Ordu City Guide
Ordu is a picturesque city located on Turkey’s Black Sea coast, known for its lush green hills, long beaches, and hazelnuts — the city is often called the “Natural Paradise of the Black Sea.”
As of 2024, its population is around 760,000.
Historically known as Kotyora, Ordu has been an important port since ancient times, hosting civilizations such as the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.
Today, it’s a vibrant city that combines nature, culture, and modernity.
The economy relies mainly on hazelnut production, as Ordu is one of the world’s top hazelnut exporters. Fishing and tourism also play major roles.
The climate is mild and rainy throughout the year.
Places to Visit in Ordu
Natural Attractions
- Boztepe Hill: Offers a panoramic view of the city and Black Sea; accessible by cable car.
- Ulugöl Nature Park: Ideal for camping, hiking, and picnics.
- Çambaşı Plateau: Famous for its ski center and summer festivities.
- Perşembe Plateau: Known for its festivals and pastoral scenery.
- Yason Cape: Historical cape with a small church and scenic coastline.
- Gaga Lake: A volcanic crater lake.
- Ohtamış Waterfall: One of the highest waterfalls in the Black Sea region.
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Taşbaşı Church: 19th-century Orthodox church, now used as a cultural center.
- Paşaoğlu Mansion and Museum: Displays Ottoman-era ethnographic artifacts.
- Kurul Castle: Ancient Roman fortress where the Kybele Statue was discovered.
- Ünye Castle: Features rock tombs and ancient remains.
Festivals and Culture
Ordu hosts many festivals such as the Boztepe Fest, Perşembe Plateau Festival, and Fatsa Culture and Art Days, featuring folk dances, local music, and regional food.
Ordu Intercity Bus Terminal
The Ordu Intercity Bus Terminal is 4 km from the city center and provides daily routes to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Samsun, and Trabzon.
Facilities include cafes, ticket offices, restrooms, and a parking lot.
What to Eat in Ordu
- Corn Bread: A Black Sea staple.
- Fried Anchovy (Hamsi Tava): The symbol of the region.
- Hazelnut Baklava: Made with locally produced hazelnuts.
- Melocan and Pickled Bean Dishes: Traditional regional side dishes.
- Cabbage Soup: Local winter delicacy.
- Anchovy Pilaf: Anchovies baked with rice.
- Fındık Helva: Local dessert rich in hazelnuts.
How to Get to Ordu
- By Bus: Regular intercity buses connect Ordu to major Turkish cities.
- By Air:Ordu-Giresun Airport (18 km) is Turkey’s first airport built over the sea.
- By Road: Samsun–Ordu 150 km (~2 h), Trabzon–Ordu 180 km (~2.5 h), Ankara–Ordu 510 km (~6.5 h).
- By Train: Nearest railway station is in Samsun.
Bus Companies Operating in Ordu
- Kamil Koç
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Ali Osman Ulusoy
- Kanberoğlu Turizm
- Seç Turizm
- Sahil Seyahat
