Trabzon
Save28 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See a ready-made day plan ↓10 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
Cliffside Greek Orthodox monastery in the Altındere valley
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Fog is common, check weather
- Allow half a day with travel
📷 Photos
- 2
Alpine-style lake village in the Çaykara mountains
3 tips
- Long drive from Trabzon
- Best in summer and autumn
- Stay overnight if possible
📷 Photos
- 3
13th-century Byzantine church with frescoes by the sea
- Tip: Dress code
2 tips
- Check opening hours
- Nice garden with sea views
📷 Photos
- 4
Hillside mansion used by Atatürk, now a museum
3 tips
- Garden is lovely in spring
- Short taxi ride from centre
- Allow 1 hour
📷 Photos
- 5
Archaeology and ethnography in the Kostaki mansion
3 tips
- Mansion architecture is a highlight
- Allow 1 hour
- Close to Atapark
📷 Photos
- 6
Hilltop tea gardens with panoramic city and sea views
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Go at sunset
- Take a taxi or dolmus
- Try local tea
📷 Photos
- 7
Main city square and hub of life in Trabzon
- Tip: At night
3 tips
- Good evening people-watching
- Lots of cafes nearby
- Transport hub
📷 Photos
- 8
Forested valley with waterfalls on the road to Sumela
3 tips
- Allow time for the drive
- Beautiful in autumn
- Pair with Sumela
📷 Photos
- 9
Old fortified quarter between two ravines
3 tips
- Wander the old lanes
- Step-heavy terrain
- Good views at the edges
📷 Photos
- 10
Ottoman mosque complex and tomb from the 16th century
- Tip: Dress code
2 tips
- Avoid prayer times
- Short stop on the walk
📷 Photos
Take this map with you
Opens Google Maps with these places, ready to save to your own list.
Before you go: Trabzon tips
Transportation
- Use dolmuş minibuses: Shared minibuses run along the coast road and to nearby sights cheaply.
- Fly into Trabzon Airport: The airport is close to the city centre with easy taxi and dolmuş links.
- Join tours to Uzungöl: Tours to the mountain lake are convenient if you do not drive.
Security
- Drive carefully in mountains: Roads can be narrow and foggy; take care or use local drivers.
- Watch belongings: Keep valuables secure in busy markets.
- Check weather for hikes: Fog and rain are common in the Pontic Mountains.
Saving
- Eat local: Try pide and hamsi at small eateries for affordable meals.
- Use public transport: Dolmuş fares are much cheaper than taxis.
- Buy tea locally: Rize tea from the region is cheaper bought in local shops.
Weather/Clothing
- Expect rain year-round: The Black Sea coast is wet; pack a rain jacket and umbrella.
- Bring layers for the mountains: Highland areas can be cool even in summer.
- Dress modestly at mosques: Cover shoulders and knees, and women should bring a scarf.
Cultural
- Visit Sumela Monastery: This cliffside monastery is a major site; check opening status before going.
- Try hamsi: The Black Sea anchovy is a staple, often fried or in rice.
- Drink çay: Tea is part of daily life; accept offers of tea as hospitality.
Local Hacks
- Visit Hagia Sophia of Trabzon: This Byzantine church has fine frescoes.
- Explore highland plateaus: Yayla villages offer cool air and scenery in summer.
- Try kuymak: This cheesy cornmeal dish is a hearty breakfast.
1-day itineraries in Trabzon
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.