Trabzon: Sümela Monastery, Cave, and Hamsiköy Daily Tour

Trabzon’s Sümela Monastery, Cave, and Hamsiköy Daily Tour offers an unforgettable journey into the region’s natural wonders and rich heritage. Visitors can explore the awe-inspiring Sümela Monastery, carved into the mountainside, and embark on a scenic trek to uncover hidden cave formations. The tour also takes guests to the picturesque town of Hamsiköy, where they’ll savor a delightful local lunch. With knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, this excursion promises an immersive experience that captivates the senses. For those seeking to delve deeper into Trabzon’s captivating story, this tour may be the perfect starting point.

Key Points

• This daily tour covers the Sümela Monastery, Karaca Cave, and Hamsiköy in the Trabzon region of Turkey, providing an immersive cultural and natural experience.
• The tour includes a 1.5-hour visit to the historic Sümela Monastery, with a 20 EUR entry fee, and a lunch break featuring local cuisine in Hamsiköy.
• The tour offers stunning views from the Zigana Mountain Summit at an altitude of 2000 meters and the Torul Glass Terrace, 240 meters high.
• The tour is available in Arabic, English, and Turkish, with experienced guides providing live commentary and shuttle service included in the starting price of $54.69 per person.
• The tour requires a 350-meter climb to reach the Sümela Monastery and involves challenging terrain, necessitating preparation and suitable clothing and rain gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Trabzon: Sümela Monastery, Cave, and Hamsiköy Daily Tour," offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Trabzon’s renowned attractions.

Priced from $54.69 per person, the 8.5-hour tour is available in Arabic, English, and Turkish. Guests have 11 pickup and drop-off options throughout Trabzon.

The tour’s highlights include a 1.5-hour visit to the iconic Sümela Monastery, a 1-hour lunch break featuring local cuisine in Hamsiköy, and admiring the views from Zigana Mountain’s summit at 2000 meters.

Transportation and an experienced live guide are provided, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for travelers.

Itinerary Highlights

Sümela Monastery, a renowned highlight of the tour, allows visitors to explore its historical and architectural wonders for 1.5 hours, with an entry fee of 20 EUR.

Travelers will then enjoy a 1-hour lunch break at Hamsiköy, savoring the local cuisine.

Next, they’ll admire the breathtaking views from the Zigana Mountain Summit, situated at an altitude of 2000 meters.

The tour also includes a visit to the Torul Glass Terrace, 240 meters high, and the Karaca Cave, known for its stalactites and travertines (temporarily closed in winter).

Finally, participants can taste local fruit pulp and kome aisles in Gümüşhane Province.

Tour Features

Experienced guides provide insights into the history and culture of the region, offering a live tour commentary.

The shuttle service is included in the tour price, though there’s a 60 Turkish Lira fee for transportation. Lunch is provided, so participants should eat breakfast before the tour.

The scenic 45-minute journey to Sümela Monastery showcases beautiful views along the way.

Customer Feedback

According to 76 customer reviews, the Trabzon: Sümela Monastery, Cave, and Hamsiköy Daily Tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable and accommodating guide, rating them 5/5. The transportation also received high marks at 4.8/5.

While the value for money was solid at 4.4/5, the tour’s highlights, like the stunning Sümela Monastery and the delicious local cuisine, made it a worthwhile experience.

Mathues and Tina, in particular, emphasize the beauty of Trabzon and the quality of the guided tour, underscoring the tour’s ability to deliver an exceptional and memorable experience.

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Important Information

To properly prepare for the tour, travelers are advised to bring rain gear and wear comfortable clothing.

The tour involves a 350-meter climb to reach the Sümela Monastery, and the road leading there isn’t smooth.

However, the tour operates rain or shine, offering flexibility in booking with a "reserve now & pay later" option.

Participants should keep in mind the physical requirements and be prepared for the challenging terrain.

With the right preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the stunning sights and cultural experiences this tour has to offer.

Exploring Sümela Monastery

The Sümela Monastery is the centerpiece of the tour, enthralling visitors with its remarkable Byzantine architecture and perched precariously on the side of a steep cliff.

Climbing 350 meters up to reach the monastery requires effort, but the stunning vistas more than make up for it.

The arduous climb up 350 meters is rewarded with breathtaking vistas that captivate the senses.

Inside, guests can admire frescoes and murals that have survived centuries, offering a glimpse into the monastery’s rich history.

After the guided tour, there’s free time to explore the site’s nooks and crannies independently.

The breathtaking setting and impressive religious heritage make Sümela Monastery a must-see highlight of the Trabzon tour.

Discovering Hamsiköy and Beyond

After exploring the spiritual grandeur of Sümela Monastery, the tour takes visitors to the charming town of Hamsiköy.

Here, guests enjoy a 1-hour lunch break featuring local cuisine.

The tour then ascends to the Zigana Mountain Summit, offering breathtaking views from an altitude of 2000 meters.

Next, the group visits the Torul Glass Terrace, situated 240 meters high, providing panoramic vistas.

Finally, they explore the Karaca Cave, known for its stunning stalactites and travertines, although it’s temporarily closed in winter.

Throughout the journey, travelers also sample local fruit pulp and kome aisles in Gümüşhane Province.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on Weekends?

The tour is available on weekends, as it operates rain or shine according to the information provided. The tour itinerary and schedule remain the same regardless of the day of the week.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a 1-hour lunch break featuring local cuisine is included in the itinerary, so many travelers choose to enjoy the provided meal.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the tour. However, the activity level may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the moderate physical requirements.

Can I Purchase Additional Activities During the Tour?

Travelers can purchase additional activities during the tour, such as entrance fees to attractions or upgrades. However, the core tour package includes the main sights and experiences outlined in the itinerary details.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t explicitly offer an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can likely arrange for additional time at sites or request a longer itinerary by contacting the operator directly and paying any applicable fees.

The Sum Up

The Trabzon: Sümela Monastery, Cave, and Hamsiköy Daily Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the region’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. With its breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, this full-day adventure provides an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to explore Trabzon’s captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

You can check availability for your dates here: