Amasra City in Turkey

Amasra: Türkiye’s Hidden Gem in the Black Sea

Amasra is a beautiful city along the shores of the Black Sea. It is considered one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations due to its stunning scenery and relaxing beaches, rich and fascinating history, and historical, recreational, and sightseeing places, including Amasra Castle.

Acquaintance with Amasra

Amasra is a lovely little fishing town, with a population of nearly 6,000, along the Black Sea coast in the Bartin Province of Turkey. It has recently become a famous tourist town, especially for Turkish people, where they eat fish. Come to many local restaurants, swim, go on day trips by boat, wander in the narrow streets and enjoy a pleasant day, or buy wooden souvenirs in its market street.

History of Amasra City

Amasara’s rich history is a testament to its lasting appeal. The history of Amasra dates back to ancient times when the city was known as Amestris. The Greeks founded this city around the 6th century BC. During the Hellenistic period, Amestris was a vital city ruled by various Greek dynasties, including the Pontic Kingdom. In the first century BC, the Roman Empire absorbed the region, and Amestris became part of the Roman province of Bithynia. The city flourished under Roman and later Byzantine rule and was known for its strategic location along the Black Sea coast.

Amasra fell to the Ottoman Empire at the end of the 14th century during the reign of Sultan Bayezid I. This area became part of the expanding Ottoman territories. During the Ottoman era, Amasra continued to grow as an important port city, contributing to maritime trade and the defense of the Empire.

In the early 19th century, Amasra was briefly occupied by the Russian Empire during the Russo-Turkish War. The city was later liberated by Ottoman forces in 1829 after the end of the war.

In the early 20th century, Amasra, like many parts of Turkey, underwent significant changes during the transition from the Ottoman Empire to the modern Republic of Turkey under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Over time, Amasra became a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage.

Amasra weather and the best time to visit it

The best time to visit Amasera is during the summer months, from June to September. Amasra is the best place to spend summer vacation. Summer is when the weather is best to go to the beach and experience an enjoyable trip. But you should note that during this period, the number of tourists who visit this area is also very high, so if you are looking for a quieter trip away from the crowds, you can go in autumn or spring, when the weather is a little cooler. Travel to Amasra.

Seven things you must do in Amasera

1. Wander through the strange and colorful streets

Amasra was built on the remains of a castle in the 9th century. Today, the old fort’s walls are combined with houses and hotels, creating an attractive landscape. This small fishing village is known for its colorful houses with oddly decorated exteriors. Wandering through some of the back streets reveals the city’s quirky side. Locals in Amasra decorate their homes with plants grown from old shoes, toilets, and other everyday items!

2. Visit the historical fort of Amasra

Amasra Fort, also known as Amasra Kalsi, has a rich history spanning thousands of years. Located in the beautiful city of Amasra along the Black Sea coast of Turkey, this castle has witnessed numerous civilizations’ rise and fall and left behind layers of historical significance.

This castle is a living testimony of the region’s rich history, which exhibits architectural elements of different periods, including Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. The castle’s strategic location provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the Black Sea and the charming town of Amasra.

3. Buy souvenirs from Amasra Grand Bazaar

In the center of Amasra is a bustling little street market where you can get all the big and small items you might need. Explore this market to interact more with the locals and enjoy shopping for affordable items.

4. Don’t miss seeing the sights of Kamreh bridge

Kamreh Bridge is probably the most popular attraction in this city. This bridge dates back to the 9th century and has beautiful views of the Big Island and the Rabbit. It is undoubtedly one of the best places for photography. Kemere Bridge connects Amasra city to the small island of Boztepe.

5. Watch the sunset at KÜÇÜK LIMAN BEACH

Little Liman Beach is the best place to watch a stunning sunset. This beach is a small piece of paradise where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

6. Travel to the heart of history by going to Amasra Museum

If you are interested in knowing the history and culture of this charming coastal city, visit the Amasra Museum. There, you’ll find diverse exhibits showcasing the region’s fascinating past. From ancient treasures to traditional artworks, this museum tells the story of Amasra in a captivating way.

7. Add a visit to the “Bird Rock Road Monument” to your itinerary

Just outside the city is the Rock of the Birds monument, created between AD 41 and 54 by Gaius Julius Aquila, the governor of Bithynia at the time. This road offers a unique panoramic view of the sea and the surrounding area. Walking along, you will feel the gentle sea breeze caressing your face and the rhythmic sound of the waves hitting the rocks.

The views are stunning, and the road is an engineering marvel. What adds to the charm of this place are the cafes and small shops along the way. You can enjoy a refreshing drink or local cuisine while enjoying the view.

Don’t forget to visit Rabbit Island and Big Island!

It is interesting that Amasra has two small islands, Rabbit Island and Big Island, which you can travel to by boat in less than 24 hours.

A boat trip to Rabbit Island in Turkey is an enjoyable and relaxing experience that immerses you in the Black Sea coast’s natural beauty and tranquility. Rabbit Island is a small, uninhabited island near Amasra, known for its historical sites. This island got its name from the wild rabbits that live there. As you approach the island, you can probably see these creatures living in their natural habitat.

After reaching Rabbit Island, you can relax on its pristine beaches, swim in the clear waters, and sunbathe. Also, the seas around Rabbit Island are famous for their clarity and marine life. Many boat tours offer snorkeling opportunities to explore the underwater world and see colorful fish and other aquatic life.

Amasra is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you crave fresh seafood or traditional or international cuisine, this city will satisfy your desire. You can visit one of the local restaurants and taste the delicious flavors of the Black Sea region. Don’t forget to try the famous anchovy of this city.

Restaurants that you can visit on your trip to Amasra:

• Mustafa Amcanin Yeri
• Karadeniz Pide
• Amasra Sofrasi
• Cesmi Cihan Restaurant
• Marina Cafe
• Sahil Balik Restaurant
• Amasra GunBatimi Balik

11 of the best residences and hotels in Amasra:

• Amasra Ceylin Hotel
• Frau Guler Boutique Hotel
• Northdoor Hotel
• Diamond Liman Hotel
• Diamond Hotel
• Gunter Seher Hotel
• Sardinia Hotel
• Kumsal Apart
• Seymen Otel
• Amasra Sunrise Hotel
• Emin Butik Otel Amasra

How do you travel to Amasera?

Getting to Amasra is much easier than you think! If you are outside Turkey, fly to the nearest airport near Amasra in Zonguldak, 60 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Amasra. If you are already in Turkey, you can take a domestic flight to Zonguldak.

You can also enjoy a scenic road trip. If you plan to travel to Amasra by bus, you must find your way to the city center of Amasra from Bartin bus station. A local minibus can take you from the center of Bartin to the small bus station of Amasra. If you travel to Istanbul or Ankara in the summer season, you will probably find direct buses to Amasra from Istanbul and Ankara.