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Amasra

Amasra, Bartin, Turkey

Nestled on the Black Sea coast of Turkey, Amasra is a charming and picturesque town that seamlessly blends history, nature, and culture. With its stunning natural beauty, rich historical heritage, and laid-back atmospher…

#seaside town#historical site#Black Sea#Bartın province#tourist destination

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Amasra.

Top Hotels in Amasra

Top Flights to Amasra

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Amasra.

Tours

Amasra Castle Tour

Explore the ancient Amasra Castle, offering stunning views of the Black Sea.

Boztepe Viewing Point

Witness panoramic views of Amasra and the Black Sea from Boztepe hilltop.

Genoese Era Discovery

Discover the remnants of the Genoese presence in Amasra through historical sites.

Shopping

Cekiciler Street Shopping

Stroll through Cekiciler Street, famous for its wooden handicrafts and souvenirs.

Amasra Market Visit

Experience local culture and produce at Amasra's bustling market.

Outdoor

Amasra Boat Tour

Join a scenic boat tour to explore the coastal beauty of Amasra.

Bird Watching at Amasra Forest

Explore the rich birdlife in Amasra's expansive forests.

Kucuk Liman Beach Day

Relax at the charming Kucuk Liman Beach, a favorite for sunbathing and swimming.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Amasra.

Currency

₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira

Population

Not Available

Languages

Turkish, Turkish

Average weather

Amasra

Jan

10°5°

Feb

10°5°

Mar

12°6°

Apr

16°9°

May

20°13°

Jun

24°17°

Jul

27°20°

Aug

27°20°

Sep

24°17°

Oct

19°13°

Nov

15°10°

Dec

11°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Amasra.

What people love

Amasra, located in Bartın, Turkey, is a charming coastal town with plenty to offer travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Amasra include:

Scenic beauty: Amasra is known for its stunning natural scenery, with picturesque beaches, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters. The town is nestled between two small bays, offering beautiful views of the Black Sea.
Historical sites: Amasra has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and visitors can explore historical sites such as the Amasra Castle, built by the Byzantines, and the Fatih Mosque, a historic Ottoman mosque.
Fresh seafood: As a coastal town, Amasra is famous for its seafood. Visitors can enjoy delicious and fresh seafood dishes at the town's many restaurants and cafes.
Outdoor activities: Amasra is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boat tours. The town's surrounding natural areas also offer hiking and biking trails for those looking to explore the outdoors.
Charming atmosphere: Amasra has a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great destination for a relaxing getaway. Visitors can stroll through the town's narrow streets, visit local shops and markets, and interact with friendly locals.

Overall, traveling to Amasra is a fantastic opportunity to experience a beautiful coastal town with rich history, delicious food, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Amasra, located in Bartın, Turkey, include:

Limited transportation options: Amasra is a relatively small town and may not have as many transportation options compared to larger cities in Turkey. This could make it challenging to get to and from Amasra or to explore the surrounding areas.
Seasonal crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Amasra may attract a large number of visitors, leading to crowded streets, restaurants, and attractions. This could detract from the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere that many travelers seek.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While Amasra offers a variety of local dining options and some entertainment venues, visitors looking for a bustling nightlife scene or a wide range of international cuisine may find the options in Amasra to be limited.
Language barrier: English may not be widely spoken in Amasra, especially outside of tourist areas. Travelers who do not speak Turkish may encounter communication challenges when trying to navigate the town or interact with locals.
Lack of major attractions: While Amasra is known for its natural beauty and historical sites, travelers seeking a destination with a wide range of attractions and activities may find the town to be relatively quiet and lacking in major tourist draws.

Overall, while Amasra offers a unique and charming travel experience, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to the town.

Amasra is a picturesque town located in the Bartın Province on the Black Sea coast of Turkey. It has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with a legacy shaped by various civilizations. Here is a detailed historical overview of Amasra:

Ancient History

Origins: Amasra's history can be traced back to the 12th century BC when it was known as Sesamos. It was founded by the Phoenicians and later inhabited by the Greeks.
Greek Colonization: In the 6th century BC, it became part of the Greek world, with settlers from Miletus establishing a significant presence. The city's strategic location made it an important trading hub.
Persian and Hellenistic Periods: Amasra came under Persian control during the Achaemenid Empire and later became part of the Kingdom of Bithynia. It was also influenced by the Hellenistic culture following the conquests of Alexander the Great.

Roman and Byzantine Era

Roman Control: In the Roman era, Amasra was known as Amastris, named after Queen Amastris who was a significant figure in its history. She was the wife of Dionysius, ruler of Heraclea Pontica, and after his death, she ruled the region.
Byzantine Period: During the Byzantine Empire, Amasra was fortified and served as a key defensive outpost against various invasions. It was also an important religious center with several churches.

Medieval and Ottoman Periods

Genoese Influence: In the late medieval period, Amasra came under the influence of the Genoese, who controlled many coastal towns in the Black Sea. They fortified the city further and left their mark on its architecture.
Ottoman Conquest: The Ottomans captured Amasra in 1460 under Sultan Mehmed II (Mehmed the Conqueror), integrating it into the Ottoman Empire. It remained a small but strategically significant town during Ottoman rule.

Modern Era

Republic of Turkey: Following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Amasra became part of the newly formed Bartın Province. It has since developed into a tourist destination known for its natural beauty and historical sites.

Important Landmarks

Amasra Castle: This historic fortress, with its origins in Roman and later Byzantine times, was expanded by the Genoese and the Ottomans. It offers panoramic views of the town and the Black Sea.
Kemere Bridge: A Roman bridge that connects the two parts of the town, it is an excellent example of ancient engineering.
Church Mosque (Fatih Mosque): Originally a Byzantine church, it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest. It stands as a symbol of the town's layered history.
Bedesten (Bazaar): This historical market area was developed during the Ottoman period and reflects the town's commercial heritage.

Amasra is cherished not only for its historical significance but also for its scenic landscapes, making it a unique destination that offers insights into the diverse cultures that have shaped it over millennia.