Türkiye’s Black Sea Coast Chosen in National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026

Türkiye’s Black Sea coast, a scenic and culturally rich region in the country’s north, has been recognised in National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026 list. This recognition highlights the area as a top choice for travellers seeking adventure and authentic Turkish culture away from the crowds.

Curated annually by National Geographic editors and travel experts, Best of the World spotlights 25 of the most inspiring destinations for the year ahead. The inclusion of Türkiye’s Black Sea coast underscores the country’s appeal beyond its traditional sea, sand, and sun holidays—celebrating its mountains, valleys, heritage, and vibrant local life.

Türkiye’s Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasure

Stretching along the northern coast between the Black Sea and the verdant North Anatolian Mountains, Türkiye’s Black Sea Region is known for its misty hills, traditional villages, and tranquil landscapes. This picturesque area has increasingly caught global attention—having been named among CNN Travel’s Best Places to Visit in 2024, while the provinces of Ordu and Giresun featured in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025.

Building on this growing recognition, National Geographic has now listed Türkiye’s Black Sea coast among the regions to watch in 2026. The area offers something for every type of traveller, from sandy beaches and architectural landmarks to green forests and distinctive regional cuisine. While the magazine notes that this northern corner of Türkiye remains relatively undiscovered, it suggests that its rich diversity and authentic experiences are set to make it one of the country’s next sought-after destinations.

Outdoor Adventures Across Türkiye’s Northern Coast

Once a bustling hub of Silk Road trade, Türkiye’s Black Sea region now invites travellers to explore its natural wonders through a range of outdoor adventures. National parks in the Northern Anatolian Mountains – part of the Alpine-Himalayan geological belt – offer scenic hiking trails through green landscapes and peaceful nights under the stars.

Visitors can discover million-year-old stalactite and stalagmite formations in Gümüşhane’s Karaca Cave, enjoy rafting on Fırtına Creek, or experience adrenaline-pumping ziplining on Rize’s Ayder Plateau.

According to National Geographic, the Black Sea coast is also one of the few places on earth where visitors can both surf and ski on the same day. Beach lovers can take a dip along its sandy shores, while mountain peaks such as Çambaşı in Ordu and Ovit in Rize offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

In addition to its outdoor attractions, the region is home to remarkable historical and architectural sites. Visitors can explore mediaeval castles such as Zil Castle in Rize, architectural treasures like Trabzon’s Sümela Monastery and Hagia Sophia, and traditional settlements including the UNESCO-listed Safranbolu in Karabük in Trabzon.

Regional Cuisine at Its Best

The Black Sea coast also offers a culinary journey where every dish reflects local culture and tradition. Owing to its coastal location, freshly caught seafood is a staple, especially hamsili pilav (rice with anchovies), a beloved local speciality.

The Black Sea region’s microclimates also nurture some of Türkiye’s most prized produce. Ordu and Giresun are world-renowned for their hazelnuts, while the tea plantations of Rize, Trabzon, and Artvin create one of the country’s most scenic landscapes. In particular, tea-harvesting tours in Rize’s Çeçeva Village offer visitors an unforgettable glimpse into local life and traditions.