Samsun City Guide
Samsun is a major city on Turkey’s Black Sea coast, known as the “City of Atatürk” for being the starting point of Turkey’s War of Independence on May 19, 1919.
As of 2024, its population is approximately 1.38 million.
The city has a rich history dating back to ancient Hittite and Roman times and serves today as one of the Black Sea’s leading trade and culture hubs.
It is home to important ports, museums, and universities, making it a vibrant center of economy, education, and tourism.
Places to Visit in Samsun
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Bandırma Ferry and National Struggle Museum: Symbolic site of Atatürk’s arrival in Samsun.
- Atatürk Monument: The city’s most iconic landmark.
- Amisos Hill: Offers archaeological ruins and panoramic views.
- Gazi Museum: The house where Atatürk stayed during his visit.
- Tekkeköy Caves: Prehistoric settlements dating back thousands of years.
- Samsun Archaeological Museum: Displays Roman and Byzantine artifacts.
Natural Attractions
- Atakum Beach: Long coastline with cafes and bike paths.
- Kızılırmak Delta Bird Sanctuary: Home to more than 350 bird species; a UNESCO site.
- Kabaceviz Waterfalls: Ideal for hiking and nature photography.
- Akdağ Ski Center: Winter tourism attraction.
- Ayvacık Dam Lake: Perfect for canoeing and fishing.
Festivals
Samsun hosts the May 19 Commemoration Festival, International Music Festival, and Bird Sanctuary Festival, celebrating both modern and natural heritage.
Samsun Intercity Bus Terminal
Located 5 km from the city center, the Samsun Intercity Bus Terminal connects the city to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Trabzon, and Erzurum.
Facilities include restaurants, ticket offices, restrooms, and a prayer area.
What to Eat in Samsun
- Bafra Pide: Thin, long pide baked in a stone oven.
- Terme Pide: Thicker and stuffed version of the local pide.
- Kaz Tiridi: Layers of bread and goose meat with broth.
- Cabbage Rolls: A regional favorite.
- Corn Soup: Classic Black Sea dish.
- Hazelnut Halva: Local dessert with a rich nutty flavor.
How to Get to Samsun
- By Bus: Daily routes from major Turkish cities.
- By Air:Samsun Çarşamba Airport (25 km) serves both domestic and international flights.
- By Road: Ankara–Samsun 410 km (~5 h), Istanbul–Samsun 730 km (~8 h).
- By Train: The Samsun–Sivas line provides comfortable travel across Anatolia.
Bus Companies Operating in Samsun
- Kamil Koç
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Ali Osman Ulusoy
- Kanberoğlu Turizm
- Sahil Seyahat
- Lüks Karadeniz Seyahat
