2026 Trabzon Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

#travelwithfootball From the Bosphorus to the Black Sea, football offers one of the most exciting ways to discover Türkiye. Every major club is deeply connected to its city, reflecting its culture, traditions, and local identity. Following Turkish football isn’t just about the matches—it’s about exploring the places behind the teams. 📍 Istanbul: The City of Rivalries No city in Türkiye lives and breathes football quite like Istanbul. Home to the country’s “Big Three” clubs, each district offers a different experience. ⚫⚪ Beşiktaş – Bosphorus views, lively waterfront cafés, and a vibrant match-day atmosphere. 🔴🟡 Galatasaray – Historic Beyoğlu, İstiklal Avenue, hidden passages, and iconic nightlife. 🟡🔵 Fenerbahçe – Kadıköy’s markets, seaside promenades, and creative café culture on the Asian side. 📍 Bursa: Green City, Proud Tradition Home to Bursaspor, Bursa combines football with nature and history. Explore the UNESCO-listed Cumalıkızık village, visit the Grand Mosque, and ride the cable car to Uludağ Mountain. 📍 İzmir: Football by the Aegean Sea Known for its passionate football culture, İzmir is home to clubs like Göztepe, Karşıyaka, and Altay. Wander along the Kordon waterfront, explore Alsancak’s cafés, and enjoy the relaxed Aegean lifestyle. 📍 Adana: The City of Passion Home to Adana Demirspor and Adanaspor, this southern city is famous for its intense football rivalries and unforgettable food scene. Don’t leave without trying the legendary Adana kebab and strolling along the Seyhan River. 📍 Trabzon: Black Sea Football Capital Home to Trabzonspor, the city has challenged Istanbul’s football dominance for decades. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and the Black Sea coastline, Trabzon is also the gateway to Uzungöl and the breathtaking landscapes of the region. In Türkiye, football isn’t just played in stadiums—it lives in every street, café, waterfront, and city square. Which football city would you visit first? #TurkeyTravel #FootballTravel #Istanbul #Izmir #Bursa #Adana #Trabzon #FootballCulture #TripMoments #VisitTurkey

When we first visited the Black Sea region, we were amazed by the atmosphere of this area. It is one of the most scenic places we have ever seen in Turkey. Among green tea plantations and mountains, not far from Trabzon, lies Uzungöl Lake. ⛰️The lake is truly stunning in its beauty. What stood out the most was the view from the observation deck — it is simply breathtaking! Even on the hottest day, it stays quite cool here, which makes this place perfect for отдых. 🧆On the shore of the lake, there are many cafes and souvenir shops where you can try local delicacies and buy something to remember the trip by. In addition, there is a children's playground there, so you can confidently bring kids with you. They will definitely love it. 🛕Also not far from the lake is the Panagia Sumela Monastery, built into the rock, and it is also a must-visit.

#hellohalloween The Funes Valley (Val di Funes) in the Dolomites of northern Italy is becoming increasingly popular. 1. Breathtaking Scenery: The valley is renowned for its stunning landscapes, with the Odle/Geisler Group in the background — a jagged mountain range that looks almost otherworldly. The combination of lush green meadows, towering peaks, and charming wooden farmhouses creates a perfect postcard scene. It’s one of the most photographed areas in the Dolomites. 2. Hiking & Outdoor Activities: Funes Valley offers numerous hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, so it's ideal for both casual walkers and serious hikers. The area is also great for mountain biking, and in winter, it attracts people for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

