Ordu
· TR

Ordu

Ordu, Ordu, Turkey

Escape to the Emerald Coast: Unveiling the Charms of Ordu, Turkey Nestled on Turkey's lush Black Sea coast, Ordu offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and authentic Turkish charm. Far from th…

#coastal city#Black Sea region#tourist destination#historic sites#agricultural center
1/5

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Ordu.

Top Hotels in Ordu

Top Flights to Ordu

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Ordu.

Tours

Boztepe Cable Car Adventure

Enjoy a breathtaking cable car ride to Boztepe, offering panoramic views of Ordu and the Black Sea.

Ordu Ethnography Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ordu through its diverse exhibits and artifacts.

Yason Church and Cape

Visit the historic Yason Church and enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Yason.

Shopping

Shopping at Ordu City Center

Explore a variety of shops offering local crafts, clothes, and Turkish delights.

Outdoor

Çambaşı Ski Resort

Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of the oldest and largest ski resorts in Turkey.

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 Ordu.

Currency
₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Turkish, Turkish
Average weather
Ordu
Jan
rain
9°3°
Feb
rain
10°3°
Mar
rain
12°5°
Apr
cloud
16°8°
May
cloud
20°12°
Jun
cloud
24°16°
Jul
sun
27°19°
Aug
sun
27°19°
Sep
cloud
24°16°
Oct
rain
20°12°
Nov
rain
15°8°
Dec
rain
11°5°

Local guide

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

What people love

Ordu is a beautiful city located on the Black Sea coast of Turkey, known for its stunning natural landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Ordu:

  1. Stunning Scenery: Ordu is surrounded by lush green mountains and the deep blue waters of the Black Sea, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and enjoying the beaches.

  2. Historical Sites: Ordu has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with several historical sites and landmarks to explore, including the ruins of ancient fortresses, churches, and mosques.

  3. Local Cuisine: Ordu is famous for its delicious Black Sea cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, cornbread, and a variety of traditional dishes that you can enjoy at local restaurants and cafes.

  4. Friendly Locals: The people of Ordu are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making visitors feel welcome and at home during their stay.

  5. Cultural Events: Ordu hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, and crafts that provide insight into the local culture and traditions.

Overall, traveling to Ordu can be a rewarding experience for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, history, and cultural immersion.

What to know

Ordu is a beautiful city located in the Black Sea region of Turkey. While there are many benefits to traveling to Ordu, there are also some potential cons to consider:

  1. Remote location: Ordu is situated in a relatively remote area of Turkey, which may make it less accessible compared to other more popular tourist destinations. Traveling to Ordu may require more time and effort, especially if you are coming from major cities like Istanbul or Ankara.

  2. Limited tourist infrastructure: Ordu is not as developed for tourism as some other cities in Turkey, which means that you may find fewer options for accommodations, restaurants, and tourist activities. This could potentially impact your overall travel experience if you are looking for a wide range of amenities and services.

  3. Language barrier: While you may encounter English speakers in tourist areas, the overall level of English proficiency in Ordu may be lower compared to more touristy destinations. This could make communication and navigating the city a bit more challenging for travelers who do not speak Turkish.

  4. Weather: Ordu experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means that it can get quite rainy and humid, especially during the summer months. If you are not a fan of rain or high humidity, this may be a con to consider when planning your trip to Ordu.

  5. Limited attractions: While Ordu is known for its natural beauty, including stunning landscapes and coastline, the city may have fewer historical and cultural attractions compared to other cities in Turkey. If you are looking for a destination with a wide range of sightseeing opportunities, Ordu may not be the best choice.

Overall, while Ordu offers unique charms and beautiful scenery, travelers should be aware of these potential cons before planning a trip to the city.

Ordu is a city located on the northern coast of Turkey, along the Black Sea. It serves as the capital of Ordu Province. The history of Ordu is rich and spans several centuries, with influences from various civilizations.

Ancient and Medieval History

  • Early Settlements: Ordu's history dates back to ancient times. The region was initially inhabited by various tribes and peoples, including the Chalybes and the Mossynoeci. The area was part of the ancient region known as Pontus.
  • Greek and Roman Influence: During the Classical period, Greek colonies were established along the Black Sea coast. The city of Cotyora (now Ordu) was founded by Greek settlers from Sinope. This city is thought to be connected to Xenophon's "Anabasis," which describes the retreat of the Ten Thousand, a Greek mercenary army.
  • Byzantine Era: During the Byzantine period, the area was part of the Pontus region and later became part of the Empire of Trebizond after the fall of Constantinople in 1204.

Ottoman Period

  • Incorporation into the Ottoman Empire: Ordu was incorporated into the expanding Ottoman Empire in the late 15th century. It served as an administrative center and experienced economic growth due to its strategic location along the Black Sea.
  • Economic Activities: During the Ottoman period, Ordu was an important center for trade and agriculture. The region was known for its production of hazelnuts, which continue to be a significant part of its economy today.

Modern History

  • Republic of Turkey: Following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Ordu underwent significant modernization and development. It became the administrative center of its province and continued to grow economically and demographically.
  • Development and Urbanization: In the 20th century, Ordu saw increased urbanization and industrialization. The city expanded its infrastructure and improved its transportation links, including roads and the Ordu-Giresun Airport.

Notable Figures

  • Xenophon: As mentioned, the Greek historian Xenophon passed through the region during his famous march recounted in "Anabasis."

Important Landmarks

  • Boztepe: A popular tourist destination, Boztepe is a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of the Black Sea and the surrounding area. A cable car service provides easy access to the summit.
  • Yason Burnu: Known also as Cape Jason, this historical site is believed to have connections to the Argonaut legends and features a small lighthouse and a Greek Orthodox church.
  • Pasaoglu Mansion and Ethnography Museum: This 19th-century mansion showcases traditional Ottoman architecture and houses an ethnographic museum displaying artifacts from the region's history.
  • Ordu Coastal Path: This scenic path offers beautiful views of the Black Sea and is popular for walking and cycling.

Ordu, with its scenic beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage, remains an important city in Turkey's Black Sea region.