Gezgin Çoban in İlkadım, Samsun: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Samsun

Must-try foods in Samsun

• Bafra Pidesi
  Bafra PidesiThe most iconic food of Samsun, this closed-style pide is known for its thin, crispy dough and long, slender shape. It is traditionally stuffed with a savory mixture of roasted ground meat, onions, and black pepper, then baked in a wood-fired oven and brushed generously with local butter upon serving.
• Kavak Kaz Tiridi
  Kavak Kaz TiridiA winter delicacy and a registered cultural heritage, this dish features specially raised goose. The meat is slow-cooked until tender, and its rich fat is used to soak pieces of dry yufka (flatbread). It is traditionally served on a large tray with a base of bulgur pilaf, topped with the soaked bread and shredded goose meat.
• Çakallı Menemeni
  Çakallı MenemeniOriginating from the Çakallı region on the Samsun-Ankara highway, this version of menemen is unique because the tomatoes are peeled and mashed into a smooth puree. It is cooked with plenty of local butter and topped with melting kashar cheese, resulting in a creamy, spreadable texture meant to be scooped up with fresh bread.
• Bafra Nokulu
  Bafra NokuluA traditional, non-syrupy pastry that is a staple for holidays and special occasions. The thin dough is rolled with a filling of walnuts, raisins, and sometimes tahini or poppy seeds. It is prized for its crumbly, cookie-like texture and its ability to stay fresh for a long time.
• Samsun Simidi
  Samsun SimidiUnlike the softer simits found elsewhere in Turkey, the Samsun variety is thinner, crunchier, and has a deep mahogany color. It is briefly boiled in a hot molasses (pekmez) bath before being heavily coated in sesame seeds and baked in stone ovens, giving it a distinct smoky sweetness.
• Çarşamba Keşkeği
  Çarşamba KeşkeğiA celebratory dish often served at weddings, this version of keşkek is made by painstakingly pounding wheat and chicken together in large cauldrons until they reach a smooth, porridge-like consistency. It is served with a drizzle of red pepper-infused melted butter.

Trip guide

• About Samsun
  About SamsunSamsun is a coastal city located on the northern coast of Turkey between the deltas of the Kızılırmak and Yeşilırmak rivers. Its history dates to the 7th century BCE when it was founded as the Greek colony of Amisos. The city has subsequently been under the administration of the Kingdom of Pontus, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Seljuk Turks, and the Ottoman Empire.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Samsun is from June to September, when the weather is warm, sunny, and ideal for beach activities or exploring the Black Sea coastline. While summers are peak season with temperatures averaging 25–27°C (77–81°F), late spring (May) and early autumn (October) offer a pleasant off-peak alternative with milder weather and fewer crowds. Be prepared for high humidity and occasional rainfall year-round, particularly in the cooler.
• Getting around
  Getting around Samsun

  • Samsun-Çarşamba Airport (SZF) Located 23km from the city center, the airport receives daily domestic flights from Istanbul and Ankara via Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. BAFAŞ shuttle buses and taxis provide reliable transfers to the city center.
  • Intercity Bus (Otogar) Samsun is a major Black Sea hub with frequent bus connections from all major Turkish cities. The main bus terminal (Otogar) is connected to the city center by free shuttle services provided by bus companies or local.
  • Samsun Light Rail (Tramway) The modern tram line runs along the coastline, connecting the university (OMÜ) to the city center and eastern districts. It is the most efficient local transport method and requires a rechargeable Samkart for payment.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase a rechargeable Samkart at kiosks or tram stations to use the efficient coastal light rail and public bus systems.
  • Carry cash in Turkish Lira for small purchases and dolmuş rides, as many local vendors and shared minibuses do not accept credit cards.
  • Accept offered tea in shops or homes as a sign of respect, even if you only take a few sips to acknowledge the host's hospitality.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Samsun

  • Samsun Culture Route Festival (June 2026).
  • Samsun-Trabzon High-Speed Rail Project construction.
• Samsun İl Kültür ve Turizm Müdürlüğü↗
  Samsun İl Kültür ve Turizm MüdürlüğüThe official tourism page for the İlkadım district, provided by the Samsun Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism under the Republic of Türkiye.