There is no single answer to the question of the "best time" in Giresun, because the city holds two separate geographies. The coast can be visited almost all year; the highlands are closed for half of it. You have to choose your dates according to what you want to see.
The short answer
| Purpose | Best period |
|---|---|
| Highlands and nature | Late June – early September |
| City and history | April – October |
| The greenest it gets | May – June |
| Anchovy | November – January |
| Quiet | Late September – October |
Spring · March, April, May
The period when the green is at its brightest. Fed by snowmelt, the waterfalls are at their fullest. The city and coast can be visited; but the highland roads are mostly closed until the end of May.
The Aksu Festival is in the third week of May; the city comes alive and interest in the island rises. Accommodation gets harder that week.
Summer · June, July, August
The only real window for the highlands. At the end of June the roads open, the animals go up, the festivals begin.
- June: The green is still very vivid and the crowds are still light. Perhaps the most balanced month.
- July: Festival season. Busy at Kümbet and Bektaş.
- August: The most crowded month. Book accommodation in advance.
On the coast the summer is hot and humid; the interior and highlands are cool. You may see a 15-degree difference within the same day.
Autumn · September, October, November
September is still suitable for the highlands and much quieter. In October the colours turn, the forest goes yellow and red; a lovely period for photography. In November the rainfall increases and the highland roads start to close.
November is also the opening of the anchovy season.
Winter · December, January, February
The coast is mild but rainy. The city centre, the museum and the castle can be visited. The highlands are under snow; the roads are usually closed.
Winter warning: Do not head onto the highland roads unplanned in winter. Snow, mist and ice come together; a mobile phone does not work at many points. Confirm the road conditions in advance and carry chains.
The rain reality
Giresun is in one of the rainiest regions of Turkey. Whichever month you go, rain is possible. This is not an obstacle but the character of the region: it is also the reason for the greenery. A waterproof outer layer and a spare pair of shoes will save your plan.
On the map
The stops carry seasonal notes; you can filter the map by what is open in your month.
Open the guide