2-Day Safranbolu and Amasra Route

This two-day route connects two very different destinations in Turkey’s western Black Sea region. The first day focuses on the historic urban landscape of Safranbolu, while the second continues north to the coastal town of Amasra in Bartın Province.

Day 1: Historic Safranbolu

Begin in Safranbolu’s historic centre, where narrow streets run between traditional houses built around stone ground floors and timber upper levels.

Walk through the old bazaar district toward Cinci Hanı and the surrounding commercial streets. The area preserves much of the town’s traditional urban layout, with small shops, workshops, fountains and historic buildings positioned close together.

Continue to Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Camii and the nearby streets before walking uphill toward Hıdırlık Tepesi. From the viewpoint, the tiled roofs, historic houses and surrounding hills can be seen together.

Safranbolu is strongly associated with lokum, and the confection remains one of the town’s best-known regional foods. Traditional dishes from the wider Karabük region can also be found throughout the town.

In the afternoon, explore more of the residential streets and traditional houses. Kaymakamlar Müze Evi provides an example of the internal arrangement of a traditional Safranbolu house and helps explain how extended families once used these multi-level buildings.

Spend the evening in the historic district, where the stone streets and illuminated houses create a noticeably different atmosphere after sunset.

Day 2: Amasra and the Black Sea

Travel north toward Amasra, a small coastal town surrounded by wooded hills and the Black Sea.

Begin around Amasra Castle, whose surviving walls and gateways form part of the historic centre. Walk across Kemere Köprüsü, connecting sections of the old settlement above the water.

Continue through the narrow streets toward Çekiciler Çarşısı, traditionally associated with local woodcraft.

Amasra has two main harbour areas, Büyük Liman and Küçük Liman, which give the town much of its distinctive shape. Walking between them provides changing views of fishing boats, rocky headlands and the surrounding green hills.

Seafood is naturally prominent in the local cuisine, while Amasra salad is one of the dishes closely associated with the town.

Later in the day, visit one of the elevated viewpoints surrounding Amasra for a wider view of the peninsula, islands, harbours and Black Sea coastline.

The route can finish in Amasra or return inland toward Safranbolu.