Located on the Black Sea coast in northeastern Turkey, Trabzon is a beautiful city where ancient history meets with natural beauty. It has so much to offer to its visitors be it cultural experiences, outdoor activities or delicious food. You can explore historic monasteries, hike through lush valleys, and enjoy amazing views. Whether you're into historical sites, outdoor adventures, or just soaking up the local vibe, Trabzon provides a genuine Turkish experience that's off the beaten path. This guide will highlight the top things to do in Trabzon, helping you enjoy the city's most interesting attractions and make the most of your visit to this charming Black Sea destination.
Top 10 Things to Do in Trabzon: Enjoy Hiking, Water Sports, and More
This guide to Trabzon covers a variety of activities and attractions that highlight the city's best features. You'll find serene lakes, majestic mountains, historical monasteries, and vibrant tea gardens. Our list includes outdoor adventures like hiking and water sports, as well as cultural experiences like visiting a traditional Turkish hammam. The best times to visit Trabzon are late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October), when the weather is mild, rainfall is low, and crowds are smaller. These conditions are perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and appreciating the natural beauty.
We have curated down the list of top 10 things to do in Trabzon:
- Hike to Sumela Monastery
- Day Trip to Uzungöl
- Visit an Authentic Turkish Hammam
- Explore Altındere Valley National Park
- Watch the Sunset from Boztepe Tea Garden
- Go Boating at Sera Lake
- Hike in Trabzon
- Try Water Sports in Trabzon
- Cave Exploration at Calkoy Cave
- Hike to the Sultan Murat Plateau
1. Hike to Sumela Monastery
Sumela Monastery, located on a steep cliff, is one of the must-see attractions in Trabzon. This ancient Greek Orthodox monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, dates back to the 4th century. The hike to the monastery offers amazing views of Altındere Valley. As you climb, you'll see lush forests and rugged mountains. Once you reach the monastery, you can explore its frescoed chapels, living quarters, and sacred spring. The mix of natural beauty and historical importance makes this hike a memorable experience.
Address: Sumela Monastery, Altındere Village, Trabzon, Turkey
Open Hours: Typically, open from morning to late afternoon
Nearby Attractions
- Boztepe Tea Garden
- Zigana Mountains
- Sera Lake
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Uzungöl Lake
Nearby Hotels
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Novotel Trabzon
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Yali Park Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Kalkan Restoran
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Mado
2. Day Trip to Uzungöl
Uzungöl, meaning "Long Lake" in Turkish, is a picturesque mountain village about 99 km from Trabzon. The tranquil lake is surrounded by green mountains and traditional wooden houses. You can stroll around the lake, rent a boat for a peaceful ride, or have a picnic by the shore. There are hiking trails leading to beautiful waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. Be sure to try the local dishes at lakeside restaurants. Uzungöl's calm atmosphere and natural beauty makes it one of the perfect things to do in Trabzon, Turkey for a relaxing escape from the city.
Address: Uzungöl, Çaykara, Trabzon, Turkey
Open Hours: Accessible year-round
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Boztepe Tea Garden
- Sumela Monastery
- Sera Lake
- Zigana Mountains
Nearby Hotels
- Uzungöl High Class Hotel
- Uzungöl Günebakan Hotel
- Uzungöl Green Lake House
- Uzungöl Relais du Silence
- Uzungöl Yıldız Life Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Çimen Restaurant
- Elif Restaurant
- Lalezar Restaurant
- Yedigöller Restaurant
- Yüksek Dağ Restaurant
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3. Visit an Authentic Turkish Hammam
Experience Turkish culture by visiting an authentic hammam, or traditional Turkish bath, in Trabzon. This age-old ritual includes relaxing in a steam room, followed by a thorough scrubbing and massage. It's a great way to cleanse and rejuvenate your body and learn about an important aspect of Turkish social life. Many hammams in Trabzon are in historic buildings, adding to the cultural experience. Bring your own towel and toiletries and be ready to follow local customs. A hammam visit is a great way to unwind and enjoy Turkish tradition making it one of the best things to do in Trabzon.
