Artvin City Guide 2025 | History, Housing Prices ₺ $ €, Transportation, Education, Tourism & Foreigner Tips

I’m excited to take you through this detailed 2025 guide to Artvin, where I’ll cover topics such as current housing prices in Turkish lira (with notes for USD and euros), the ins and outs of public transportation, educational institutions, healthcare, tourism, and what life here looks like for both locals and foreigners.

This city isn’t just your average destination; it has the title of the purest air in Turkey. It’s an extraordinary place where each breath is as refreshing as the natural beauty that surrounds you.

History of Artvin

You’ll find that Artvin’s history dates way back, even before the Bronze Age, revealing its strategic importance over millennia. It has been a crossroads of civilizations, including the ancient kingdom of Colchis, and was influenced by the Scythians, Byzantines, Seljuks, Ottomans, and others. The city changed hands after the Russo-Turkish War, briefly became part of the Soviet sphere, then returned to Turkish sovereignty in the early 20th century, a testament to its resilience and strategic value.

What many people love most about Artvin is its largely untouched nature. Imagine forests and pastures stretching as far as the eye can see, perfect for anyone who appreciates outdoor activities or just longs to escape the hustle and bustle of big-city life. And while it’s off the beaten path, its small population means you can truly enjoy the peace and tranquility.

Despite its size, Artvin holds incredible cultural landmarks like the Bali Bey Mosque and Artvin Castle, showcasing the area’s rich history and architectural diversity. History buffs will be thrilled to explore evidence of Stone Age settlements, revealing that this area was on the human map as early as 8,000 B.C.

The historical significance of the Islamic conquests, Abbasid control, and the migration of Turkic peoples adds layers to the cultural tapestry of Artvin. It’s very much like stepping into a living history book.

Whether you’re into history, nature, or both, a visit to Artvin offers an unforgettable journey through time amidst some of the most spectacular landscapes in Turkey.

Artvin in the Ottoman era

Artvin’s journey through the epochs is particularly fascinating. The city truly flourished during its time within the Ottoman Empire. It became part of the empire’s domain when Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror expanded into the Trabzon region.

The era under Ottoman rule wasn’t without its strife, revolutions and uprisings, such as the notable Keykavus II rebellion, were part of its complex narrative. These uprisings were often decisively ended under rulers such as Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, which only added to the historical drama of the region. Despite these disturbances, Artvin experienced significant architectural growth, contributing to the rich heritage we see today.

The strategic appeal of Artvin didn’t escape the attention of outside powers, notably the Russian Empire. It became a focal point during the Ottoman–Russian wars of the 19th century, underscoring its value and desirability due to its location and resources. Yet, through it all, Artvin retained its unique character, remaining a jewel in the Ottoman Anatolian crown for a significant period.

Today, visitors can witness the timeless marks of its Ottoman heritage, intertwining with layers of previous civilizations and enriching our understanding of this historic region. Being part of such a legacy makes Artvin not just a must-visit spot but a place where you can walk through history, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Turkey’s northeastern landscapes.

Artvin in the Era of the Republic

The tumultuous history of Artvin continued through the 20th century, a period marked by shifting borders and emerging nations. After the Russian army withdrew at the end of World War I, Artvin found itself within the newly independent Georgian borders from 1918 to 1921. The Treaty of Moscow in 1920 initially recognized Artvin as part of the Georgian Democratic Republic.

However, the landscape of power shifted yet again with the Red Army’s occupation of Georgia in 1921. Following a note from the Ankara Government to Georgia, Georgian troops left the region, paving the way for Turkish forces to move in. In a sweeping operation, they secured most of the Tao-Klarceti region, comprising both Artvin and Ardahan.

Despite a back-and-forth with Georgian forces for the control of Batumi, which eventually remained with Georgia, Artvin and Ardahan continued to be parts of Turkey. The area underwent administrative changes, becoming officially named Artvin Province in 1936 and solidifying its identity with Law No. 6668 passed in 1956.

These events have not only shaped the geopolitical boundaries but also contributed to the rich cultural and historical identity of Artvin. Today, it stands as a province proud of its Turkish roots, with a legacy of endurance and change that tells a story unique to this enchanting part of the world.

Geography of Artvin

Artvin sits in the far eastern reaches of Turkey, beautifully perched on the frontier with Georgia. This exceptional location gives it borders shared with several notable Turkish provinces, Erzurum, Bayburt, Ardahan, and Ardanuç, making it a crossroads of cultures and histories. To its other side, it’s neighbored by Batumi and Hopa, offering diverse and rich interactions across the boundary line.

Artvin’s Economy

Artvin boasts a diversified economy that mainly pivots around agriculture, followed by livestock and tourism, which harnesses the region’s natural beauty to attract visitors.

Spanning 712,268 hectares, this vast area is a haven for nature, with forests covering 399,271 hectares, abundant pastures across 100,533 hectares, and rich farmland making up 64,200 hectares. These lands are predominantly worked by small family-run farms; around 13,272 agricultural producers call Artvin home, with many managing plots smaller than 20 dunams, a dunam being equivalent to a thousand square meters.

