Visit The Turkish Paradise Of Amasra On The Black Sea Coast Before Everyone Else

Planning your next holiday to Turkey but cannot decide where to go? Have you explored all that Istanbul offers and seeking a change?

Maybe you’re looking for fascinating day trips from Istanbul to add an exciting twist to your trip. No matter what your priority or goal is, I know the perfect destination for your next holiday: Amasra!

Amasra, a small Black Sea port town in Bartın province, is a lesser-known gem that’s mostly popular among visitors from the nearby cities. As the town of Amasra lacks international recognition, it offers a more affordable trip compared to other destinations.

Therefore, it’s a great destination for those seeking a cheap holiday to Turkey.

If you want to learn more about Amasra and its wonders, grab your cup of coffee and keep reading this article I prepared for you!

Amasra – The Black Sea’s Hidden Gem

Guide To Amasra Turkey

Amasra, Turkey, is a true hidden gem with gorgeous landscapes and charming urban scenery. The city is known for its distinct, white-washed houses and unique local architecture.

Do you think you know Turkish architecture? Get ready to be surprised because Amasra will challenge your preconceptions of traditional Turkish architecture with its whitewashed contemporary houses rising among the ruins of historical structures!

Compared to major cities like Izmir, Istanbul, or Antalya, Amasra preserves its historical wealth quite well. Every corner of this tiny settlement carries the marks of past centuries and civilizations.

In addition to its magnificent urban look, Amasra is a great destination for those seeking a nature getaway. If you want a peaceful and quiet spot for your Turkey vacation, this charming seaside town nestled on the Black Sea might offer you the perfect retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

In the heart of the city lies the famous Amasra Castle, situated on a cape stretching towards the sea. On either side of the cape are two bays serving as sheltered harbors. There are also several independent islands connected to mainland Amasra, offering a unique adventure for hikers and explorers. Amasra houses, bordering narrow streets covered in faint greenery, have panoramic views of the Black Sea and the nearby islands.

Additionally, thanks to its proximity to Istanbul, Amasra is a perfect spot for Istanbul day trips. You can get to this tiny town after a few-hour drive and explore the majority of attractions in another few hours.

Despite its popularity among Turkish visitors, Amasra doesn’t seem to be a favored spot for visitors looking for Turkey travel.

Yes, Amasra, compared to other popular tourist destinations, is a smaller and quieter settlement. Nevertheless, its affordability, natural beauty, and tranquil atmosphere make Amasra the perfect location for a cheap holiday to Turkey.

Things To Do In Amasra, Black Sea

Once you decide to visit Amasra during your trip to Turkey, you should start planning your unforgettable adventure. If you cannot decide where to go or what to do in Amasra, you’re at the right place! Let’s discover the best things to do in Amasra.

1. Wander Through Its Narrow Streets

Amasra’s narrow, cobblestone streets, bordered by traditional houses, offer visitors an extraordinary urban experience. If you enjoy discovering cities and urban structures, Amasra might be a great option for your Turkey family holidays. Since the city is relatively small and quite walkable, you can get around without needing to take a bus.

You can visit all the significant attractions in Amasra in only one or two days, as most are located within close proximity. But if long stretches on the beach and exploring hidden gems are your priority, consider extending your stay to discover the beauty of Amasra’s neighboring coastal towns.

When touring around the city, don’t forget to sit at one of the local cafes or pide houses to taste local delicacies. These local businesses, most family-owned, offer both residents and visitors extraordinary tastes.

While you’re at it, Amasra might be the best spot to discover Turkish tea garden culture. Explore Amasra’s coastline, dotted with charming tea gardens, each offering a unique ambiance. Find your perfect spot to unwind and sip on delicious Turkish tea while the Black Sea’s magnificent waves unfold before you.

2. Visit Its Golden Beaches

Blessed with stunning natural beauty, Amasra boasts a coastline dotted with secluded coves and sandy stretches. With a myriad of beaches, the city’s tourism scene buzzes with activity. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Amasra that you should add to your itinerary.

Inkumu Beach

This 3-kilometer stretch of sand, known for its very fine sand and magnificent scenery, is a highlight of the Black Sea coastline.

