General Information about Amasya
Located in the Black Sea Region, Amasya is one of Turkey’s most picturesque and historic cities, with a population of around 339,000 (2024 data). Nestled in a narrow valley along the Yeşilırmak River, the city is surrounded by high mountains, which has given it the nickname “the City of Princes.”
Amasya is historically significant as the place where many Ottoman princes were educated before ascending to the throne. It has also been home to civilizations including the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The city is world-famous for its rock tombs of the Pontic Kings carved into the cliffs, as well as its Ottoman-era wooden mansions.
Today, Amasya is not only a historical city but also a cultural hub known for its apples, traditional houses, and riverside ambiance.
Places to Visit in Amasya
- Pontic Kings’ Rock Tombs: Ancient tombs carved into the cliffs above the city, offering a unique view, especially at night when illuminated.
- Amasya Castle: Located on Harşena Mountain, overlooking the city with a panoramic view. It has been used by multiple civilizations.
- Yeşilırmak Riverside Houses: Ottoman-era wooden mansions that line the riverbanks, now restored as boutique hotels, restaurants, and museums.
- Ferhat Water Canal (Ferhat and Şirin): An ancient water channel tied to the legendary love story of Ferhat and Şirin.
- Sabuncuoğlu Medical and Surgical History Museum: Dedicated to Şerafeddin Sabuncuoğlu, one of the earliest medical pioneers of the Ottoman era.
- Amasya Archaeological Museum: Exhibits artifacts from the Hittite, Phrygian, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
- Borabay Lake: A natural mountain lake located about 60 km from the city center, ideal for picnics and nature walks.
- Yalıboyu Houses: Historic Ottoman mansions reflecting the city’s architectural heritage.
- Minelga Madrasa and Sultan Bayezid II Complex: Important religious and educational structures from the Ottoman period.
Amasya Bus Terminal
Amasya Intercity Bus Terminal connects the city with major centers such as Istanbul, Ankara, Samsun, and Tokat.
Facilities include:
- Ticket offices for national and local bus companies
- Comfortable waiting lounges
- Cafés and shops
- Minibus services to towns and villages
Travel times: Istanbul–Amasya (~10–11 hours), Ankara–Amasya (~5–6 hours), Samsun–Amasya (~2 hours).
What to Eat in Amasya?
Amasya’s cuisine reflects the blend of Central Anatolian and Black Sea culinary traditions.
- Amasya Apple: Famous worldwide, the city’s symbol.
- Baklalı Dolma: Grape leaves stuffed with rice and broad beans.
- Keşkek: A wheat and meat dish, especially served at weddings and special occasions.
- Amasya Çöreği: A traditional pastry flavored with cinnamon and walnuts.
- Toyga Soup: A yogurt-based soup with herbs and grains.
- Yufka Böreği: Thin pastry filled with cheese, potatoes, or spinach.
- Etli Yaprak Sarma: Stuffed vine leaves with rice and minced meat.
- Tatlı Mayalı Ekmek: A sweet bread flavored with molasses.
How to Get to Amasya?
- By Bus: Frequent services operate between Amasya and major cities. Istanbul–Amasya (~10 hours), Ankara–Amasya (~5–6 hours), Samsun–Amasya (~2 hours).
- By Air: The nearest airport is Amasya Merzifon Airport (45 km), offering regular flights to Istanbul and Ankara.
- By Train: Amasya has a train connection with Samsun and Sivas via the Black Sea railway line.
- By Car: Istanbul–Amasya 670 km (~9–10 hours), Ankara–Amasya 330 km (~5 hours), Samsun–Amasya 130 km (~2 hours).
Bus Companies Operating in Amasya
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Amasya Mavi Tur
- Seç Turizm
- Tokat Seyahat
- Topçam Turizm
Regional bus firms provide frequent services to Tokat, Samsun, Çorum, and surrounding provinces.
