Amasya / Türkiye
Amasya
Amasya: The Jewel of the Yeşilırmak Valley
Nestled along the banks of the Yeşilırmak River in northern Turkey, Amasya is a province renowned for its dramatic setting, ancient history, and striking Ottoman architecture. The city of Amasya, the provincial capital, is famous for its cliffside Pontic tombs, half-timbered Ottoman mansions, and stunning riverside views. The region is framed by rugged mountains, lush orchards, and picturesque villages, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Amasya's legacy as a center of learning and royalty is evident in its historic medrese (Islamic schools), mosques, and the well-preserved houses once home to Ottoman princes. The province offers an authentic Anatolian experience, with traditional crafts, lively local markets, and a thriving agricultural scene—especially its world-famous apples. Whether you're wandering the cobbled old town or exploring ancient fortresses, Amasya captivates with its timeless charm.
Safety
Amasya is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. As always, exercise standard precautions, especially in crowded areas or when exploring remote sites.
Visas
Visa requirements for Amasya follow Turkey's national policy. Many travelers can enter visa-free or with an e-visa—check the latest regulations for your nationality.
Customs regulations
Remove your shoes when entering mosques or private homes. Greeting with a handshake or a polite nod is common. Dress modestly in public, especially in religious or rural areas.
Prices
Amasya is more affordable than Turkey's major cities, with budget accommodations and inexpensive local food. Expect moderate prices at restaurants and historical sites. Public transportation and taxis are reasonably priced.
People and nationalities
Amasya's population is predominantly Turkish, with a strong sense of local identity and pride in their history. Hospitality is central to the culture, and visitors are often greeted warmly. Traditional customs, such as tea-drinking and folk music, remain integral to daily life.
Weather
Amasya has a continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters. The best time to visit is spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October), when temperatures are mild and the landscape is lush. Summers can reach above 30°C (86°F), while winters may drop below freezing.
Health
Amasya has hospitals and pharmacies in the city center, offering standard medical care. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended for sensitive travelers.
Food
Amasya Apple
Amasya is famous for its sweet, crisp apples, often enjoyed fresh or used in desserts and juices. The unique local variety is celebrated for its aroma and flavor.
Bakla Dolması
Tender broad beans stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, onions, herbs, and spices, then simmered in olive oil—a popular vegetarian dish from Amasya's home kitchens.
Toyga Çorbası
A hearty yogurt-based soup made with wheat, chickpeas, mint, and sometimes lamb, providing a tangy and comforting start to meals.
Keşkek
A traditional dish of slow-cooked wheat and meat (usually lamb or chicken), cooked to a creamy consistency and often served at festivals and weddings.
Patlıcan Pehli
Eggplants stuffed with minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and spices, then baked until tender—a beloved Amasya specialty.
Transport
Regional Trains
Amasya is connected by train to major cities like Samsun and Sivas, offering scenic and comfortable travel through the region.
Intercity Buses
Frequent bus services link Amasya with Ankara, Istanbul, and other provinces, with local bus companies operating from the city’s main terminal.
Dolmuş (Shared Minibuses)
Dolmuşes are a convenient way to reach nearby towns and villages, operating on fixed routes with flexible stops.
Car Rental
Renting a car provides flexibility to explore Amasya’s countryside, remote archaeological sites, and scenic mountain roads at your own pace.
Regions
Adana
Province
Adıyaman
Province
Afyonkarahisar
Province
Ağrı
Province
Aksaray
Province
Amasya
Province
Ankara
Province
Antalya
Province
Ardahan
Province
Artvin
Province
Aydin
Province
Balıkesir
Province
Bartın
Province
Batman
Province
Bayburt
Province
Bilecik
Province
Bingöl
Province
Bitlis
Province
Bolu
Province
Burdur
Province
Bursa
Province
Çanakkale
Province
Çankırı
Province
Çorum
Province
Denizli
Province
Diyarbakır
Province
Düzce
Province
Edirne
Province
Elazığ
Province
Erzincan
Province
Erzurum
Province
Eskişehir
Province
Gaziantep
Province
Giresun
Province
Gümüşhane
Province
Hakkâri
Province
Hatay
Province
Iğdır
Province
Isparta
Province
İstanbul
Province
İzmir
Province
Kahramanmaraş
Province
Karabük
Province
Karaman
Province
Kars
Province
Kastamonu
Province
Kayseri
Province
Kilis
Province
Kırıkkale
Province
Kırklareli
Province
Kırşehir
Province
Kocaeli
Province
Konya
Province
Kütahya
Province
Malatya
Province
Manisa
Province
Mardin
Province
Mersin
Province
Muğla
Province
Muş
Province
Nevşehir
Province
Niğde
Province
Ordu
Province
Osmaniye
Province
Rize
Province
Sakarya
Province
Samsun
Province
Şanlıurfa
Province
Siirt
Province
Sinop
Province
Şırnak
Province
Sivas
Province
Tekirdağ
Province
Tokat
Province
Trabzon
Province
Tunceli
Province
Uşak
Province
Van
Province
Yalova
Province
Yozgat
Province
Zonguldak
Province
Marmara Bölgesi
Ege Bölgesi
Akdeniz Bölgesi
İç Anadolu Bölgesi
Karadeniz Bölgesi
Doğu Anadolu Bölgesi
Güneydoğu Anadolu Bölgesi
What to visit?
History
Settlement in the Amasya region dates back to the Early Bronze Age, as archaeological finds indicate continuous habitation.
Amasya becomes an important center in the Kingdom of Pontus, serving as the royal capital and home to the famous cliffside Pontic kings' tombs.
The Roman Empire conquers Amasya, integrating it into the province of Pontus and influencing the city's architecture and urban planning.
Amasya is captured by the Seljuks, becoming a significant center for Islamic learning and culture.
The Ottomans take control of Amasya, and it becomes a training ground for Ottoman princes, many of whom govern the province before ascending the throne.
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk issues the Amasya Circular, a key document that initiates the Turkish War of Independence.
Amasya's historic city center and Ottoman mansions are officially recognized and protected as important cultural heritage sites.
Activities
Explore the Rock Tombs of the Pontic Kings
Visit the iconic cliffside tombs carved for Pontic rulers, offering panoramic views of the city and river valley.
Stroll the Ottoman Riverside Houses
Wander through the old town's narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved Ottoman mansions, many now housing museums and boutique hotels.
Amasya Castle
Climb to the ancient Amasya Castle for sweeping views, ancient walls, and a sense of the city's strategic importance.
Visit the Amasya Archaeological Museum
Discover artifacts spanning millennia, including mummies, ancient coins, and relics from the region’s varied civilizations.
Sample Local Apples at an Orchard
Tour an apple orchard to taste the famed Amasya apple fresh from the tree and learn about traditional cultivation methods.