While the beach is blessed with pleasant nature, it can get too crowded at times. Especially during the peak summer months, visitors from nearby towns and cities drive to Amasra just for Inkumu Beach. So, if you’re planning a visit to this distinct beach, you should get there in the early hours of the day to find a suitable spot.

Cakraz Beach

Cakraz Beach is a true Black Sea paradise!

If you have this beach on your itinerary, you have to drive to the beach town of Cakraz. Although the town is usually quiet, there are many hotels and resorts near the beach, so in summer, the beach gets more crowded than one might expect. The most significant advantage of Cakraz, on the other hand, is the facilities nearby.

Bozköy Beach

Surrounded by a lush forest, Bozköy Beach is one of those paradisiacal spots where you can just lie down, close your eyes, and have a soothing rest. The beach is a tad rocky, so it might be difficult to swim. Nevertheless, Bozköy Beach definitely deserves a visit for its peaceful atmosphere.

Besides these three, there are many pristine coves and hidden beaches around Amasra. So, if you like beach vacations, the city might be the perfect spot for you.

3. Bask In History

Seeking the best Turkey tours for a cultural trip? The historical heritage Amasra boasts might surprise you!
As a history fan myself, Amasra is one of my favorite places to visit in Turkey.

Since the city is founded upon the ruins of an ancient castle, every corner of Amasra is home to a historical monument or structure. Even the most mundane parts of the city have a history going back hundreds of years.

For example, the tiny bridge locals use to travel between Boztepe Island and the mainland was built in the 8th century and is still in use. Amasra’s Culture and Art House also offers a surprising contrast – a vibrant center for contemporary creativity housed within a humble 9th-century structure.

Amasra Fortress

Amasra Fortress, the ruins of which surround a significant part of the contemporary city, is among Amasra’s symbols. This historic castle, built approximately 3,000 years ago, was a strategic point for the Byzantines and later the Ottoman Empire, defending the city from invaders throughout history.

Parts of the Amasra Fortress contain different historical structures as well. The historical Castle Gate has the coat of arms of the Genoese families that ruled over the city. Plus, within the fortress lie the ruins of a once mighty Genoese manor.

Kuşkayası Monument

Historical landmarks in Amasra aren’t limited to those, of course. Among the most famous monuments in Amasra is the Kuşkayası Monument, a roadside landmark erected in the Roman era.

The unique monument, by Gaius Julius Aquila, procurator of Bithynia et Pontus, includes a statue of a now headless human figure, the Roman eagle (also headless), and a bilingual inscription in Greek and Latin.

When heading to Amasra via D.010 road, you should definitely visit this monument to marvel at the marks of a long-gone civilization.

4. Sample The Local Cuisine

Seeking the perfect destination for an unforgettable gastronomy adventure? It might be time to add Amasra to your itinerary.

One of the most popular Turkey holiday destinations for domestic tourists, the town is known for its unique, peaceful culture.

In this tranquil part of Turkey, the fast pace of big cities is almost non-existent. So, if you’re familiar with Istanbul’s crowded and noisy atmosphere, Amasra might be a great alternative for a more slow-paced, tranquil holiday. Plus, thanks to its unique cuisine, in Amasra, you can taste new dishes and sample distinct local delicacies.

Amasra Salad

One of the most popular dishes in Amasra is the famous Amasra salad. This salad, made from 15 different veggies, is an exceptionally healthy addition to your diet. Locals prefer this salad as a side dish when they eat fish.

Amasra Pide

Another well-known dish from Amasra is the famous Amasra pide, a pizza-like dish consisting of a flattened dough base topped with various ingredients. You can taste this delicious pide at the city’s traditional pide houses, some standing strong for centuries, and enjoy an authentic Turkish dining experience.

Bartın Mantı

Don’t miss Bartın mantı, Amasra’s take on the classic Turkish dumpling.

Unlike its boiled counterpart, Bartın mantı boasts a unique preparation method. Here, the dumplings are filled with a savory blend of meat and rice and baked in an oven until golden brown. Finally, they are bathed in a rich meat sauce, creating a dish that’s both crispy and bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Turkish mantı or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, Bartın mantı is a must-try in Amasra.

It’s impossible to list all the delicious dishes in Amasra’s unique cuisine. Amasra offers a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Prepare to be surprised!

