Rize, nestled on Turkey's northeastern Black Sea coast, offers a distinct travel experience defined by its vast tea plantations, verdant highlands, and deeply rooted cultural heritage. It draws visitors seeking immersion in its unique natural beauty, therapeutic thermal springs, and significant historical sites.
While Rize is not characterized by lively nightlife or specific backpacker districts, opportunities for mild socializing with other travelers are typically present within guesthouses and restaurants, particularly in areas like Ayder Plateau, which can be busy. Engaging with the local tea culture in traditional tea houses also provides a relaxed setting for connection.
Top 5 Things to do in Rize
Activities in Rize primarily involve exploring its lush highlands, engaging with local tea culture, experiencing historical sites, and enjoying adventurous outdoor pursuits.
1. Explore Ayder Plateau
Discover the stunning alpine scenery of Ayder Plateau, a prominent highland village within the Kaçkar Mountains National Park. One can stroll amidst traditional wooden houses, witness gushing waterfalls, and enjoy the refreshing mountain air. It serves as an excellent base for gentle walks or more challenging hikes into the surrounding nature, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape.
Cost: Access to the Ayder Plateau itself is generally free. If entering specific sections of Kaçkar Mountains National Park or thermal baths within Ayder, there may be a small fee. Guided tours that include Ayder Plateau can range from approximately $50 to over $400, depending on duration and inclusions.
Transport: Ayder Plateau is about an 80-minute drive from Rize city center. While some public mini-buses might operate, renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring. Numerous private day tours from Rize or Trabzon are available, including hotel pick-up and drop-off, making transport convenient.
2. Experience Fırtına Valley Adventures
The Fırtına Valley (Storm Valley) is known for its fast-flowing river, providing an ideal setting for exhilarating activities. One can experience whitewater rafting on the river or try ziplining across the valley. The area also features picturesque historical stone bridges that offer great photo opportunities and a glimpse into the region's past.
Cost: The cost for specific activities like rafting or ziplining varies but is typically part of a package or paid per activity. These activities are often included in guided tours.
Transport: Located within the Çamlıhemşin district, Fırtına Valley is commonly visited via private tours departing from Rize or Trabzon. Self-driving with a rental car also allows access to the valley.
3. Visit Zil Castle (Zilkale)
Perched dramatically atop a hill, Zil Castle offers a captivating journey into Rize's historical past. Exploring the ancient stone walls and towers provides insight into its strategic importance. From the castle, one can enjoy expansive, panoramic views of the lush Fırtına Valley and surrounding mountains, making it a rewarding stop for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Cost: The admission fee for Zil Castle is typically a small amount, with one tour listing it at approximately $1.00 per person. Many private tours include this entrance fee.
Transport: Zil Castle is best reached by car or as part of a guided tour, as it is situated in a more remote, mountainous area. It is frequently combined with visits to Ayder Plateau and Fırtına Valley in tour itineraries.
4. Tour Tea Plantations and Factories
As Turkey's tea capital, Rize offers an authentic experience exploring its vast, verdant tea plantations. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the intricate process of tea cultivation, from harvesting to processing. Many factories also offer tea-tasting sessions, allowing one to sample various local brews and purchase fresh tea as a souvenir. Some tea gardens in the city center provide panoramic views of the coastline.
Cost: Many tea factory tours and plantation visits are free, with costs primarily for purchased tea or if included as part of a broader paid tour.
Transport: Some tea gardens are accessible within Rize city via local public transport. For more extensive plantation and factory tours outside the city center, a rental car or joining a dedicated tea-themed tour is recommended.
5. Relax at Ayder Thermal Springs
Within the scenic Ayder Plateau, one can discover natural thermal springs, renowned for their therapeutic properties. Immersing oneself in these warm, mineral-rich waters provides a deeply relaxing experience, complemented by the stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains and verdant landscapes.
Cost: There is typically an entrance fee to access the thermal baths, which can vary depending on the facility.
Transport: The thermal springs are located within Ayder Plateau, therefore, transport to Ayder Plateau suffices. This can be achieved by rental car or by joining a tour that includes Ayder.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