Address: Various locations in Trabzon
Open Hours: Typically, open from morning until early evening
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Sera Lake
- Sumela Monastery
- Uzungöl Lake
- Zigana Mountains
Nearby Hotels
- Novotel Trabzon
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Yali Park Hotel
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Kalkan Restoran
- Mado
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4. Explore Altındere Valley National Park
Altındere Valley National Park is one of the famous tourist attractions in Trabzon for nature lovers, with stunning landscapes and diverse plant and animal life. The park is home to Sumela Monastery but has much more to offer. Enjoy scenic hiking trails through dense forests, alongside clear streams, and past dramatic cliffs. Look out for local wildlife like bears, wolves, and various birds. The park also has picnic areas for relaxing and taking in the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just want a quiet natural setting, Altındere Valley National Park is a refreshing escape into Turkey's wilderness.
Address: Altındere Valley National Park, Maçka, Trabzon, Turkey
Open Hours: Usually open during daylight hours
Nearby Attractions
- Boztepe Tea Garden
- Sumela Monastery
- Uzungöl Lake
- Sera Lake
- Zigana Mountains
Nearby Hotels
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Novotel Trabzon
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Yali Park Hotel
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Mado
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Kalkan Restoran
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5. Watch the Sunset from Boztepe Tea Garden
For a magical evening in Trabzon, visit Boztepe Tea Garden to watch the sunset. Located on a hill overlooking the city, this popular spot offers panoramic views of Trabzon and the Black Sea. As the sun sets, the sky fills with vibrant colors, creating a beautiful scene. Enjoy traditional Turkish tea or coffee while you relax in the cool breeze and laid-back atmosphere. The tea garden also offers light snacks, making it a great place for a leisurely evening. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views and memorable moments as it is one of the great attractions in Trabzon, Turkey.
Address: Boztepe, Trabzon, Turkey
Open Hours: Typically, open from late morning until evening
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Sumela Monastery
- Sera Lake
- Uzungöl Lake
- Zigana Mountains
Nearby Hotels
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Novotel Trabzon
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Yali Park Hotel
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Mado
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Kalkan Restoran
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6. Go Boating at Sera Lake
Sera Lake, about 20 km from Trabzon, is a calm artificial lake surrounded by forests and hills. It’s one of the great things to see in Trabzon for a relaxing day on the water. Rent a pedal boat or canoe to explore the lake at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh mountain air. The lake’s edge has several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local food with a view. For a bit of adventure, there’s also zip-lining across the lake. Sera Lake is a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature close to Trabzon.
Address: Sera Lake, Trabzon, Turkey
Open Hours: Generally, open all day
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Boztepe Tea Garden
- Sumela Monastery
- Uzungöl Lake
- Zigana Mountains
Nearby Hotels
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Novotel Trabzon
- Yali Park Hotel
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Mado
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Kalkan Restoran
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7. Hike in Trabzon
Trabzon, a diverse landscape, offers many hiking opportunities for all levels located at one of the best places to visit in Trabzon. The area has trails that wind through forests, along coastal cliffs, and up into the Pontic Mountains. Popular trails include Zigana Pass, with its panoramic views, and the routes around Uzungöl Lake. For a challenging hike, try the trek to Haçka Yaylası, a beautiful highland plateau. Many trails pass historical sites, waterfalls, and traditional villages, allowing you to enjoy natural beauty along with cultural experiences. Wear suitable footwear, bring water, and check the weather before you set out.
Address: Various trails around Trabzon
Open Hours: Daylight hours
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Boztepe Tea Garden
- Sumela Monastery
- Sera Lake
- Uzungöl Lake
Nearby Hotels
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Novotel Trabzon
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Yali Park Hotel
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Mado
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Kalkan Restoran
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8. Try Water Sports in Trabzon
The Black Sea coast of Trabzon is one of the perfect places to visit in Turkey for water sports. You can try kitesurfing or windsurfing, thanks to the favorable wind conditions. For a more relaxed experience, stand-up paddleboarding is popular along the calmer parts of the coast. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also available to explore the underwater world of the Black Sea. Many beaches and resorts offer equipment rentals and lessons for beginners. Whether you’re an expert or a newbie, Trabzon’s waters offer exciting opportunities for aquatic fun.
