11 Day Black Sea & Istanbul Discovery Tour: Hidden Gems, Cultural Highlights & Scenic Coastline

Upon your early morning arrival in Istanbul, you will be greeted at the airport by our representative and transferred to start your full-day guided city tour. Today’s journey begins at Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks offering panoramic views of the city. Continue along Istiklal Street, a vibrant pedestrian avenue filled with shops, restaurants, and local street performers, and visit Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul. The tour continues to the Spice Bazaar, where you’ll experience the colors and aromas of Turkish spices. In the afternoon, we will explore the colorful Balat neighborhood, known for its historic streets, Greek Orthodox churches, and cozy local cafes. In the evening, enjoy a memorable Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, admiring the city’s skyline under the night lights while savoring a traditional Turkish meal. Overnight in Istanbul.

(Breakfast Included)
After breakfast at the hotel, we will embark on a full-day ferry trip to the Princes’ Islands, a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. Our main destination is Büyükada, the largest and most charming of the islands. Enjoy a leisurely walk among the island’s wooden villas and pine trees, and take some time to relax in one of the seaside cafes or local restaurants.
After exploring the island at your own pace, we return to Istanbul in the evening.
Overnight in Istanbul.

(Breakfast Included)
This morning, we leave Istanbul behind and head towards the Black Sea region. Our scenic journey passes through Zonguldak, a city famous for its mining heritage and known to fans of the Turkish drama “Kara Sevda” as the place where the character Kemal Soydere worked.
Continuing along the coastal road, we arrive in Amasra, one of Türkiye’s hidden gems. Discover Amasra Castle, stroll through the picturesque harbor, and visit the local markets where you can find handmade crafts and regional delicacies. Overnight in Amasra.

(Breakfast Included)
After breakfast, we continue our journey along the Black Sea coast towards Sinop, one of the oldest port cities in Anatolia. Upon arrival, visit Sinop Fortress, explore the charming harbor area, and wander through the traditional bazaar, where locals sell handmade souvenirs and dried fish.
The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Overnight in Sinop.

(Breakfast Included)
In the morning, enjoy some leisure time in Sinop before departing for Samsun, an important city in Turkish history as the place where Atatürk began the War of Independence. Visit the Atatürk Museum and the Bandırma Ferry, which played a symbolic role in the country’s founding. Stroll along the coastal promenade and take in the lively atmosphere of this modern seaside city.
Overnight in Samsun.

(Breakfast Included)
Today, we continue along one of Türkiye’s most beautiful coastal routes. Our first stop is Ordu, a city surrounded by lush green hills and famous for its hazelnuts. Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to Boztepe Hill, where you can admire panoramic views of the city and sea below.
Later, continue to Giresun, another charming Black Sea town, where we’ll stop for a coffee break by the sea before heading to the hotel. Overnight in Ordu or Giresun.

(Breakfast Included)
After breakfast, we travel to Trabzon, one of the cultural and historical centers of the Black Sea. Our main highlight today is a visit to the Sümela Monastery, dramatically built into the cliffs of the Pontic Mountains and offering breathtaking views.
Later, explore Trabzon city center and visit the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon, a stunning Byzantine-era church turned museum. For those interested, there will be an optional Turkish Bath (Hamam) experience in the evening. Overnight in Trabzon.

(Breakfast Included)
This morning we drive east to Rize, the heart of Türkiye’s tea-growing region. Visit Rize Castle for sweeping city views, explore the Ziraat Tea Garden, and tour the Çaykur Tea Museum, where you’ll learn about traditional tea production. End the day with a tea tasting session guided by a local tea expert. Overnight in Rize.

(Breakfast Included)
Today we explore the breathtaking Ayder Plateau, one of the most scenic parts of the Black Sea region. Surrounded by misty mountains and lush forests, Ayder is famous for its Gelintülü Waterfall, traditional wooden chalets, and natural hot springs.
Enjoy lunch at a local mountain restaurant and take time to relax or join an optional spa experience in the thermal waters. Overnight in Rize.

After an early breakfast, we begin our return journey to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you’ll have the evening free to rest, explore the city, or enjoy optional activities such as a Turkish night show or a relaxing dinner by the Bosphorus. Overnight in Istanbul.

Enjoy your last day in Istanbul at your own pace. Spend time shopping in local bazaars, visiting cafes, or revisiting your favorite spots in the city. Later, transfer to the airport for your international departure.End of the tour.