The Black Sea Coast is the third-largest in Turkey, but it stands first in scenic nature and ancient monuments rich in architecture. However, the region’s tourist value is further enhanced by its endless forests, lovely climate, glaciers, heritage-rich port cities, quiet sea, alpine lakes, and mountains. The coastline is charmingly dotted with picturesque villages and black sea resorts, making it a traveller’s cove. The coast with a winding highway is well-connected and assures stunning views when travelling in a car.
The sea of this coast derived its name “Black” not for being dirty but because the seawater looks dark during severe winters, which makes it look black. You have several options to explore the black sea beaches, such as cruises or on small ships. The Black Sea Coast is divided into eastern and western parts, which have abundant beaches, tea plantations, fruit-laden orchards, green-rich forests, mountains, and wooden houses.
This beautiful coast shares its border with six countries, namely Ukraine, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Georgia, and Russia. All these seaside countries attract thousands of tourists each year for their massive mountains, blue beaches, forests, historical sites, and distinct cuisine. None of the coastal cities in these countries is crowded, making it a heaven for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure sports lovers. We have curated the list of top 5 cities along the Black Sea Coast, which form an integral part of black sea tourism. Choose the perfect getaway to enjoy a rejuvenated and relaxed holiday.
List of 5 Best Cities On The Black Sea Coast
1. Trabzon in Turkey
Trabzon, Turkey leaves a compelling impression on the tourists with its magnificent temples and luxurious palaces. Nestled at the foot of lush green woods and Karadag mountains, the naturally beautiful city lies along the eastern side of the coast of the Black Sea. The ancient Trabzon castle with three divisions – the Lower Castle, the Central castle, and the Upper Castle built in Ottoman-style architecture are pieces of evidence of the grandeur celebrated by the Byzantine era.
It is the biggest city near Black Sea Coast and has an airport serving international and national flights. This port town also has many stunning beaches, and the most popular among them is Camburnu Plaji beach. Enjoy a walk along the ancient town’s narrow streets or relax at the Meydan Park loaded with greenery. There are several churches and mosques in this city, and the oldest one is St. Anne’s church.
Do not miss spending a day at Sumela Monastery, lying atop a cliff. This 1600-year-old orthodox building houses Virgin Mary and is about 3900 feet above the Pontic ridge. The way to this monastery has scenic rood amidst dense woods, streams, and valleys and a walk along the slippery path. The elegant Uzungol lake lying 90 Km from the city is surrounded by mountains filled with greenery.
Must-See Places In Trabzon
- Trabzon castle
- Uzungol lake
- Sumela Monastery
- St. Anne’s church
- Camburnu Plaji beach
- Meydan Park
2. Odessa in Ukraine
Owing to its strategic location on the Black Sea Coast, Odessa has welcomed thousands of occupants from different parts of the world. Odessa is a distinct city with Western European, Slav, and Turkish influences weaved together. It is interesting to learn that one house in the neighborhood of the city flaunts Brutalism style of architecture whereas the next house might have the vibrant Turkish and Ottoman influence while the next one to it may have Gothic style architecture. This explains why Odessa is a chaotic blend of different cultures.
The Vorontsov Palace constructed in 1827 is an architectural gem of the city and flaunts mixed architectural styles. Music lovers can head towards the Odessa National Opera and Ballet Theatre, built in the 19th century in Italian Baroque and French architectural styles. Explore the underground tunnels at the Catacombs, which was used by the smugglers and Soviet partisan in Second World War. The Museum of Partisan, located in the tunnels is a significant tourist spot.
The city also has the biggest seaport in Ukraine, where you can witness the hustle and bustle of passers-by, sailors, and ships. Climbing the 19th-century Potemkin Stairs, which comprises just 192 steps, offers an optical illusion of endless stairs. Unwind, enjoy a sunbath at the Lanzheron beach, and watch dolphins at the Nemo Dolphinarium.
Must-See Places In Odessa
- Voronstov Palace
- Odessa National Opera and Ballet Theatre
- Catacombs
- Museum of Partisan
- Potemkin Stairs
- Lanzheron beach
- Nemo Dolphinarium
3. Batumi in Georgia
Batumi, Georgia, is the largest seaside resort in the region, garnering the attention of thousands of travellers for several years. This city of pebbled beaches has buildings in ancient architectural style and modern facilities built in swanky style. The glorious beach promenade of this city is studded with several quirky sculptures and great marvels. Visit the local market to shop for some exotic and aromatic products.
