Independent travel and overview of the city of Trabzon The history of Trabzon! Ancient history and foundation...
Ancient history and foundation of the city
Trabzon is one of the oldest cities of the Black Sea region, its history goes back more than 2,700 years.
The city was founded around 756 BC by Greek colonists from Miletus and was called Trapezunt (TRαπεζοеς), which in Greek means “table” or “flat surface”. The name is associated with geography: the city is located on a plateau by the sea.
Due to its favorable position on the Black Sea coast, Trapezunt quickly became an important trading port connecting:
Asia Minor
Caucasus
persia
Inland Anatolia
Antiquity
In ancient times, the city was in the sphere of influence:
Pontic
later Roman Empire
The meal served:
naval base
trading hub
supply-house
The city is mentioned in the writings of ancient authors, including Xenophon, who described it as an important stop for Greek troops during the campaign of Anabasis.
Byzantine period
After the division of the Roman Empire, Trebizunt became part of the Byzantine Empire.
During this period:
The city is fortified by powerful walls
Christian churches and monasteries are being built
The Byzantine administrative system is formed
Trabzon became the center of the spread of Orthodox Christianity in the region and an important cultural point in the northeast of the empire.
Trebizond Empire (1204–1461)
This is a key and unique period in the history of the city.
After the capture of Constantinople by the Crusaders in 1204, the Trebizond Empire was founded, an independent Greek state with its capital at Trebizond.
Features of the Trebizond Empire:
dynasticism
The city became a political, cultural and commercial center
Trabzon controlled trade routes between Europe and Asia.
active relations with Genoa, Venice, Persia
During this period, construction:
Sumela Monastery (one of the symbols of the region)
palaces, fortresses, temples
A distinctive Trebizond culture is formed
The empire lasted more than 250 years, which was rare for states that emerged after the collapse of Byzantium.
Ottoman period
In 1461, the city was conquered by Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror, thus completing the history of the Trebizond Empire.
After the conquest:
Trabzon became an important Ottoman port
Some churches were converted into mosques.
The population became multinational: Turks, Greeks, Armenians, Laz
The city remained important:
shopping centre
administrative
black sea
Trabzon was also important as the birthplace of the mother of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, which elevated his status.
XIX - early XX century
In the nineteenth century Trabzon became:
major port of the Ottoman Empire
Key point of trade with Russia and the Caucasus
The city thrived on:
export of tea, nuts, tobacco
transit
However, the beginning of the twentieth century brought shocks:
First World War
Temporary occupation by Russian troops (1916–1918)
subsequent demographic changes
Trabzon in the Republic of Turkey
After the founding of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Trabzon became part of the new state.
Current stage:
development of port infrastructure
growth of education and universities
preservation of historical heritage
Today Trabzon:
Important Cultural Centre of the Black Sea Region
A city with a strong regional identity
touristic
Unique location
Trabzon is located on the shore of the Black Sea, at the foot of the Pontic Mountains. Here is a rare combination for Turkey:
seaside
landscape
dense forests, waterfalls and rivers
The landscapes around the city resemble the Alps and the Caucasus at the same time - green slopes, fogs, mountain villages and tea plantations.
A city with a thousand-year history
The history of Trabzon dates back more than 2700 years. He was:
Greek
byzantine
Trebizond capital
port
This is felt in the architecture and layout of the city. There are some nearby:
Byzantine
Ottoman mosques
fortress-wall
backyard
The main historical symbols:
The monastery of Sumela, carved into the rock
Hagia Sophia Trabzon
Trabzon Fortress
Nature that is impressive
The surroundings of Trabzon are one of the most picturesque regions of Turkey:
mountain plateaus Uzungol, Aider, Haimaköyu
alpine
tea-plantations
This is the ideal destination for:
hiking
ecotourism
photo tours
relaxation
Authentic culture and cuisine
Trabzon has retained a vibrant regional identity. You can get acquainted here:
blacksea
folk music
crafts and local markets
What to try:
Hamsi (Black Sea anchovy)
Kuymak / muhlama - hot dish with cheese and cornmeal
Black Sea tea grown in the region
Homemade sweets and nuts
Comfort and accessibility
There is an international airport in Trabzon
Convenient communication with other cities of Turkey
A wide range of hotels - from boutique hotels to family boarding houses
The city is suitable for individual travelers, families and couples.
1. Luxury and more comfortable hotels (4-5 ★)
Such places offer a high level of service, spacious rooms, swimming pools, restaurants, often with sea views or a convenient location.
