun.
Erzurum Airport (ERZ)
International airport around 200 kilometers from Keşap, serving Erzurum and nearby regions.
Amasya Merzifon Airport (MZH)
Located approximately 140 kilometers from Keşap, this airport serves both domestic and a few international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Turks
The majority ethnic group in Keşap, comprising a significant portion of the population.
Kurdish
A smaller but notable ethnic minority in the area.
Other ethnic groups
Includes various smaller demographics, such as Circassians and others.
The Soul of Keşap
Discover the essence of Keşap through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Keşap, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with local courts available for practice and leagues forming.
Volleyball
Volleyball is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively, particularly among schools and community events.
Athletics
Track and field events are promoted in schools, encouraging participation in running and other athletic disciplines.
Handball
Handball has a growing presence in Keşap, with local clubs participating in regional competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Turkish cuisine leans heavily on meats, many restaurants and cafes in Keşap offer an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as stuffed vine leaves, hearty vegetable stews, and falafel wraps. It's advisable to inform the staff about dietary preferences for tailored recommendations.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can indulge in various gluten-free options such as grilled meats, rice pilaf, fresh salads, and naturally gluten-free mezes. Communicating dietary needs to the chefs or servers will ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Keşap with these cultural adventures.