The Ferris wheel perched above the Batumi tower hangs at the height of 100 meters above the ground is worth visiting. Batumi boulevard dating back to the 1880s has a cycling and walking trail featuring several quirky sculptures, modern art, and statues. Soak up in the sun, have a relaxing sunbath at the pebbled Batumi beach, and enjoy a dip in the Black sea. Visit the port area, which serves as a mediator for Asian and European oil transport, to watch people engage in fishing activities.
Next to the port lies the Miracle Park with modern buildings and the Chacha Tower featuring a huge clock and a tall fountain that is 25 meters in height. Don’t forget to visit the eternal love statue featuring Ali and Nino. Tamara Kvesitadze, an artist from Georgia, designed these two figures moving to reach other, then merging as one and later, driving away once in 10 minutes. The Alphabetic Tower is a skyscraper that is 130 m in height sporting a design with DNA strands that houses the Georgian alphabet (33 letters), each measuring 4 m.
Must-See Places in Batumi
- Batumi boulevard
- Batumi beach
- Batumi port
- Chacha Tower
- Ali and Nino
- Alphabetic Tower
4. Burgas and Varna in Bulgaria
Burgas in Bulgaria is situated in the southeastern part of the Black Sea Coast. This fourth most significant city is soaked in history, beaches, culture, and shopping areas. Stroll along with the enchanting Sea Garden that can impress anyone with its lovely flower blooms, exhibitions, cafes, and restaurants. Near this garden is a long beach that can help you relax and de-stress.
If you visit this Black Sea Coast city during the months from June to September, you will be lucky to watch the renowned sand festival, which has a fantastic display of massive structures built with sand. History aficionados will love the Burgas Archaeological Museum, which has artifacts from the Roman and Greek eras, and the Museum of Aviation in the city. End our trip to this city by enjoying a walk during sunset along the 300-meter pier with the Black sea’s picturesque backdrop to reach the iconic lighthouse.
Varna in Bulgaria is famous for its ancient history, as it possesses some of the oldest historical finds than any other part of the world. This city has the oldest gold treasure in the world, belonging to the 5th millennium, found in a grave. The archaeological museum built-in 1887 has artifacts related to the Eneolithic necropolis of Varna. The Mother Cathedral located on St. Methodius and St. Cyril square is a popular tourist attraction place. Politi Kamani, or the Stone Forest, is a stunning natural phenomenon have beautifully arranged stones on the ground. Aladzha Monastery is a popular medieval cave that the monks used during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Must-See Places in Burgas and Varna
- Sea Garden
- Burgas Archaeological Museum
- Museum of Aviation
- Burgas lighthouse
- Mother Cathedral
- Pobiti Kamani
- Aladzha Monastery
5. Constanța in Romania
The ancient name of Constanța, Romania, was Tomis. This city with the most significant port has pleasant weather, a cool sea breeze, and several black sea resorts that grab the attention of solo travelers and tourists across the globe. This ancient coastal town will enthrall you with magnificent museums, beautiful beaches, and archaeological treasures. The city also has a fair share of entertainment with open-air parties, bars, and nightclubs.
The Constanta Casino located on the seafront, reflected the nouveau architectural style and was created by two designers, Petre Antonescu and Daniel Renard. Walk along the pedestrian area to get a great view of the sea while enjoying the flight of the seagulls. The great Mahmudiye Mosque, built by King Carol in 1910, has elements of Byzantine-era architecture and the centerpiece carpet gifted by Sultan Abdul Hameed is enormous. It has a 47m tall minaret that offers an impressive view of the city and its harbor.
The statue of Publius Ovidius Naso, the poet from Rome whose classical mythology works are famous, is at the Ovid’s square. The Archaeological Park lies at the center of the city, surrounded by lush greenery houses many historical artifacts dating back to the Byzantine era and the Roman period. Also, don’t miss the National History and Archaeology Museum in Old City Hall holds several rare archaeological vestiges like Glykon Snake god, the Thinker, Sitting Owman, and Hamangia culture’s terracotta sculptures.
Constanța in Romania is also famous for Natural Sciences Museum Complex, an 8 m tall Genoese Lighthouse built in the 1300s that features a Genoese ship on the walls, the Romanian Navy Museum, and the House with Lions that adorns the four columns with lions constructed during the 19th century.
Must-See Places in Constanța
- Constanta Casino
- Mahmudiye Mosque
- Ovid’s square
- Archaeological Park
- National History and Archaeology Museum
- Natural Sciences Museum Complex
- Genoese Lighthouse
- Romanian Navy Museum
- House with Lions
The cities near the Black Sea Coast are worthwhile tourist destinations, especially for sea lovers. These cities have something to offer right from sunny days, and entertaining nightlife to sites with historical elements.