Rize is a city and province nestled between the Black Sea and the majestic Pontic Mountains (Kaçkar Dağları), in the northeast of Turkey. It is universally known as the Turkish Tea Capital; its terraced hills, covered in emerald green plantations, offer a unique and spectacular panorama. The region is also the heart of the Lazi culture, with strong folk traditions, unique music (the Kemenche), and traditional wooden architecture. Rize is the ideal destination for those seeking an authentic experience, away from the most beaten tourist paths, amidst nature, culture, and gastronomy.

What Our Local Experts Recommend to See: Nature, Tea, and History

• Tea Plantations and Tea Museum (Çaykur) – Visit the hills to admire the crops and learn the production process. We recommend a stop at one of the many tea houses to taste the true Rize Çayı.
• Rize Castle (Rize Kalesi) – Offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, the Black Sea, and the surrounding tea plantations. It is the ideal spot for sunset photographs.
• Valleys and Rivers (Ayder Valley and Fırtına Deresi) – Unmissable excursions in the surrounding valleys, famous for their alpine landscapes and historic stone bridges.
• Traditional Houses and Lazi Culture – Explore the villages in the inner valleys to admire the wooden houses and interact with the local population.

Gastronomy and What to Taste

• Rize Çayı (Black Tea) – The iconic product of the region. It is drunk everywhere, strong and hot, often accompanied by sweets.
• Muhlama/Kuymak – A rich dish based on corn flour, butter, and melted cheese (similar to stringy polenta), an unmissable comfort food in this cold region.
• Hamsi (Black Sea Anchovies) – Anchovies are the basis of Black Sea cuisine; they are enjoyed fried, baked, or in rice (Hamsili Pilav).
• Pide – The Turkish version of boat-shaped pizza, often filled with meat, cheese, or eggs, delicious and a must-try.

Experiences and Getting Around: Travel Tips

Rize is reachable via Rize–Artvin Airport (RZV) or Trabzon Airport (about 1.5 hours drive). To explore the inner valleys and villages, car rental is essential, preferably a 4x4 given the mountainous nature of the terrain. Our travel designers recommend dedicating a full day to the Ayder Valley to enjoy the thermal baths and waterfalls.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Rize Provincial Government
• Official Website for Tourism in Turkey

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations

• Ridos Thermal Hotel & Spa – Modern hotel with a focus on thermal wellness and splendid mountain views.
• Ramada Plaza By Wyndham Rize – Offers high-level comfort and a privileged position on the Black Sea.
• Ayder Hasimoglu Hotel (in Ayder Valley) – A charming option in traditional style, nestled in the green valley.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Limanköy Balıkçısı (Fish Restaurant) – Excellent for tasting Hamsi and other very fresh Black Sea seafood.
• Dağ Evleri Pide Salonu – Renowned for its traditional and authentic Pide.
• Zeytinlik Restaurant (at Ramada) – Offers refined Turkish and international cuisine in an elegant setting.