You flight to Batumi or Tbilisi and from tbilisi The journey is approximately 208 km (129 miles) and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours by car, not including the time spent at the border. The Border Crossing: Sarpi The most important part of your journey is crossing the Georgia-Turkey border at the Sarpi checkpoint. The process is generally straightforward, but be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak season. By Car: You will drive your vehicle through the checkpoint. Ensure you have all your necessary documents, including your passport, car registration, and potentially a visa or e-visa depending on your nationality. By Foot: It's also possible to take public transport (Bus #16 or a "marshrutka") from Batumi to the Sarpi border, walk across the border, and then take a Turkish minibus (a "dolmuş") from the other side to the town of Hopa. Places to See on the Turkish Side (after the border) The route follows the scenic Black Sea coastline, so you'll be treated to beautiful views of the sea on one side and the lush green mountains on the other. Many of the most popular attractions are in the nearby Rize Province. Near Hopa (just after the border) Mençuna Waterfall: Located near the town of Arhavi (close to Hopa), this is a stunning natural attraction. It's a bit of a detour but worth it for nature lovers. Hopa Port: Take a walk along the coast and enjoy the mountain views where they meet the sea. Çamburnu Nature Reserve Park: A peaceful spot with lush greenery and hiking trails for a brief stop. Near Rize (the "Tea Capital") Rize is a major city on the route and is famous for its tea plantations. Rize Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the city and the Black Sea, the castle offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's history. Zil Castle: A medieval fortress built on a steep cliff in the Fırtına Valley. It's a popular spot for photographers and offers spectacular views. This is a bit of a detour inland from the coastal road. Ayder Plateau: A famous highland village known for its stunning alpine scenery, traditional wooden houses, and thermal hot springs. It requires a significant detour inland from the coastal road but is a very popular tourist destination. Fırtına Valley: Known for rafting and ziplining opportunities on the Fırtına River, it's an exciting stop for adventure seekers. Detours from the Main Route Uzungöl: This is a spectacular mountain lake located in a village about 100 km inland from Trabzon. While not directly on the E70 highway, it's one of the most famous tourist attractions in the region and a veryHow to get around: Must-see attractions: Hotel guide: Food guide: Shopping guide: popular side trip. Sumela Monastery: A historic Greek Orthodox monastery carved into a cliffside in the Altındere Valley National Park, southeast of Trabzon. Like Uzungöl, it requires a significant detour from the main coastal route but is a UNESCO-listed site and a must-see for many visitors to the region. 

📍Address: Altindere Valley National Park, Altındere, 61750 Maçka/Trabzon

Last year I had travelled to the Western and Southern part of Turkey and had such a wonderful time exploring the diversity - but I wanted to see just how much more magical it could get - and wow! Trabzon blew me away! The views, the food, the markets, the hospitality, THE VIEWS!! It was such a beautiful destination with everything close by! We stayed in the heart of Trabzon near Meydan Park. There were buses and markets within walking distance. That by default made everything closer! It took about 10-15 minutes to get to the airport, about 20 minutes with a minibus to find this magical view close to Sera lake, and pretty much everything else was just a stroll away - including restaurants and cafes offering diverse cuisines, and a vibrant walkway with dinner on a cruise! Absolutely recommend this destination for couples 😜 #couplestrip #turkey #100waysoftravel

Trabzon is the largest and most controversial city on the Black Sea coast. Either love or hate. This is a complicated place because it has both the shackles of a big city and the dilapidated appearance of a port city. We went with the Taiwanese boys and girls who met each other and climbed to the top of the mountain to watch a sunset. The messy antennas above the building are staggered as if to divide the sky. In some houses, the dilapidated saw blade is the only defense on the top of the earthen wall. The Taiwanese boy who studies art says "very artistic, I like it very much." In the village, there is a monument-like thing next to the path, with taps on it, which were built before the death of the locals, and when the descendants drank water, they thought of their merits. Really, there are interesting styles everywhere.

Trabzon is the largest city in the eastern Black Sea, the busiest port. Trabzons football team and Bursas football team are the only non-Istanbul teams that have won the Turkish National League, but it seems that they have been more than 20 years since they last won, and everyone here seems to be proud of it. Trabzon fun place: 1. Trabzon Museum This is an Italian-style mansion built by a Russian businessman in Turkey. There is an exhibition hall dedicated to the facilities in the mosque. There is also a room where Ataturk lived. 2. Boztep Picnic Google Map Search: Boztepe A place that is perfect for picnics, keep going up the road in the village. can see a meadow halfway up the mountain. Take out the bread ham and drink bought on the road, you can have a picnic with your friends. There are a lot of local people drinking tea in the teahouse next to it. The price is very cheap, and the scenery is beautiful.

Trabzon is the busiest port and largest city in the eastern Black Sea. There is a football team and a Bursa team that is the only non-Istanbul team that has won the Turkish National League. Although they have been winning the championship for the past 20 years, they still have great glory. This is a friendly city. Of course, every city in Turkey deserves such a description. The specific enthusiasm can be seen from the photo taken by the locals when I go to the fish market~ There is also a Russian here. The Italian-style museum built by the merchants in Turkey is also worth seeing, and there is a very strange kebab, probably only 1TL. I am holding a try and I am going to eat a food that looks like meat. But like rice mixed with ketchup, and a half-mountain picnic place? Yes, there is such a place...