Examples of popular:
Radisson Blu Hotel, Trabzon is one of the most famous premium hotels in the city with excellent reviews.
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Trabzon is a stylish hotel with rich infrastructure and good leisure opportunities.
Novotel Trabzon is a large international hotel with high guest ratings.
DoubleTree by Hilton Suites Trabzon Yomra is a high-rated option with spacious rooms.
DoubleTree by Hilton Trabzon is another well-known international brand with quality service.
Koçin Konak Luxury Boutique Home is a boutique hotel with excellent reviews (slightly smaller rooms, very cozy).
Such hotels are suitable for families, couples and those who want to relax comfortably with facilities and service at the level of international brands.
2. Mid-range hotels (comfortable and comfortable)
This category is suitable for tourists who want to combine quality and adequate price – often close to the city center, with breakfast and basic amenities.
Examples:
Zorlu Grand Hotel is a popular city hotel with good service.
Mercure Trabzon Otel is part of Accor’s international network, convenient and comfortable.
Movenpick Hotel TRABZON is well rated for its value for money.
Panagia Premier Trabzon is an option with a pleasant rating and decent comfort.
MELL BOUTIQUE HOTEL is a cozy boutique hotel with good reviews.
Usually, such hotels are located in central or convenient areas of the city and offer a stable level of service for a more reasonable price.
3. Budget hotels and guest houses
If the goal is a thrifty yet neat and pleasant stay, there are many great options with prices noticeably below average. They are often within walking distance of the center or close to transport stops.
Popular economic options:
Alya Boutique Hotel is a very affordable hotel with good reviews.
White House Hotel is a simple and very popular budget option.
Pointbreak Otel is one of the best low-cost review options.
Nehir Hotel is a budget hotel with high ratings.
FIRST JOY HOTEL, FUNDA HOTEL, Doa Suite Hotel - inexpensive, simple, but clean and with a good price / quality ratio.
Tahir Ağa Konağı Otel and Aksular Hotel & Restaurant are also budget options.
Trabzon Star Pansiyon is a classic guest house at a very low price.
Adelante El Destino and NURALP APART are simpler apartments or budget options.
1. The Hagia Sophia Museum
What is it: a historical building of the XIII century, a former Byzantine church, then a mosque, now a museum.
Why interesting: a well-preserved monument of late Byzantine architecture with beautiful frescoes and decor.
Availability: in the city center, on foot or by taxi from any area of Trabzon. There are bus stops.
A great place to start with the history of Trabzon.
2. Trabzon Castle (Trabzon Kalesi)
What it is: a medieval fortress, the fortifications of which are visible above the city.
Why interesting: the remains of Byzantine and Ottoman walls with excellent views of the city and the sea.
Availability: in the old part of Trabzon - you can walk from the center. Taxis or dolmus are also suitable.
Great point with panoramas and history.
3. Atatürk Pavilion (Atatürk Köşkü)
What it is: the historic house where the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, stayed.
Why interesting: a museum with personal belongings, the historical atmosphere of the early XX century.
Availability: approximately 5 km from the center - preferably by taxi or bus; sometimes included in city tours.
Tip: A great place to understand modern Turkish history.
4. Boztepe Pagoda (Boztepe)
What is it: a hill with panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea.
Why interesting: observation decks, tea gardens, beautiful sunsets and photos.
Availability: about 3 km from the center - you can reach on foot (slightly uphill), by taxi or dolmus.
Perfect for a walk and a view of the city lights.
5. Church of Saint Anne (Church of Saint Anne)
What it is: one of the oldest Byzantine churches of the city (VI-VII centuries).
Why it is interesting: recently restored, original frescoes are visible.
Availability: in the city, on foot or by taxi.
A great place for those who love early medieval architecture.
6. Fatih Mosque (Fatih Mosque)
What is it: a former Byzantine church of the XII-XIII centuries, which became a mosque after the Ottoman conquest.
Why interesting: the beauty of the architecture of the stone period, elements of Byzantine and Ottoman styles.
Availability: in the city, easily accessible on foot or by taxi.
Excellent combination of religious and historical atmosphere.
7. Panagia Theoskepastos Monastery (Panagia Theoskepastos)
What it is: the ruins of a Byzantine convent on Boztepe Hill overlooking the city.
Why interesting: an atmospheric place with ancient inscriptions and views of Trabzon.
Affordability: better car or taxi – the road on mountain trails.
For those who love history outside the center.
