Araklı, Trabzon Travel Guide

Discover Araklı in Trabzon: A tranquil haven by the Black Sea, rich in culture, nature, and authentic Turkish charm.

Araklı, nestled on the eastern coast of Trabzon, offers a serene escape for those looking to experience authentic Turkish life away from the bustling tourist hubs. Surrounded by verdant mountains and the shimmering Black Sea, this quaint town provides an idyllic backdrop for a relaxing getaway. Stroll through Araklı's charming streets, where local vendors sell fresh produce and handcrafted goods. The town's traditional architecture, with its quaint houses and historic mosques, offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the chance to visit the Araklı Castle, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the town and the sea. Nature lovers will be enthralled by the nearby Sera Lake and the stunning Uzungöl, both perfect for day trips. Araklı also serves as a gateway to the Kaçkar Mountains, ideal for hiking and exploring lush landscapes. Whether you're savoring local cuisine at a family-run restaurant or simply taking in the tranquil surroundings, Araklı promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Araklı.

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique handmade items.
Wear comfortable shoes as the town's hilly terrain can be challenging.
Take a day trip to Sera Lake or Uzungöl for breathtaking natural beauty.
Try the local dishes, especially the seafood, at a family-run restaurant.
Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your interaction with the locals.

Explore Araklı: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Araklı

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Altindere Valley National Park

Explore the stunning beauty of Altindere Valley National Park, a serene retreat in Trabzon, Turkey, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.4

Araklı Os Falls

Explore the enchanting Araklı Os Falls, a stunning nature preserve in Trabzon, showcasing majestic waterfalls and lush landscapes for nature lovers.

4.4

Asmasu Şelalesi

Discover the enchanting beauty of Asmasu Şelalesi, a captivating waterfall in Trabzon, Turkey, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

4.6

Araklı belediyesi sahil oturma ve piknik alanı

Discover tranquility at Araklı Belediyesi Sahil Oturma ve Piknik Alanı, where stunning coastal views and lush greenery create the perfect picnic escape.

4.5

Best landmarks in Araklı

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Araklı Os Falls

Explore the breathtaking Araklı Os Falls, a serene nature preserve in Trabzon, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

4.4

Araklı belediyesi sahil oturma ve piknik alanı

Experience the serene beauty of Araklı Belediyesi Sahil, a picturesque coastal park in Trabzon, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and breathtaking views of the Black Sea.

4.5

Kalecik Kalesi

Explore Kalecik Kalesi, a captivating fortress in Trabzon, where history meets breathtaking views amidst Turkey's beautiful landscapes.

4.3

Konakönü Cami

Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Konakönü Cami in Trabzon, where history and culture come alive.

4.6

Best restaurants in Araklı

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Devran Lokantası

Discover authentic Turkish flavors at Devran Lokantası in Araklı - where every meal tells a story.

4.5

Alibaba Lokantası

Savor authentic Turkish dishes at Alibaba Lokantası in Araklı – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

4.3

Hancı Et Cafe Restaurant Arakli

Discover the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine at Hancı Et Cafe Restaurant Arakli - a meat lover's dream in Trabzon.

4.2

Atakoç Restaurant

Discover authentic Turkish flavors at Atakoç Restaurant in Trabzon – where tradition meets taste amidst stunning scenery.

4.0

Best bars in Araklı

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Arakale Restaurant & Cafe

Discover the flavors of Trabzon at Arakale Restaurant & Cafe, a perfect spot for breakfast lovers seeking authentic local cuisine.

4.3

Royal Comfort Hotel

Experience unparalleled comfort and luxury at the Royal Comfort Hotel, your perfect retreat in the heart of Trabzon, Turkey.

4.1

Devran Lokantası

Discover the authentic flavors of Trabzon at Devran Lokantası, a top-rated chophouse restaurant in Araklı with a warm ambiance and delicious local cuisine.

4.5

Cafe Moonlight Konakönü

Experience the charm of Cafe Moonlight, where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking sea views in the heart of Trabzon.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Araklı

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MONO Trabzon

Discover the heart of Trabzon's nightlife at MONO, where vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere await to make your night unforgettable.

2.6

Retto

Discover Trabzon's electrifying nightlife at Retto, a vibrant night club where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

3.1

MOD

Dive into the heart of Trabzon's nightlife at MOD Club, where vibrant music and dance await in a dynamic atmosphere.

3.1

Hancı Et ızgara köfte

Savor the authentic flavors of Turkish cuisine at Hancı Et ızgara köfte, specializing in kofta and grilled meats in Araklı, Trabzon.

3.5

Best shops in Araklı

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Tuba Kırtasiye Japon Pazarı

Explore Tuba Kırtasiye Japon Pazarı in Araklı for unique gifts and exquisite stationery that celebrate Japanese craftsmanship.

4.1

Gudi Tobacco Shop

Explore Gudi Tobacco Shop in Araklı for a unique taste of local tobacco culture and quality products, a must-visit for any traveler in Trabzon.

5.0

Hünkar Nargile

Discover the charm of Hünkar Nargile, a cultural hub in Araklı, where high-quality tobacco meets authentic Turkish hospitality.

5.0

NATURAL KONFEKSİYON

Explore NATURAL KONFEKSİYON, a unique clothing store in Araklı, Trabzon, where fashion meets local culture and style.

4.3

Explore Araklı on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Araklı, mapped for you.

