Ordu & Giresun Rank in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel 2025’ List
Ordu and Giresun, Türkiye’s two pleasant cities on the Black Sea coast, have been included in the prestigious Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2025” list, highlighting the best travel destinations worldwide next year. The eastern Black Sea cities were recognised in the magazine’s latest ranking as one of the best regions to visit.
Lonely Planet has been inspiring people to explore the world with its travel guides and also been publishing lists for years in line with suggestions from its vast network of travel experts. The publisher’s 20th edition of the Best in Travel roundup is spread over three categories - cities, countries and regions, revealing 30 destinations that should be on traveller’s radar in 2025. Türkiye’s hidden gems, Ordu and Giresun, shine among the best regions in the “Best in Travel 2025” list.
Best Region of Natural Beauty, Trekking and Gastronomy
Lonely Planet attributes this ranking of Ordu and Giresun to their natural beauty and friendly atmospheres. Noting that Türkiye’s Black Sea part often goes unexplored by travellers, the global travel authority writes: “Its small, charming coastal provinces, Ordu and Giresun, are known for their welcoming hospitality. Explore the coastal and mountainous areas of the region. This is a walker’s paradise with plenty of trekking routes offering opportunities to discover the region’s natural beauty.”
Among Lonely Planet’s highlights for the area are tasting the world’s most delicious hazelnuts (fındık) and hazelnut paste in Giresun, trying the mouthwatering Görele pide (Turkish-style pizza) and visiting Mavi Göl (Blue Lake) in the middle of the verdant countryside, turning turquoise, especially in the summer.
Little-known Black Sea Wonders
The Black Sea Region, where deep blue waters meet lush hillsides, is one of Türkiye’s captivating destinations with its awe-inspiring nature, delicious cuisine, and historical treasures. The region has been listed among the best travel destinations this year thanks to the perfect combination of blue skies, fresh air and natural scenery. Ordu and Giresun, known as the hazelnut capitals, are the first hidden treasures to be discovered here. The neighbouring cities stand out with their natural beauties, including charming coastal villages, canyons, and waterfalls. However, the verdant plateaus, where visitors can see every shade of green and be in touch with nature, are, hands down, their most enchanting spots. Traditionally, local herders would come to their houses in these plateaus during summer to graze their animals on the rich vegetation and obtain tastier dairy products. But the highlands are great alternatives to seaside holidays today, with their camping areas and outdoor activities like trekking.
Additionally, Ordu and Giresun are rich in historical marvels, making them a must-see area for those seeking a well-rounded travel experience. You can explore Giresun Castle, perched at the peninsula’s highest point, offering sweeping views, or unwind with a warm cup of Turkish tea at Ordu’s picturesque Cape Jason (Yason Burnu). As Lonely Planet mentions, Ordu and Giresun also boast spellbinding Black Sea cuisine, featuring local specialities that add to the allure of these charming coastal towns. With favourable micro-climates, Ordu and Giresun supply almost 80% of the world’s hazelnuts. So, don’t forget to taste hazelnuts during your visit. If you visit the cities when harvest starts in the middle of August, you can witness the journey of hazelnuts from plateaus to tables.