Adding to the province’s economic profile, the Yusufeli Dam on the Çoruh River has become one of Artvin’s defining infrastructure projects. Officially opened on 22 November 2022 and starting electricity production on 12 December 2023, it is currently Turkey’s highest dam and ranks among the five highest in the world in its category (as of 2025). The project is pivotal not just for water management but also for power generation and regional development.

Artvin’s varied climate favors the growth of hazelnuts, a staple crop for many local farmers. It doesn’t stop at agriculture; the province supports around 65,000 head of cattle and has a thriving beekeeping industry known for producing quality honey.

Despite having a modest population, about 160,000 people as of 2025, a figure that has been gradually increasing each year, Artvin still faces challenges, with many residents (especially young people) migrating to Istanbul and other major cities in search of broader job prospects. Yet, even with this movement, Artvin retains its rural charm and remains a vibrant node of agriculture and eco‑friendly development within Turkey.

Education in Artvin

Artvin Coruh University stands as the sole beacon of higher education in the province. As of the 2023–2024 academic year, it serves approximately 13,800 students with around 565 academic staff members.

With an international flavor, the university is home to about 257 foreign students (2023–2024), adding to the diverse and vibrant atmosphere on campus. The university offers a broad array of programs across various disciplines such as engineering, literature, theology, health sciences, as well as economic, industrial, and technical departments.

Beyond its undergraduate offerings, Artvin Coruh University also provides technical schools, and graduate and research institutes, making it a hub for innovation and advanced studies in the region.

Artvin’s commitment to education extends to its younger residents as well. According to 2023–2024 data, the province has 226 educational institutions ranging from pre-school to technical vocational secondary education. At the primary education level alone, there are around 10,750 students. Additionally, 9 general education centers scattered throughout the province help enhance the qualifications of the local workforce.

If you are considering higher education elsewhere in the country as well, this first‑hand guide on Applying For A University In Turkey can give you a clear picture of the application process for international students.

Transportation in Artvin

Getting around Artvin is fairly straightforward, with a mix of buses, minibuses, and taxis available for local transportation within the province. Whether you’re exploring the area or commuting for work or study, there are options to suit different needs.

For those leveraging maritime routes, the Hopa port located on the picturesque Black Sea coast facilitates the transport of goods, playing a crucial role in local commerce.

Travelers looking to fly will find Batumi Airport in neighboring Georgia a convenient option, just 88 km away from the heart of Artvin. For flights within Turkey, the nearest airports are situated in Erzurum, Kars, and Trabzon, all within approximately 215–233 km of Artvin.

Many visitors connect to Artvin via major hubs such as Istanbul. Understanding Transportation in Istanbul can make it easier to plan your domestic flights, buses, and transfers across Turkey.

This array of transportation options ensures that Artvin is reasonably well-connected, both regionally and internationally, making travel for residents and visitors alike relatively convenient and efficient.

Artvin Hospitals

In Artvin, medical services are primarily provided by the Artvin State Hospital, which serves as the central healthcare institution. Additionally, the province is home to several small government medical clinics and a rehabilitation center, which cater to the local population’s basic health needs.

Given that Artvin lacks private and university hospitals, there is a noticeable opportunity for investment in the healthcare sector within the region. This could potentially be a valuable addition to the existing medical services, enhancing healthcare provision for residents.

According to the latest available official statistics for 2023, Artvin has a total of 306 hospital beds and about 156 doctors across the province. While modest compared with Turkey’s larger cities, this network provides essential and emergency care; for more complex treatments, patients are often referred to regional centers such as Erzurum or Trabzon.

Despite the relatively small size of its healthcare system, Artvin works to maintain a stable standard of care for its community, emphasizing the importance of health and well‑being among its residents.

Housing and Real Estate in Artvin

When it comes to real estate, Artvin has become more expensive in recent years but still offers comparatively accessible prices by national standards. As of October 2025, major real‑estate data platforms report an average unit price of around 25,356 ₺/m² for residential properties in Artvin.

With an average gross home size of about 135 m², this translates to an approximate average house price of 3,423,060 ₺. Minimum unit prices in the province start near 13,385 ₺/m², while desirable locations and newer buildings can reach up to roughly 38,785 ₺/m².

Based on current market data, the average payback period is estimated at around 12 years, corresponding to a gross rental yield of roughly 8.45%. The average age of properties on the market is about 8 years, the typical marketing period is close to 90 days, and there are roughly 591 housing units in active stock, representing about a 9% change in stock year on year.

In February 2025, there were 114 residential sales in Artvin, down sharply (about 35%) from 175 sales in February 2024. However, looking at the broader trend, total residential sales in the first four months of 2025 (January–April) actually increased by 12.4%, reaching 571 units compared with 508 units in the same period of 2024.

Mortgaged sales also rose strongly despite high interest rates, jumping 72.2% in the first four months of 2025 to 124 units (up from 72 a year earlier). At the same time, first‑hand sales decreased by nearly 49.8%, while second‑hand home sales increased by about 56.6%. This shows that the market is increasingly dominated by resale properties, with many locals viewing real estate as a hedge against inflation and future price increases.

