Table of Contents
Introduction
This private Black Sea tour is designed for those who seek an authentic and exclusive travel experience. Whether you are a couple, a family, or a small group, we will take you on a carefully curated journey in a luxury private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility at every step.
Unlike standard tours, this itinerary allows you to fully immerse yourself in local life—including a village stay in Giresun, where you will meet locals and enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner under the stars. Expect breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted history, and an unfiltered glimpse into Black Sea culture.
Detailed Itinerary
We’ve designed a journey that connects the dots between history, culture, and nature. Below is a day-by-day breakdown of your adventure:
Day 1: Istanbul – Bolu – Amasra
- Depart from Istanbul in a private luxury vehicle.
- Explore Bolu’s famous lakes and forests, including Abant Lake and Yedigöller National Park, where you can take in the fresh mountain air.
- Enjoy a local lunch in Bolu.
- Continue to Amasra, a beautiful coastal town on the Black Sea.
- Visit the Amasra Castle, built by the Romans and expanded by the Byzantines and Ottomans. Walk along its ancient walls for stunning sea views.
- Stroll through Çekiciler Bazaar, where artisans craft traditional wooden souvenirs.
- Overnight stay in Amasra in a quality 4-star or boutique hotel.
Day 2: Amasra – Safranbolu – Sinop
- Morning drive to Safranbolu, a UNESCO-listed town filled with Ottoman-era mansions and rich history.
- Visit the Old Bazaar, explore historic mansions, and enjoy a panoramic view from Hıdırlık Hill.
- Lunch in Safranbolu, trying traditional regional dishes.
- Continue to Sinop, Turkey’s northernmost city.
- Explore the Historic Sinop Prison, once home to famous poets and political figures. Built in the 13th century, this high-security prison had an eerie reputation as the “Alcatraz of Turkey.“
- Enjoy a peaceful walk along Hamsilos Bay, Turkey’s only fjord-like inlet.
- Overnight stay in Sinop in a comfortable 4-star or boutique hotel.
Day 3: Sinop – Samsun
Day 4: Samsun – Ordu – Giresun (Village Stay Experience)
- Visit the Bandırma Ferry Museum, where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s journey toward Turkey’s independence began.
- Stop by Onur Monument, Samsun’s most famous landmark.
- Enjoy a local lunch in Ordu, then take a cable car up to Boztepe, where you can admire panoramic views of the city and sea.
- Visit Mavigöl (Blue Lake) in Giresun, a hidden gem known for its turquoise waters.
- Arrive at Derekuşçulu Village, a small rural village in Giresun, where you’ll stay in a local family home.
- Enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner with freshly prepared local dishes.
- Overnight stay in the village house, experiencing true Black Sea hospitality.
Day 5: Giresun – Trabzon
- Morning trip to either Sis Mountain or Kümbet Plateau, depending on weather conditions.
- Continue to Trabzon, the historical and cultural capital of the Eastern Black Sea.
- Visit the Sumela Monastery, a stunning Greek Orthodox monastery built into the cliffs in the 4th century.
- Overnight stay in Trabzon.
Day 6: Trabzon – Uzungöl
- Discover Trabzon’s historical sites, including:
- Atatürk Mansion, where Turkey’s founder once stayed.
- Trabzon Hagia Sophia, a fascinating blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
- Drive to Uzungöl, a breathtaking lake surrounded by misty mountains and alpine forests.
- Enjoy leisure time exploring the area and relaxing by the lake.
- Overnight stay in Uzungöl.
Day 7: Uzungöl – Rize – Istanbul
- Visit Rize, Turkey’s tea-growing capital.
- Experience tea tasting at Ziraat Tea Garden while enjoying panoramic views.
- Explore Rize Castle and a traditional textile workshop, where locals weave handmade fabrics.
- Optional stop at Fırtına River for a short rafting experience.
- Final visit to Ayder Plateau, a scenic mountain village.
- Transfer to Rize Airport for your flight back to Istanbul (or return by private vehicle).
Important Notes
- This tour is private and fully customizable.
- The itinerary can be adjusted based on personal interests.
- The village stay in Giresun is a unique local experience, offering a glimpse into rural Black Sea life.
What’s Included
✔️ Accommodation in 4-star or equivalent boutique hotels.
✔️ Private luxury vehicle and professional driver throughout the trip.
✔️ Expert guide services (personally guided).
✔️ All entrance fees to attractions.
✔️ All highway, toll, and parking fees.
✔️ Traditional barbecue dinner in the village.
✔️ Driver and guide’s meals and accommodation.
What’s Excluded
❌ Lunches & dinners (except for the barbecue night).
❌ Personal expenses, shopping, and optional activities.
❌ Tips & gratuities (always appreciated but optional).
Black Sea 101
Let’s uncover the essentials of this remarkable region. The Black Sea is a land of hidden history, stunning landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions—here’s what to know before your journey begins.
What is the highlight of staying in a village in Giresun?
This is not just any village stay—it’s my home. Derekuşçulu Village in Giresun is where my family is from, and during this tour, you’ll have the unique opportunity to stay in my family’s village house, experiencing authentic Black Sea hospitality firsthand.
As the Co-Founder of The Other Tour, I have always believed in offering experiences that go beyond sightseeing. This is a chance to sit around a barbecue under the stars, share stories with local villagers, and experience daily life in a traditional Black Sea home—something no standard tour can provide. It’s a brief stay, but one that leaves a lasting impression
Will I get to experience the local food of the Black Sea?
Absolutely! While meals are not included, this allows you to freely explore authentic regional flavors at local restaurants. From fresh seafood in Sinop to hamsili pilav (anchovy rice) in Rize, and even a home-cooked village barbecue, you’ll experience the best of Black Sea cuisine.
Why is a private tour the best way to explore the Black Sea region?
The Black Sea is vast and diverse, with hidden gems that large group tours simply don’t reach. A private luxury vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, skip crowded spots, and discover off-the-radar locations like Mavigöl (Blue Lake) and Boztepe. Plus, having a personal guide means deeper insights and flexibility throughout the journey.
Get in Touch
This private Black Sea tour is designed for travelers seeking an authentic, seamless, and deeply immersive experience. From exploring centuries-old monasteries to hiking through breathtaking landscapes and connecting with locals in a traditional village, every moment of this journey is crafted for comfort and discovery.
Beyond the Black Sea, we are experts in private tours across Turkey, including Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and more. Whether you’re looking for a tailor-made cultural journey, a historical deep dive, or a luxurious getaway, we ensure unparalleled service and local expertise.
Contact us today to start planning your exclusive Turkish adventure—personalized just for you.
This region looks stunning! Are there halal food options along the way, especially in the smaller towns?
Halal (helal) food is the only kind of food in Turkey – no worries 🙂 when it comes to food, really don’t worry while you are in Turkey 🙂