Zonguldak is a Black Sea province in northwestern Turkey celebrated for its rich coal-mining heritage, dramatic coastal scenery, and lush forested hills. Carved out of Carboniferous rock over millennia, the region boasts the Gökgöl Cave — one of Turkey's largest and most spectacular stalactite caves — along with ancient ruins at Filyos (ancient Tios) and rugged Black Sea beaches. The provincial capital sits on a steep peninsula jutting into the Black Sea, giving it a distinctive character quite unlike Turkey's sun-belt resorts.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Devrek bastonları — hand-carved decorated walking sticks; 200–2,000 TRY (~$6–59). The most distinctive gift from the province.
Karadeniz balı (Black Sea wildflower honey) — from market stalls, 150–400 TRY per jar (~$4.40–12).
Hamsi ezmesi (anchovy paste in sealed jars) — available at harbour-area delicatessens, 80–150 TRY (~$2.35–4.40).
Zonguldak kömür heykeli (coal-craft keepsakes) — small carved items from coal, sold at the Mining Museum shop, 50–200 TRY (~$1.50–6).
Tulum peyniri (local aged cheese in skin sack) — from Saturday market, 200–400 TRY per piece (~$6–12).
Karalahana (Black Sea cabbage) seed packets — available at garden stalls in the Saturday market.
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Zonguldak Saturday Market
Regional honey, homemade cheese (tulum peyniri), wild mushrooms, hazelnuts, seasonal fruit and vegetables
Where: Gazipaşa area, Merkez
Hours: Saturday 07:00–14:00
Devrek Tuesday Market
Walking sticks, local produce, artisan crafts, livestock equipment
Where: Devrek Meydan
Hours: Tuesday 07:00–14:00
Ereğli Tuesday Market
Fresh fish direct from harbour, regional cheeses, pickled vegetables, clothing
Where: Ereğli town centre
Hours: Tuesday 07:00–14:00