Located on Turkey's Black Sea coast, this port city has ancient Greek ruins, traditional Turkish bazaars, and mountains rising behind its beaches. Known for tobacco trade and 19th-century architecture.
Samsun sits on Turkey's Black Sea coast, with 35 kilometers of sandy beaches and mountain ranges in the background. Walk through the Bandırma Ferry Museum to learn about Turkey's independence movement, climb the rocky paths of Sahinkaya Canyon, or spot migrating birds at the Bafra Delta nature reserve. In summer, swim at Atakum's beaches or, come winter, ski down Akdağ's 1,675-meter slopes.
Getting to Samsun
Samsun-Çarşamba Airport connects to Istanbul and Ankara with daily flights. From the airport, catch a bus every 25 minutes to the city center - the journey takes about 30 minutes. You can also reach Samsun by train from central Anatolia or by bus from major Turkish cities.
Black Sea Beaches
The 35-kilometer coastline includes 39 beaches across different districts. In Atakum district, you'll find 19 beaches for swimming, surfing, and jet skiing. Walk the paved promenade connecting these beaches to find your preferred spot, whether you want to join the main beach crowds or seek out quieter areas.
Mountains and Wildlife
At Sahinkaya Canyon, walk along trails at the rim where rock walls drop 400 meters to the water. The Bafra Kizilirmak Delta attracts more than 300 bird species throughout the year, with storks and herons arriving in spring. Follow marked forest paths to reach several waterfalls, including Gölalan and Kabaceviz.
Museums and Cultural Sites
Step aboard the Bandırma Ferry Museum, a replica of the ship that brought Atatürk to Samsun in 1919, to see photographs and artifacts from Turkey's independence movement. Visit the Archaeological Museum to see the Amisos treasure - gold jewelry and ornaments found during construction in 1995 - along with items from ancient settlements.
Winter Sports at Akdağ
Ski down the 1,675-meter track at Akdağ Ski Center in Ladik, using the chairlift system to reach the top. Drive 80 kilometers from Samsun city center to reach slopes suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. The center operates from December to March, weather permitting.
Local Food
Each neighborhood has its own stone ovens where bakers make pide (flatbread with toppings), varying the ingredients and cooking methods. Buy seasonal Black Sea fish like hamsi (anchovies) and regional hazelnuts at local markets. Sample atom, a local dessert made from whipped egg whites and nuts.
City Transportation
Take the coastal tram to connect between major districts. Purchase a Samkart at any tram station or kiosk for public transport. While taxis run throughout the city, in quieter areas you might need to call ahead. Many coastal attractions lie within walking distance of each other.
