Trabzon
A guide to tourism in Trabzon: the best attractions, Meydan square, the cable car, weather, hotels and tours with a driver. Plan your trip with Absher Travel and book in minutes.
Trabzon is the best-known city in Northern Türkiye and the tourism capital of the Black Sea coast. It is the leading destination for Arab and Gulf visitors seeking green landscapes, mild weather and enchanting mist. The city combines forested mountains, high plateaus, lakes and valleys with a history stretching back more than 2,500 years.
Trabzon lies in north-eastern Türkiye on the Black Sea coast, about 1,080 km from Istanbul by road (or roughly two hours by air). Its location makes it an ideal base for visiting Uzungol, Ayder, Rize, Sumela Monastery and the rest of Northern Türkiye in a single trip.
In this guide from Absher Travel we take you through Trabzon's main attractions, the best times to visit, accommodation and hotel options, and how to travel by private car with a professional driver — so you can plan your trip confidently from a trusted source.
What is Trabzon known for?
- Green landscapes, mist and dense forests along the Black Sea coast.
- Mountain plateaus such as Hidirnebi and Hamsikoy.
- The historic Sumela Monastery clinging to the mountainside.
- The famous Uzungol lake (within Trabzon province).
- The cable car and Boztepe's panoramic views over the city and sea.
- A local cuisine rich in anchovies (hamsi), baked goods and mountain dairy.
Top places in Trabzon
Trabzon Meydan (main square)
The beating heart of the city. Meydan is a wide square surrounded by cafés, restaurants and gardens — perfect for an evening stroll, shopping and Turkish ice cream. It is the reference point for most hotels and the starting point for tours.
Boztepe Hill
A high hill overlooking Trabzon and the Black Sea, offering the finest panoramic view of the city — especially at sunset. It has cafés and restaurants with stunning outlooks and is among the most recommended spots to visit.
The Cable Car (Teleferik)
Trabzon's cable car is in the Yomra district and gives you a panoramic view of the city and sea from above — an enjoyable experience for families and children.
Sera Lake (Sera Gölü)
A quiet lake near the city centre (about 12 km) surrounded by forest — ideal for family picnics, boating and relaxing away from the crowds.
Atatürk Mansion (Atatürk Köşkü)
An elegant white mansion set in a green garden overlooking the city — a pleasant historic landmark for a visit and photographs.
Hagia Sophia of Trabzon
A historic church converted into a mosque, dating to the 13th century and notable for its architecture and decoration near the sea.
Forum Trabzon Mall
The city's largest shopping centre, with international brands, restaurants and children's entertainment — a good option on rainy days.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Trabzon is from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when temperatures are mild and the highlands turn green. July and August are peak months for Gulf visitors escaping the summer heat, while May and June offer quieter conditions and better prices. Snow lovers can visit in winter for a different experience in the highlands.
Tips from Absher
- Book a private car with a professional driver to cover the highlands and mountain areas flexibly and safely.
- Allow a full day each for Uzungol and Ayder — the roads are mountainous and deserve an unhurried pace.
- Bring light clothing and a waterproof jacket — Black Sea weather is changeable and rain can arrive suddenly.
- The highlands can be misty; early morning offers the clearest views and best photographs.