8. Sumela Monastery (Sümela Manastırı)
What it is: one of the most famous Orthodox monasteries on the rock, built in the VI century, near Trabzon.
Why interesting: incredible location on the cliff, ancient frescoes, history and nature.
How to get there: from the city there are tours and minibuses (minibuses / dolmush) to Maska and further to the national park; shuttles and hiking trails to the monastery (≈30 km from the center).
A day trip is a must for most tourists.
9. Lake Uzungöl (Uzungöl)
What it is: a picturesque mountain lake in forests and mountains, surrounded by nature.
Why interesting: beautiful views, walks, photos, restaurants by the water.
How to get there: about 100 km from Trabzon - more convenient on a tour bus, rented car or tourist tour.
Great place to relax in nature for the whole day.
10. Altındere National Park (Altındere)
What it is: a natural park with forests, rivers and trails, next to the Sumela Monastery.
Why interesting: hiking trails, picnics, beautiful landscapes.
Availability: as for Sumela - via Maçka/excursions or taxis.
Additional seats in the city
Markets and Old Center (Kemeraltı, Ortahisar)
Historic neighborhoods with narrow streets, crafts, local products, tea and souvenirs. Usually available on foot from the center.
The Valley of Zagnos (Zagnos Vadisi)
Park areas with walking paths and nature can be combined with a walk in the center.
How to get there
By air.
Trabzon Airport (TZX) is an international airport within the city. From the airport to the center 10-15 min taxi or shuttle.
Intracity transport
Buses and dolmushi (mini buses) run along the main routes of the city and to some suburban points.
Taxi.
Quick and convenient to all the listed attractions, especially for hilly spots like Boztepe.
Excursions and tours
For Sumela, Uzungol and nature parks, it is convenient to take organized tours that include round-trip transport from the center of Trabzon.
Spring (March-May)
Weather: soft, green nature, the beginning of the tourist season.
Main activities
Hıdırellez (Spring Festival) is a traditional spring festival in early May, especially in the Şalpazarı area.
The International Black Sea Theatre Festival is held in the spring (May), with the participation of theater groups from different countries.
The Cultural Route Festival, a series of concerts, exhibitions and programs in the city in June, can begin in late May.
Summer (June - August)
Peak season: sea, beaches, lively tourist rhythm - and many festivals!
Main events
June - the beginning of the festival season
Alaturbi Festival is a sea festival with folk traditions on the coast (around the end of June - early July).
Hamsi Festival is a celebration of the favorite regional fish with music, cuisine and dancing.
July is the central festival month
The 33rd Trabzon International Folk Festival is an international event with dances, music and parades (usually mid-July, 17–22 July 2025).
Kadırga Festival is a large traditional festival on the plateau with folk celebrations in the third decade of July.
High-mountain festivals and fairs (“yayla” festivals) – in July there are many ethnographic festivals on the plateau: Alaca, Taşköprü, Sisdağı, Kaldırım and others.
August – Music, Dance and Local Festivals
Uzungöl Culture & Tourism Festival is a festival in the area of the picturesque Lake Uzсngöl.
Maçka Culture & Art Festival is a cultural and artistic event in August.
Local rural holidays (Festival of Hamsiköy, Tonya Butter Festival, etc.) - with folklore, music and regional dishes.
Autumn (September-November)
The period of harvest and local holidays.
Things to do.
Harvest & culture festivals – harvest fairs, gastronomic festivals, rural cultural events.
People's festivals on the plateau in early September (for example, Kadıralak, Montenegro Serda).
Winter (December to February)
Trabzon is not a winter sports resort, but the winter season is calmer.
Winter events
The city hosts local cultural and entertainment concerts, thematic events in theaters, museums and cultural centers (concerts, exhibitions and holidays indoors are possible).
National Turkish holidays (e.g. New Year, religious holidays) are also celebrated, although they are not specific to Trabzon - they are part of the national calendar.
Spring (March-May)
Air temperature
March: +8...+12 °C
April: +11... +16 °C
May: +15... +20 °C
Water temperature
+9...+14 °C (it is still cold to swim)
Features
Frequent rain, fog in the mountains
Very green and blooming nature
Comfortable for walks and excursions
Suitable for
Tour
Urban tourism
Nature, mountains and lakes
Summer (June-August)
Air temperature
June: +20...+24 °C
July: +23 ... +27 °C
August: +24...+28 °C
(Heat is more easily tolerated than in Antalya, due to the sea and humidity)
Water temperature
+22...+26 °C – comfortable for swimming
Features
Most touristy season
Short-term rainfall is possible
Many festivals and holidays
In the mountains cooler by 5-10 ° C
Suitable for
Beach holiday
Festivals
Trip to yayla (mountain plateau)
Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature
September: +20 ... +24 °C
October: +15... +19 °C
November: +11... +15 °C
Water temperature
September: +23 ... +24 °C
October: +20 ... +22 °C
November: +17... +18 °C
Features
September is one of the best months
Rain increases in autumn
Fewer tourists, mild weather
Suitable for
Relax.
