This route was written for someone visiting Akçakoca for the first time with only one day. The stops in the centre are within walking distance of each other; the Genoese Castle is 5 minutes by car or, in summer, by municipal bus. Set aside the afternoon for the castle so you can end the day with sunset there.
Open the whole route in Google Maps
Stops
- 1
Akçakoca Central Mosque
A mosque unlike any other in Turkey, with an octagonal roof inspired by a Seljuk imperial tent.
~300 m to the next stop as the crow flies
- 2
Akçakoca Harbour and Lighthouse
Akçakoca's sunset spot, with fishing boats, a marina and a lighthouse on the breakwater.
~1.2 km to the next stop as the crow flies
- 3
Historic houses of Yukarı Mahalle
A protected historic quarter in Akçakoca's oldest neighbourhood, lined with 150–200-year-old houses with bay windows.
~350 m to the next stop as the crow flies
- 4
Historic Orhangazi Primary School
One of the first school buildings of the Turkish Republic, opened in 1929, where the writer Rıfat Ilgaz taught.
~1.9 km to the next stop as the crow flies
- 5
Genoese Castle
A historic castle on a cliff jutting into the sea between two coves, the symbol of Akçakoca.
~150 m to the next stop as the crow flies
- 6
Genoese Castle Beach
A sandy beach with castle views at the foot of the Genoese Castle, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026.
Tips for the route
- In summer bring a swimsuit and towel; Genoese Castle Beach has a 2026 Blue Flag.
- For lunch, try the fish of the season or mancarlı pide.
- If you come in winter, take a longer walk around the harbour instead of the beach; it's anchovy season.