Samsun Turkey Coastal Beauty to Urban Charm
Samsun Turkey Coastal Beauty to Urban Charm
Samsun Turkey is located on the northern coast of Turkey along the Black Sea, the place boasts of its history and beauty and oozes with vibrancy.
The town of Samsun remains an important point in Turkey as the landing site of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1919. That moment is captured in the Atatürk Museum, apart from the history there are also beautiful beaches like Samsung’s blue flag certified Ilica Beach which offers a great day for sunbathing and swimming.
This is your chance to mingle in an authentic market full of local crafts, carpets and delicious Turkish food. We can eat fresh fish on the shore or try the correspondents’ dishes called cheyborek as deep-fried pastries.
For outdoor lovers, Kızılcaahamam National Park is a beautiful place to explore the waterfalls and forests. You can escape to the Amazon Valley Park where you can enjoy bird watching and picnics.
With the combined location of both as well as several interesting historical and cultural landmarks, Samson is a destination that appeals to every traveller.
History of Samsun Turkey
Samsun Turkey’s story is as old as many regime changes that began centuries ago. The city was one of the most important trading centers during Byzantine rule and was once called Amisos. Retaining its strategic importance as an important gateway between Europe and Central Asia, the Seljuk Turks conquered the region in the 12th century and renamed it Samsun.
In the late 14th century, Samsun was captured by the Ottomans although it changed hands several times before its final rehabilitation in the late Ottoman era. It remained under Ottoman rule for a long time. Samson had become a significant producer of tobacco by this time. Nevertheless, the port city stagnated after the fall of Rome and only in the late 19th century, with the advent of modern ships and railways, did it become a center of trade again.
1919 was the most important moment of Samson’s life. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk rejected the Ottoman government controlled by the Allied Powers. Atatürk’s arrival fueled the national war that led to the foundation of the contemporary Republic of Turkey. Samson became the turning point of the war of independence and the beacon for a new nation.
In the modern day, Samsun Turkey proudly celebrates this history. It contains historical artifacts from the Atatürk Statesmanship Museum and an ancient heritage of past empires. Yet Samsun today is a rich destination and a rich blend of history, beautiful beaches and a beautiful place for travelers from around the world.
Why famous Samsun Turkey?
It derives its fame largely from the pivotal role it played at a defining moment in Turkish history. The reason is given below….
Home of the Turkish War of Independence: Mustafa Atatürk, a revolutionary leader who set foot on the shores of Samsun in 1919 when the Ottoman Empire was occupied by the Allies. This constituted the first step towards what became known as the Turkish War of Independence. The city of Samsun also became the spark that initiated the national movement against foreign occupation. Gaziantep, also formally known as Antep, the revered founder of modern Turkey, Atatürk, is so steeped in history that the city itself is steeped in historical significance.
Samson is known worldwide for his place in the country’s liberation story, his memory embedded in the heart of the city, be it its streets, its monuments or the aroma of its markets. For the Turks, Samsun was the spirit that liberated their nation.
Samsun Turkey Beyond History: While history is the crown jewel, Samson extends beyond that. With its Black Sea coastline beach resorts, attracts adventure-seekers and tourists. Kızılcahamam National Park has cascading waterfalls, while Amazon Valley Park is a great place for bird watching and picnics for nature lovers.
Originally, Samsun Turkey was famous for his prodigious powers. A city of history, a point of nationalistic strength and certainly an exciting destination.
Best Things to Do in Samsun Turkey
The city of Samsun Turkey is known locally as the most livable city in Turkey. Samsun is a coastal city in northern Turkey on the Black Sea.
Immerse Yourself in History: The Turkish War of Independence” The most defining moment in Samsun’s history was the day Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, landed here in 1919. This was the outbreak of the War of Independence. Review Nazim Atatürk’s Yoram narrative of the war at the Nazim Exit exhibition.
Visit the Atatürk Monument (Onur Anıtı): Honoring Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, this huge monument stands in the gardens of Atatürk Park. The monument is located in a park with a view and allows people to reflect on the father of modern Turkey.
Explore Natural Beauty: Samsun is home to beautiful beaches along the Black Sea coast. Atakum Beach – This is the main beach with golden sand and crystal clear water and all the people come here to sunbathe, swim in the calm waters or play water sports. Also a Blue Flag certified beach, Ilica Beach is one of the most famous and offers a unique experience with mineral rich hot springs.
Kızılcahamam National Park: gives you a chance to take a break from city life and explore natural beauty. Walk through lush forests, discover cascading fountains like the stunning Erie Dusen Fountain, and take a deep breath in the crystal clear mountain air.
Bird watching at Kizilirmak Delta Bird Sanctuary: Wander through 5,000 hectares of flora-like wilderness, home to over 300 bird species. Visit the wetlands where migratory birds such as pelicans, flamingos and herons can be seen.