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Where To Eat In Amasra

Amasra is home to many traditional Turkish restaurants, local pide houses, and famous meyhane taverns. Its small size shouldn’t fool you because this hidden Black Sea gem truly has a lot of culinary delight to offer.

Amasra Pidesi Haydar Usta

One thing you must try in Amasra is the famous Amasra pide, also known as Karadeniz pide to some. There are many traditional pide houses around the city’s center, where you can sample the best pide.
I recommend the local restaurant Amasra Pidesi Haydar Usta, which serves some of the best pide in the area.

Mustafa Amca’nın Yeri

You shouldn’t finalize your trip to Amasra without eating seafood. Thankfully, you don’t need to go far from the city center to find good seafood. Along the coast are many great restaurants that serve the best dishes.

The perfect venue is Mustafa Amca’nın Yeri, which is a popular fish restaurant among both locals and visitors. If you want to top the experience and have an authentic Turkish feast, consider having rakı, a type of Turkish alcoholic beverage, and mezze with fish!

Best Time To Visit Amasra

If you’re planning to have tours of Turkey and Amasra is on your itinerary, picking the right time must be your priority. Since Amasra is a coastal city with many historical and cultural wonders, you can visit the city in all four seasons.

For example, the summer season is perfect for enjoying the sun, sea, and sand. Amasra’s golden beaches will offer you an unforgettable experience swimming and sunbathing. However, remember that Amasra can be a tad crowded during summer due to visitors coming from nearby cities and towns for a refreshing swim in the Black Sea.

You can avoid the crowds by picking a date in mid to late spring.
Although you cannot swim during fall or winter, these seasons might be perfect for a cultural and culinary experience. Winter transforms the town. The summer crowds fade, replaced by a tranquility that invites exploration.

You can wander Amasra’s winding streets freely and explore various local establishments for a truly authentic experience. If you can catch the snow season, you may enjoy witnessing Amasra transformed into a winter wonderland with snow-covered streets. In short words, Amasra’s off-season is the perfect opportunity to escape the city’s cacophony and relentless pace and enjoy serenity.

Best Places To Stay In Amasra, The Black Sea Port Town

Thanks to the many hotels and resorts around the city, you won’t have any difficulty finding a good place to stay during your visit to Amasra! Below, you can find some of the best places to stay in Amasra!

1. North Door Hotel – Amasra

This four-star hotel is quite popular among both international and domestic visitors.

North Door Hotel is situated in close proximity to the coastline – it’s a great spot if you enjoy soothing morning promenades. Most rooms at the hotel have a magnificent Black Sea view and boast Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges. You can pick the complimentary breakfast option for sampling a delicious breakfast buffet.

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2. Sahil Otel Amasra (Coast Hotel)

Located near the Black Sea coast, Sahil Otel Amasra is a strategic base for those wishing to explore the city. Amasra’s most popular attractions are conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

All rooms have access to Wi-Fi and come with flat-screen TVs and minifridges. Plus, the hotel offers room and laundry service in order to enhance the comfort of its visitors.

3. Sardinia Hotel

Situated near the historical fortress, Sardinia Hotel is the perfect spot for those seeking a base at the city’s heart.

The hotel boasts comfortable air-conditioned rooms with balconies. Sardinia also offers free Wi-Fi and houses a restaurant that serves delicious international and local dishes. Plus, as the hotel is located in a bustling area with many shops, cafés, and restaurants, you can easily immerse in the local culture.

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4. Diamond Liman Hotel

A humble hotel near the coast, Diamond Liman Hotel is the first choice for those looking for a comfy and strategic base. The hotel sits just steps from the public beach, offering easy access to the calming Black Sea waves. Plus, its well-decorated rooms boast magnificent views of the Black Sea and provide a soothing experience.

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5. Frau Güler Boutique

If you’re seeking an alternative to those big hotels, Frau Güler Boutique is a great choice! The lodge’s humble garden and comfy rooms with sea views will make you feel at home. Every morning, you will enjoy a complimentary breakfast, freshly prepared with local ingredients.

Since it’s located in the historical fortress, you can get to the most popular attractions within a 10-minute walk from the hotel. However, you have to hurry – the boutique hotel has only six rooms, and they get booked out fast!