Samsun – Where the Black Sea Meets Turkish Heritage

Located on the black sea coast of Türkiye, Samsun is a city where history, nature, and local flavors harmoniously converge. As the largest city along the Black Sea, it holds a pivotal role in Türkiye’s modern history—most notably as the city where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk took the first step toward the Turkish War of Independence on May 19, 1919. This profound legacy still echoes in every corner of the city, from its museums to its commemorative squares.

A Journey Through History

Samsun’s history stretches back to antiquity, once known as Amisos under the rule of the Greeks, Persians, and Romans. The Amisos Hill and Ancient Ruins, accessible by cable car, offer panoramic views of the Black Sea and insights into Hellenistic life. The Atatürk Monument, standing tall in the city center, honors the nation’s founder and is a symbol of national pride.

Don’t miss the Bandırma Ferry Museum, which is a full-scale replica of the ferry that brought Atatürk to Samsun, housing exhibitions about the War of Independence.

Natural Beauty and Coastal Charm

Samsun boasts stunning coastal parks, river deltas, and green highlands. The Kızılırmak Delta Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO-recognized wetland, is a paradise for bird watchers and nature photographers, hosting over 350 bird species.

Explore Çakırlar Grove for a family picnic or enjoy the turquoise waters of Atakum Beach, which comes alive in the summer months. For mountain lovers, the Ladik Plateau offers skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

Must-Visit Attractions

• Amisos Hill and Cable Car

• Samsun Archaeology and Ethnography Museum

• Amazon Village and Park – themed around the legendary female warriors said to have lived in the region

• Tekkeköy Caves – with archaeological traces from prehistoric times

• Samsun City Museum – a modern museum showcasing the city’s cultural timeline

• Samsun Great Mosque (Büyük Cami) – built in the 14th century during the Seljuk era

Local Cuisine to Savor

Samsun’s cuisine blends Black Sea freshness with Anatolian heartiness. Don’t leave without trying:

• Bafra Pide – thin, crispy, canoe-shaped meat pastry

• Samsun Simidi – unique sesame bagel, crunchier than its Istanbul cousin

• Tirit – a traditional dish made from lamb, broth, and bread

• Mısır Çorbası – corn soup, a Black Sea staple

• Haluçka – handmade dough dumplings with yogurt and butter

Pair your meal with a locally brewed herbal tea or a refreshing Black Sea-style ayran.

Vibrant Festivals and Cultural Events

Samsun hosts several festivals that celebrate its rich heritage and natural beauty. The most notable include:

• 19 May Youth and Sports Day Celebrations – honoring Atatürk’s arrival

• International Samsun Music and Art Festival (July)

• Kızılırmak Delta Bird Watching Festival (spring and fall)

• Bafra Kapıkaya Air Sports and Nature Festival

These festivals bring the city alive with color, music, sports, and regional flavors.

How to Get There

Samsun is easily accessible by air, land, and sea. Samsun-Çarşamba Airport receives direct domestic flights from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir. The city is also connected by highways and intercity buses, and Samsun Port serves both cargo and limited passenger ferries.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Samsun is from May to October, when the weather is mild, and festivals are in full swing. Bird watchers may prefer spring and autumn for migratory species in the delta.