Trip to Georgia: Exploring the Cities of Karadeniz

  1. Day 1: Batumi
    Departure from Istanbul by Bus (8 hours)

    Batumi, surrounded by the Black Sea and green mountains, is the perfect first stop. Walk around the Old Town and discover its European-inspired architecture mixed with Georgian elements. Visit the Batumi Botanical Garden, which boasts over 5,000 species of flora. Take a sunset stroll on the Batumi Boulevard and enjoy the view of the Black Sea.

  2. Day 2: Rize
    Travel by car from Batumi to Rize (3.5 hours)

    In Rize, start your day with a visit to the Sumela Monastery, a 1,600-year-old Greek Orthodox monastery perched high in the mountains. Then, head to the Rize Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city. Don't forget to try the famous Rize tea, known for its rich taste and aroma.

  3. Day 3: Trabzon
    Travel by car from Rize to Trabzon (1.5 hours)

    Trabzon is a historic city with a rich past. Start your day with a visit to the Hagia Sophia Museum, a former church turned mosque turned museum. Then, head to the Ataturk Mansion, a stunning villa overlooking the Black Sea. Wrap up your day by exploring the bustling Trabzon bazaar, where you can find everything from spices to traditional textiles.

  4. Day 4: Sarp
    Travel by car from Trabzon to Sarp (2.5 hours)

    Sarp is a picturesque town tucked away in Georgia's northeastern corner. Start your day with a visit to the Sarp Border Checkpoint and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Black Sea. Then, head to the Gonio Fortress, an ancient Roman fortification that dates back to the first century AD. Finish your day with a visit to the Batumi Lighthouse, where you can take in the stunning coastal views.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Batumi Botanical Garden (2-3 hours, 15 GEL)
  • Sumela Monastery (2-3 hours, 20 GEL)
  • Rize Castle (1-2 hours, 10 GEL)
  • Hagia Sophia Museum (1-2 hours, 15 GEL)
  • Ataturk Mansion (1-2 hours, 10 GEL)
  • Gonio Fortress (1-2 hours, 10 GEL)
  • Batumi Lighthouse (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 80 GEL (approximately $25 USD)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other cities in the Karadeniz region, such as Giresun and Ordu. If you have less time, skip Sarp and spend an extra day in Batumi to tour the city's vibrant nightlife scene.

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