Samsun is Turkey's largest Black Sea port city and the capital of Samsun Province, with a metropolitan population of approximately 1.36 million. The city holds a special place in Turkish history as the landing point of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk on May 19, 1919 — the moment that launched the Turkish War of Independence. Today Samsun is a vibrant modern city combining deep patriotic heritage, a long sandy Black Sea coastline, fertile hazelnut and tobacco countryside, and an increasingly lively dining and nightlife scene. The Kıyı Park seafront promenade stretches 7 km along the coast, the replica Bandırma Vapuru museum ship recalls Atatürk's historic arrival, and a modern tramway connects the city's main districts with ease.
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Kapalı Çarşı
Local produce, textiles, household items
Cumartesi Pazarı
Fresh fish, vegetables, hazelnuts, dairy
Bafra Market
Village produce, hazelnuts, dairy
Where: Bafra, 40 km west