Trabzon is a city that combines natural beauty, rich history, and lively local culture—all in a manageable size. It’s especially great for travelers who want more than just a passing glance at Turkey’s Black Sea region. The Sumela Monastery alone draws visitors for its stunning setting and spiritual aura, but the area offers a lot more. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, enjoying scenic drives, or discovering local food, Trabzon has a tour that fits. We’ve rounded up three of the best options, each with its own unique appeal, from full-day adventures to private guided explorations. For a comprehensive experience, check out the Sumela Monastery, Zigiana, and Hamsiköy Village Tour, which combines iconic sights with local flavor.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of guided day trips and private tours, all designed to help you see Trabzon’s highlights without the hassle of planning. The first is a small-group day tour focusing on Sumela Monastery, Zigana Pass, and Hamsiköy Village, perfect if you want to travel comfortably and learn from a local guide (link here). Next, we include a more extensive 9-hour guided trip that covers the same monastery plus additional regional sights, ideal for those wanting a full day of sightseeing (link here). Lastly, for travelers who prefer a personalized experience, the Private Trabzon Full Day Tour offers tailored visits with a licensed guide, including the city’s top attractions (link here).
1. Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Tour
This full-day small-group tour offers an ideal balance of history, nature, and local life. For around $56, you get transportation, English commentary, and a well-paced itinerary designed to maximize your time in Trabzon. The highlight is undoubtedly the Sumela Monastery, perched on a steep cliff within Altindere National Park. Visitors walk along a scenic 300-meter forest path to reach it—an experience that combines nature and history. The tour also includes a visit to the Zigana Pass, known for its stunning mountain vistas, and a stop in Hamsiköy Village, famous for its fresh dairy products and traditional village charm.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of a manageable 6-hour schedule and personal attention in a small-group setting. The reviews reflect enthusiastic praise—”the journey was incredible,” says one traveler, noting the guide’s friendliness and the excellent organization. The tour is perfect for those with limited time but a desire for an authentic experience, and it’s suitable for families.
Bottom Line: This tour packs top sights into a short day, with a friendly group and expert guidance, making it excellent for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a stress-free adventure.
2. Trabzon: Sümele Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour
At nearly twice the duration, this full-day guided tour offers a deeper dive into the region’s sights and stories, all for just $55. It’s perfect if you want a more thorough experience. The day starts with a visit to Sumela Monastery, which takes about 1.5 hours, allowing plenty of time to explore its rock-carved chapels and learn about its Greek Orthodox past. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a traditional Black Sea lunch at Hamsiköy, renowned for its local cheese and fresh dairy.
The itinerary continues with a scenic viewpoint of Zigana Mountain, as well as visits to the visitor center and a Gümüşhane Province stop, offering a well-rounded view of the area’s natural and cultural diversity. What’s compelling here is the chance to see “all four seasons of the Black Sea in one day” and learn about regional history and landscapes. According to reviews, travelers appreciated the friendly guides and the chance to take in spectacular mountain views.
Bottom Line: This longer tour is ideal if you’re interested in experiencing the varied scenery and history of the Black Sea region in one day, especially if you appreciate a relaxed pace and local cuisine.
3. Private Trabzon Full Day Tour With A Licensed Guide
If you’re after a tailored experience, this private tour offers the chance to customize your day with a licensed guide. For around $327, up to seven people can enjoy the flexibility of a personalized itinerary. The tour includes key highlights like Sumela Monastery, Ataturk Pavilion, and Hagia Sophia of Trabzon. The guide shares in-depth insights about each site, making this a very educational experience. You also get the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which means no worries about transportation logistics.
What makes this tour unique is the private setting, allowing for more relaxed pacing and the chance to focus on what interests you most. Guests have praised guides like Ozkan for their extensive knowledge and ability to make the history come alive. The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full but comfortable day.
Bottom Line: This private option suits travelers who prefer a customized, intimate experience, especially if they want to explore beyond the usual sights with expert guidance.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, time, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a well-organized overview, the Sumela Monastery, Zigana, and Hamsiköy Village Tour is a smart pick. For those eager to see more of the region’s landscapes and enjoy a leisurely day, the longer Trabzon: Sümele Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour provides more depth. If a personalized, flexible experience is your priority, the Private Trabzon Full Day Tour offers full customization and private guide attention.
Consider your physical comfort too—some tours involve walking on uneven terrain or stairs, especially at Sumela Monastery. Booking early is advisable in high season, especially for private tours, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Trabzon’s mix of ancient monasteries, mountain scenery, and lively towns offers a variety of engaging tours. For a quick, friendly introduction, the Sumela Monastery, Zigana, and Hamsiköy Village Tour hits the mark. If you want a comprehensive day with regional highlights, the Trabzon: Sümele Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour is a solid choice. And for those who prefer a personalized experience, the Private Trabzon Full Day Tour ensures a tailored day with a knowledgeable guide.
No matter which option you choose, booking early will help you enjoy everything Trabzon has to offer without last-minute stress. These tours are a smart way to make the most of your time on Turkey’s Black Sea coast.