Experience the culture: Shop at Samsun Amazon Village: A sprawling open-air museum, learn about how many believe this Amazon tribe made their home in the region over the years and how these women lived. Visit reconstructed houses, traditional clothes and accessories.
Visit the market: Experience the bustling atmosphere of the local market. Savor the taste: At Samsun, you can enjoy a variety of cuisines, from fresh seafood to regional dishes and traditional Turkish cuisine. Eat fresh fish near the port, try çibörek or rent a car and head inland with your taste buds keshkek (a dish made from a pound of wheat and meat).
Best time to visit Samsun Turkey
Based on what type of travel you want for your trip to Samsung. Below is a quick breakdown of a few seasons to help you decide:
Best time for outdoor activities (April-May and September-October)
You should be ready to explore historical sites like Kizilkaham National Park or relax on the beach before the summer tourist hordes arrive, and spring temperatures between April-May will be a good time for you.
Autumn (September-October) has warm days and cool evenings that are ideal for outdoor activities without the heat of summer.
Beach Weather (June-August):
Summer (June-August): Summer is actually the peak season for Samsun as temperatures rise and there is plenty of sunshine. It is definitely the perfect time to enjoy swimming, sunbathing and water sports at beach resorts like Ilika Ilika Beach and Atakum Beach on the eastern shores of the Black Sea. Just be aware that this is also peak season, so expect some crowds and prices to match.
Including shoulder season: -Budget-friendly travel *(March and November *)
The best time to visit Iceland is during the shoulder Samsun Turke , March and November offer a decent compromise between weather and more affordable travel. You may catch some rain but many hotel fees will be much cheaper due to less crowds.
Personal Review about Samsun Turkey
Samsun Turkey surprised me! This Black Sea city was a delightful trip, a wonderful blend of nature and Turkish hospitality that I never expected to enjoy so much.
The first stop on my tour was the Gazi Museum. We were told the story of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s landing at Samsun, starting the Turkish War of Independence, all influenced by so-called historical references. The city is proud of its historical importance.
Ilika Beach – It was a beautiful afternoon at the beach. The Black Sea was fresh and cool, just what you needed to fall asleep, and the blue flag sign assured me that I too was at no risk of infection. Samsun’s bazaars were colorful and fragrant. Small shops very lively with textiles, local souvenirs and food were calling me ‘come!’ I even bought a piece of kilim which was delicious to eat.
I went on a random little visit called Samson Amazon Village. Samsun keeps its foodies happy. The fresh seafood right by the harbor was excellent and the local variety of “keskek” – a flavor bomb! Every meal was a yummy experience!
Samsun Turkey may not be the most touristy place you can visit, but I loved it because I found exactly what I was looking for: a mix of culture, nature and people. A city with a soul, that wants to experience the real Turkey.
Visitors Review of Samsun Turkey
We toasted a few marshmallows in the water, then grabbed another beer before heading to Samsun’s.
In December 2019- I recently visited the Black Sea city of Samsan in Turkey. It may not be the first destination that comes to mind.
Samsung’s history cannot be denied. It was interesting to read about the landing of Atatürk and the start of the Turkish War of Independence in front of the Gazi Museum. The city’s energy and landmarks actually reflect its national pride.
Samsun Turkey: There’s more to Samsung than history. The Black Sea coast is beautiful! I loved lying under the sun for hours on Atakum beach, it was very good, the sand was yellow and clean, there was no garbage around. My favorite surprise was finding the mineral hot springs after swimming!
The Foodie Paradise The next question is, what about the food, right? As a self-proclaimed foodie, Samson himself was a big hit in gastronomy. The fresh seafood by the drift was amazing, though, as was the keşkek, I’ve never tasted anything like it and it was a culinary delight that was crunchy, smooth, spicy and piping hot.
Beyond the beach: I took a break from the sand and headed to the other side of town to visit the quaint Samson Amazon village. Visiting reconstructed settlements and hearing about mythical Amazon women made me more engrossed in my journey. The markets were well decorated with local handicrafts, we stopped for Cha Turkish Delight and had a lovely cup of tea which was truly a wonderful experience.
Tips For Samsun Turkey Visitor
These tips will ensure that this is truly one of the most memorable trips you will ever take:
Season: The best time to visit is during the two shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when conditions are milder, with fewer people in tourist areas than in summer. The summer beach season is from June to August and prices can be high during this time.
Best history hunters: Be sure to check out the Gazi Museum for insight into Samsun’s place in the events of Turkey’s War of Independence.
Beach bum bliss: Remember to bring your bathing suit! You can relax on the golden sands of Atakum Beach or feel the water at Ilica Beach, where millions of gallons of mineral-rich water flow through many fountains.
Foodie frenzy: Taste seafood fresh from the port. Discover fresh flavors with “çibörek” (a type of deep-fried pastry) and then try “keşkek” (pounded wheat and meat dish).
Bargain: Shop the colorful markets and bring out the bargain in you
Public transport: buy a “Samkart” to travel comfortably and cheaply (tram, bus).
