On Turkey’s Black Sea coast, there is a thriving tea industry, and Rize is one of the most important tea centers in the province. In fact, those bright green bushes covering the mountainsides around the province are tea bushes. If you want to get a good look at the effect these have on the countryside, visit Ziraat Park, which offers fantastic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Also be sure to attend the Summer Tea Festival for a chance to sample the best tea blends, sweetened with Anzer honey from the nearby mountainsides.
Inside the city, there is an interesting 16th century mosque, the Islam pasha Mosque. A Genoese castle once graced the city, and the remains are still visible. The Firtina Vadisi, or Storm Valley, contains the Zirkale castle. Plus, there are several bridges in the valley that date from the Byzantine area. The Kackar Mountains are nearby as well, and make an excellent place for trekking. Camping is popular in the south of Rize, but there are a number of budget hotels in the region as well. EasyToBook.com lists the best discount Rize hotels for your convenience.