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Duzce, Turkiye
Discover Düzce: Türkiye’s Youngest Province Rich in Nature and Culture
Düzce, the 81st and newest province of Türkiye, lies between two major cities—Istanbul and Ankara—offering a unique blend of Black Sea coastal charm and inland Anatolian character. Though officially recognized as a province in 1999 after the devastating Düzce Earthquake, the region’s historical and cultural roots go back thousands of years. Today, Düzce is a rising destination for travelers seeking untouched nature, traditional food, and authentic Turkish culture.
A Short Glance at History
Düzce has been continuously inhabited since antiquity, with roots dating back to the Phrygians, followed by the Bithynians, Romans, and Byzantines. It became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century and grew as an agricultural and trade center. The 1999 earthquake led to rapid urbanization and modern development, shaping the city into what it is today.
Top Places to Visit in Düzce
Akçakoca: Known as Düzce’s coastal gem, Akçakoca is famous for its clean Black Sea beaches, the historical Genoese Castle, scenic coastal roads, and delicious hazelnut-based local sweets. Its modern Akçakoca Central Mosque with twin minarets and unique architecture is a must-see.
Güzeldere and Samandere Waterfalls: These are among Türkiye’s registered natural monuments. Surrounded by lush forests and picnic areas, they offer wooden trails, viewing terraces, and refreshing hiking routes.
Efteni Lake and Bird Sanctuary: Home to dozens of migratory bird species, Efteni Lake is ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and those seeking tranquility.
Topuk and Kardüz Plateaus: High-altitude plateaus perfect for summer camping, trekking, and off-road adventures. During winter, Kardüz offers opportunities for snow tourism.
Fakıllı Cave: Near Akçakoca, this cave features striking stalactites and stalagmites and is open for guided exploration.
Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Düzce
Düzce’s cuisine is a mix of Black Sea and Central Anatolian influences, with a focus on corn, herbs, and local produce:
Mamalika: A savory dish made from cornmeal, typically served with butter or cheese.
Keşkek: A traditional wheat-and-meat stew, often served at weddings.
Kaldirik Sauté: Made with a regional wild green herb, sautéed with onions and spices.
Hazelnut Desserts: Hazelnuts grown around Akçakoca are used in sweets like helva and baklava.
Annual Festivals
Akçakoca Hazelnut Festival: Held every summer, featuring concerts, folk dance performances, and local crafts.
Off-Road and Nature Festivals: Düzce’s lush terrain makes it perfect for motor sports and hiking events.
Düzce Herb Festival: Celebrating local edible herbs, natural remedies, and traditional cooking methods.
How to Get There
Düzce is easily accessible by road. It is located on the D-100 highway and near the TEM motorway, about 2.5 hours from Ankara and 3 hours from Istanbul. Regular intercity buses serve Düzce from most major cities. The nearest major airport is Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Düzce is from April to October, when the weather is mild and nature is at its most vibrant. Summer is ideal for beach holidays in Akçakoca, while spring and fall are perfect for trekking, camping, and waterfall exploration. Winter brings snowfall to the higher elevations, making Kardüz Plateau an emerging spot for snow lovers.
Duzce, Turkiye
Discover Düzce: Türkiye’s Youngest Province Rich in Nature and Culture
Düzce, the 81st and newest province of Türkiye, lies between two major cities—Istanbul and Ankara—offering a unique blend of Black Sea coastal charm and inland Anatolian character. Though officially recognized as a province in 1999 after the devastating Düzce Earthquake, the region’s historical and cultural roots go back thousands of years. Today, Düzce is a rising destination for travelers seeking untouched nature, traditional food, and authentic Turkish culture.
A Short Glance at History
Düzce has been continuously inhabited since antiquity, with roots dating back to the Phrygians, followed by the Bithynians, Romans, and Byzantines. It became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century and grew as an agricultural and trade center. The 1999 earthquake led to rapid urbanization and modern development, shaping the city into what it is today.
Top Places to Visit in Düzce
Akçakoca: Known as Düzce’s coastal gem, Akçakoca is famous for its clean Black Sea beaches, the historical Genoese Castle, scenic coastal roads, and delicious hazelnut-based local sweets. Its modern Akçakoca Central Mosque with twin minarets and unique architecture is a must-see.
Güzeldere and Samandere Waterfalls: These are among Türkiye’s registered natural monuments. Surrounded by lush forests and picnic areas, they offer wooden trails, viewing terraces, and refreshing hiking routes.
Efteni Lake and Bird Sanctuary: Home to dozens of migratory bird species, Efteni Lake is ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and those seeking tranquility.
Topuk and Kardüz Plateaus: High-altitude plateaus perfect for summer camping, trekking, and off-road adventures. During winter, Kardüz offers opportunities for snow tourism.
Fakıllı Cave: Near Akçakoca, this cave features striking stalactites and stalagmites and is open for guided exploration.
Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Düzce
Düzce’s cuisine is a mix of Black Sea and Central Anatolian influences, with a focus on corn, herbs, and local produce:
Mamalika: A savory dish made from cornmeal, typically served with butter or cheese.
Keşkek: A traditional wheat-and-meat stew, often served at weddings.
Kaldirik Sauté: Made with a regional wild green herb, sautéed with onions and spices.
Hazelnut Desserts: Hazelnuts grown around Akçakoca are used in sweets like helva and baklava.
Annual Festivals
Akçakoca Hazelnut Festival: Held every summer, featuring concerts, folk dance performances, and local crafts.
Off-Road and Nature Festivals: Düzce’s lush terrain makes it perfect for motor sports and hiking events.
Düzce Herb Festival: Celebrating local edible herbs, natural remedies, and traditional cooking methods.
How to Get There
Düzce is easily accessible by road. It is located on the D-100 highway and near the TEM motorway, about 2.5 hours from Ankara and 3 hours from Istanbul. Regular intercity buses serve Düzce from most major cities. The nearest major airport is Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Düzce is from April to October, when the weather is mild and nature is at its most vibrant. Summer is ideal for beach holidays in Akçakoca, while spring and fall are perfect for trekking, camping, and waterfall exploration. Winter brings snowfall to the higher elevations, making Kardüz Plateau an emerging spot for snow lovers.