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An Ultimate Guide to Rize

An Ultimate Guide to Rize

tsisem.molla
Tsisem Molla
26 February 2026
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Updated: 26 February 2026
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8 min

Rize is a city located in the northeastern part of Türkiye, on the green shores of the Black Sea. It is famous for its natural beauty, historical treasures, and delicious cuisine. This city, which is an attractive destination for both local and international tourists, offers a different kind of beauty in every season. In this article, we will explore the best tourist spots in Rize and its mouth-watering dishes.

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The Natural Beauty of Rize

A scenic view of the Rize coastline, highlighting the tranquil sea and surrounding landscape.

Rize’s biggest attraction is its stunning natural beauty. Its climate and geography make it the greenest region of the Black Sea. Here are some highlights of Rize's natural beauty:

Green Valleys: Rize is home to numerous green valleys and streams. In particular, the Fırtına Valley is famous for its cold, flowing waters along the river, green tea fields, and ancient stone bridges. You can enjoy hiking through nature and visit historic villages in this valley.

Black Sea Coastline: Rize is known for its beautiful beaches and bays along its coastline. The Ayder Plateau and the coastline of Çamlıhemşin are especially ideal for those seeking a peaceful vacation. Here, you can relax with the sea, sun, and fresh air.

Fertile Green Tea Fields: Rize is one of the leading regions in Türkiye for tea production. The endless green fields of tea farms offer a breathtaking view for visitors. When you visit Rize, you can tour tea factories, learn about the tea production process, and taste fresh tea.

Kaçkar Mountains: The Kaçkar Mountains, located to the north of Rize, provide a perfect spot for outdoor sports enthusiasts. This area is ideal for mountain climbing, trekking, and hiking in nature. Additionally, stunning panoramic views await you at the summit.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

The city of Rize attracts attention not only with its natural beauty but also with its historical and cultural wealth. Here are some of the prominent landmarks that can be discovered in this city:

Rize Fortress

A peaceful riverside image of Rize, with green hills and a calm atmosphere.

Rize Fortress is a historic structure located in the heart of this city, which embraces the unique beauty of the Black Sea. Believed to date back to the Byzantine Empire, this castle was built on steep slopes and enjoys a strategic location against the dangers of the sea.

By visiting Rize Fortress, visitors can wander through the magnificent walls of this ancient structure and be rewarded with a breathtaking view overlooking the endless blue of the Black Sea. The castle is an important symbol of Rize's historical and cultural heritage and is an essential stop for those wishing to explore the city's past.

Location 

Limanköy Çayeli Marina

A tranquil view of the Sapanca Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains.

Limanköy Çayeli Marina is an attractive maritime area located on the coast of Rize, along the Black Sea. This harbor offers picturesque views adorned with traditional wooden boats and colorful fishing vessels. While strolling here, you can learn about the importance of maritime culture in Rize and feel the energy provided by the sea. The marina is surrounded by restaurants and cafes where you can taste fresh seafood, offering visitors a relaxing atmosphere and exciting maritime experiences.

Location  

Rize Museum

A panoramic shot of Rize, offering a view of the coast and surrounding lush green hills.

Rize Museum is an important cultural and historical museum located in the heart of Rize. This museum presents the history of Rize to visitors through its rich heritage, traditions, and artworks. Its exhibits include ancient artifacts, traditional Rize clothing, local handicrafts, and documents reflecting the history of the Black Sea. Rize Museum was established to preserve and promote the city's cultural heritage, providing visitors with a deep understanding of the region's rich past.

Location 

Operating Hours: The museum is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00.  

Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee for this museum.

Rize Cuisine

A tranquil sunset view over the coastal city of Rize, with calm waters and hills in the background.

