Things To Do
in Ordu

Ordu is a picturesque coastal city located along the Black Sea in Turkey, known for its lush green hills and stunning landscapes. The region boasts a rich cultural heritage, influenced by various civilizations over the centuries. Ordu is renowned for its hazelnut production, making it a significant agricultural hub.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty and vibrant local life, with welcoming hospitality from its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ordu Boztepe Hill via the cable car for stunning views of the city and the Black Sea.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ordu City Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, followed by lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely walk at the seaside promenade and dine at a local seafood restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a trip to the scenic Perşembe Plateau for breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.

afternoon
:

Engage in an outdoor activity, such as paragliding from the hills or hiking one of the nearby trails.

evening
:

Return to the city and explore the local markets, finishing with dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$8-15
Coffee$2-4
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$3-6
🌍Public transport ticket$0.60
🛍️Souvenir$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and scenic views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes

Places to Visit in Ordu

Visit one of these nice places.

Boztepe Hill

Offers panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea, perfect for sunset photography.

Perşembe Plateau

An idyllic location with lush greenery and stunning landscapes, ideal for nature shots.

Ordu's Seaside Promenade

A picturesque area with charming cafés and vibrant local life, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ordu

Ordu is a gastronomic delight, known for its fresh seafood, hazelnuts, and traditional Turkish dishes that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage.

Ordu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a popular dish along the Black Sea coast, often served with a side of salad.

Must-Try!

Mıhlama

A delicious cheese and cornmeal dish, often enjoyed as a breakfast option.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ordu Market

A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, spices, and street food like gözleme (stuffed flatbread).

Climate Guide

Weather

Ordu experiences a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in summer can reach 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). The region receives substantial rainfall, particularly in the fall and winter months, with May and June being the wettest.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common, and it's polite to greet elders first.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and it's polite to finish everything on your plate.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; beachwear is acceptable at the seaside.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ordu is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services are accessible, and it's advisable to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Ordu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants, but not mandatory; rounding up is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather with occasional rain, ideal for beach activities and enjoying the seaside.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, great for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, offering opportunities for winter sports in nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Ordu at Night

Ordu's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities, but there are several bars and cafes where locals gather. Many places offer live music, particularly on weekends. The seaside promenade comes alive in the evening, with outdoor seating and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out.

Hiking in Ordu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Çambaşı Plateau

A scenic hiking area with lush greenery and panoramic views, suitable for various skill levels.

Kadıralak Plateau

Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, this hiking trail offers a peaceful escape into nature.

Airports

How to reach Ordu by plane.

Ordu-Giresun Airport

Located about 25 km from the city center, this airport serves domestic flights and a few international routes, providing convenient access to Ordu.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ordu is quite walkable, particularly in the city center and along the seaside promenade. Sidewalks are available, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, be prepared for some hilly areas when exploring the outskirts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Citizens

The majority of the population consists of Turkish citizens, with a rich mix of cultural backgrounds and traditions.

Local Minorities

Ordu is home to various minority groups, including Laz and Circassians, contributing to the city's diverse cultural fabric.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Ordu, with local teams playing in regional leagues and many residents passionately following the sport.

Basketball

Basketball is also well-loved, with local clubs and schools actively promoting the sport among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ordu is generally moderate, with the main roads being busier during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and minivans, which are affordable and cover key areas of the city. Walking is a great option for exploring central locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ordu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but dishes like grilled meats and salads are usually safe.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Ordu are accessible, with several public and private hospitals providing a range of services. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies are common throughout the city. Travelers should have travel insurance that covers health issues.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide