begüm Discover Artvin Travel Guide and explore a city in the eastern Black Sea region that captures the heart of anyone wanting to be one with nature!
This place is not only known for its lush green plateaus but also for its enchanting Karagöl lakes, roaring waterfalls, and deep-rooted culture, making it one of Turkey’s most special destinations.
In this article, you’ll find step-by-step information about places to visit in Artvin, details about the Karagöl lakes, the distance between Rize and Artvin, and even the answer to the question, “What is Artvin famous for?”
Artvin Accommodation
Where to Stay in Artvin?
Artvin is a great destination for a holiday surrounded by nature. Bungalows in the plateaus, wooden chalets, and boutique hotels by the river offer a peaceful stay. Artvin offers wonderful options for those who want to explore every shade of green. For details, CLICK HERE.
List of Places to Visit in Artvin
- 1Borçka Karagöl
- 2Şavşat Karagöl
- 3Mençuna Waterfall
- 4Maral Waterfall
- 5Balık Lake
- 6Macahel
- 7Çiftköprü
- 8Delikkaya
- 9Sırt Yayla
Artvin Places to Visit Map
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Places to Visit in Artvin
Borçka Karagöl
orçka Karagöl is one of Artvin’s famous natural wonders and truly makes you say, “I’m so glad I came!” when you visit. Surrounded by lush green trees, it has a peaceful and calm atmosphere. Here, you can walk around the lake, sit on benches listening to the birds, or have a small picnic. If you love photography, every corner looks like a postcard! Especially when the mist settles or in the early morning, seeing the lake makes you feel like you’re in a fairy tale land. Borçka Karagöl is a perfect escape to connect with nature and get away from the city.
Şavşat Karagöl
Şavşat Karagöl is one of Artvin’s hidden paradises and will captivate you as soon as you see it. Surrounded by dense forests, vibrant greenery, and peaceful silence, it feels like you’ve entered a completely different world. You can walk around the lake, enjoy nature, and take plenty of photos. If you like picnics, don’t forget to bring a small basket! Especially in autumn, when the trees turn from yellow to orange, the lake becomes even more beautiful. Şavşat Karagöl is a must-visit for anyone wanting to spend a day immersed in nature.
Mençuna Waterfall
Mençuna Waterfall is one of the most beautiful spots in Artvin where nature meets you! To reach the waterfall, you walk along a lush green trail, and the journey itself is an experience. With birds singing and the fresh scent of the forest, you won’t notice how quickly the path passes. When you arrive at the waterfall, you’ll be mesmerized by the sight of the massive water cascading down. The sound of the water is so relaxing that you might just want to sit and watch for minutes on end. There are also great spots for photography around the waterfall. If you’re looking for a nature-filled adventure, Mençuna Waterfall should definitely be on your must-visit list!
Maral Waterfall
Maral Waterfall is a natural wonder you must see in Artvin! Surrounded by countless shades of green, it offers a peaceful and calm atmosphere, perfect for connecting with nature. While walking to the waterfall, you can enjoy the surrounding scenery. The sound of the water accompanies you along the path, refreshing and invigorating. There are many great spots for photos around the waterfall, so don’t forget your camera! Seeing the water cascade down is truly mesmerizing, and in summer, it’s a perfect place to cool off. Maral Waterfall is an excellent choice for a short nature escape.
Balık Lake
Balık Lake is one of the most tranquil and peaceful corners of Artvin! Perfect for spending a day immersed in nature, the lake is surrounded by lush forests, creating a natural paradise. While walking or sitting around the lake, you lose track of time. The water is so clear and pure that you won’t get enough of photographing the reflections of the scenery.
Macahel
Macahel is one of Artvin’s most impressive villages and definitely worth exploring. As you step into the village, you feel the pure essence of nature. Hidden between tall mountains, every corner of this valley feels like a fairy tale world. Macahel is home to the traditional Ahıska Turks, offering both cultural richness and a nature-connected lifestyle. There are great hiking trails for mountaineering enthusiasts, but even just admiring the scenery is enough to enjoy your time.
Çiftköprü
Çiftköprü is one of Artvin’s peaceful villages worth discovering and a true nature escape. Known for its calm atmosphere and impressive views, it’s perfect for those who want to relax. The village is named after a beautiful spot where two bridges meet. One of its most interesting features is being surrounded by nature. With lush forests, clear streams, and traditional stone buildings, it feels like a journey back in time. If you love walking, you can explore the village’s trails and listen to the sounds of nature.
Delikkaya
Delikkaya, one of Artvin’s natural wonders, is a perfect escape from city noise. About 30 km away, this quiet spot is surrounded by green forests, clear waters, and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s ideal for nature walks, relaxing to the sound of waterfalls, and taking lots of photos. Getting there is easy, whether by car or taxi. If you visit Artvin, don’t miss a day in this tranquil paradise.
Sırt Plateau
Sırt Plateau, one of Artvin’s most beautiful corners, is perfect for a day immersed in nature. About 45 km from the city centre, this plateau offers green meadows, fresh air, and stunning views. You can walk among the mountains, admire the valleys filled with natural beauty, camp, take photos, or just enjoy the surroundings. Sırt Plateau is one of the most special spots in Artvin for both relaxing and losing yourself in nature.
Everything About Artvin’s Karagöl Lakes
When you think of Artvin, one of the first places that comes to mind is definitely the Karagöl lakes. It’s a place where, as mist dances over the lake, you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. Especially Borçka and Şavşat Karagöl.
Where is Artvin Karagöl?
Karagöl is located in Borçka district of Artvin, about one hour from the city centre. The roads are a bit winding, but the views are so stunning that you’ll want to stop and take photos at every turn. You can reach it by private car or with local tours.
Artvin Karagöl Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
As of 2025, entrance to Karagöl Nature Park is 60 TL per person (discounted 30 TL). Visiting hours are usually 08:00 – 19:00, but I recommend going early in the morning to catch the magical atmosphere before the mist lifts.
Can You Camp at Karagöl?
Yes, absolutely! You can camp with a tent or a caravan. Just make sure to use the designated areas for campfires.
Artvin’s Local Delicacies
Hamsili Pilav – A classic Black Sea dish! Fresh anchovies meet rice to create a delicious pilaf. One taste and you’ll say, “Wow!”
Karalahana Sarması – A traditional Artvin dish. Cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat, served with yogurt, giving you the true taste of the Black Sea.
Laz Böreği – Despite the name, it’s actually a dessert. Layers of pastry filled with custard, topped with crispy caramelised sugar. Best eaten warm, each bite guarantees a smile.
Cornbread – Warm, crispy, and buttery. Perfect with Hamsili Pilav, you’ll want extra slices.
Kaygana – Simple yet delicious! Served warm with butter at breakfast, it crowns Black Sea mornings.
Walnut Kete – A delightful pastry with walnuts. Fresh from the oven, its aroma is irresistible, must try while warm.
Karalahana Kavurması – Simple yet filling. Fried cabbage with butter, even with just a slice of cornbread, it’s delicious.
Pickled Bean Stir-Fry – Sounds unusual, but it’s addictive! Pickled beans, onion, and cornmeal create an amazing sour and salty harmony.
Rice Pudding (Sütlaç) – A classic dessert you can’t miss. In Artvin, it’s baked in a wood-fired oven with a slightly caramelised top, giving a unique texture and aroma.
Where to Eat in Artvin?
Klaskurelebi Gürcü Sofrası
Famous especially for its breakfast, this place is a great spot to start your day with local flavours. With fresh cheeses, cornbread, and a warm atmosphere, it truly gives you a taste of the Black Sea region.
Meroli Ev Pansiyon & Yöresel Tatlar
Located on the road to Borçka Karagöl, this spot delights visitors with traditional dishes as well as other options. The owner, Fatma Hanım, adds a personal touch that makes the place even more special. Click here for the Tripadvisor link.
Mavi Ay Alabalık Üretim ve Dinlenme Tesisleri
Here, you can order trout and muhlama, and the place stands out for its quick service and tasty presentation. The muhlama is especially a 10/10!
Keyf-i Ziyafet
Known for its home-cooked meals and rice pudding, this cozy spot offers traditional flavours and desserts together; small but very enjoyable. Click here for the Tripadvisor link.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Artvin?
Getting to Artvin is quite easy and offers various transportation options. If you prefer to travel by road, you can reach Artvin from Istanbul in approximately 12 hours. To get to Artvin from Istanbul, first head towards Trabzon or Rize, then follow the signs directing you to Artvin. Similarly, it’s a 9-10 hour drive from Ankara to Artvin by private car. If you don’t have a car, you can click here for affordable CAR RENTALS!
If you prefer to travel by plane, the closest airport to Artvin is Şavşat Airport, but because flights are infrequent, it’s more common to land at Trabzon Airport or Rize-Artvin Airport. Trabzon Airport to Artvin is approximately a 2-2.5 hour drive. Rize-Artvin Airport is closer to Artvin, providing access to the city in approximately an hour. For the closest transportation to Artvin, click HERE for cheap tickets to Artvin-Rize Airport.
How many kilometers is it between Rize and Artvin?
The distance between Rize and Artvin is approximately 160 km and the journey takes approximately 3 hours.
How many km between Artvin and Batumi?
The distance from Artvin to Batumi is approximately 110 km and the travel time is approximately 2 hours.
How many kilometers is it from Ankara to Artvin?
The distance between Ankara and Artvin is approximately 950 km and takes 12–13 hours by car.
How many kilometers is it from Istanbul to Artvin?
The distance from Istanbul to Artvin is approximately 1,250 km, 16 hours by car and 2 hours by plane.
How many kilometers is it between Ordu and Artvin?
The distance between Ordu and Artvin is approximately 360 km and the journey takes approximately 6 hours.
We’ve reached the end of this article on Places to Visit in Artvin. See you in the next article.
Click on the Rize Travel Guide for places to visit near Artvin!
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