Trabzon is a historic Black Sea port city that serves as the gateway to the stunning Pontic Mountains and the ancient Byzantine heritage of northeastern Turkey. Known for its lush green landscapes, tea plantations, and the iconic Sumela Monastery, it is best visited in late spring or early autumn when the weather is mild and the mountain mists are most atmospheric.
Top Things to Do in Trabzon
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Getting Around Trabzon
From the Airport
Bus. Havaş shuttle buses run regularly between Trabzon Airport and the city center, taking about 30 minutes for a nominal fee. Taxi. Yellow taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal 24/7; ensure the meter is turned on or agree on a price before departing.
Once You're There
Walking. The city center is relatively compact and very walkable, though be prepared for some steep hills as you move away from the coast. Dolmuş. The local dolmuş (shared minibus) system is the most efficient way to reach districts further afield, with frequent routes covering the entire city. Car Rental. Renting a car is highly recommended if you plan to visit sites like Sumela Monastery or Uzungol, as it offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Where to Stay in Trabzon
Hotel picks for Trabzon are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Trabzon
Sera Restaurant★ 4.9 (332)SERA GÖLÜ, Akyazı, 61300 Ortahisar/Trabzon, TürkiyeSituated near the scenic Sera Lake, this restaurant specializes in trout dishes sourced from the surrounding mountain streams.
Kalender Lokantasi★ 4.5 (844)Cumhuriyet, Şehit Onur Fikret Dülger Cad No:14, 61030 Ortahisar/Trabzon, TürkiyeA favorite for traditional home-style cooking, known for its hearty Black Sea soups and slow-cooked meat dishes.
Bordo Mavi Balik★ 4.3 (5,745)Boztepe, İpekyolu Cd., 61030 Ortahisar/Trabzon, TürkiyeLocated right on the waterfront, this restaurant offers the freshest Black Sea anchovies and seasonal catches with a panoramic view of the harbor.
Cardak Pide Salonu★ 4.3 (5,306)Kemerkaya, Uzun Sk. No:4, 61200 Ortahisar/Trabzon, TürkiyeVisit this spot to experience the authentic Trabzon-style pide, featuring a crispy, boat-shaped crust filled with local cheeses and butter.
Tarihi Kalkanoğlu Pilavcısı★ 4.3 (3,883)Pazarkapı, Tophane Cami Sk. No:3, 61200 Merkez/Trabzon, TürkiyeOperating for over a century, this historic eatery is famous for its buttery, perfectly cooked rice served with tender shredded beef.
Necla Hanimin Mutvagi★ 4.3 (2,683)Fatih Mahallesi, Adnan Kahveci Blv. No:142, 61310 Akçaabat/Trabzon, TürkiyeThis cozy kitchen offers an authentic taste of local village-style breakfasts featuring homemade jams and honey from the Trabzon highlands.
Boztepe Cay Bahcesi★ 4.2 (5,499)Boztepe, İran Cd. No:192, 61030 Trabzon Merkez/Trabzon, TürkiyeWhile primarily a tea garden, this is the essential destination for sipping traditional Turkish tea while overlooking the city skyline.
Faroz Balikcisi★ 4.1 (60)Yalı, Devlet Sahil Yolu Cd. No:116, 61030 Trabzon Merkez/Trabzon, TürkiyeA humble but highly-regarded spot in the Faroz district where fishermen gather to enjoy the daily catch prepared simply on the grill.
Cemilusta★ 4.0 (4,934)İskenderpaşa, Belediye Caddesi., Atatürk Alanı No:6, 61100 Merkez/Ortahisar/Trabzon, TürkiyeThis local institution is the definitive place to try Akçaabat meatballs, a regional specialty served with a side of spicy pepper sauce.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Trabzon
Byzantine History & City Views
Morning. Start your journey at the iconic Hagia Sophia Mosque, a 13th-century Byzantine church perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, where you can admire the intricate stone carvings and frescoes. Spend about an hour wandering through the surrounding gardens before taking a short taxi ride to the Trabzon Museum, housed in a stunning early 20th-century mansion. The museum offers a deep dive into the region's archaeological history, including Byzantine artifacts and Ottoman-era clothing. Be sure to arrive early to beat the tour groups that often arrive by mid-morning. From here, you are perfectly positioned to head toward the city center for a traditional lunch.
