Located on the Black Sea coast of Türkiye, Ordu is a port city that combines sea, mountains and green valleys in one compact destination. With its Boztepe hill overlooking the city, long and clean beaches, high plateaus like Çambaşı and charming towns such as Perşembe and Ünye, Ordu is an ideal stop on any Black Sea itinerary.

Quick Facts About Ordu

Ordu is the capital city of Ordu Province and part of the Black Sea Region of Türkiye. The metropolitan area has a population of more than 700,000 people and is one of the world’s most important centers of hazelnut production. The city has a humid subtropical climate with mild, rainy winters and warm summers.

The central district Altınordu stretches along the coast with parks, walking paths, bicycle lanes and cafés. Thanks to its compact size, many parts of the city centre can easily be explored on foot.

Best Places to Visit in Ordu

Boztepe Hill and the Cable Car

Boztepe is the symbol of Ordu, rising around 450–550 metres above the city. The Ordu Boztepe Gondola connects the seafront promenade to the hilltop in only 6–7 minutes, offering breathtaking views over the city and the Black Sea during the ride.

• Perfect viewpoints for sunrise and sunset photography
• Cafés and restaurants with terrace seating
• Paragliding options in season for adventure seekers

Black Sea Coastline: Altınordu, Perşembe and Ünye

Ordu is known for having some of the cleanest and longest beaches along this part of the Black Sea coast. The waterfront in Altınordu is ideal for long walks, cycling and relaxing by the sea.

• Perşembe: A cosy coastal town with small bays, fresh fish restaurants and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Ünye: A lively town with a historical centre, seaside promenade and family-friendly beaches.

Çambaşı Plateau and Highland Tourism

About an hour from the city centre, Çambaşı Plateau is a favourite escape for locals and visitors in all seasons. In summer, the highland offers cool weather, lush forests and nature walks; in winter, the Çambaşı ski resort attracts those who want to enjoy snow sports away from the crowds of major ski destinations.

Cultural and Historical Highlights

• Paşaoğlu Mansion and Ethnography Museum: A late 19th-century mansion showcasing traditional life in the region.
• Taşbaşı Cultural Centre: A former church, now a cultural venue used for concerts and exhibitions.
• Cape Jason: A small peninsula near Perşembe associated with the myth of Jason and the Argonauts, perfect for sunset views.

What to Eat in Ordu

Ordu’s cuisine is shaped by the Black Sea, rich green hills and hazelnut orchards. Some dishes and flavours you should not miss:

• Hazelnut sweets: Hazelnut baklava, hazelnut paste and creams.
• Black cabbage dishes: Stuffed black cabbage leaves, soups and stews.
• Anchovy (hamsi): Fried anchovy, baked anchovy and anchovy pilaf in season.
• Cornbread and mıhlama/kuymak: A rich, cheesy cornmeal dish commonly served for breakfast.

When to Visit Ordu

Thanks to its mild Black Sea climate, Ordu can be visited throughout the year. Summers are warm but not extremely hot, making them ideal for seaside walks and boat trips. Spring and autumn are greener and quieter, perfect for hikers and photographers. Winter is the best time if you want to experience snow at the Çambaşı Plateau ski area.

For beach and sea activities, June to September is the best period. For highland tourism and nature walks, July to September offers the most comfortable weather.

How to Get to Ordu and Move Around

Ordu is easily accessible by intercity buses from major Turkish cities and via Ordu–Giresun Airport, which is one of the first airports built on the sea in Türkiye. There are regular flights from Istanbul and other major hubs.

Within the city, public buses, minibuses, taxis and rental cars are available. The city centre and seafront can also be explored on foot or by bicycle, thanks to the dedicated bike paths along the coast.