Trabzon: Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour

Traveling to Trabzon and looking for a way to see the best highlights without the hassle? This full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of the region’s most iconic sites, from the breathtaking Sümela Monastery to the charming Hamsiköy village. For just $55, you get a guided journey packed with history, natural beauty, and delicious local bites.

What we appreciate most about this tour is how smoothly it combines stunning scenery with cultural insights, especially thanks to knowledgeable guides like Hakan and Berke. The variety of stops—including Zigana Mountain, a glass terrace, and a traditional fruit pulp shop—keeps the day lively and engaging. The downside? The hike up to Sümela Monastery involves climbing about 350 meters over uneven terrain, so it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues. Still, if you’re eager for authentic experiences and scenic adventures, this trip has plenty to offer.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out exploring Trabzon’s natural landscapes and historic sites without the stress of planning individual visits. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to taste some local flavors, this trip hits many of the right notes.

Key Points

• Value for money: The tour offers a full day of sightseeing, with multiple stops and expert guidance, all for $55.
• Diverse experiences: From hiking to the monastery to tasting Hamsiköy rice pudding, there’s a good mix of cultural and scenic highlights.
• Knowledgeable guides: Reviewers highlight guides like Hakan and Berke, who share fascinating details and keep the group engaged.
• Stunning views: Expect spectacular vistas of Zigana Mountain, valleys, and mountain summits, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Authentic local flavors: Enjoy local delicacies like fruit pulps and rice pudding, adding a tasty cultural layer to the journey.
• Consideration for physical activity: Climbing to Sümela involves some effort and uneven terrain, which is worth noting for those with mobility concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Day: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Pickup and Transportation

The adventure begins with convenient pickup options from your hotel or designated meeting points in Trabzon. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, ensuring comfort during the long day ahead. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated the comfortable bus and the smooth ride, especially given the scenic but sometimes winding roads. Berke, the guide, and the driver are praised for their friendliness, making the journey feel more like a trip with friends rather than a formal tour.

Sümela Monastery: A Climb into History and Nature

The highlight is, of course, the Sümela Monastery. Located on a steep cliff at the foot of the Altındere Valley, this Greek Orthodox monastery dates back centuries and offers a glimpse into the region’s religious past. The tour includes a shuttle ride up to the parking lot, followed by a 10-minute walk to the monastery entrance.

The walk involves a climb of roughly 350 meters over uneven paths—a point emphasized by travelers who mention the stairs and rocky terrain. This ascent is part of what makes the visit so rewarding, but it requires a reasonable level of physical fitness. Once there, visitors can explore the grounds, admire panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains, and learn from guides like Hakan, who share detailed stories about the monastery’s history and architecture, making the visit more meaningful.

One reviewer noted that the monastery is magnificent despite the rain, which shows that even in less-than-perfect weather, the site’s charm doesn’t fade. The entrance fee of around 20 euros (or equivalent local currency) is not included, but many agree that the visit is worth the extra cost for the chance to walk through such an iconic structure.

Zigana Mountain Summit: High Altitude Views

After the monastery, the tour heads toward Zigana Mountain Summit, perched at about 2,000 meters elevation. The views from this vantage point are stunning, with expansive vistas of valleys, peaks, and the Zigana pass. Travelers love how this stop allows for a breather and some fantastic photos. The altitude and fresh mountain air make it a refreshing break from the lower valley.

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Scenic Stops and Local Flavors

On the return journey, the group makes a couple of short stops at viewpoints—one with a glass floor offering a thrilling perspective over the valley below. Entry fees are around 100 lira, which you might find reasonable considering the experience. Plus, there’s a visit to a local restaurant where you can enjoy hearty Black Sea cuisine. Reviewers mention spending around 500 lira on mains, rice pudding, and tea, indicating that while the food is delicious, it’s not the cheapest meal of the trip.

A sweet highlight is Hamsiköy, a picturesque village along the Silk Road route. Here, you get a chance to taste the famous Hamsiköy rice pudding, a sweet treat that many say is worth the stop. The village itself offers charming scenery and a glimpse into local life, making it a favorite among travelers.

Torul Glass Terrace and Karaca Cave: Unique Natural Attractions

The Torul Glass Terrace is a standout for its height—standing at 240 meters—and offers a daring, panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Although the Karaca Cave is temporarily closed during winter, it’s often included in the tour and is famed for stalactites and travertines that create a fairy-tale underground scene. Reviewers note that the cave’s beauty is well worth the entrance fee, which is about 100 lira.

Additional Cultural Stops and Tasting Opportunities

Throughout the tour, there are options to explore local markets and shops, including a fruit pulp shop and a candy store where you can try free samples. Many travelers enjoy these small but meaningful experiences that add flavor (literally) and authenticity to the day. The guide’s ability to share local stories and cultural insights makes these stops more engaging.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

The Guide and Group Size

Reviewers consistently praise the guides—Hakan, Berke, and others—for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. They make the experience more personal and enrich the sightseeing with stories and details you won’t find in guidebooks. The group sizes are generally small, which enhances interaction and makes it easier to ask questions.

Transport and Comfort

The included transportation is modern and comfortable, a significant plus considering the long day. Travel time between sites averages about 45 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Travelers mention that the bus was clean, and the ride was smooth enough to relax and take in the views.

Cost and Value

At $55 per person, this tour offers good value, especially when considering the number of stops, the guidance, and the convenience of transportation. Entrance fees to sites like Sümela Monastery (about 20 euros), Karaca Cave (100 lira), and the glass terrace (100 lira) are additional, but many feel these are reasonable given the experience. The tour also includes tastings and stops at local vendors, which add to the overall value.

Physical Considerations

The main physical challenge is the climb up to Sümela. It involves some uneven terrain and stairs, so travelers should be prepared for a bit of a workout. Wearing comfortable shoes, bringing rain gear just in case, and having breakfast beforehand are advised to maximize enjoyment.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day trip offers a practical way to see many of Trabzon’s highlights without the stress of individual planning. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a good mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and local flavors. The guides’ stories and the scenic stops make it engaging, not just a checklist of attractions.

If you’re looking for a balanced day that combines outdoor adventure with cultural insights—plus some delicious regional treats—this is a solid pick. Keep in mind, it’s best for travelers comfortable with some walking and climbing. If you prefer a very relaxed or wheelchair-accessible experience, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The walk to Sümela Monastery involves climbing approximately 350 meters over uneven terrain, which could be challenging. It’s best suited for those in good health and comfortable with some physical activity.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
While the exact timing isn’t specified, the entire day is designed to be a full-day experience, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees for sites like Sümela Monastery (around 20 euros), Karaca Cave (100 lira), and the glass terrace (100 lira) are paid separately. The tour price covers transportation and guiding.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable clothes, rain gear, and breakfast are recommended. Pack a camera for the stunning views and some cash for optional entrance fees or purchases.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have options to buy food and drinks at stops, with some reviewers spending around 500 lira on a meal with local specialties.

In summary, this Trabzon tour offers a rich blend of scenic views, cultural landmarks, and local tastes at a reasonable price. It’s an excellent choice for those eager to explore the region’s natural beauty and history without the complications of organizing multiple separate visits. Just be prepared for some physical activity and enjoy the stories and flavors along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: