Best Things to Do in Trabzon, Turkey in 2024

Trabzon is an important city in the Black Sea Region, where history and nature meet, joining hands. It was characterized as the “Bride of the Black Sea.”

This city has a lot of attractions, historical sites to see, and activities to do for everyone. See the remnants of the city’s past at places like the Sumela Monastery and Hagia Sophia Mosque; those reflect Byzantine art and Ottoman history.

Rafting on the Fırtına River will give an enormous amount of fun to those in love with adrenalin, while Zigana Mountains are meant for hiking. If you seek peace, Sera Lake and Sultan Murat Plateau will work for you.

And, of course, you shouldn’t leave without tasting one of the tastiest and historic dishes, the Trabzon pide. Have a rest on Camburnu Beach or take a thermal bath on Ayder Plateau.

The Hagia Sophia Museum is one of the most important Byzantine architectural pieces of Trabzon, connected with the history and rich cultural heritage of this city.

It was built upon order in the 13th-century style as a Greek Orthodox church by Manuel I Comnenus. Since its construction, it has changed from a church to a mosque, and finally into a museum. Nowadays, it is a mosque again and symbolizes the history of Trabzon.

The Hagia Sophia Trabzon is surrounded by beautiful gardens. These gardens enhance the beauty of the building apart from being a serene place for restoration of one’s soul. As to appropriate mosque etiquette, visitors should make sure that their visit is unobtrusive and calm for everyone.

It is also variously known as the Virgin Mary Monastery. The monastery is dramatically placed on a cliff facing the Altindere Valley.

This church complex, reflecting Byzantine architecture and dating to 385 AD, offers breathtaking views. Sumela Monastery tours will be ideal for history buffs looking for serenity.

The construction of this was done to honor the Virgin Mary. That makes it even more interesting, since its location away from the main view is a site that is not to be missed upon religious tours to Turkey. Immerse into the dense historical explanation of the Virgin Mary Monastery.

Enjoy the dramatic natural scenery in which this historic monastic site is nestled. Feel the combination of nature and spirituality here.

The Trabzon shopping centre revolves around this historic Bedesten Bazaar, a treasure in the Turkish market in this vibrant city.

This covered marketplace is one of the ‘centers’ for buying traditional wares and is a living museum of Ottoman Era culture.

Architecture from the bazaar dates back to the 16th century, and the stone construction with the majestic arched entrances is an outright stunning view.

Every one of the vendors at Bedesten Bazaar is a specialist in Trabzon’s special cultural heritage, selling countless goods. From intricate handicrafts and rich fabrics to carpets, one will always find something to his taste.

Now is the time to experience the real bargaining culture. While walking down these alleys, the spirit of the bazaar and the smells of local food welcome you to stay in the Ottoman era atmosphere of the area.

The bazaar opens at 10 AM until 11 PM. Thus, a whole day can be spent on an adventure in both the historic and commercial heart of Trabzon.

Famous for its Trabzon pide, this food is similar to pizza but with a twist of being Turkish, depicting the lavish food culture of this vibrant city.

Restaurants here may be considered cultural centers where one dives deep into the traditions of Turkish food.

The fillings of pide can vary, such as ‘yumurta’ that means ‘egg’ in Turkish, thus showing how Turkish food brings people together. Some eateries have cooking classes open for more profound knowledge of flavor.

These classes give you a personal opportunity to learn how to prepare typical Turkish dishes. This should be one of the great ways to enrich your food travel.

Visiting the local markets is another adventure. You will find most of the ingredients used in the Turkish cuisines fresh in these markets.

This is the chance to observe how food moves from farm to table, an essential part of Turkish culture.

• Enjoy an authentic taste of Trabzon pide.
• Hands-on cooking classes.
• Visits to local markets.

These will provide a special sightseeing into the gastronomical culture of Trabzon—a must-see if one wants to try real Turkish cuisine.

Uzungol Lake located in the heart of Trabzon, is one of the most yearned-for places by tranquility lovers.

This place is called ‘Long Lake’, and there is more than just good-lookingness about it—the lake is encircled by emerald green forests and hills which dazzle with the beauty of nature in Turkey.

You can have lots of fun around Uzungol Lake, which is a very lively outdoors place. Here are the things you can do there:

It is also combined with some sort of sightseeing, with lakeshore photography that may offer some of the most romantic views. Savor a Turkish breakfast at a lakeside café with the views across the water as delectable as the food.

