Trabzon is a city that offers much more than just its bustling streets. It’s a place where history, natural beauty, and local culture collide in the most authentic ways. Whether you want to wander through ancient monasteries such as Sumela Monastery, explore scenic lakes like Uzungöl, or enjoy private guided tours, Trabzon’s diverse tour options have something for all. We especially love how some tours, such as the Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Tour, combine cultural sights with stunning landscapes, providing a full experience without the hassle of transportation planning.
For travelers who prefer comprehensive experiences, there are multi-day excursions that take you beyond Trabzon into Turkey’s eastern territories, like the 12-Day Eastern Turkey Sightseeing Tour. And if you’re looking to cross borders, the Group Walking Tour through Batumi, Georgia offers a delightful day trip into another culture. Whatever your style, these tours highlight Trabzon’s best offerings, from ancient sites to breathtaking mountain vistas.
1. Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Tour
At number 1 on our list, this full-day small-group tour is a fantastic way to see the highlights around Trabzon without worrying about logistics. It includes visits to the iconic Sumela Monastery, perched on a cliff within Altındere National Park, and the Zigana Pass, renowned for its stunning mountain views. The itinerary also takes you through the charming Hamsiköy Village, famous for its traditional houses and local flavor. The tour features comfortable transportation, English commentary, and a manageable schedule of around six hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those seeking a hassle-free experience.
What makes this tour special is its perfect balance of history, nature, and local culture. Guests praise the personable guide and the scenic forest walk up to Sumela, describing it as a memorable experience. The price of $56.89 offers excellent value, especially considering the convenience and expert guidance. It’s best suited for those who want a well-rounded day with family-friendly appeal and manageable physical activity.
Bottom Line: If you want a balanced, informative journey through Trabzon’s most famous sites, this tour hits the mark.
2. Trabzon: Sumela Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour
Ranking second, this full-day guided tour combines the must-see Sumela Monastery with a taste of regional cuisine and scenic viewpoints. It’s slightly longer at nine hours and has garnered over 110 reviews with a 4.6/5 rating. The itinerary includes a 1.5-hour visit to Sumela, a delicious local lunch in Hamsiköy, and stops at Zigana Mountain viewpoints and visitor centers. This tour is a good choice for those who want a deeper dive into the region’s Greek Orthodox history and enjoy picturesque mountain scenery.
The tour’s strength lies in its rich experience, including lunch in an idyllic setting and sightseeing of Zigana Mountain’s panorama. Reviewers mention how well-organized and friendly the guides are, with one noting the “wonderful experience” of exploring the Holy Monastery and surrounding nature. Priced at $55, it provides a comprehensive look at Trabzon’s highlights, especially for those interested in history and local flavors.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who appreciate culture combined with scenic views and good food.
3. Uzungol Tour: Full-Day Nature Adventure with Tea Factory Visit
At number 3, this nature-focused day trip from Trabzon offers a stress-free way to explore Uzungöl, one of Turkey’s most photographed lakes. The tour, rated 5.0 based on 34 reviews, includes round-trip transportation, visits to a tea factory, and shopping at a knife outlet in Sürmene. The journey lasts about eight hours, making it a comfortable full-day activity for nature lovers.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of natural beauty and regional craftsmanship. You’ll see the traditional tea production process and enjoy free time at Uzungöl for activities like renting bikes or exploring the markets. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the scenic drive, noting the breathtaking views of the lake and lush surroundings. At $52.26, it’s an affordable way to soak in the region’s tranquil atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxed day with cultural touches.
4. Full-Day Private Tour to Uzungöl from Trabzon
Number 4 offers a personalized experience with a full-day private trip to Uzungöl, ideal for small groups or families. This tour includes stops at the Surmene Knife Factory and Tea Factory, plus ample free time in Uzungöl to explore at your own pace. The private vehicle allows you to set your schedule and visit hidden spots like Yasay Falls.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—your own driver and guide tailor the day to your interests. Guests appreciate the comfortable, air-conditioned transfers and the ability to customize the timing. The price of $349.82 per group (up to five people) is quite good for a private experience, especially if you value flexibility and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or couples wanting a private, customizable day in Uzungöl.
5. 5 Day Enjoy Black Sea Tour
At number 5, this comprehensive five-day tour offers an in-depth exploration of the Black Sea region. Covering places like Sumela Monastery, Uzungöl, and local villages, it includes accommodation, transportation, and guided excursions. With a small group of ten or fewer, you’ll experience authentic regional culture, including visits to waterfalls, forests, and the Ayder Highlands.