Amazing view from Trabzon trip #trabzon

#photovsrealitytravel The Photo: Sitting on a sunny wooden bungalow deck overlooking endless green tea plantations, standing above a clear "sea of clouds" in the high mountain plateaus, and taking pristine postcard shots of Uzungöl’s famous lake nestled peacefully between green alpine peaks. The Reality: Opening your cabin door at 8:00 AM to a solid wall of white fog with zero visibility, driving up steep mountain dirt roads in heavy mist, and arriving at Uzungöl only to find packed parking lots, crowded lakeside promenades, and dozens of tour buses! 🌫️🚗🚌 The Black Sea region is stunning, but it is unpredictable, raw, and very popular during peak season. How to Handle the Reality & Get the Best Experience: Highlands & Weather: The weather in Rize’s mountain plateaus (like Pokut or Ayder) changes every 20 minutes. Don't panic if it's completely whited-out with fog—sit down for hot Turkish tea (çay), because the sun often breaks through the clouds unexpectedly. Always pack a waterproof jacket and warmer layers, even in mid-summer! Highland Road Prep: Rent a solid 4WD vehicle or hire a local driver if you plan to venture up to the higher, remote plateaus. The narrow mountain switchbacks can get very muddy and slippery after rain. Beating the Uzungöl Crowds: If you want that tranquil lakeside feel, visit Uzungöl before 9:00 AM or stay overnight so you can walk the lake path after the day-trip buses leave. For the classic postcard view, skip the crowded main street and head up to the elevated hillside view terraces above the lake. Have you ever visited the Black Sea highlands or Uzungöl? Did you get clear sunny skies, or were you completely enveloped in the mountain fog? Let's hear your stories below! 👇

If you're planning an epic adventure in the north of Turkey—whether you're base-camping out in Trabzon or chasing emerald valleys around Rize—don't just whiz past these unreal mountains on a quick day tour. To soak up the real magic of the Karadeniz (Black Sea) region, you HAVE to spend at least one night cocooned in a mountain bungalow. Trust me, just passing through is major FOMO! Our stay at Dağlara Bungalov in Çamlıhemşin was basically the main character moment of our whole northern Turkey trip, and here’s why you’ve gotta add this to your bucket list: 🕯️ Nighttime Bliss: A Whole New Level of Cozy After a long day hopping around misty waterfalls and legendary old stone bridges, coming back to a super-warm wood cabin? That’s peak vibes. When the mountain air gets that fairy-tale crispness at night, the whole bungalow turns into your private spa zone. Light some candles by the window, fill up your in-room jacuzzi (yup, you read that right 💦), and just zone out as the shadows flicker across the timber ceiling. The only soundtrack? That distant rush of the Fırtına River. City hotels could NEVER. 🌅 First Light: Literally Waking Up Above the Clouds This is what you came for—the absolute magic of a Black Sea sunrise! If you zip back to the city at night, you’ll totally miss it. Step out onto your own balcony at dawn and BOOM: creamy mist rolls between the pine trees while the sunrays paint the peaks of Çamlıhemşin in dream-like gold and blue. It’s so peaceful, your only “alarm” is mountain silence and a cool breeze. IG stories can’t do it justice, trust. 🍳 Morning Feast: Turkish Breakfast with Main Character Views You can’t say you’ve done the Black Sea right if you skip breakfast here. At Dağlara Bungalov, breakfast isn’t just a meal, it’s a whole vibe. They dish up a HUGE tray of local cheeses, briny olives, cloud-like clotted cream (kaymak) with golden honey, fresh-out-of-the-oven bread, and endless rounds of strong Turkish tea—all set against those out-of-this-world peaks. It’s the ultimate energy boost for a day full of trekking (or just more chilling 😅). 📍Why Dağlara Bungalov is a Must-Book Location: Dropped perfectly in the Yıldız neighborhood of Çamlıhemşin, Rize (Google Maps it: “Dağlara Bungalov, Yıldız Mah., Çamlıhemşin/Rize, Turkey”). You get that proper high-altitude, secluded vibe but you’re still close to epic sights like the Timisvat historic stone bridge. Vibe Check: Modern luxury fused with rustic mountain lodge energy—think Insta-worthy interiors + private jacuzzi in the clouds! Hosts: You’re welcomed like family here. The staff honestly make the whole stay feel so wholesome and homey. ✨ Pro Traveler Tip: These bungalows are always in hot demand, especially during those summer sunset and autumn cloud sea seasons. If you’re mapping out Trabzon or Rize, book your “sleeping in the clouds” moment ASAP! Ready for your ultimate Black Sea adventure? Start your search on trip.com and let Dağlara Bungalov work its magic—this view is pure bucket list! #trabzon #turkey #travel #couplestrip

My Stay at Sera Lake Resort – What Stood Out to Me Text: I stayed at Sera Lake Resort during my time in Trabzon, and the thing I remember most was how peaceful the area felt compared with the city center. The surroundings were green and quiet, and waking up close to the lake made the stay feel more relaxing. The location is beautiful, but it is a little removed from central Trabzon, so planning transportation in advance is helpful. For me, the scenery and calm atmosphere were the strongest parts of the experience.

