Things To Do
in Sürmene
Sürmene sits on the Black Sea coast just east of Trabzon, blending maritime charm with forested hills. The town is known for its friendly Laz and Pontic heritage, seafood focused cuisine, and easy access to the rugged hinterlands. Visitors are drawn to the harbor, markets, and warm tea houses that line the waterfront.
It is a convenient base for exploring the Trabzon region while staying rooted in a traditional Black Sea culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sürmene and check into a cozy local guesthouse with traditional architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local pastries and fresh tea while absorbing the serene coastal views. Take a short stroll along the seaside promenade to stretch your legs after travel.
After settling in, visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and pick up some handmade crafts as souvenirs. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring local seafood dishes. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the tranquil town.
As dusk falls, dine at a charming eatery offering panoramic views of the Black Sea. Sample regional specialties and engage with locals to learn about their traditions. End the evening with a peaceful walk along the shoreline, listening to the gentle waves.
Start your day with a visit to the Sürmene Castle, an ancient fortress overlooking the town. Explore its walls and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, visit the nearby Sürmene Museum to learn about the region’s rich culture and history.
Grab lunch in a local café that serves homemade dishes, then embark on a scenic hike in the surrounding hills. The hike offers stunning views and opportunities for photography, showcasing the beautiful valleys and forests. Spend time at a quaint village nearby, interacting with locals and experiencing daily life.
Return to Sürmene for a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps indulge in a shisha experience afterward. Conclude the day with a visit to a local tea house for some evening relaxation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🚗Taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal scenery and friendly locals
- Excellent seafood and tea culture
- Easy access to Trabzon and nearby nature
- Limited nightlife in the town itself
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for some walkers
- Occasional rain and humidity year-round
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nerede bu?" - Where is this?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İngilizce konuşur musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check, please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me
- "Afiyet olsun" - Bon appetit
Places to Visit in Sürmene
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water, colorful boats, and masts reflect soft morning light for calm harbor photography.
Ruined coastal fortifications perched above the sea offer dramatic cliffside angles.
Panoramic overlook across the bay with tea houses and sweeping sea views.
Forested slopes and terraced fields provide green backdrops for portraits and landscape shots.
Food in Sürmene
Sürmene Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh or fried anchovies prepared with garlic and herbs, often served with corn ekmegi.
Must-Try!
A melted cheese and butter cornmeal dish, sizzling and perfect with bread.
Rice with anchovies and herbs, a classic coastal specialty.
A pastry influenced by Laz cuisine, often filled with greens or cheese.
Traditional corn bread that accompanies many seafood dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local Saturday market where you can taste cheeses, honey, and fresh seafood.
Bustling market with fruit, nuts, and regional snacks popular along the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Merhaba or Selam; handshakes are common among men, with polite nods or kisses on the cheek among close acquaintances.
Hospitality is strong; accepting tea or offered food is common; it is polite to try a bite.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Safety
Tipping in Sürmene
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tips of 5-10% are appreciated if service is not included. Small tips for cafe staff or drivers are common.
Cash and card are accepted at most establishments; smaller family-run places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breeze, humidity remains high, and afternoon showers are possible. Ideal for coastal walks and ferries from Sürmene to nearby shores.
Milder temperatures but frequent rain and fog; good lighting for moody coastal landscapes.
Cool and rainy with occasional snow in higher elevations; stormy seas can create dramatic seascapes.
Fresh greens and blooming flora; comfortable temperatures for hikes and markets.
Sürmene at Night
Hiking in Sürmene
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the coast through pine and cedar forests, with sea views.
A higher elevation track offering panoramas of the Black Sea and Sürmene town.
Airports
How to reach Sürmene by plane.
Primary gateway to the region, about 40-60 minutes by road from Sürmene.
Alternative gateway; farther away but useful for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population with Laz and Pontic Turkish influences; strong sense of regional culture.
A notable minority with distinct music, dialects, and traditions.
Many students and young professionals in the region near Trabzon.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport across the region, with local clubs and casual play.
Longstanding coastal tradition; common along the harbor and nearby rivers.
Seasonal activity along the Black Sea coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sürmene.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy corn ekmegi, çorbas, green salads, grilled vegetables, and pide. Ask for vegetable dishes and avoid fish heavy sauces; many places can accommodate with side plates of greens or stuffed peppers.