Artvin
· TR

Artvin

Artvin, Artvin, Turkey

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Turkey, Artvin is a picturesque town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Located in the heart of the Pontic Mountains, Artvin is charact…

#mountainous terrain#Black Sea region#historic architecture#natural beauty#cultural heritage
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Artvin.

Top Hotels in Artvin

Top Flights to Artvin

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Artvin.

Tours

Explore Karagöl National Park

A beautiful national park with a stunning lake surrounded by lush forests, perfect for hiking and picnics.

Visit Artvin Castle

Historic castle offering panoramic views of Artvin and the surrounding valleys.

Borçka Karagöl Nature Park

A natural wonder with panoramic views, ideal for camping and nature photography.

Savsat Sahara National Park

Discover the rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes of Sahara National Park.

Explore Macahel Valley

Discover the unique culture and natural beauty of the Macahel Valley.

Visit the Twin Lakes of Şavşat

A serene and picturesque spot known for its tranquil beauty and natural surroundings.

Shopping

Artvin City Shopping Experience

Shop local artisanal crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Artvin.

Outdoor

Rafting on Çoruh River

Experience the thrill of rafting on one of the fastest flowing rivers in the world.

Hiking in Kaçkar Mountains

Enjoy breathtaking views and challenging trails in the Kaçkar range, a must for trekking enthusiasts.

Paragliding Over the Valleys

Experience the breathtaking views of Artvin from above with a paragliding adventure.

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 Artvin.

Currency
₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Artvin, Artvin, Turkey is 18,000.
Languages
Turkish, Turkish, Georgian, Laz
Average weather
Artvin
Jan
snow
4°-3°
Feb
snow
6°-2°
Mar
rain
10°1°
Apr
cloud
15°5°
May
rain
20°9°
Jun
sun
25°13°
Jul
hot
29°17°
Aug
hot
29°17°
Sep
sun
24°13°
Oct
cloud
18°8°
Nov
rain
11°3°
Dec
snow
6°-1°

Local guide

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

What people love

Traveling to Artvin, Turkey, offers several compelling advantages for visitors:

  1. Stunning Natural Beauty: Artvin is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes. The region is characterized by lush green forests, steep valleys, and dramatic mountain ranges. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

  2. Outdoor Activities: The rich natural environment provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking, trekking, and camping are popular, especially in areas like the Kaçkar Mountains. The Çoruh River offers opportunities for white-water rafting and kayaking.

  3. Unique Flora and Fauna: The biodiversity in Artvin is impressive, with many endemic plant species and a variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting rare species in the forests and mountains.

  4. Cultural Heritage: Artvin has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various civilizations throughout history. Visitors can explore historical sites, including medieval castles, churches, and monasteries, which reflect the region's diverse past.

  5. Local Festivals: Artvin hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year, such as the Kafkasör Culture, Art, and Tourism Festival. These events offer a glimpse into the local culture, including traditional music, dance, and cuisine.

  6. Warm Hospitality: The people of Artvin are known for their warm hospitality. Visitors often find the local communities welcoming and eager to share their customs and traditions.

  7. Authentic Cuisine: Artvin offers a chance to taste traditional Turkish cuisine with local specialties. The region is known for its honey and dairy products, as well as traditional dishes that reflect its cultural diversity.

  8. Less Crowded: Compared to more popular tourist destinations in Turkey, Artvin is less crowded, providing a more tranquil and relaxed travel experience.

  9. Eco-Friendly Tourism: Due to its natural settings and focus on sustainability, Artvin is an excellent destination for eco-tourism, attracting travelers interested in preserving the environment while enjoying its beauty.

Overall, Artvin is a hidden gem in Turkey, offering a mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and adventure activities that cater to a wide range of interests.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Artvin, Turkey could include:

  1. Remote location: Artvin is located in the northeastern part of Turkey, near the border with Georgia. It may be challenging to reach Artvin, especially if you are not familiar with the area or if you are not comfortable with long drives or mountainous terrain.

  2. Limited tourist infrastructure: Artvin is not as popular of a tourist destination as other cities in Turkey such as Istanbul or Cappadocia. As a result, the tourist infrastructure in Artvin may be more limited, with fewer accommodation options, restaurants, and tourist services available.

  3. Language barrier: English may not be as widely spoken in Artvin as in more touristy areas of Turkey. This could potentially make it more challenging to communicate and navigate the city, especially if you do not speak Turkish.

  4. Weather conditions: Artvin experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, with cold winters and mild summers. If you are not prepared for the weather, it could impact your enjoyment of the trip.

  5. Limited attractions: While Artvin is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking and rafting, there may be fewer traditional tourist attractions in the city compared to other parts of Turkey.

Overall, while Artvin offers stunning landscapes and a unique cultural experience, travelers should be prepared for the challenges that come with visiting a less touristy destination.

Artvin, located in northeastern Turkey, has a rich history shaped by various civilizations due to its strategic position on ancient trade routes and its proximity to the Black Sea. Here is a detailed overview of its history:

Early History

  • Ancient Era: Artvin has traces of early human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. It was part of the ancient region of Colchis, known in Greek mythology as the land of the Golden Fleece.
  • Classical Antiquity: During the classical era, Artvin was influenced by several ancient civilizations, including the Urartians and later the Persians. The region came under the control of the Kingdom of Pontus and later the Roman Empire.

Medieval Period

  • Byzantine Influence: During the Byzantine period, Artvin was an important frontier region. The Byzantines built several fortifications in the area to defend against invasions.
  • Georgian Kingdom: In the medieval period, Artvin was part of the Kingdom of Georgia. The influence of Georgian culture is evident in the architecture and historical remains in the region.
  • Seljuk and Ottoman Periods: The Seljuk Turks began to control the area from the 11th century onwards. Artvin was later incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century after the Battle of Çaldıran.

Modern Era

  • Russian Occupation: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Artvin was a contested region during the Russo-Turkish Wars. It was occupied by Russia from 1878 to 1921.
  • Republic of Turkey: Artvin became part of the Republic of Turkey following the Treaty of Kars in 1921.

Notable Historical Figures

  • Shota Rustaveli: While not directly from Artvin, the influence of Georgian culture and literature, including works by Shota Rustaveli, was significant in the region.

Important Landmarks

  • Artvin Castle: A notable fortress dating back to the medieval period, offering insights into the region's defensive architecture.
  • Işhan Church: A significant Georgian Orthodox Church, reflecting the region's medieval Georgian influence.
  • Dolishane Church: Another example of Georgian ecclesiastical architecture, showcasing intricate stonework.
  • Karagöl-Sahara National Park: Known for its stunning natural beauty, this park is a site of ecological and cultural importance.

Artvin is known for its rich cultural heritage, blending influences from its diverse historical rulers. Its landscape is characterized by mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and lush forests, making it a unique and picturesque region in Turkey.