Boyabat

Boyabat is a town in Sinop Province, about 110 km south of Sinop city, with a population of around 26,000. It is best known for Boyabat Castle, a remarkably well-preserved medieval fortress perched on a rocky outcrop above the Gökırmak River valley. The town is a market centre for the surrounding agricultural region.

The climate is transitional between Black Sea and continental, with warm summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit.

By Plane

Sinop Airport (ICQ, 110 km north) and Kastamonu Airport (KFS, 100 km west).

By Train

Boyabat has no railway station. The nearest is in Taşköprü or Kastamonu.

By Car / Road

Boyabat is on the D785 highway connecting Sinop to Kastamonu. Buses run from Sinop (2 hr) and Kastamonu (1.5 hr).

The town is walkable. The castle is a steep climb from the town centre.

• Boyabat Castle — An imposing medieval fortress dating to the Hellenistic period, later used by the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The interior includes a cistern, dungeons, and a small mosque. Open daily, admission fee. The panoramic views are spectacular.

• Gökırmak River Valley — Scenic river valley with walking paths.

• Explore Boyabat Castle in detail.

• Walk along the Gökırmak River.

• Visit the weekly market.

Small lokantas serve Black Sea and Turkish cuisine. Try kuymak and fresh trout.

Tea houses near the castle entrance.

• Budget: Boyabat Misafirhanesi — basic guesthouse, around 300–400 TL.

Agricultural products from the region.

• Sinop (110 km north, 2 hr) — Black Sea port city with castle and beaches.
• Kastamonu (100 km west, 1.5 hr) — Historic city with Ottoman architecture.
• Durağan (30 km east, 30 min) — Small riverside town.