Araklı Essentials

Araklı is accessible from Trabzon city center, located approximately 25 kilometers to the east. You can take a direct bus from Trabzon's main bus terminal (Otogar), which operates regularly throughout the day. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, taxis are available for a quicker and more comfortable option, though they will be more expensive.
Araklı is a small neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. Local minibuses (dolmuş) run frequently, connecting you to various parts of the area and surrounding villages. Taxis are also available for hire. Bicycles can be rented from local shops for those looking to enjoy the scenic routes at a leisurely pace.
Araklı is generally safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is wise to take basic precautions.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for medical assistance or 155 for police. The local hospital in Araklı can handle most medical emergencies, and there are pharmacies available for minor health concerns. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, including dressing appropriately when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a smile is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Araklı like a local, visit the nearby markets for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with residents, who are typically friendly and willing to share stories about the area's culture and history. Don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful natural surroundings, including nearby hiking trails and rivers, which are popular among locals for picnics and relaxation.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Araklı

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Araklı. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMerhaba
  [Mer-ha-ba]
- GoodbyeHoşçakal
  [Hosh-cha-kal]
- YesEvet
  [Ev-et]
- NoHayır
  [Ha-yer]
- Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [Loot-fen]
- Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [Te-shek-ker ed-er-im]
- Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [O-zoor dee-le-rim]
- How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [Na-sul-sun-uz]
- Fine. And you?İyiyim. Ya siz?
  [Ee-yee-yim. Ya siz?]
- Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [Ing-ee-leez-je ko-noo-shu-yor moos-un-uz]
- I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [An-la-mi-yor-um]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Men-ue-yu germ-ek is-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]
- I don't eat meatEt yemem
  [Et ye-mem]
- Cheers!Şerefe!
  [She-re-fe]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [O-de-mek is-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]
- Help!Yardım edin!
  [Yar-dum ed-een]
- Go away!Uzaklaşın!
  [Oo-zak-la-shun]
- Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [Po-lee-see a-ry-un]
- Call a doctor!Doktor çağırın!
  [Dok-tor cha-ee-run]
- I'm lostKayboldum
  [Kai-bol-dum]
- I'm illHasta oldum
  [Has-ta ol-dum]
- I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [Sat-un al-mak is-tee-yor-um]
- I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [Sa-de-je ba-ku-yor-um]
- How much is it?Ne kadar?
  [Ne ka-dar]
- That's too expensiveÇok pahalı
  [Chok pa-ha-luh]
- Can you lower the price?Fiyatı indirebilir misiniz?
  [Fee-yat-uh in-de-re-bee-leer mees-ee-neez]
- What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [Sa-at kach]
- It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [Sa-at beer]
- Half past (10)Saat on buçuk
  [Sa-at on boo-chuk]
- MorningSabah
  [Sa-bah]
- AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [O-le-den af-ter-na]
- EveningAkşam
  [Ak-sham]
- YesterdayDün
  [Dun]
- TodayBugün
  [Boo-gun]
- TomorrowYarın
  [Ya-run]
- 1Bir
  [Beer]
- 2İki
  [Ee-kee]
- 3Üç
  [Ooch]
- 4Dört
  [Durt]
- 5Beş
  [Besh]
- 6Altı
  [Al-tuh]
- 7Yedi
  [Ye-dee]
- 8Sekiz
  [Se-keez]
- 9Dokuz
  [Do-kooz]
- 10On
  [On]
- Where's a/the...?... nerede?
  [... ner-e-de]
- What's the address?Adres ne?
  [Ad-res ne]
- Can you show me (on the map)?(Haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [(Ha-ree-ta-da) go-steh-re-bee-leer mees-ee-neez]
- When's the next (bus)?Bir sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [Beer son-ra-kee (o-to-boo-s) ne za-man]
- A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'e)
  [Beer bee-let (....'e)]

History of Araklı

Araklı's history can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire when it served as a crucial point along the trade routes connecting Trabzon to other parts of Anatolia and the Caucasus. The region was primarily agricultural, with settlements forming around the fertile lands and the Trabzon coastline. The strategic location of Araklı enabled it to flourish as a hub of commerce and trade during this period.
With the Ottoman conquest of Trabzon in the 15th century, Araklı became an integral part of the empire. The Ottomans implemented agricultural reforms and introduced new crops, enhancing the local economy. This era saw the construction of mosques, bridges, and other infrastructure that contributed to the cultural landscape of Araklı. The region became known for its thriving trade in silk and other goods, reinforcing its significance within the empire.
The 19th century brought about significant changes in Araklı with the introduction of modern transportation and communication methods. The establishment of the Trabzon-Erzurum railway in the late 1800s facilitated trade and movement, connecting Araklı more closely with Trabzon and beyond. This period also saw the rise of local industries, particularly in agriculture and textiles, contributing to the socioeconomic development of the area.
The Greek-Turkish population exchange in 1923 had a profound impact on Araklı, as many locals were displaced or relocated. The demographic shift led to cultural changes, with new communities integrating into the existing social fabric. The architectural landscape also evolved, with new buildings reflecting the influences of the incoming populations while retaining elements of the traditional Trabzon style.
In recent years, Araklı has experienced both economic challenges and opportunities for growth. The local government has focused on preserving the rich cultural heritage of the area while promoting tourism. Efforts include the restoration of historical sites and the promotion of local festivals celebrating Araklı's traditions, such as its unique cuisine and folk music, which are integral to the identity of the region.