Trabzon City Guide
Trabzon is one of Turkey’s most historic and picturesque cities, located on the Black Sea coast.
As of 2024, its population is around 820,000.
Founded by Greek colonists from Miletus in the 8th century BC, the ancient city of Trapezus became a major trade hub between Europe and Asia.
During the Byzantine era, it was the capital of the Empire of Trebizond, and under the Ottomans, it evolved into a major Black Sea port city.
Trabzon is famous for its green landscapes, mountain villages, seafood, and deep-rooted culture.
It is also the hometown of Sultan Selim I (Yavuz Sultan Selim) and a symbol of sportsmanship through its football club, Trabzonspor.
Places to Visit in Trabzon
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Sumela Monastery: 4th-century monastery carved into steep cliffs of Altındere Valley.
- Hagia Sophia Mosque: 13th-century Byzantine church with unique frescoes.
- Atatürk Mansion: Elegant 19th-century villa surrounded by lush gardens.
- Trabzon Castle: Remnants of city walls from Roman and Byzantine times.
- Boztepe Hill: Offers panoramic city views and tea gardens.
- Bedesten Bazaar: Traditional market for copper, silver, and local crafts.
- Zağnos Valley: Beautiful city park combining history and nature.
Natural Attractions
- Uzungöl: The most famous lake of the Black Sea region, surrounded by lush forests and wooden chalets.
- Çal Cave: The second-longest cave in Turkey.
- Sera Lake: A peaceful spot for boating and photography.
- Hıdırnebi Plateau: Ideal for hiking and camping at 1600 meters altitude.
- Kadırga and Haçka Plateaus: Traditional highlands featuring summer festivals.
Festivals
Trabzon hosts the International Culture and Art Festival, Kadırga Highland Festivities, and Hamsiköy Rice Pudding Festival, all celebrating the city’s vibrant traditions.
Trabzon Intercity Bus Terminal
Located 4 km from the city center, the Trabzon Intercity Bus Terminal connects the city to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Rize, and Erzurum.
Facilities include rest areas, ticket counters, cafes, and prayer rooms.
What to Eat in Trabzon
- Anchovy Rice (Hamsili Pilav): Trabzon’s signature dish.
- Kuymak (Mıhlama): Melted cheese and cornmeal dish served for breakfast.
- Akçaabat Meatballs: Famous grilled meatballs unique to the region.
- Kaygana: Local-style omelet with herbs.
- Laz Böreği: Pastry filled with custard and syrup.
- Hamsiköy Rice Pudding: Traditional milk dessert.
- Cornbread and Kale Soup: Local staples in every household.
How to Get to Trabzon
- By Bus: Frequent services connect Trabzon with all major Turkish cities.
- By Air:Trabzon Airport (5 km) offers direct flights from Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and abroad.
- By Road: Samsun–Trabzon 330 km (~4.5 h), Rize–Trabzon 75 km (~1 h).
Bus Companies Operating in Trabzon
- Kamil Koç
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Ali Osman Ulusoy
- Kanberoğlu Turizm
- Lüks Karadeniz
- Ulusoy Seyahat
- Rize Ses Turizm