My Visit to Sera Lake in Trabzon I visited Sera Lake during my stay in Trabzon and what I liked most was the quiet atmosphere and green scenery around the lake. I spent some time walking around and enjoying the view rather than rushing through. It felt very different from the busy city center, and I would recommend visiting when the weather is clear.

#easytravelpost Karagöl Sahara National Park (Artvin) sits at 1,630 m in Turkey's Black Sea mountains — a 3 km² lake ringed by Picea orientalis (Caucasian spruce) and Abies nordmanniana (Nordmann fir), where Sphagnum and Polytrichum pad the lakeshore bog and the forest floor drips year-round. Entry 150 TRY (2026, cash at the gate), open May–October. I took an Artvin→Karagöl dolmuş (200 TRY, 1.5 hrs, cash), walked the 4 km lakeshore loop at 9 a.m. in June. The lake is glacial, 3 ha, 33 m deep, crystal clear. The mossy half is the west shore where the spruce overhangs the water and Sphagnum forms a 2 m-wide emerald mat — you can kneel and fill a bottle (filter recommended). The Black Sea mist sits until 10:30, then burns off to reveal the Kaçkar range. Mistake: I visited in November — road closed by snow, turned back at the lower gate, 400 TRY dolmuş wasted, had to wait for a return ride 2 hrs. June–September only. Second mistake: I camped on the moss mat — park ranger: "that's the 50-yr spruce regeneration zone, 2,000 TRY fine, move to the designated camping 200 m east". Third: I paid 300 TRY for a "boat ride" on the lake — it's a 3 ha pond, you can walk around it in 50 min, the boat was 10 min, tourist trap. Buy in Artvin: a 100 TRY hamsi (anchovy) roll, not the 500 TRY park café. Gear: 2.5 L water, 500 TRY fleece, 400 TRY shell — 1,630 m, 8°C mornings. Local rule: 150 TRY entry, camping 500 TRY permit, no drone, stay on the loop trail, the moss mat is not a tent pad. The moss on the spruce root is the Black Sea cloud's catch — step on cut board. Opinion: Karagöl Sahara is the Black Sea's best-kept secret and the mossy west-shore spruce loop is the 30-min half with zero Trabzon tourist crowd. Should the park add a 200 TRY honour box for boardwalk upkeep, or keep the 150 TRY gate? I'd add it. Would you dolmuş 1.5 hrs into the Kaçkars for a mossy spruce lake at 1,630 m?

Trabzon Square Park Title: Trabzon Square Park – Heart of the City A lively place in central Trabzon, surrounded by cafés, shops, and restaurants. It is a nice area for walking, relaxing, and experiencing the atmosphere of the city, especially in the evening. #Trabzon #Turkey #TravelMoments

Sera Lake Resort Hotel Spa & Aparts – Peaceful Stay in Trabzon A beautiful option for travelers looking for a quiet stay away from the busy city center. The location near Sera Lake gives the area a relaxing atmosphere with lovely mountain and lake views. It can be a good base for exploring Trabzon and nearby attractions. Trabzon, Türkiye #Trabzon #SeraLake #TurkeyTravel #HotelStay #TripBest

#easytravelpost The Olgunlar Yayla (2,150 m) sits on the Kaçkar northern flank below Dilberdüzü; the variant route is Yaylalar→Olgunlar→Nastaf Yayla through the lower Pontic cloud forest (1,800–2,200 m) before the alpine kicks in — Thuidium on the blackthorn 1 cm, Sphagnum in the Büyük Deresi seep 2 cm, Metzgeria on the rhododendron 1 cm, 9°C in Jul dawn, the Caucasian grouse, the Black Sea fog below. Kaçkar NP small entry/parking fee (~50 TRY), Trabzon→Yusufeli dolmuş 3 hrs then Yaylalar dolmuş 1 hr (once daily). I flew Istanbul→Trabzon, dolmuş to Yusufeli (200 TRY), next-day dolmuş to Yaylalar 07:00, walked to Olgunlar (2 hrs). The moss on the yayla stone wall was black-green with cow-bell drip, ate a 150 TRY Yusufeli mıhlama, watched cloud lift off Olgunlar by 09:30 — the variant avoids the Dilberdüzü camp crowd. Mistake: I pushed Olgunlar→Nastaf→Dilberdüzü same day in Jul — 1,400 m gain, stormed out; sleep Olgunlar, do Nastaf next AM. Another: TRY cash, Yaylalar no ATM — draw in Trabzon. Would you dolmuş ~250 TRY for the Yaylalar→Olgunlar mossy Pontic cloud-forest variant, or skip Olgunlar and do the standard Ayder→Dilberdüzü crossing instead?

#easytravelpost Ayder is a yayla (summer plateau) at 1,350 m in Rize province, Black Sea coast, 3 hrs from Trabzon airport. I took a dolmuş from Çamlıhemşin to Ayder (40 TRY, 45 min) up the Fırtına valley — moss on the stone bridges, hazelnut terraces either side, cloud sitting in the rhododendron. The plateau itself has a village entry fee (~20 TRY/car, pedestrians free), hot springs, and a dozen tea gardens. The mossy bit is the Çat valley side road: a 2 km walk past the last pension, where the Rize tea bushes grow wild under spruce, moss on the irrigation stones, 16°C at 09:00, a Laz shepherd with a flock. I stopped at a family tea garden (no name, just a wooden platform): çay 15 TRY, muhlama (cornmeal cheese fondue) 120 TRY, sat on a moss-log bench looking at the Kaçkar range. The plateau's famous Ottoman-style houses are the backdrop; the moss is in the unpaved upper meadow. Mistake: I came August — warm, but the morning cloud burns off by 10:00 and the moss dries; June or Sept for green-wet. Another: Trabzon ATMs are fine with foreign cards, but Ayder's pensions often want cash TRY; carry 500 TRY small bills. Would you dolmuş to Ayder for the 15 TRY çay in a Çat-valley mossy tea garden with Kaçkar views, or drive the Fırtına valley yourself and stop at every stone bridge?

#easytravelpost The Kaçkar range on the Black Sea coast is Turkey's wettest alpine system; Ayder Plateau (1,350 m) is the trailhead for climbs to Samistal and the high lakes. I took an Istanbul–Trabzon flight (1,200 TRY), dolmuş to Rize, then Ayder dolmuş (120 TRY, 2 hrs, last one 17:00 from Rize otogar). Ayder entry is free, but the plateau parking is 50 TRY. From Ayder I walked the old mule road toward Yukarı Kavrun at 07:50. The first 3 km is meadow and hazelnut terraces, then the cloud forest: beech and fir dripping, moss on the trunks 2 cm thick, 13°C, fog at 09:00. By 10:30 at 1,900 m the moss is on the ground and the trail is a green tunnel; I heard a Caucasian grouse and saw fresh bear scat on a log. The plateau's hot spring (Ayder kaplıca, 200 TRY entry) steams below — I soaked at 16:00 after the walk, the moss on the changing-room roof smelling of sulphur and fern. Mistake: I wore a windbreaker and no midlayer — the cloud forest drops to 8°C by noon if fog stays; pack a fleece even in July. Another: the Ayder dolmuş fills by 15:00 in summer; I missed the return and paid 400 TRY for a taxi to Çamlıhemşin. Would you walk Ayder's mossy mule road to 1,900 m and soak in the 200 TRY sulphur spring after, or drive the plateau loop and skip the wet climb?

Trabzon aquarium

#easytravelpost I based in Çamlıhemşin and took the morning dolmuş up to Ayder (around 80–120 TL from Rize/Pazar side, 2 hrs from Trabzon). The vehicle gate fee into the plateau is 250 TL per car in 2026—on foot or dolmuş you just pay nothing at the gate, but plan lodging cash. Ayder sits at 1,350 m, ringed by rhododendron and beech cloud forest that drips even in August. I checked into a wooden chalet (1,400 TL/night with breakfast for a double, cheaper in May), soaked in the kaplıca (thermal session 120 TL), then walked the Fırtına stream path at 6:30 p.m. after the tour buses left. That evening window is the real Ayder: mist rolls off the Kaçkar face, cows clank bells through the meadow, and the Palovit waterfall road is empty. I pushed 25 min up the Palovit trail (free side path, not the paid cascade viewpoint) and got the spray without the crowd. Next morning I shared a 4WD to Yukarı Kavrun (600 TL/car split 4 ways) as a launch toward the high lakes—but even without that, Ayder→Gito→Pokut ridge walk is a full day. Mistake: I arrived at 11 a.m. once and fought for parking and a table; after 18:00 the plateau resets. Another: I wore trail runners in the cloud forest and the boardwalk algae was slick—grippy soles. Cards work at big chalets, but the muhlama stall wants TL cash. Would you stay overnight for the 18:00 silence, or day-trip from Trabzon and miss the mist?