Swimming in September
Photographic travel and nature
Winter (December – February)
Air temperature
December: +8 ... +12 °C
January: +5...+9 °C
February: +6... +10 °C
Water temperature
+9... +11 °C
Features
Lots of rain, snow in the mountains
Strong winds from the sea
Very few tourists.
Snowy landscapes are possible in the mountains
Suitable for
Slow trips
Cultural tourism
People who don’t like the heat and crowds
Language of communication
Official language: Turkish.
In tourist places, English is often understood.
In hotels, cafes, on excursions - usually know English.
Tip: learn a few basic Turkish phrases - greetings, "thank you", "please", "how much?"
Examples:
Merhaba - "Hello"
Teşekkür ederim - "Thank you"
Lütfen - "Please"
Ne kadar? - "How much is it?"
Gestures: A smile and a nod are welcome; some hand gestures can have different meanings, so it is best to follow local ones.
Traditions and customs
Greetings and respect
They are greeted with the word "Merhaba" and a slight bow of the head or handshake (men).
In the provinces (Trabzon – Black Sea region) to respect older people.
Dress
In the city you can wear European clothes, but in religious places (mosque) should:
cover your shoulders and knees,
Women can cover their heads with a scarf.
Take off your shoes before entering the mosque.
Conduct in public places
Do not shout or show aggression.
Be polite in public transport and markets.
Photography
Ask permission from people before taking pictures.
Photography is prohibited in some historic places or religious buildings.
Religious practices
Mosques: Respect prayer and silence.
During Ramadan, it is advisable not to eat, drink or smoke in front of fasters, especially in and around mosques.
Laws and regulations
Documents
The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
For citizens of most countries, an electronic visa document (e-Visa) is required.
Alcohol
There are bars and restaurants in Trabzon that sell alcohol.
It is forbidden to drink alcohol in public places on the street.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in closed public places.
Road traffic
Pedestrians must cross the road at a green light.
Drivers strictly follow the rules, but always be careful.
Prohibitions and respect for culture
Do not use offensive gestures or rude words.
Don't throw trash outside.
Do not interrupt traditional holidays or ceremonies, especially in the mountains on the plateau (yayla).
Greetings and goodbyes
Merhaba (Mayor Ha-Ba) - Hello / Hello
Selam (selam) - Hello (conversation)
Günaydın (gyu-nay-dın) - Good morning
İyi günler (yi gün-ler) - Good afternoon
İyi akşamlar (yi ak-sham-lar) - Good evening
Hoşça kal (hosh-cha kal) - Goodbye (to the one who leaves)
Güle güle (gyu-le-gyu-le) - Goodbye (to the one who remains)
Polite words
Lütfen (lut-fen) - Please
Teşekkür ederim (te-shak-kuhr e-de-rim) - Thank you
Bir şey değil (bir shei de-yil) - You're welcome.
Affedersiniz (Af-Fe-Der-See-Lower) - Sorry / Sorry
Questions that tourists often need
Ne kadar? - How much is it?
Bu nedir? - What is it?
Tuvalet nerede? - Where's the toilet?
Yardım eder misiniz? - Could you help me?
Ingilizce biliyor musunuz? - Do you speak English?
At the restaurant/café
Menü lütfen (menu lut-fen) - Menu, please
Hesap lütfen (he-sap lut-fen) - Invoice, please
Afiyet olsun (a-fiyet ol-sun) - Bon appetit
Su lütfen (su lut-fen) - Water, please
Bunu alabilir miyim? (bu-nu a-la-bil-ir mi-yim) - Can I buy this?
Transportation.
Otobüs durağı nerede? - Where is the bus stop?
Taksi çağırabilir misiniz? - Could you call a cab?
Hangi yönde gidiyor? - Which way is he going?
Bir bilet lütfen - One ticket, please
Basic phrases to communicate with locals
Çok güzel! (chok güzel) - Very beautiful!
Harika! (ha-ri-ka) Great!