Rize offers a variety of delicious and innovative dishes. Here are some must-try foods in this city:

Hamsi (Anchovies)

Hamsi is a staple in Rize, as it is found in abundance in the Black Sea. Rize’s most popular dish featuring this fish is fried hamsi (hamsi tava), which is often served with a side of cornbread, a local delicacy. The fish is typically coated in flour and fried until crispy, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. Other ways hamsi is prepared in Rize include hamsi pilav (rice with anchovies) and hamsi kuymak (a stew made with anchovies).

Laz Pastry (Laz Böreği)

Laz Böreği is a famous dessert from the Laz people, an ethnic group in Rize. Unlike traditional Turkish pastries, this dessert is made with thin, delicate phyllo dough filled with a sweet custard-like filling, often flavored with vanilla. The pastry is baked until golden and then drizzled with syrup. It’s a beloved treat in Rize and perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Muhlama (Mıhlama)

Muhlama, also known as Mıhlama, is a popular dish in Rize, especially during the colder months. It's made from cornmeal, butter, and cheese, and it has a creamy texture that makes it comforting and hearty. Sometimes, it’s made with additional ingredients such as yogurt or eggs. It’s often enjoyed with a slice of freshly baked bread and is a warming meal perfect for the chilly Black Sea climate.

Akçaabat Köfte

While more commonly associated with the neighboring Trabzon region, Akçaabat köfte (a type of Turkish meatball) is also popular in Rize. These juicy meatballs are made from ground beef or lamb, mixed with a variety of spices, and grilled to perfection. They are typically served with rice, fresh salad, and pide (Turkish flatbread).

Pide

Pide, often referred to as "Turkish pizza," is another favorite in Rize. Rize's pide is typically topped with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, minced meat, and vegetables. The dough is thin and crispy around the edges but soft and chewy in the center. In Rize, it’s common to enjoy pide with fresh herbs like parsley and mint.

Chard with Rice (Pazı Yemeği)

As a coastal region with an agricultural focus, Rize has a tradition of using fresh vegetables in its dishes. Pazı yemeği is a healthy dish made from chard (a leafy green vegetable) and rice, often cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a little olive oil. It’s a popular comfort food in Rize, particularly enjoyed as a side dish or a light main course.

Sour Soup (Ekşili Çorba)

Ekşili çorba is a delicious sour soup made with yogurt and lemon. It's a refreshing dish, often served as an appetizer, and is especially appreciated during the hot summer months. The soup can be made with different ingredients, including lentils, chickpeas, or rice, creating a wholesome and nutritious dish.

Rize’s Tea Culture

Rize is known as the tea capital of Türkiye, and Rize tea is an essential part of the region’s culture and daily life. The tea produced in the region is strong, flavorful, and rich in antioxidants. Visitors often enjoy the tea with lokum (Turkish delight) or çörek (Turkish pastries). Tea is not just a drink; it’s an integral part of Rize's hospitality, often shared among friends and family during gatherings.

Corn-based Dishes

Corn is a staple crop in Rize, and it plays a significant role in the local cuisine. Cornbread (mısır ekmeği) is a common side dish, served alongside many meals. Mısır çorbası (corn soup) is another popular dish, typically made with fresh corn kernels, cream, and herbs, offering a comforting and hearty flavor.

Regional Desserts 

Baklava is a well-known dessert throughout Türkiye, but in Rize, you may also come across local variations, such as kuymak tatlısı, a dessert made with cornmeal, sugar, and butter, and topped with crushed nuts for added crunch. These sweet treats are often paired with a cup of freshly brewed Rize tea.

In conclusion, Rize is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Türkiye, known for its natural beauty, historical wealth, and delicious cuisine. By visiting here, you will embrace nature and discover the rich cultural heritage. For an unforgettable holiday experience, our website offers you the best prices to book your tickets to Rize. If you’re looking to book a flight, WINGIE has exclusive offers to provide you with the cheapest flights to Rize. 

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Tsisem Molla
Tsisem Molla
269 Article
After graduating from Political Science and International Relations she volunteered at NGOs and is ambitious about advocacy.
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Tsisem Molla
Tsisem Molla269 Article