Rize travel guide

Nestled along the eastern Black Sea coast, Rize boasts a vibrant history that dates back to ancient times. The city’s roots trace back to the 8th century BC when it was inhabited by the Colchians, an ancient Georgian tribe. Throughout its long history, Rize has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.

Rize became a significant center during the Byzantine period, benefiting from its strategic location and fertile landscape. The city was later incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, where it flourished as a key hub for tea cultivation and trade, a legacy that continues to this day.

Rize's historical legacy is reflected in its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels, such as the Rize Castle and the ancient bridges that dot the region. The city’s history, intertwined with its natural beauty, makes it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both scenic views and historical insights.

Rize, nestled in the lush landscapes of Turkey's Black Sea region, offers a unique cultural tapestry influenced by its geographic diversity and historical heritage. The local culture is deeply rooted in traditional practices, with tea cultivation being central to daily life. Visitors will notice that offering tea is a common gesture of hospitality, and accepting it is a respectful way to engage with locals.

The people of Rize are known for their warmth and friendliness, often welcoming visitors into their homes. Traditional music and dance, such as the 'horon,' are integral to local festivals and gatherings. Participating or simply watching these lively performances can provide a deeper appreciation of the region's vibrant culture.

Dress modestly when visiting rural areas or religious sites to show respect for local customs. Women may want to carry a scarf to cover their heads in mosques. Additionally, learning a few basic Turkish phrases can greatly enhance your interactions and show respect for the local language.

When dining, it's customary to share food and savor the rich flavors of regional dishes, which often feature fresh fish, corn, and unique Black Sea herbs. Understanding and respecting these customs will enrich your experience and help you connect more meaningfully with the people of Rize.

The best time to explore Rize is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months of July and August can also be favorable; however, they tend to attract more tourists, leading to crowded attractions and higher accommodation prices.

In late spring, Rize's lush landscapes come to life with vibrant green tea plantations and blooming flowers, offering a picturesque setting for nature lovers. The autumn months feature cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, providing a more serene experience while exploring the beautiful Kaçkar Mountains and the Fırtına Valley.

Although Rize experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, these months typically see fewer rainy days compared to the rest of the year. Additionally, the annual Rize Tea Festival, usually held in August, offers a unique cultural experience with tea tastings, traditional music, and dance performances. Planning your visit around these events can enhance your overall experience, making the most of your trip to this enchanting region.

One insider tip for visiting Rize is to take part in a traditional village breakfast known as 'köy kahvaltısı.' While many tourists enjoy the bustling city cafes, locals know that the true essence of Rize can be felt in the serene mountain villages. These breakfasts are typically set in picturesque locations amidst lush tea plantations and offer a variety of homemade delicacies including fresh cheeses, honey straight from the hive, and piping hot bread from wood-fired ovens. Make sure to ask a local for recommendations on the best villages for this experience, as these hidden gems often aren't listed in standard travel guides. This unique local insight will not only delight your taste buds but also provide an authentic connection to the region's rich cultural heritage.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Rize, Turkey. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Rize, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Turkey. Check out the best things to do in Rize. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of stays and 2 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Rize with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Rize from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Rize with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Rize travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Rize!

With destinations such as Rize, a trip to Turkey needs no further explanation. Spanning over 783,562 square kilometers, Turkey is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Turkey has something to enchant every traveler.

In Rize alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Rize Fortress, Isırlık Nature Park, and Seyh Mosque. Thus, a trip to Turkey becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Turkey offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Turkey. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Turkey and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Rize, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Rize offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Rize travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Rize is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Rize usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Rize offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Rize and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Rize planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Rize, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Turkey can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Rize. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Rize.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Rize in the following sections.

To navigate Rize effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 2 car rental companies in Rize, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Rize start at 39 EUR per day or 275 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Renault Clio. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Rize, starting at 35 EUR per day or 242 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Renault Clio.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Rize, Turkey below.

The city of Rize is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Turkey. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Turkey has it all.

Each destination in Turkey offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Turkey that are as magical as the city of Rize. The most popular travel destinations in Turkey are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Rize, located on the northeastern coast of Turkey, offers a variety of transportation options to help travelers navigate the city and its scenic surroundings. Public buses are a common and affordable way to get around, with routes connecting key areas within the city as well as neighboring towns. For those seeking more convenience, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through local apps.

Rental cars are also a popular choice for visitors who wish to explore the region at their own pace, especially the picturesque highlands and tea plantations for which Rize is famous. Several car rental agencies operate in the city, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. Unique to Rize, minibuses known locally as 'dolmuş' provide a shared ride service, making frequent stops and offering a more communal travel experience.

Whether you prefer the independence of driving yourself or the ease of public transit, Rize's transportation options cater to diverse preferences, ensuring you can easily explore this charming city and its surrounding natural beauty.