Ben turistim (ben tu-ris-tim) - I'm a tourist
Yardımınıza teşekkür ederim (yar-dym-ny-za te-shekur e-de-rim) - Thank you for your help
Fotoğraf çekebilir miyim? (photograph che-ke-bil-ir mi-yim) - Can I take a picture?
Simple dialogue in the store
You: Merhaba! Bu ne kadar? How much does it cost?
Seller: 50 lira. (50 lira)
Are you: Tamam, alabilir miyim? Okay, can I buy this?
Seller: Tabii, lütfen. (Of course, please)
You: Teşekkür ederim! (Thank you!)
Seller: Bir şey değil. (You're welcome)
A few useful expressions for mountains and yayla
Çok yüksek! (chok yuk-sek) - Very high!
Hava çok güzel (ha-wa chok gyuzel) - The weather is very good
Dikkat! (dick-cat) - Careful!
Yol nereden gidiyor? Where does the road lead?
Food and drink
Hamsi (Hamsi)
A small Black Sea ancho-shaped fish, the main symbol of the region.
Served fried, in soups, baked or in pies.
You can buy dried hamsi as a souvenir or snack.
Local cheeses
Trabzon Tulum peyniri is a salted cheese made from sheep or cow's milk, with a rich taste.
Lor peyniri is a soft cheese, often used in cakes.
Nuts and fruit
Walnuts, hazelnuts - the famous Black Sea nuts, especially fresh and high-quality.
Local honey and jams are linden and acacia honey, quince and quince jams.
Traditional sweets
Sütlaç is a rice pudding with milk.
Pide and baklava are local variations of these popular sweets.
Drinks.
Black Sea tea (Karadeniz çayı) is a Turkish tea from Black Sea plantations, strong and aromatic.
Local ayran is a sour-milk drink for digestive health.
Medicines and useful products
Black Sea honey is natural, useful for immunity and throat.
Herbal teas
Mint, sage, linden - popular for health promotion.
Black Sea nut powder and oils
It is used for skin beauty and in cooking.
Products with rosehip - strengthen immunity, make in the form of jam, syrup or dry berries.
Souvenirs and gifts
Textiles and embroidery
Local embroidered tablecloths, handkerchiefs and decorative wipes.
Traditional Black Sea ornaments, bright colors.
Ceramics and wood products
Carved wooden spoons and plates.
Ceramics with patterns of the Black Sea region.
Jewelry and accessories
Silver products with national motives.
Bracelets and amulets with the symbols of Trabzon.
Local toys and souvenirs for the home
Miniatures of traditional boats and houses.
Commemorative magnets with views of Trabzon and the Black Sea.
Documents and visa regime
Passport
It must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
Visa/e-Visa
Most tourists from Russia, Ukraine and CIS countries can apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) through the official website of Turkey.
The period of stay on a tourist visa is usually up to 90 days within 180 days.
For citizens of some countries, a visa is issued on arrival, it is mandatory to specify in advance.
Insurance policy
Health insurance is definitely recommended.
The policy should cover emergency medical care and repatriation.
Insurance can be obtained online before the trip, it is often checked at check-in for the flight.
Security and medical care
In Trabzon, the network of public and private hospitals is well developed, there are pharmacies operating around the clock.
In emergency cases, available:
112 is a single emergency number (police, ambulance, fire service).
155, police.
156 - Gendarmerie (in rural areas).
It is recommended to have copies of passport, visa and insurance in paper and electronic form.
Mobile and Internet
Connected mobile operators
The main Turkish operators are Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey and Türk Telekom.
They sell SIM cards for tourists with Internet and calls.
You can use a tourist SIM card or international roaming.
Recommendations
Check roaming rates in advance.
In the mountains and on the plateau (yayla), communication can be weak, it is better to have offline maps.
General safety rules
Personal security
Trabzon is a relatively safe city for tourists, but standard precautions include:
Do not leave things unattended, especially on the beach.
Avoid dark and deserted streets at night.
Transportation
Save tickets and documents when traveling by bus or taxi.
Use official taxis and apps (e.g. BiTaksi).
Natural conditions
In the mountains and on the plateau (yayla), be careful, especially in rainy weather.
Do not try to swim in the strong current of the Black Sea, follow the signs and recommendations of rescuers.
Term of stay
Visa-free or tourist visa: up to 90 days within 180 days.
To extend the stay, you need to contact the Turkish Migration Service (Göç İdaresi), but more often tourists just leave and return to renew the deadline.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