Rental prices in Artvin have also gone through a notable shift. In earlier years, rents in some areas climbed so quickly that they approached levels seen in major cities like Ankara and Istanbul. According to data from the first four months of 2025, however, the rate of increase in rents has slowed. This is largely attributed to the completion of major dam projects, a decrease in certain state investments, and increased outmigration among young people, all of which reduce overall housing demand. The occupancy of newly built residences and the planned delivery of 406 TOKİ apartments in Artvin Center around July–August 2025 are also helping to ease pressure on the rental market.

Property listings are usually priced in Turkish lira. If you are budgeting in euros or US dollars, it is best to convert using the current exchange rate on the day you sign any contract, as currency values in Turkey can change quickly.

If you are a foreigner buying property, you will likely deal with official paperwork such as passports, powers of attorney, or translated documents. Resources like Legalization of Foreign Documents in Turkey and Notarization in Turkey are helpful starting points for understanding the legal side of the process.

To get a feel for everyday living costs and what daily life looks like once you settle in, you can also check out Buying Groceries In Turkey, which offers a practical expat perspective.

Food in Artvin

In Artvin, the culinary experience is deeply intertwined with tradition and local flavors, offering unique and hearty dishes sure to delight any food enthusiast. Here are some highlights:

Kalaco is a delightful breakfast staple, akin to a Black Sea–style porridge made from yogurt mixed with cornmeal. This comforting dish is sweetened with pear molasses or honey and offers a wholesome start to the day.

Another popular dish is Kaygana, reminiscent of a crepe from Black Sea cuisine. Made from a savory blend of eggs, flour, milk, and flavored with herbs like parsley, dill, and green onions, it’s a versatile dish that graces both breakfast and dinner tables.

Then there’s the distinctive Yoğurtlu Silor, a dish that showcases Artvin’s culinary creativity. The dough is carefully prepared, rolled out thinly, and then cut into small strips. Once these strips are cooked, they’re smothered with boiling water, a generous amount of yogurt, and topped with a large dollop of butter, creating a sumptuous and comforting meal.

Exploring Artvin’s food is an adventure in taste, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage and the bountiful produce of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re indulging in breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Artvin’s dishes are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.

Weather in Artvin

Artvin enjoys the classic Black Sea climate, where you’re greeted by warm and rainy weather, especially in the coastal areas. This region is known for its lush vegetation thanks to the abundant rainfall, offering a fresh and invigorating atmosphere.

In the heart of Artvin, you’ll find similarly warm and humid weather patterns, contributing to its scenic beauty and vibrant greenery. However, when winter comes around, you should brace yourself for a significant drop in temperatures, with averages hovering around 3.4 degrees Celsius. This colder season transforms Artvin into a winter wonderland, featuring heavy snowfall that blankets the area in white and offers a picturesque setting for both residents and visitors.

Tourism in Artvin

Artvin stands out as one of the most captivating provinces along the Black Sea, renowned for its enchanting natural beauty and pristinely clean air, so pure, in fact, that it’s often recognized as the city with the cleanest air in Turkey.

One of Artvin’s crowning jewels is the Choruh Valley, cutting through Yusufeli with the Çoruh River shaping its path. This valley isn’t just a sight to behold; it provides a refreshing escapade with its mesmerizing views and oxygen‑rich atmosphere.

Then there’s the breathtaking Pirka Maral Waterfall, which feels like a slice of paradise on Earth. Here, water gracefully cascades from a height of up to 63 meters, offering a spectacular display of nature’s power and elegance.

And let’s not forget the serene “Karagol” (Black Lake), a natural sanctuary where tranquil waters are embraced by deep green forests, craggy mountains, and vibrant wildflowers, an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and peace seekers.

Artvin’s alluring landscapes promise visitors an unforgettable experience, combining natural splendor with tranquility, an absolute must‑visit for anyone traveling to Turkey’s Black Sea region.

Administrative divisions of the state of Artvin

Artvin’s administrative structure is neatly sectioned into 9 distinct regions, with the Central District (Merkez) being the most populous area, reflecting the urban hub of the province. Alongside Merkez, the other notable districts are:

• Hopa: Known as a gateway to the sea, this coastal district is famous for its port.
• Borçka: Characterized by its green landscapes and the stunning Karagol.
• Arhavi: Offering lush nature and rich cultural activities.
• Yusufeli: Home to the majestic Choruh Valley.
• Şavşat: Known for its picturesque and lush highlands.
• Ardanuç: Full of historical sites and natural beauty.
• Kemalpaşa: A small district famed for its traditional architecture.
• Murgul: Known for its mining activities and beautiful forests.

Together, these regions make Artvin a diverse and culturally rich province, each contributing unique characteristics that form the vibrant mosaic of this Black Sea jewel. Whether you are drawn to the bustle of the Central District or the tranquil beauty of the highlands, Artvin offers a place for every preference.