Trabzon: Where History, Nature, and Culture Meet on the Black Sea Coast

Nestled along the eastern Black Sea coast of Türkiye, Trabzon is a city where deep-rooted history, dramatic landscapes, and rich culinary traditions come together to offer visitors a truly unforgettable experience. Once the capital of the Empire of Trebizond, this coastal jewel still bears the traces of ancient civilizations, empires, and centuries of cultural exchange.

From Byzantine monasteries hidden in lush mountain valleys to bustling bazaars in the city center, Trabzon is a destination for both adventurers and history lovers. Whether you’re hiking in the high plateaus, sipping tea by the sea, or exploring centuries-old churches and mosques, Trabzon welcomes you with authenticity and charm.

Top Attractions in Trabzon

• Sumela Monastery
  Located in Altındere National Park, this awe-inspiring Greek Orthodox monastery is dramatically perched on a cliffside, surrounded by forested mountains. Dating back to the 4th century, Sumela is a symbol of Trabzon and one of Türkiye’s most important historical landmarks.

• Trabzon Castle
  Built upon the ancient city walls, Trabzon Castle offers panoramic views of the Black Sea and the city itself. Its origins trace back to Roman and Byzantine times.

• Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) Mosque
  Not to be confused with its namesake in İstanbul, this former Byzantine church-turned-mosque is a masterpiece of 13th-century architecture with well-preserved frescoes and a serene garden setting.

• Uzungöl
  A postcard-perfect lake surrounded by alpine-style wooden houses and lush green hills. Uzungöl is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

• Boztepe Hill
  Overlooking the city, Boztepe is the perfect spot for a panoramic tea break at sunset. You can reach it by car or enjoy a scenic walk.

• Atatürk Mansion
  Set in a charming garden with elegant architecture, this museum house commemorates the visits of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and offers insight into early Republican-era decor.

A Taste of Trabzon: Local Cuisine

Trabzon is a culinary delight with hearty Black Sea flavors. Be sure to try:

• Akçaabat Köftesi – Grilled meatballs unique to the Akçaabat district.

• Kuymak / Muhlama – A rich, cheesy cornmeal dish made with butter and Trabzon cheese.

• Hamsi (Anchovy) – Fried, steamed, or in rice; hamsi is the star of the Black Sea.

• Trabzon Pide – A long, boat-shaped flatbread filled with cheese, minced meat, or egg.

• Laz Böreği – A sweet, creamy pastry with a hint of black pepper.

Don’t forget to sip the locally produced Hamsiköy Sütlacı, a creamy rice pudding named after the highland village it hails from.

Festivals and Culture

Trabzon’s vibrant traditions come alive in its local festivals and highland gatherings:

• Trabzon International Black Sea Theatre Festival (May): Brings together local and international performers.

• Hıdırnebi Highland Festival (July): Celebrates regional dance, music, and local food in the cool mountain air.

• Traditional Horon Dances: Performed in almost every celebration with kemençe music — an unforgettable part of local culture.

How to Get There

Trabzon is accessible by:

• Air: Trabzon Airport (TZX) offers frequent flights to and from İstanbul, Ankara, İzmir, and many international destinations.

• Road: Buses and private vehicles can reach Trabzon via the coastal highway or through scenic inland routes.

• Sea: Though less frequent, cruises and ferries occasionally dock at Trabzon’s port.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Trabzon are:

• Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) for mild weather and green landscapes.

• Summer (July–August) if you want to enjoy the highland festivals and cool plateau air.

• Winter has a quieter charm and snow-covered scenery, especially in the mountain villages.