General Information about Artvin
Located in the northeastern Black Sea Region of Turkey, Artvin is a city of breathtaking landscapes, deep valleys, high mountains, and rich cultural diversity. With a population of about 169,000 (2024 data), Artvin is one of Turkey’s greenest and most scenic provinces.
Due to its geographical location on the border with Georgia and its mountainous terrain, Artvin has been home to various civilizations including the Urartians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The city’s culture is shaped by both Anatolian and Caucasian traditions, reflected in its folk dances, music, and cuisine.
Artvin is well-known for its festivals, such as the Kafkasör Festival, where bullfighting (unique to the region) and traditional dances are performed. Its natural beauty, from the lush Black Sea forests to alpine plateaus, makes it a haven for eco-tourism.
Places to Visit in Artvin
- Karagöl (Borçka Black Lake): A natural wonder surrounded by lush forests, perfect for camping, hiking, and photography.
- Hatila Valley National Park: Home to diverse flora and fauna, offering suspension bridges, trekking routes, and picnic areas.
- Şavşat Karagöl: Another stunning lake, popular with nature lovers and campers.
- Macahel (Camili): A UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, famous for its biodiversity, honey production, and traditional wooden houses.
- Kafkasör Plateau: Hosts the annual Kafkasör Festival and offers panoramic mountain views.
- Mençuna Waterfall: One of the largest waterfalls in the Black Sea region, located in Arhavi.
- Arhavi and Hopa: Coastal towns with a mix of Black Sea culture and modern amenities.
- Artvin Castle: Built during the Georgian Kingdom, overlooking the Çoruh River.
- Barhal Church (Altıparmak Church): A medieval Georgian church in Yusufeli district, reflecting the region’s multicultural past.
- Yusufeli Dam: One of the highest dams in the world, recently completed, attracting attention for its engineering and the newly built settlement around it.
Artvin Bus Terminal
Artvin Intercity Bus Terminal connects the city with neighboring provinces and major Turkish cities. Due to the mountainous terrain, bus travel in Artvin often involves scenic but winding routes.
Facilities include:
- Ticket offices for local and national companies
- Waiting halls
- Shops and small cafés
- Minibuses providing access to districts and villages
Travel times: Istanbul–Artvin (~20 hours), Ankara–Artvin (~14–15 hours), Erzurum–Artvin (~5–6 hours), Rize–Artvin (~2 hours).
What to Eat in Artvin?
Artvin’s cuisine reflects Black Sea flavors with Caucasian influences.
- Hinkal (Local Dumplings): Dough filled with minced meat, served with garlic yogurt or butter.
- Kuymak (Mıhlama): A cheese-and-cornmeal dish, rich and hearty, common in Black Sea households.
- Laz Böreği: A sweet pastry filled with custard, unique to the Black Sea region.
- Corn Bread: A staple in Artvin’s mountain villages.
- Pickled Beans and Vegetables: Common in winter diets.
- Kaygana: A type of pancake made with eggs and herbs.
- Honey: Macahel and Şavşat highlands produce world-renowned organic honey.
- Freshwater Fish: Trout dishes are widely popular in mountain streams and lakes.
How to Get to Artvin?
- By Bus: Artvin is connected to Istanbul, Ankara, Erzurum, Rize, and Trabzon by long-distance buses.
- By Air: Artvin does not have its own airport. The nearest is Rize–Artvin Airport (125 km), offering flights to Istanbul and Ankara. Alternatively, Trabzon Airport (~200 km) is another option.
- By Train: There is no railway connection to Artvin. The closest station is Erzurum.
- By Car: Istanbul–Artvin 1,300 km (~20 hours), Ankara–Artvin 1,000 km (~14–15 hours), Erzurum–Artvin 230 km (~5 hours), Rize–Artvin 125 km (~2 hours).
Bus Companies Operating in Artvin
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Lüks Artvin Seyahat
- Seç Turizm
- Kars Ardahan Iğdır Turizm
Local firms provide frequent connections to Rize, Erzurum, and Ardahan, as well as regional routes along the Black Sea coast.
