Last update February 12, 2026
Amasra is a coastal town located in Bartın Province, within the Black Sea region of Turkey. It is situated on the northern coast of Turkey, bordering the Black Sea, and is known for its historical heritage and natural coastal scenery. The town covers a small peninsula that extends into the Black Sea and has a population concentrated in a compact urban and harbor area.
Amasra Overview
- Location: Coastal town in Bartın Province, Black Sea region
- Primary features: Roman and Ottoman ruins, Black Sea coastline, seafood cuisine
- Time needed: 1-3 days (minimum 1 day)
- Best time to visit: May-September (warm, dry season)
- Cost level: Moderate compared to major Turkish cities
- Tourism profile: Cultural tourism, coastal sightseeing, historical sites
Reasons Travelers Visit Amasra
- Historical significance with Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman period ruins
- Coastal natural features including beaches and Black Sea views
- Local Black Sea regional cuisine emphasizing seafood
- Geographic location as a port town with a natural harbor
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Amasra is during late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is warm and precipitation is low. Summers have average temperatures between 22°C and 28°C with moderate humidity. Winters are cold and wet, with temperatures often between 5°C and 10°C and higher rainfall. Tourist crowd levels peak in July and August and are low in winter months.
| Season |
Months |
Typical Weather |
Crowd Level |
| Spring |
March – May |
Mild temperatures, moderate rainfall |
Moderate to low |
| Summer |
June – August |
Warm, dry, 22-28°C |
High |
| Autumn |
September – November |
Cooling temperatures, increased rainfall |
Low to moderate |
| Winter |
December – February |
Cold, wet, 5-10°C |
Low |
How to Get There
Amasra is accessible from several major cities in Turkey by road and public transport. The nearest major city with a commercial airport is Zonguldak, approximately 50 km east. Travel times vary depending on starting location and mode of transport.
- Nearest major city: Zonguldak (approximately 50 km)
- Transport options: intercity bus, car, regional flights to nearby airports
- Road access via D010 coastal highway
From Istanbul
- By car: approximately 4.5 to 5 hours via O-4 and D100 highways (around 300 km)
- By bus: direct buses available, approximately 5.5 to 6 hours travel time
- No direct train or flight connection to Amasra
From Izmir
- By car: approximately 8 to 9 hours (around 630 km) via D300 and O-4 highways
- By bus: intercity buses with transfers in major hubs; total 9 to 11 hours
- No direct flight or train connection to Amasra
From Antalya
- By car: approximately 10 to 11 hours (around 820 km) via D650 and O-4 highways
- By bus: available with transfers in Ankara or Istanbul; total duration 11 to 13 hours
- No direct flights or trains to Amasra
From Ankara
- By car: approximately 5 to 6 hours (around 350 km) via O-4 and D100 highways
- By bus: direct buses available, approximately 6 to 7 hours travel time
- No train or flight connection directly to Amasra
Getting Around
- Walking: Amasra town center and historical sites are walkable within short distances (under 2 km)
- Local minibuses (‘dolmuş’) available for nearby destinations
- Limited taxi services in town
- Car rental recommended for excursions outside town
Top Attractions in Amasra
Amasra Castle
A historical fortress complex on the peninsula formed by Roman and Byzantine architecture. It is a prominent ruin site with walls and towers overlooking the sea. Average visit duration is 1 to 1.5 hours.
Fatih Mosque (Amasra Mosque)
An Ottoman-era mosque originally built as a Byzantine church. It features classic Ottoman architecture and religious significance. Average visit duration is 30 to 45 minutes.
Amasra Museum
Local museum exhibiting archaeological and ethnographic artifacts from the region, including Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. Average visit duration is 1 hour.
Çekiciler Street
Historic street known for traditional woodworking shops and local crafts, illustrating urban cultural heritage. Average visit duration is 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Amasra Beaches
Small sandy and pebble beaches along the Black Sea coast used for swimming and sunbathing during summer months. Average visit duration varies from 1 to 3 hours depending on visitor preference.
Common Visitor Activities
- Walking tours of historical sites on the peninsula
- Swimming and beach activities in summer at local beaches
- Sampling regional Black Sea seafood cuisine at local restaurants
- Visiting museums and cultural heritage sites
- Exploring nearby nature trails and coastal views
Suggested Amasra Visit Duration
A half-day visit covers key historical sites such as Amasra Castle and the Fatih Mosque. A full day allows inclusion of the museum, local markets, and beaches. Two to three days permit leisure time, extended exploration of natural surroundings, and sampling regional cuisine.
Nearby Destinations
- Bartın city – approximately 24 km, 30 minutes by car
- Zonguldak city – approximately 50 km, 1 hour by car
- Safranbolu (UNESCO town) – approximately 120 km, 2 hours by car
Practical Information
| Item |
Detail |
| Climate |
Temperate oceanic climate with warm summers, cold and wet winters |
| Seasonality notes |
Peak tourism during summer months (June-August); winter is low season with some site closures |
| Crowd levels |
High in summer; low in winter and shoulder seasons |
| Constraints or limitations |
Limited public transport options; some historical sites have uneven terrain; winter weather may restrict beach activities |
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of travelers visit Amasra?
Amasra attracts cultural travelers and history enthusiasts interested in Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman sites. It also appeals to coastal tourists seeking beach activities and regional cuisine. The town is suitable for moderate-paced exploration without extensive urban infrastructure.
How many days are needed to visit Amasra?
Visitors typically spend between one to three days in Amasra. One day covers main historical sites and some local exploration. Two to three days permit beach time, additional museums, and nearby nature activities. Half-day visits are possible but limit sightseeing options.
Is Amasra safe for travelers?
Amasra is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions for small towns apply, including securing personal belongings and being cautious in isolated areas. Emergency services are accessible through local health facilities in Bartın Province.
What is the best time to visit Amasra?
The best time to visit is from May through September, when the weather is warm and dry, enabling beach activities and outdoor sightseeing. Summer months have higher crowd levels, while spring and early autumn offer moderate weather with fewer tourists. Winter months experience increased rain and cooler temperatures.
Written by James Murphy
James is an adventure traveler from the UK. He trekked the Lycian Way and explored the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. His articles focus on outdoor adventures, hiking trails, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Turkey.