Explore the Unsung Greek Heritage of Eastern Turkey

Day 1: Arrival in Trabzon

Trabzon, Turkey on March 1, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Nefise

Start your journey with a classic Turkish breakfast featuring menemen and fresh bread, accompanied by traditional black tea.
TRY80, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon

Explore this stunning Byzantine church, now a mosque, that holds a rich combination of Greek and Ottoman history.
TRY50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kadir Has Trabzon

Dine on traditional Akçaabat meatballs, a local delicacy, at this charming eatery.
TRY100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sumela Monastery

Journey to this breathtaking mountain monastery known for its impressive frescoes and awe-inspiring setting.
TRY100, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Saklı Bahçe

Enjoy flavorful freshly caught fish dishes while overlooking the Black Sea at this scenic restaurant.
TRY120, 2 hours
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Day 2: Local Culture in Trabzon

Trabzon, Turkey on March 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Buzlu Cafe

Try their unique Trabzon pastries alongside fresh coffee for a warm start to your day.
TRY70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Atatürk Mansion

This historic mansion offers a glimpse into Turkish history and culture, surrounded by lush gardens.
TRY30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cibali Balıkçısı

Savor a variety of grilled seafood at this popular waterfront spot, known for its freshness.
TRY110, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking at Uzungöl Lake

Experience breathtaking views and lush greenery on this picturesque hike around the stunning lake.
FREE, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hamsikoy Restaurant

Taste the famous local rice pudding and kebabs that highlight the region’s unique flavors.
TRY80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: To Rize

Rize, Turkey on March 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mavi Kelebek

Enjoy a Turkish breakfast spread with local cheeses and olives to fuel your journey to Rize.
TRY75, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Rize

A scenic drive along the Black Sea coast, providing stunning views of mountains and greenery.
TRY50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gürgen Restaurant

Feast on Rize's famous grilled trout and sampled black tea, known as the region's pride.
TRY95, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Rize Castle

Discover the history of this fortress with panoramic views of the city and surrounding tea plantations.
TRY20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Zil Castle

Venture up to Zil Castle and learn about the local heritage while enjoying stunning mountain views.
TRY30, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Rize Merkez Lokantası

Sample delicious local dishes such as cabbage rolls and stews at this traditional eatery.
TRY70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Artvin Adventures

Artvin, Turkey on March 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Thusca Cafe

Start your day with a traditional Artvin breakfast that includes freshly baked bread and jam.
TRY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Artvin

A short drive to Artvin known for its stunning natural landscapes.
TRY40, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hiking in the Borçka Karagöl

Discover the enchanting Karagöl Lake surrounded by beautiful forests on this leisurely hike.
FREE, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Aygır Restaurant

Enjoy grilled meats and traditional Artvin dishes while overlooking stunning views.
TRY80, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Artvin Castle

Explore the ancient fortress that dates back to Byzantine times and offers historical insights.
TRY25, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Yöresel Lezzetler

Taste the famous Artvin laz böreği, a savory pastry dish that the region is known for.
TRY75, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Erzurum Insights

Erzurum, Turkey on March 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Güzeller Pide

Savor a pide, a Turkish flat bread pizza with various toppings as a hearty start to your day.
TRY70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Erzurum

Enjoy scenic views during your journey to this historically rich city.
TRY60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pideci Ahmet

Delight in a traditional Erzurum pide along with yogurt drink, showcasing regional flavors.
TRY90, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Çifte Minareli Medrese

Explore this medieval school notable for its twin minarets and intricate architecture.
TRY15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Erzurum Castle

Discover the historical significance of this castle with its stunning views over Erzurum.
TRY20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cennet Sofrası

Experience traditional Turkish cuisine with local specialties like kars gravy and döner.
TRY120, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Journey through Kars

Kars, Turkey on March 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Koç Dağı Restaurant

Enjoy a warm breakfast with Turkish tea in the heart of Kars featuring local jams.
TRY65, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kars

A captivating journey through the beautiful landscapes that lead to Kars.
TRY50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kars Bıldırım

Taste the famous Kars cheese with your meal that’s well-known in Turkey.
TRY85, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Kars Fortress

Absorb the historical essence of Kars with this medieval fortress offering panoramic views.
TRY30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Ani Ruins

Wander through the magnificent ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture.
TRY100, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Seki Restaurant

Indulge in local specialties and hearty dishes, perfect to recharge after your day.
TRY90, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Exploring Ani

Ani, Turkey on March 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Ani

Kick off your day with a rich local breakfast featuring fresh bread and artisanal cheeses.
TRY80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Ani Cathedral

Delve into the history of this beautiful Armenian cathedral known for its stunning architecture.
TRY30, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Church of St. Gregory

See this historic church famous for its intricate stonework and peaceful surroundings.
TRY20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant 101

Dine at this well-known local spot famed for its traditional Anatolian dishes served in a cozy atmosphere.
TRY85, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the ruins of the Great Palace

Discover the remaining structures of this grand palace, essential for understanding Ani's history.
FREE, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Chinar Restaurant

Enjoy contemporary Turkish dishes with a modern twist, highlighting seasonal ingredients.
TRY100, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Final Day in Igdir

Igdir, Turkey on March 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Doğa Restaurant

Start your day off with a farm-fresh breakfast featuring organic eggs and regional produce.
TRY75, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Igdir

A peaceful journey through picturesque landscapes as you head towards Igdir.
TRY40, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Igdir Sofrası

Enjoy authentic local dishes including lamb kebabs at this homely eatery.
TRY90, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Ararat Mountain

Marvel at the breathtaking views of the sacred Mount Ararat set against an ancient landscape.
FREE, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Ancient City of Urartu

Discover the remnants of the ancient Urartian civilization that once thrived in this region.
TRY20, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Asil Restaurant

Indulge in your last meal with a feast of traditional dishes, including stuffed grape leaves and baklava.
TRY120, 1.5 hours
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