Rize
A guide to Rize: green tea plantations, Rize castle, İskitoğlu waterfall, the highlands, and the distance from Trabzon. Plan your Rize tour with Absher Travel.
Rize is a coastal city east of Trabzon known as Türkiye's tea capital; its hills are carpeted in green tea plantations that create a unique visual scene. It is the gateway to Ayder Plateau, the Valley of the Winds and the eastern highlands.
Rize is only about 77 km from Trabzon (roughly one hour twenty minutes), making it easy to include in a Northern Türkiye itinerary. It combines a lively coastal city with nearby mountain scenery.
What is Rize known for?
- Green tea plantations spreading across the hills.
- Rize castle and its views over the city and sea.
- İskitoğlu waterfall amid green scenery.
- Proximity to Ayder Plateau and the Valley of the Winds.
Top places in Rize
İskitoğlu Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall surrounded by Rize's greenery — one of the loveliest spots in the region for photographs and relaxation.
Rize Castle
A historic hilltop castle offering a lovely view over the city and the Black Sea.
Tea plantations
A walk through the tea fields to take photographs and learn how tea is picked and dried.
Best time to visit
From May to September the tea plantations are at their greenest. Rain is possible year-round, as Rize is one of the wettest areas in Türkiye — so bring a waterproof jacket.
Tips from Absher
- Combine Rize with Ayder over two days to cover both coast and mountains.
- Try freshly brewed Turkish tea in the tea garden overlooking the city.