Hike or mountain bike the surrounding landscape and enjoy rich natural beauty. Lake cruises for relaxation—each giving another dimension to this breathtaking scene. 

The Ataturk Mansion is a key landmark in Trabzon, showcasing Turkish architecture and history. It’s a grand historical home that reflects Turkey’s rich culture.

This mansion is closely tied to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. It gives visitors a peek into the past through its stunning design and lush gardens. The famous rose garden adds to its beauty, making it a window to history.

Visiting Ataturk Mansion lets you connect with Trabzon’s history. It also shows how Turkish architecture has evolved. For those in Trabzon, a tour here is both educational and unforgettable.

Boztepe Park is a perfect place for outdoor fun. Its nature trails are full of greenery, making it a favorite for nature lovers and hikers. The hill offers a peaceful break from city life and amazing views of Trabzon and the Black Sea.

Getting to Boztepe Hill is exciting, thanks to a cable car ride. It gives a bird’s-eye view of the city. For those who love walking, the trails are easy to follow and suitable for all. Each path offers stunning views, from green landscapes to wide vistas that make you want to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Don’t forget your hiking boots and camera when you go to Boztepe Hill. There’s plenty to do and see all year round. Whether you’re up for a calm walk or a challenging hike, Boztepe is a great choice. It’s a perfect mix of exercise and beauty, making it a top spot in Trabzon.

Trabzon has many Black Sea beaches for everyone. You can find coastal relaxation or an adventurous day by the sea. Camburnu Beach is famous for its long sandy shores and lively vibe, making it a favorite among Turkish beach spots.

Camburnu Beach is close to the city center, offering easy access and lots of amenities.

Its waves are perfect for both thrill-seekers and those wanting to relax. It’s great for families, friends, and solo travelers wanting a classic Black Sea beach day.

• Camburnu Beach: Known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful stretches of sand, ideal for sunbathing, beach sports, and swimming.
• Mersin Beach: Perfect for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds, offering clear waters and a serene setting.
• Karadere Beach: Appeals to nature lovers with its rugged landscape and peaceful environment.

Each spot offers a unique part of Turkey’s natural beauty and culture. Whether you want quiet or a lively seaside, Trabzon’s coast has something for everyone. Take the chance to relax and enjoy the beauty of these stunning places.

The Trabzon Museum is in the historic Kostaki Mansion. It’s a key part of Turkish cultural heritage. Here, you can see unique regional artifacts that show the area’s vibrant culture.

When you enter Kostaki Mansion, you’ll see rooms filled with history. There are textiles, traditional costumes, and more. Each item tells a story of Trabzon’s past.

Visiting the museum is educational. It shows the richness of Turkish culture. You’ll leave with a new understanding of Turkey’s history.

Going to Trabzon Museum is more than just seeing old things. It’s diving into the heart of the region. It’s perfect for history lovers, art fans, or anyone curious about Trabzon’s past. It’s a place everyone should see.

For those seeking to couple their Trabzon visit with the serene embrace of nature, a scenic drive along the Black Sea coast is undoubtedly a rewarding experience.

This enthralling route offers a sensory feast—an opportunity to immerse oneself in the region’s vibrant tapestry of landscapes. Imagine cruising through roads enveloped by lush forests, your eyes meeting the occasional glimpse of the sea’s vast expanse.

These Black Sea scenic drives are more than mere transportation; they are a gateway to the heart of Turkish natural splendor.

Trabzon’s coastal routes are not simply about connecting points on a map, but about discovering the gems tucked between. Each bend in the road and each mile traversed opens up new vistas—be it a quaint fishing village or a secluded beach overlooked by the steely gaze of towering mountains.

Travellers are encouraged to punctuate their picturesque road trips with impromptu stops at local attractions, snapping photographs, and creating memories that will linger long after the journey concludes. Turkish seaside exploration by car offers an unparalleled charm, tasting freedom with every mile covered.

From the driver’s seat, witness the landscapes dance and change, with the blue of the sea often playing hide and seek with the road ahead. Embrace the essence of wanderlust as you navigate through Trabzon coastal routes, where every turn is a new discovery and every straight stretch an invitation to the horizon.

This beguiling voyage stands as a testament to Turkey’s ability to weave together the majesty of the Black Sea with the subtle allure of the countryside. Don’t merely visit Trabzon—explore it, one scenic drive at a time.