Turkish Talk: Learn a few Turkish phrases to reward your efforts and start conversations with locals.
Festivals: Find festivals during your stay Song, dance and cultural programs are held throughout the year in Samsun.
Fact For Samsun Turkey Visitor
Samsun Turkey is a city on Turkey’s Black Sea coast with a mix of history, nature and urban features that make it an interesting place to visit. Some great information to beat your travel boredom:
Amazon Connection: An all-female community of warriors, once settled here in Samsun. Although they are no longer believed to be real, there is a Turkish open air museum called Samsan Amazon Village that gives you the chance to uncover this intriguing myth.
The Kizilirmak Delta Bird Sanctuary is a world-class refuge for over 300 species of birds, and is an area that any self-respecting ornithologist must visit. Look for pelicans, flamingos and herons among the lush green marshes.
Home of the Turkish Nation: History buffs will appreciate the Gazi Museum, which honors Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s arrival in Samsun in 1919 to start the Turkish War of Independence.
Dessert: Samson’s incredible baklava, a syrup-soaked layered pastry. Enjoy these local delicacies and explore the city’s numerous sweet shops.
Ilika Beach: Mineral-rich hot springs flowing along the beautiful sandy shores and sparkling turquoise waters you’ll find at Ilika Beach are unlike any other beach. Swim in the ocean then relax in these hot springs.
The city is a top destination for history, natural beauty and of course, an unforgettable travel experience. Each region of Turkey has a unique flavor and incredible historical value combined with virgin forests, don’t miss a vacation in those countries. Then pack your bags and head to the promising hidden gem of the Black Sea!
Best place of Samsun Turkey
Here are the top 15 places to visit in Samsun, Turkey:
Bandırma Ferry Museum
Samsun Amazon Village
Gazi Museum
Atatürk Monument
Atakum Beach
İlıca Beach
Amazon Valley Park
Tekkeköy Caves
Samsun Museum
East Park
Boulevard Mall
Yesil Yurt Mall
Kızılcaahamam National Park
Kizilirmak Delta Bird Sanctuary
Samsun Bazaars
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FAQS
Q: What is Samsun famous for historically?
A:Samsun is the landing site of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, sparking the Turkish War of Independence in 1919.
Q: Can I learn more about Atatürk in Samsun?
A: Absolutely! Visit the Gazi Museum dedicated to him and the war.
Q: Did warrior women really live in Samsun?
A: Maybe! The Samsun Amazon Village explores the legend of the Amazons.
Q: What are some interesting museums in Samsun?
A: Explore the Samsun Museum for regional artifacts, or the Bandırma Ferry Museum housed on Atatürk’s arrival ferry.
Q: Where can I see a monument honoring Atatürk?
A: Visit the grand Atatürk Monument (Onur Anıtı) located in Atatürk Park.
Q: Does Samsun have beaches?
A:Yes! Atakum Beach offers golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Q: What’s unique about Ilıca Beach?
A:This Blue Flag certified beach boasts mineral-rich hot springs alongside the sea for a relaxing soak.
Q: Are there any green spaces in Samsun?
A: Yes! Enjoy picnicking or birdwatching at the Amazon Valley Park.
Q: Can I go hiking near Samsun?
A: Kızılcaahamam National Park offers cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and hiking trails for nature lovers.
Q: Is Samsun a good place for birdwatching?
A: Definitely! The Kizilirmak Delta Bird Sanctuary is a haven for over 300 bird species.
Q: What local foods should I try in Samsun?
A: Savor fresh seafood by the harbor, or indulge in “çibörek” (deep-fried pastries) and “keşkek” (pounded wheat and meat dish).
Q: Where can I find souvenirs in Samsun?
A: Explore the vibrant bazaars for Turkish rugs, ceramics, jewelry, and more. Remember to haggle!
Q: Are there any modern shopping malls in Samsun?
A: Yes! Both Boulevard Mall and Yesil Yurt Mall offer a variety of stores, restaurants, and cafes.
Q: Can I see a performance in Samsun?
A: Yes! Catch an opera, ballet, or classical music concert at the Samsun State Opera and Ballet House.
Q: What’s a fun activity for families in Samsun?
A:Take a boat trip on the Seyhan River or explore the Tekkeköy Caves, believed to be an ancient place of worship.
Q: When is the best time to visit Samsun?
A:Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather. June-August is beach season, but expect higher prices.
Q: How can I get around Samsun?
A: The tram and bus system is convenient and affordable. Purchase a “Samkart” for easier travel.
Q: Do I need to speak Turkish in Samsun?
A: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Turkish phrases enhances your experience and connects with locals.
Q: Are there any festivals in Samsun?
A: Yes! Check for events like the Samsun International Film Festival or the Sabancı Adana Biennial during your visit.
Q: What’s the overall vibe of Samsun?
A: Samsun offers a blend of historical significance, beautiful beaches, welcoming locals, and delicious food, making it