Sinop was colonized by the Greeks in the 7th century BCE, although some scholars claim that the colonizers came earlier in the 8th century BCE. However, the archeological evidence supports that the Greeks settled around the Black Sea early in the 7th century BCE.
The city was strategically located among the trade routes on the Southern Coast of the Black Sea but was not easily accessible by the inland communities. However, when other communities started gaining access, the economic activities in the port city increased hence more developments.
The famous Crimean War in the Battle of Sinope happened in November 1853 and was precipitated by the massacre of Sinope. It happened when the Russians destroyed a frigate squadron belonging to Ottoman. As a result, Britain and France declared war against Russia, which led to the death of many Ottoman sailors. A small monument was built by the harbor to commemorate the fallen soldiers.
The city is also historically famous because it is the birthplace of Diogenes, the Cynic Philosopher. By 1920, over 8000 Greeks lived in this city. The port was famous for exporting tobacco, wheat, and timber. And the city’s main import was coal and hardware.
Sinop is easily accessible, and you can travel from different cities by domestic and international flights. For example, there is a direct flight from Istanbul to Sinop, and the distance from the airport to the city center is 8km.
Before you come, ensure you have booked a room and choose one that faces the sea to enjoy the scenery and the cool breeze. When booking a room, don’t forget to hire a tour guide to show you all the beautiful spots of the city.
You can alternatively book your tour with a travel agency. You will enjoy private transfers from the airport to the accommodation facilities.
There is no specific time to visit Sinop because the weather is mostly warm. However, you can schedule your trip during the special festivals that happen thrice a year to enjoy the best of this city.
You can plan to go during the Happiness Festival, which happens in September, or during July when the Erfelek Tatlica Waterfalls Festival happens. If you like watching wrestling, you can plan your trip in May during the Hidirellez and Karakucak Wrestling Festival.
The best meal to have in Sinop is Manti. It is a combination of meat, soup, and dough enriched with yogurt and oil. Most tourists who come to Sinop want to taste this finger-licking dish.
There are many ways to get to Sinop from the airport. If you are not coming from Istanbul, you can get an indirect flight from your city.
Book your trip during summer or spring if you want to explore nature in Sinop. There is less rain during this season so that you can move freely. The city also has the best souvenirs, so ensure you return home with some.
Sinop Turkey tourism blooms mainly due to the city’s warm and peaceful climate. However, you should always be prepared for rains because they pour even during the hottest weather. Since the town is relatively small, a trip of three to four days will be enough. During your tour, ensure you visit these areas:
The Sinop Castle is located at the seaside of the city, and its ancient but strong walls draw the attention of many tourists. Unfortunately, there is no record of when this castle was built, but it has been attacked severally by different nations.
The castle measures approximately 3km, and when on the top, you can see the beautiful view of the city. Most tourists like to sit and enjoy Turkish food in the café as they enjoy the cool breeze from the sea.
The beach is an excellent place to chill during your vacation, and it is one of the must-visit places in the city. The Karakum beach is peaceful and has clean waters from the Mobil and Sarikum beach. Ensure you carry your swimming costume because you won’t want to miss the fun in the clean water. Also visited by the local people, Karakum Beach is 3 kilometers from the city.
Although most of the cultural treasure of Sinop is ancient, the statue of Diogenes is relatively modern. Diogenes is a famous philosopher born in this city, and his statue was erected by the municipality 16 years ago.
The philosopher was nicknamed Cynic, and he walked around carrying a lantern. The municipality made a statue resembling the philosopher, and he is still holding the lantern. There is also a dog beside him. Ensure you visit Diogenes before leaving the area.
Inceburun is one of Turkey’s famous and most important lighthouses you cannot miss visiting. It is on the most northern edge of Turkey, about 22 kilometers from the city. The lighthouse was built in 1863, giving the tourists the most amazing views of the town.
The Arslan Torun Mansion has unique art and decorative elements, and it is one of the historical features of Sinop. The mansion is small, and the art inside displays the culture of the people of Sinop.
If your main aim in visiting Sinop is to connect with nature, the Erfelek Falls is the place to be. This natural wonder has many small and big falls, and you can also walk in the small cool forest with the help of a tour guide.
End your trip by visiting the Hamsilos Fjord. It is 11 kilometers west of the city and offers a peaceful chilling environment. Tourists swim on the Black Sea coastline, although you should be cautious of the strong currents. There is also a harbor and beach nearby and a café where you can sit and enjoy a quick bite.
Once your Sinop trip is over, you can proceed to Gerze. It is located 40 kilometers southeast of Sinop, and the most attractive features are beaches, restaurants, parks, and meadows.
Alternatively, you will visit Camgolu. You will like your stay there if you like camping. There is a large forest with a slope towards the sea, and the area offers camping facilities. You can also visit Boyabat to see rock tombs and a citadel.