Rize — Travel Guide

The most ideal period to visit Rize is between June and September. During this time, the plateaus are fully open, the snows of the Kaçkar Mountains have begun to melt, and trekking routes are ready for hiking. The thermal facilities in Ayder Plateau also attract intense interest throughout the summer.

May holds a special charm for those who want to see nature at its freshest and witness the unique tea harvesting rituals, as it is when the tea harvest begins. However, roads leading to the plateaus may not be fully open during this period.

In winter, Rize experiences heavy rainfall and fog; while the city center can be visited, reaching the plateaus becomes difficult. For photography enthusiasts, early autumn offers a magical period when the forests turn into yellow-red hues.

By Plane: The closest airport to Rize is Trabzon Airport, located approximately 45 kilometers away. There are regular flights to Trabzon from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major cities. The road journey from Trabzon to Rize takes about 1 hour; transportation from the airport can be arranged by shuttle, taxi, or bus.

By Bus: Direct bus services to Rize are available from many cities in Turkey. Buses departing from Istanbul reach Rize in approximately 18-20 hours. Ticket prices vary depending on the company and season.

By Car: Located on the Black Sea Coastal Road, Rize is quite suitable for those traveling by car. By following the D010 highway from Trabzon, you can reach Rize city center in about 1 hour. If you plan to go up to the plateaus, choosing a high-traction vehicle will make the journey easier.

Transportation within Rize city center is quite easy. Minibuses (dolmuşes) operate regular services to central points and are affordable. It is also possible to reach central places like the Rize Museum on foot.

To reach the plateaus and districts, minibuses or dolmuşes can be used; however, service hours may be limited. Ayder Plateau is located on a route accessed via Çamlıhemşin. For those who want to explore the Fırtına Stream valley and its surrounding villages, renting a car is the most practical option; this way, you can explore at your own pace.

Finding a taxi in the city center is also not difficult. Local agencies that organize guided tours for distant plateaus and mountain villages can also be preferred.

Ayder Plateau: Rize's most famous plateau, Ayder stands out with both its thermal waters and magnificent mountain views. Located at the foot of the Kaçkar Mountains, this plateau also attracts great interest as a trekking starting point.

Fırtına Stream and Çat Valley: One of the most impressive valleys of the Black Sea, Fırtına Stream captivates visitors with its historical stone bridges, dense forests, and rafting opportunities. As you advance along the valley, you reach the fairytale landscape of Çat Village.

Zil Castle: Built on a steep rock in the Fırtına Stream valley, this medieval castle is one of the symbols of the region. It offers an extremely impressive view with the surrounding forest and stream scenery.

Palovit Waterfall: This waterfall, located in the Çamlıhemşin district, impresses visitors with its vigorous flow, especially in spring and summer. The path leading to the waterfall also offers a delightful hiking experience in itself.

Pokut and Gito Plateaus: For those seeking a less crowded and more natural plateau experience, Pokut and Gito are among Rize's hidden treasures. In these plateaus, you can find traditional Black Sea architecture and untouched nature together.

Rize Castle and City Center: The historical Rize Castle is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers panoramic sea views. The Rize Museum and Şeyh Mosque in the city center are also worth visiting.

Pileki Cave: Located approximately 22 kilometers from Rize city center, this cave attracts attention with its unique pileki stone formations.

Accommodation options in Rize are quite diverse, both in the city center and in the plateaus. In the city center, you can find boutique hotels and mid-range chain hotels; sea-view rooms can be preferred.

Ayder Plateau is the most developed accommodation point in the region. Here you can choose from hotels with thermal facilities, guesthouses, and bungalow-style structures. During the summer season, occupancy rates in Ayder are high, so it is recommended to make reservations in advance.

For a more authentic experience, you can stay in village guesthouses in the Çamlıhemşin district or in stone houses in Pokut Plateau. These options are both budget-friendly and offer the opportunity to interact closely with the local people.

Rize cuisine is full of authentic flavors nourished by the rich nature of the Black Sea. Of course, above all, tea has a completely different meaning here; drinking freshly brewed Rize tea directly in the tea gardens is a unique experience.

Mıhlama (muhlama): This local dish, prepared with corn flour, butter, and cheese, is a staple on Rize tables. Consumed hot at breakfast, mıhlama is a flavor unique to the region.

Hamsili pilav (anchovy rice) and hamsi tava (fried anchovies): Hamsi (anchovy), the symbol of the Black Sea, is cooked in many ways in Rize. Anchovy rice, anchovy pastry, and fresh fried anchovies are among the must-try options.

Laz böreği (Laz pastry): This sweet pastry with custard is unique to the Black Sea region and can be found in many patisseries and restaurants in Rize.

Karalahana çorbası (black cabbage soup): Black cabbage, the indispensable vegetable of the region, is frequently used in soups and dishes. This soup, served with cornbread, warms you up in cold weather.

You can find all these delicacies in local restaurants in the city center and in restaurants on Ayder Plateau.

Rize is a relatively affordable city compared to other popular holiday destinations in Turkey. Accommodation fees in a mid-range hotel in the city center vary, so it is recommended to compare prices before booking. Hotels with thermal facilities in Ayder Plateau may fall into a higher price range.

Regarding food and drink, you can enjoy satisfying meals at very reasonable prices in local restaurants. It should also be noted that a glass of tea in tea gardens is offered at a symbolic price.

In terms of transportation, if you plan to travel to and from the plateaus, it would be wise to include car rental costs in your budget. There are no additional entrance fees for Zil Castle, Palovit Waterfall, and most natural areas; however, as regulations in some national park areas may change, it is recommended to confirm current information on site.

Rize embodies one of the most vibrant examples of Black Sea culture. Hemshin culture maintains a strong presence in the region; Hemshin-speaking communities add a distinct color to Rize with their unique music, clothing, and traditions.

Tea is not just a beverage; it is a social ritual in Rize. Neighbor visits, business meetings, moments of meeting strangers... all begin with a cup of tea. Tea gardens and tea factories in the city are living witnesses of this culture.

Horon is the traditional dance of the region. Characterized by its fast-paced and vibrant movements, horon is enthusiastically performed at weddings and festivals. If you happen to encounter a local wedding or festival in Rize, this performance should not be missed.

The local people are known for their hospitality; it is quite likely that they will welcome you with tea and homemade delicacies when you visit a village or plateau.