Afternoon. After lunch, walk through the historic Trabzon City Walls, which once protected the ancient settlement, and make your way toward the Gulbahar Hatun Mosque. This elegant 16th-century structure is a prime example of Ottoman architecture and provides a quiet, reflective atmosphere. After exploring the mosque grounds, head up to the Ataturk Pavilion, a picturesque white mansion set in a lush pine forest on the outskirts of the city. The pavilion, where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk stayed during his visits to Trabzon, offers a fascinating look at the early Republican era. It is best to visit in the afternoon when the light filters through the trees, creating a beautiful setting for photos.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, make your way to Boztepe, a hillside district famous for its panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea. Find a seat at the Boztepe Cay Bahcesi to enjoy a glass of steaming Turkish tea while watching the city lights flicker to life below. It is the most popular spot for locals to unwind, and the atmosphere is consistently vibrant and welcoming. After enjoying the sunset, head back down to the city center to explore the Bedesten Bazaar, where you can browse for silver jewelry and local textiles before settling in for a late dinner.
Mountain Monasteries
Morning. Dedicate your second day to the breathtaking Sumela Monastery, which is carved directly into the sheer rock face of Altındere Valley. It is essential to rent a car or hire a private driver for the one-hour journey from Trabzon, as public transport can be infrequent. Upon arrival, you will hike through the verdant forest trails before reaching the entrance of the monastery, where you can marvel at the ancient frescoes that have survived centuries of exposure. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds. After exploring the various chapels and library rooms, make your way back down to the valley floor for a fresh river-trout lunch.
Afternoon. After your descent from the monastery, spend the afternoon exploring the scenic Altındere Valley National Park, which surrounds the monastery site. The park is filled with waterfalls, wooden bridges, and lush hiking paths that offer plenty of opportunities for photography. If you have time, stop by the nearby Kaymakli Monastery, a smaller but equally historic site that sees significantly fewer tourists. It provides a more intimate look at the religious history of the Pontic Greeks in the region. The peaceful surroundings make this a perfect spot to relax before heading back toward the city.
Evening. Return to the city center in the evening and spend some time wandering the narrow, bustling streets of the bazaar district. The area is filled with shops selling local hazelnuts, which are a major export of the region, and unique copperware. If you are feeling hungry, find a local spot to try some traditional Black Sea cornbread, which is often served warm. End your evening with a walk along the harbor to see the fishing boats returning with their haul. It is a great way to experience the authentic maritime culture that defines Trabzon.
Highland Escapes
Morning. On your final day, venture out to Uzungol, the famous 'Long Lake' nestled in a deep valley surrounded by dense forests. The drive takes about 90 minutes, but the scenery along the way, featuring tea plantations and mountain streams, is well worth the effort. Once you arrive, walk the perimeter of the lake to get the iconic view of the mosque with the mountains reflected in the water. The air is remarkably crisp and cool, even in the summer months. It is highly recommended to arrive by 9:00 AM to secure a parking spot and enjoy the quiet before the afternoon crowds arrive.
Afternoon. After lunch in one of the wooden restaurants overlooking the lake, take a short hike up the surrounding trails to gain a higher vantage point for photos. The trails are well-marked and lead to several scenic overlooks where you can see the entire valley spread out below. Spend the afternoon breathing in the mountain air and perhaps sampling some local honey or butter sold by village vendors. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can simply sit by the water and enjoy the serene environment. Make sure to head back toward Trabzon by late afternoon to avoid the winding mountain roads after dark.
Evening. Upon returning to Trabzon, spend your final evening in the vibrant Meydan Park, the heart of the city's social life. The square is surrounded by cafes, shops, and street performers, creating a lively atmosphere that captures the modern spirit of the city. Grab a coffee or a dessert at one of the local patisseries and people-watch as the city winds down. For your final dinner, choose a restaurant that serves a variety of local mezes to celebrate the end of your trip. It is the perfect place to reflect on your journey through the mountains and coastal towns of the Black Sea region.