Guests highlight this tour for its full immersion in Black Sea life, with reviews praising the well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides. The price of $1,719.45 reflects the extensive scope, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the region in depth without the hassle of planning every detail.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re seeking a long, well-rounded experience that covers culture, nature, and local cuisine.
6. Private Trabzon Full Day Tour With A Licensed Guide
Number 6 features a private, all-inclusive day tour of Trabzon’s key sights, such as Sumela Monastery, Atatürk Pavilion, and Boztepe Hill. The tour allows you to customize your itinerary and enjoy the comfort of private transportation, perfect for those who prefer a more intimate experience.
Guests often admire the personalized attention, with one reviewer noting how the guide shared 25 years of experience and made the trip memorable. The cost of $326.93 per group (up to seven) makes it a good value for a tailored day exploring Trabzon’s highlights with flexibility.
Bottom Line: An ideal pick for travelers who want a private, flexible experience with an expert guide.
7. Eastern Turkey 12-Day Sightseeing Tour from Trabzon
Number 7 is an epic 12-day adventure into Eastern Turkey, covering ancient sites, landscapes, and cultural treasures. Starting in Trabzon, you’ll visit Sumela Monastery, Mount Ararat, and numerous archaeological sites, with flights and accommodations included. It’s designed for those who want an immersive, deep dive into Turkey’s eastern provinces.
Reviewers commend the extensive itinerary and the expert guidance. This tour is suited for travelers with a good amount of time and a desire for a thorough experience. The price of $3,850 is high but reflects the all-inclusive nature and depth of exploration.
Bottom Line: For dedicated explorers willing to invest time and money, this tour offers unmatched depth and variety.
8. From Trabzon: Group Walking Tour through Batumi in Georgia
Number 8 takes you into another country—Georgia’s Batumi—with a day-long guided walking tour. Starting from Trabzon, it’s perfect for those interested in cultural exploration and border-crossing experiences. The tour visits landmarks like Europe Square, the Ali & Nino Statue, and the Batumi Piazza, offering insights into Georgia’s unique history and architecture.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 8 reviews, the tour emphasizes learning about Georgia while enjoying scenic views along the Black Sea coast. The cost of $93 per person makes it a good option for a full day of sightseeing combined with travel convenience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers eager to expand their trip beyond Turkey’s borders.
9. Enjoy Black Sea Boutique Tour
Number 9 is a five-day boutique experience that blends cultural sights, local food, and scenic landscapes. It covers Trabzon, Rize, and Artvin, with visits to waterfalls, lakes, and traditional villages. The tour’s personalized approach ensures you get a taste of everyday Black Sea life, with options for private or small-group travel.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the focus on regional culture. At $1,677.39, it’s a premium experience for travelers who want a curated, intimate journey through Turkey’s lush northern coast.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a deeper culture with personalized touches.
10. Trabzon Sümela Monastery, Cave, and Hamsiköy Daily Tour
Number 10 combines Sumela Monastery, Zigana Pass, and Torul Glass Terrace into a single day of exploration. The 4-hour guided outing is perfect for those who want a quick yet comprehensive taste of Trabzon’s religious and natural landmarks. The tour emphasizes history and scenic views, with notable stops including a legendary monastery and mountain passes.
Rated 5/5 by four reviewers, it’s praised for its smooth organization and informative guide. Priced at just $49.79, it offers excellent value for a compact, enriching day.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers short on time who want a focused, guided experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Trabzon tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For instance, if you want a comprehensive, multi-day experience, the 5 Day Enjoy Black Sea Tour offers depth, while the 12-Day Eastern Turkey Tour is perfect for serious explorers with time to spare. If you’re after a private, customizable day, the Full-Day Private Tour to Uzungöl provides flexibility, especially for families or couples.
For those interested in cross-border experiences, the Batumi Georgia walking tour combines history with scenic views. Budget travelers might prefer shorter, focused trips like the Sumela Monastery, Zigana, and Hamsiköy Village Tour, which offers a rich experience at a reasonable price.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours like the Uzungol Tour, to secure your spot during peak seasons.
In summary, Trabzon offers a range of tours that satisfy history lovers, nature seekers, and cultural explorers alike. Whether you choose a full-day guided adventure or a private custom trip, you’ll find plenty to love in this remarkable corner of Turkey. Consider your interests and schedule, then book early — these experiences tend to fill up quickly.