Located along the Black Sea in the northeastern part of Turkey, Trabzon is a popular destination famous for its beauty and rich history. Considered the birthplace of the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, Trabzon is a perfect place for those who want to immerse themselves in a soothing and relaxing experience. You can wander through bustling markets, explore the rich history of the city of Trabzon, or just do fun and thrilling things to do in Trabzon. So, what are you waiting for? Read this article to learn about the top things to do in Trabzon.
6 Things To Do In Trabzon
Trabzon offers beautiful scenery, colourful customs, and kind residents. The best nine things to do in Trabzon to make your visit unforgettable are listed below.
1. Visiting The Cal Cave
Image Source: Clemens Schmillen for wikimedia commons
Çal Cave invites you to discover the mesmerising beauty of these natural wonders. Recognised as the 2nd longest cave in the world, this subterranean marvel runs approximately 8 Km and sits at an altitude of 1,050 meters above sea level. The cave is split into two main sections. The left side features a 150-meter-long path, while the right stretches over 400 meters. A stream of fresh water runs through the caves above, along which wooden bridges have been made to provide access to the 72 rooms inside the caves. Visitors can also witness stalagmites, stalactites, and water pools. The cave also has a waterfall, which visitors must pass to enter. A trip to this place is one of the must-have things to do in Trabzon for nature and photograph enthusiasts.
Location: Çalköy, 61390 Düzköy/Trabzon, Türkiye
Distance from Trabzon: 46.5 Km
Travel Time From Trabzon: 58 minutes
Must Read: Places To Visit In Turkey With Family
2. Shopping At Bedesten Bazaar
Image Source: Emin Başar ÖZDEMİR for wikimedia commons
Stepping into Bedesten Bazaar transports you back to the 16th century. This historic market, located in the heart of Trabzon, is not just a shopping destination but a monument rich in history. It is a market hall, originally designed with heavy octagonal uppers, so it might be mistaken for a temple or church. Today, it is one of the most important markets from the Ottoman era, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Visitors can buy good quality fabrics, fine carpets, ornate items, and handicrafts. The top floor also houses traditional cafes and coffee houses, providing a perfect spot to soak in the local culture over coffee. A trip to this market is one of the mandatory things to do in Trabzon.
Location: Çarşı, Mahmut Goloğlu Cd. No:15, 61200 Trabzon Merkez/Trabzon, Türkiye
Distance from Trabzon: 1.5 Km
Travel Time From Trabzon: 5 minutes
3. Hike To The Sumela Monastery
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Located on a cliff at a height of 1,200 metres in the Macka region of Trabzon, Sumela Monastery is a 1600-year-old Orthodox monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The monastery has breathtaking frescoes depicting scenes of Jesus and Mary from biblical times. Just in the centre of the monastery, one can find a cave, which has been converted into a church. The monastery also comprises a large building and balcony where guests and monks live. The monastery has a guest house, kitchen, a holy spring, a rock church, and student rooms. In 1923, the monastery was turned into a museum. This place thus holds great cultural and historical significance to the Christians. Visitors can hike to the monastery, enjoy the beautiful view of the valley, and explore the monastery. Its beauty makes it one of the best things to do in Trabzon.
Location: Altındere, Altindere Valley National Park, 61750 Maçka/Trabzon, Türkiye
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year
Distance from Trabzon: 47.7 Km
Travel Time From Trabzon: 56 minutes
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Turkey
4. Visit Boztepe Hill
Another remarkable landmark in Trabzon is the Boztepe Hill. The hill provides unparalleled sweeping views of the Black Sea and the city. Along with being a spectacular viewpoint, this hill is home to 4 beautiful holy fountains, namely the milk fountain from Kaymakli Monastery, the Saint John the Sanctifier, the Skylolimne, and the Dragon’s Fountain. Boztepe Hill offers breathtaking vistas, a tranquil haven, and an opportunity to learn about Trabzon’s history and culture. You can miss this place among the things you should do in the Trabzon itinerary.
Location: Boztepe, 61030 Ortahisar/Trabzon, Türkiye
Distance from Trabzon: 2.9 Km
Travel Time From Trabzon: 7 Minutes
Suggested Read: Mount Nemrut
5. Go Paragliding And Camping In Uzungol
One of the fun things to do in Trabzon is take a trip to Uzungol. It is a serene and attractive lake in Trabzon Province’s Çaykara district. This lake, formed by a landslide in the 18th century, is famous for its picturesque natural scenery, clean air, lush greenery, and breathtaking mountain view at the backdrop. Visitors can sit at a cafe and soak in the view while having Turkish tea. The region is a delight for nature lovers and adventurers who want to feel their adrenaline rush. They can indulge in heli-skiing, paragliding, or mountain camping. It is a preferred place to refresh and rejuvenate yourself, making it one of the things to do in Trabzon.
Location: Uzungöl, 61940 Çaykara/Trabzon, Türkiye
Distance from Trabzon: 97 Km
Travel Time From Trabzon: 1 Hour 30 minutes
6. Immerse Into History At Trabzon Castle
Image Source: İlayda.tr for wikimedia commons
Trabzon Castle is a historic castle originally built during the Byzantine Empire and later rebuilt by the Ottoman Empire; it sits on a hill overlooking the Black Sea and Trabzon. The castle, one of Trabzon’s most popular attractions, is divided into three sections: the Upper Castle, the Central Castle, and the Lower Castle, each offering unique historical insights. Visitors to Trabzon Castle can explore the historic walls, turrets, and ruins of constructions that provide an insight into history. Furthermore, various cafés on the castle grounds give ideal places to relax and take in the breathtaking views of the Black Sea shoreline, making it an ideal addition to your list of things to do in Trabzon.
Location: Ortahisar, Burç Sk. No:10, 61030 Trabzon Merkez/Trabzon, Türkiye
Distance from Trabzon: 450 metres
Travel Time From Trabzon: 8 minutes
Further Read: Restaurants In Turkey
Trabzon thus offers different kinds of experiences to different tourists. It attracts visitors on a journey of spiritual reflection and cultural discovery. From its architectural marvels to its museum, Trabzon offers a superb experience that leaves a long-lasting impression on all who visit it. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go on an adventurous trip to Turkey, where the city of Trabzon awaits you.
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Cover Image Source: HALUK COMERTEL for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Trabzon
What is Trabzon known for?
Trabzon is well known for its copper cauldrons, ewers, bowls, buckets, and handicrafts made from locally available natural materials. It is also among the top copper mining centres of the Ottoman Empire.
How many days in Trabzon?
A stay of at least three to four days is recommended to fully experience the historical sites' natural beauty and cultural richness.
Is Trabzon cheaper than Istanbul?
Yes, Trabzon is significantly cheaper than Istanbul. This affordability makes Trabzon an attractive destination for tourists.
What sea is Trabzon on?
Trabzon is located on the southeastern shore of the Black Sea.
What language is spoken in Trabzon?
The primary language spoken in Trabzon is Turkish. The older generations, particularly in the rural areas around Trabzon, might still speak the local dialect known as Romeika, which is a form of Pontic Greek.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
