Known as the Black Sea's prettiest port, Amasra enchants travellers with its fascinating history, mouth-watering food and a string of gorgeous beaches. It sits on a postcard-perfect peninsula and is home to atmospheric ruins.

Things to do

Most visitors arrive on Turkey's Black Sea Coast in search of sand and sunshine. Amasra delivers alluring beaches just steps from the main strip. You can also take a day trip to nearby beaches like Inkumu, a golden stretch of sand backed by forested mountains.

From leisurely lunches to sunset cocktails, Buyuk Liman is home to some of Amasra's best bars and restaurants. Snag a waterfront seat and watch pleasure boats sail into the harbour. You'll also find a great selection in Kucuk Liman, a slightly smaller harbour.

For a quintessential Amasra selfie, head to the main square to find a soaring statue of Baris Akarsu, a beloved Turkish rock star. Afterwards, stroll across Kemere Bridge, an ancient Roman stone bridge that leads to the island of Buyuk.

The ruins of Amasra Castle offer a glimpse of the town's military roots. The citadel guards the mouth of the harbour with its entrance via a trio of enormous gateways from Kucuk Liman. You can stroll around the original walls, peer into the 9th-century Byzantine Church Mosque and descend into the subterranean Dereagzi Tunnel.

Getting around

Amasra is easy to get around on foot, with most sights and attractions minutes’ walk apart. Access is via local minibuses that run from the nearby town of Bartin. From here you can connect to Safranbolu, Ankara and Istanbul.