Trabzon, a city on Turkey's northeastern Black Sea coast, offers a unique blend of lush natural landscapes, significant historical sites, and a vibrant local culture. Visitors are drawn to its serene mountain scenery, ancient monasteries, and the distinctive flavors of Black Sea cuisine.
Trabzon's social opportunities for visitors are primarily found in central public areas. Maidan Square (Trabzon Meydan Parkı) serves as a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists, offering cafes and shops for relaxed interaction. Boztepe Hill provides a scenic viewpoint overlooking the city and the Black Sea, ideal for enjoying a quiet moment with tea or coffee. The city's social atmosphere emphasizes cultural immersion and appreciation of its natural surroundings, rather than a pronounced party or backpacker scene.
Top 6 Things to do in Trabzon
In Trabzon, experiences blend rich history with breathtaking natural beauty, from ancient cliff-side monasteries to serene mountain lakes and panoramic viewpoints.
1. Explore Sumela Monastery
Perched dramatically on a steep cliff face within Altındere Valley National Park, the Sumela Monastery is a must-see historical marvel. Walking through the forest and up the path to this ancient Greek Orthodox monastery, founded in the 4th century, truly feels like stepping back in time. The intricate frescoes adorning its walls are a testament to its long history, making the effort to reach it incredibly rewarding. It is worth taking your time to admire the setting and the detailed artwork inside.
Cost: The entrance fee to Sumela Monastery is approximately 20 Euros.
Transport: Reaching Sumela Monastery typically involves a dolmuş (shared minivan) from Trabzon, costing around 25 Turkish Lira for a round trip. Alternatively, various tour operators in Trabzon offer day trip packages that include transportation and often combine the monastery with other nearby attractions, with prices starting around 120 Turkish Lira per person. Driving up to the monastery's entrance is not possible; a short walk through Altındere National Park is required to reach it.
2. Visit Uzungöl Lake
Journeying to Uzungöl, meaning 'Long Lake,' reveals a picturesque mountain lake surrounded by dense green forests and traditional wooden houses. It’s a peaceful escape where the reflections of the surrounding peaks create a stunning view. We found it ideal for tranquil strolls along the renovated walking paths, enjoying the serene beauty, and even saw opportunities for boating on the lake. The area also offers shops and cafes, making it a lively yet relaxing spot.
Cost: There is no direct entrance fee for Uzungöl Lake itself, though activities like boating would have separate costs. Food and drinks at lakeside cafes are available.
Transport: Uzungöl is about a 90-minute drive from Trabzon. Public transport is indirect, involving a shuttle bus from Trabzon to Of (around 15 Turkish Lira), followed by a taxi to Uzungöl (approximately 150 Turkish Lira), totaling over two hours of travel excluding waiting times. A taxi from Trabzon could cost around 450-500 Turkish Lira one-way based on distance (approx. 100 km). Many tour operators also offer day trips to Uzungöl.
3. Experience the Views from Boztepe Hill
Ascending to Boztepe Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of Trabzon city, its Black Sea coastline, and the surrounding mountains. We particularly enjoyed visiting during sunset, sipping traditional Turkish tea (çay) at one of the hill's many teahouses. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind and take in the magnificent scenery.
Cost: A glass of tea at the teahouses is generally very affordable.
Transport: Boztepe is easily accessible by a local bus from Trabzon city center, costing approximately 4 Turkish Lira. A taxi for the roughly 10-minute drive might cost around 200 Turkish Lira for a round trip.
4. Discover Trabzon Hagia Sophia Mosque
The Trabzon Hagia Sophia, originally a 13th-century Byzantine church and now a mosque, is a stunning example of historical architecture. We found its high dome, colorful stone floors, and detailed New Testament frescoes captivating, offering a quieter historical experience compared to its Istanbul namesake. It's a significant cultural landmark that reflects the city's diverse past.
Cost: Entrance to the Hagia Sophia Mosque is typically free.
Transport: Located within the city limits, it is easily reachable by public bus (fares starting from 2 Turkish Lira) or a short taxi ride from the city center.
5. Stroll Through Atatürk Köşkü (Atatürk Mansion)
Nestled in a beautiful flower garden overlooking the city, Atatürk Köşkü is a charming early 20th-century mansion that now serves as a museum. We enjoyed exploring the rooms, which display personal items and photographs of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey's founding leader. It provides a fascinating glimpse into a significant period of Turkish history and offers serene surroundings.
Cost: Specific entrance fees are not consistently reported in recent articles, but similar historical houses often have a nominal fee.
Transport: The mansion is accessible by public bus (fares starting from 2 Turkish Lira) or a short taxi ride from Trabzon city center.
6. Savor Local Flavors in Hamsiköy
A visit to Hamsiköy, a peaceful village near Trabzon, offers a glimpse into traditional Black Sea life. We experienced its stunning natural beauty, wandered through cobblestone streets, and admired historic wooden houses. This village is particularly famous for its delicious local cuisine, especially Hamsiköy sütlaç, a creamy rice pudding known for its rich flavor derived from the local cows' milk. The scenic drive to the village is an experience in itself.
Cost: Costs would primarily be for food and drinks.
Transport: Hamsiköy is often included in organized tours from Trabzon. While no direct public bus route was specified, a taxi or private vehicle would be the most convenient way to reach this scenic village.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
