Things To Do
in Trabzon
Trabzon is a city located on the Black Sea coast in northeast Turkey. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including lush green mountains and picturesque coastline. The city is also famous for its historical sites, such as the Hagia Sophia Museum and the Sumela Monastery.
Trabzon offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders that attract visitors from around the world.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia of Trabzon. Explore its stunning frescoes and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Head to Atatürk Mansion for a walk through its beautiful gardens and to learn about Trabzon's history. Don’t forget to grab lunch at a nearby café offering local cuisine.
Stroll along the Trabzon waterfront as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant with a view of the sea.
Visit the Trabzon Castle and step back in time. Explore its ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Stop by the local bazaar to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for unique souvenirs. Grab some street food for a tasty lunch.
Watch a folk dance performance in a local cultural center. Savor dinner with traditional dishes at a family-run restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including mountains and the Black Sea coast.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous historical sites.
- Vibrant local cuisine, featuring unique dishes such as Akçaabat meatballs and Trabzon bread.
- Friendly and hospitable local population.
- Mild climate, with lush green landscapes, especially in the spring and summer.
- Limited public transportation options compared to major cities.
- Occasional heavy rainfall, particularly in the winter months.
- Economic opportunities may be more limited compared to larger urban centers.
- Tourism can lead to crowded areas during peak seasons.
- Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken among locals.
Best Activities in Trabzon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Fırtına Valley with its lush greenery, rivers, and picturesque villages along the hiking trails.
Embark on a hike to the historic Sumela Monastery, perched on a cliffside and surrounded by forested mountains, offering breathtaking views.
Spend time around the beautiful Uzungöl Lake, surrounded by mountains and offering opportunities for leisurely walks, boat trips, and photography.
Experience the natural beauty of Hıdırnebi Plateau, featuring alpine meadows, traditional wooden houses, and panoramic views of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Trabzon with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Trabzon
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, offering stunning photo opportunities.
A historic monastery nestled in the cliffs, with breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
An elevated vantage point providing panoramic views of the city of Trabzon and the Black Sea.
Also known as Atatürk Mansion, a historic building with a beautiful garden and views overlooking the sea.
A scenic valley with a tranquil stream and walking paths, perfect for capturing natural beauty.
Food in Trabzon
Trabzon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These large, succulent meatballs made from seasoned ground meat are a must-try in Trabzon. They are usually served with salad and lavash bread. Look for them at local köfteci restaurants, such as Köfteci Ali.
Must-Try!
A popular Black Sea specialty, Hamsiköy pide is a boat-shaped flatbread filled with ingredients like local cheeses, herbs, and ground meat. Visit Hamsiköy village for the most authentic versions.
This comforting dish features cornmeal cooked with local cheeses and butter, creating a deliciously gooey texture. Enjoy kuymak at traditional Black Sea restaurants like Çarşıbaşı Lokantası.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Trabzon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located near the port, this bustling market offers a wide array of fresh seafood. Visitors can savor grilled fish sandwiches and various seafood specialties from the market stalls.
This vibrant market in the city center is an excellent spot to sample local snacks like mısır ekmeği (cornbread), muhlama (a cornmeal and cheese dish), and other street foods unique to Trabzon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Trabzon, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, such as standing up when an elder enters the room and addressing them with proper titles.
Greetings are an important part of the culture in Trabzon. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during the greeting.
When dining in Trabzon, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. It is also customary to express gratitude for the meal and compliment the host on the food.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Trabzon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Trabzon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Trabzon, Turkey, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a small tip, around 5-10% of the total bill, at restaurants and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.
Cash is widely accepted in Trabzon, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used, particularly in larger businesses and tourist areas. It is advisable to carry some cash for transactions in more rural or remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Trabzon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Trabzon, as the weather is pleasant and the city is in full bloom with lush greenery and colorful flowers. It's also a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and enjoying the natural beauty.
Ideal for those who love warm weather and want to explore the Black Sea coast. It's the peak tourist season with bustling beaches, vibrant cultural events, and delicious local cuisine.
The weather starts to cool down, but the landscapes are still breathtaking with vibrant autumn colors. It's a good time for sightseeing and enjoying peaceful moments in nature.
Trabzon experiences a mild winter with occasional snowfall, creating a serene atmosphere. It's a quieter time for tourists, perfect for those who enjoy tranquility and want to experience local traditions and winter activities.
Trabzon at Night
Hiking in Trabzon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its lush green landscapes and stunning views, Çaykara offers various trails suited for different skill levels, making it a popular hiking destination.
Famous for its picturesque lake, Uzungöl also boasts several hiking trails that allow trekkers to explore the surrounding forests and mountains.
This historical site is located in the Altındere National Park, and it provides trails that lead through the beautiful forested areas of the park.
Surrounding this stunning cave are various hiking trails that allow visitors to enjoy the rich natural beauty of the area.
Offers several hiking paths with panoramic views of the Black Sea and lush hills, suitable for both casual walkers and more serious hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Trabzon through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Trabzon by plane.
The main airport serving Trabzon, located just a few kilometers from the city center.
An international airport located approximately 193 kilometers from Trabzon, serving the Samsun region.
Located about 215 kilometers from Trabzon, this airport serves the city of Erzurum and surrounding areas.
Approximately 400 kilometers from Trabzon, this airport serves the Kayseri region with both domestic and international flights.
Located around 360 kilometers from Trabzon, this airport serves the Sivas region, primarily with domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Trabzon, making up a significant portion of the population. They predominantly speak Turkish and are primarily Sunni Muslim.
Kurdish people inhabit parts of Trabzon, contributing to the city's cultural diversity. They have their own language and traditions.
Historically, Trabzon had a significant Greek population, particularly in the past. Today, the Greek community is much smaller but still part of the region's cultural heritage.
There is a small Armenian community in Trabzon, with roots tracing back to historical settlements in the region.
This includes various smaller groups and migrants who reside in Trabzon, adding to the city's multicultural fabric.
The Soul of Trabzon
Discover the essence of Trabzon through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Trabzon, with the city being home to Trabzonspor, one of Turkey's most successful football clubs.
Basketball also has a significant following in Trabzon, with local clubs competing in various leagues.
Volleyball is popular among both men and women, with several local clubs and community participation.
Athletics, including running and track events, is enjoyed by many in Trabzon, supported by local sports organizations.
Due to its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, jet skiing, and diving are popular activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trabzon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Trabzon's cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian and vegan mezes, grilled vegetables, and legume-based dishes. Some establishments to consider include Zeytinlik Restaurant and Cigerci Hulusi, known for its tasty lentil soup.
Gluten-free options in Trabzon can be found in dishes like grilled fish, kebabs, and rice-based meals. Inform staff about gluten intolerance, and they can often accommodate your dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Trabzon with these cultural adventures.
