The Black Sea coast, a lush route rich in cultural heritage in northern Turkey, has been included in the “Best Places in the World for 2026” by National Geographic. The list highlights the region’s coastal areas as top alternatives for those seeking adventure and a connection with authentic Turkish culture, away from the crowds.
The “Best Places in the World” category, curated each year by National Geographic’s editorial team and travel experts, features 25 of the most inspiring destinations for the coming year. The recognition of Turkey’s Black Sea shores underscores the country’s appeal, showcasing its mountains and valleys, cultural heritage, and vibrancy at the local level.
Turkey’s treasure away from tourist hotspots
The Black Sea region in Turkey stretches along the Black Sea to the country’s northern coast. Nestled between the Black Sea and the lush mountains of Northern Anatolia, the region’s fertile landscapes, misty hills, and traditional villages reflect its natural beauty and serenity. The Black Sea region, a rising star in travel rankings, was included in CNN Travel’s Best Places to Visit for 2024. Later, Ordu and Giresun, two provinces of the region, appeared on Lonely Planet’s Best Places to Travel in 2025 list.
Following this growing recognition, National Geographic also included Turkey’s Black Sea coast among the areas travelers should keep in mind for 2026. This stunning coastline offers experiences for every type of traveler, from sandy beaches and architectural gems to lush forests and distinctive local cuisine. Although the magazine notes that this northern corner of Turkey remains under the radar, it suggests that its rich and diverse offerings could make it one of the country’s most sought-after destinations.
Unique adventures in nature
Turkey’s Black Sea region, once a bustling trade center on the Silk Road, now invites travelers to engage with natural wonders through outdoor adventures. The national parks in the Northern Anatolian Mountains, part of the Alpine-Himalayan geological zone, offer opportunities for exhilarating hikes through verdant landscapes and peaceful nights camping under the stars. Other adventures include exploring million-year-old stalactite and stalagmite formations in Karaca Cave in G?m??hane, rafting down the F?rt?na River, and ziplining, an adrenaline-filled activity at the Ayder Plateau in Rize.
In addition, National Geographic notes that the Black Sea is one of the few places on the planet where travelers can surf and ski on the same day. Sea lovers can enjoy refreshing swims at the sandy beaches along the coast, while the region’s high mountains, such as ?amba?? in Ordu and Ovit in Rize, offer enjoyable skiing and snowboarding options.
Here, travelers will find medieval castles such as Zil Castle in Rize, architectural wonders like the Sumela Monastery in Trabzon and Hagia Sophia, as well as traditional settlements such as Safranbolu in Karab?k and Orta Mahalle in Trabzon, both listed as UNESCO sites.
Local cuisine at its finest
The Black Sea coast is also ideal for culinary journeys, where every bite tells a story of local culture and tradition. Due to its coastline, fresh seafood and seafood-based recipes, such as hamsili pilav (rice pilaf with anchovies), are the region’s most popular gastronomic delights.
Local dishes such as kuymak (a beloved breakfast made with cornmeal and cheese), the delicious Ak?aabat k?fte, the dough-based pides of Samsun, karalahana dolmas? (cabbage leaves stuffed with rice and meat), and Hamsik?y s?tla? (rice pudding) offer visitors one of the most unforgettable gastronomic experiences of their lives.
The Black Sea region is also known for its microclimates that allow the cultivation of special agricultural products. For example, one can taste some of the world’s best hazelnuts in Ordu and Giresun. The lush slopes of tea plantations in Rize, Trabzon and Artvin also provide one of Turkey’s most picturesque landscapes. Thus, tea-harvesting tours in the village of ?e?eva in Rize are a unique experience on this coast.
