Located along Turkey’s beautiful Black Sea coast, the city of Samsun offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modernity. Known for its role in the country’s War of Independence, its port, and as the birthplace of many cultural legends, Samsun is a city worth exploring. Once you arrive at Samsun-Çarşamba Airport (SZF), just a short drive from the city centre, you’ll realise that hiring a car is the best way to get around. With a car, you can enjoy the best of Samsun’s landmarks and explore its beautiful coastal landscapes at your own pace. Whether you're here for a relaxing holiday, a history-filled tour, or a business trip, a hire car gives you the freedom to uncover Samsun’s hidden gems, from historical sites to beaches and parks. Samsun has long been an important cultural and historical hub. One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Atatürk Monument, located on the seafront, which commemorates Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's visit to the city during Turkey’s War of Independence. This monumental statue is a perfect starting point for your exploration. Nearby, you’ll find the vibrant Atakum Beach, ideal for a relaxing walk or a dip in the sea. The scenic coastline is dotted with several parks and green spaces that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

If you’re a history enthusiast, Samsun offers several significant sites to discover. The Samsun Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum is an excellent place to learn about the region’s deep-rooted history, with artefacts dating back to ancient Anatolian civilisations. From there, take a short drive to the ancient city of Amisos (present-day Atakum), where you can explore ruins dating back to the Hellenistic period. You can also visit the Bandırma Ferry, which marks the place where Atatürk departed for Istanbul in 1919, signifying a turning point in the Turkish Independence movement. For those who enjoy nature, the town of Vezirköprü, just a 45-minute drive away, offers stunning landscapes, including the famous Şahinkaya Canyon. The surrounding area is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Black Sea region.

Samsun is a manageable city, and with your hire car, navigating the streets is a breeze. The wide boulevards and modern road network make it easy to get from one part of the city to another, while the scenic coastal roads give you an opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the Black Sea. A must-visit for anyone touring Samsun is the city’s lively shopping and dining district, which is perfect for an afternoon drive. The city’s bustling markets, cafes, and restaurants are a joy to explore, with many offering fresh seafood, a regional specialty. A drive along the seaside promenade is highly recommended, especially during the evening when the city lights reflect off the calm waters. The drive to the historic city of Bafra, located just 50 km south of Samsun, is another great road trip, where you can explore the fertile plains and enjoy the local cuisine. The local cuisine of Samsun is an essential part of the city's charm. Fresh seafood, especially anchovies, is a must-try when you’re in the area. Samsun is also famous for its delicious “pide” (Turkish flatbread with toppings), “kuymak” (a local cornmeal dish), and “börek” (savory pastries). For an authentic experience, stop by one of the many local restaurants or street vendors serving these delicious dishes. Samsun is also home to several bakeries that serve traditional Turkish sweets such as “baklava,” “lokum” (Turkish delight), and “simit” (sesame-encrusted bread). Sampling these local treats is a perfect way to round off a busy day of sightseeing.