Address: Various water sports centers around Trabzon
Open Hours: Varies by center
Beaches
- Sürmene Beach
- Araklı Beach
- Çakırköy Beach
- Yomra Beach
- Uzungöl Beach
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Boztepe Tea Garden
- Sera Lake
- Sumela Monastery
- Uzungöl Lake
Nearby Hotels
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Novotel Trabzon
- Yali Park Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Kalkan Restoran
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Mado
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9. Cave Exploration at Calkoy Cave
For a unique underground adventure, visit Calkoy Cave, about 30 km from Trabzon. This impressive limestone cave system has stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. This is one of the historical places in Turkey, guided tours take you along well-lit paths, explaining the cave’s geological features and history. The cool interior is a nice break from summer heat. There’s also a small museum with artifacts found in the cave. Calkoy Cave provides an interesting look into the underground world and is a great change of pace from Trabzon’s above-ground attractions.
Address: Calkoy Cave, Çaykara, Trabzon, Turkey
Open Hours: Usually open during daylight hours
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Sumela Monastery
- Sera Lake
- Uzungöl Lake
- Zigana Mountains
Nearby Hotels
- Uzungöl Green Lake House
- Uzungöl Günebakan Hotel
- Uzungöl High Class Hotel
- Uzungöl Relais du Silence
- Uzungöl Yıldız Life Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Çimen Restaurant
- Elif Restaurant
- Lalezar Restaurant
- Yedigöller Restaurant
- Yüksek Dağ Restaurant
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10. Hike to the Sultan Murat Plateau
The Sultan Murat Plateau, at an altitude of 2,100 meters, offers a stunning alpine experience near Trabzon. This high-altitude meadow is covered with colorful wildflowers in spring and summer, set against snowy peaks. The hike to the plateau is moderately challenging but rewards you with panoramic views of mountains and valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional villages and might see local shepherds with their flocks. The plateau also hosts the historic Sultan Murat Mosque, built in the 16th century. Pack a picnic to enjoy the nightlife in Turkey amidst the beautiful scenery of this mountain paradise.
Address: Sultan Murat Plateau, Şalpazarı, Trabzon, Turkey
Open Hours: Accessible year-round
Nearby Attractions
- Altındere Valley National Park
- Sumela Monastery
- Sera Lake
- Uzungöl Lake
- Zigana Mountains
Nearby Hotels
- Trabzon Royal Center
- Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon
- Novotel Trabzon
- Yali Park Hotel
- Zorlu Grand Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Cihan Restaurant
- Hamsikoy Sütlüsü
- Mado
- Kuzu Kuzu Restaurant
- Kalkan Restoran
Trabzon offers a wealth of natural wonders, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination for travelers. From the awe-inspiring Sumela Monastery to the serene Uzungol Lake, this vibrant city has something to offer everyone, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure. By exploring the top things to do in Trabzon, you'll be able to immerse yourself in the region's rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Don't forget to consider our tailored Turkey tour packages to ensure memorable trip to Trabzon.
Things to Do in Trabzon FAQs
Trabzon has an international airport with connections to major Turkish cities and some European destinations. You can also reach Trabzon by bus from other parts of Turkey or by car if you're on a road trip.
The best time to visit is late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.
Yes, Trabzon is generally considered safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, exercise normal precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
A 3–4-day trip allows you to see the main attractions. If you want to explore more thoroughly or take day trips, consider staying for 5-7 days.
Trabzon is known for its Black Sea cuisine, including dishes like hamsi (anchovy), kuymak (cheese fondue), and various types of pide (Turkish pizza).
Sumela Monastery is typically open year-round, but it may close occasionally for restoration work. Check current status before visiting.
Yes, there are several beaches along the Black Sea coast near Trabzon. Popular ones include Akcaabat Beach and Yomra Beach.
English is not as widely spoken as in more touristy areas of Turkey. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can be helpful.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques. Women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. Men should avoid wearing shorts.
It's generally recommended to drink bottled water in Trabzon, although tap water is usually safe for brushing teeth and cooking.