I thought I knew Turkey: Antalya, Istanbul, the beaches, and the resorts. But then I visited Trabzon—and realized I didn't know a thing. This isn't your typical holiday resort. It’s a port town steeped in history, capturing the true spirit of Black Sea life. You won’t find throngs of tourists or "all-inclusive" buffets here. Instead, you'll find local fishermen, morning tea, the calls of simit vendors, and a breeze carrying the scent of salt and lush greenery. 🏛️ Two thousand years of history in one evening We kicked off our trip at the Hagia Sophia Mosque. It’s like a miniature version of Istanbul's iconic landmark, but with a distinct vibe of its own. Inside, ancient frescoes peek through the plaster. I stood there thinking, "This temple witnessed the Byzantines, the Ottomans, and now, it's looking at me." Admission is just 100 liras—honestly, some of the best money I spent in the city. Next, we strolled along the ancient city walls encircling the hill. These stones date all the way back to the Romans. We wandered past the battlements, peeked into the watchtowers, and tried to picture the epic sieges they once held off. The view of the bay from the Upper Fortress was so breathtaking that I just stood there, mesmerized, for half an hour. 🌿 The green heart of Trabzon Zagnos Valley Park was our perfect escape from the midday heat. A deep ravine, a bubbling stream, a waterfall, little bridges, and benches shaded by plane trees—we just sat there, sipping water and soaking in the peace and quiet. It’s a hidden gem often skipped by guidebooks, which is a real shame. 🌄 Sunset at Boztepe We grabbed a cab up to the hilltop observation deck. From a bird's-eye view, Trabzon looked like a miniature model: red tiled roofs, towering port cranes, the endless blue of the sea, and lush green slopes disappearing into the clouds. We got there an hour before sunset, and it was absolutely worth it. The perfect way to wrap up the day. 🛍️ The Old Bazaar and Uzun Sokak I happily got lost in the covered market alleys, breathing in the rich scents of cinnamon, saffron, and roasted chestnuts. I picked up a silver bracelet and a copper cezve—which I still use to make my coffee. Meanwhile, the pedestrian-only Uzun Sokak is the true heartbeat of the city, bustling with street musicians, laughter, lively tea houses, and an energetic evening vibe. 🍽️ Gastronomic discoveries I was never a fan of small fish until I tried the local hamsi (anchovies) in Trabzon. Crispy, golden-fried, and served with onions and bread—I devoured a whole plate and immediately asked for seconds. Pide—a boat-shaped flatbread loaded with meat, cheese, and a cracked egg—became my go-to breakfast every single day. The crust is incredibly thin, and the filling practically melts in your mouth. Then there was muhlama—a rich, gooey cornmeal porridge made with loads of butter and cheese—which totally revived me after a long day of walking. And, of course, the tea. Here, it’s served in classic tulip-shaped glasses with a single sugar cube. As the locals say, "Tea is a warm conversation." I must have knocked back about ten cups a day. 📌 Practical tips for a seamless trip · Language: English is spoken in the city center, but you'll definitely want a translation app for the bazaar. A friendly smile and some hand gestures go a long way with the locals. · Money: Turkish liras only. Cash is king, especially at the market, as cards aren't widely accepted everywhere. · Best time to visit: May through October is ideal. We went in July—it was +27°C (80°F) with warm waters and hardly any rain. · Clothing: Pack a light windbreaker. The evening sea breeze can get a bit chilly. · Navigation: The city is highly walkable and super compact, with most sights just 2–3 km apart. We explored almost everything on foot. ❓ So, would you travel to Trabzon for the rich history and authentic bazaars, or are you strictly a beach resort kind of traveler? I know one thing for sure: the real Turkey isn't found in a resort, but in cities like this. Let me know below 👇

📌 What is this place and who is it for? Karaca Cave is one of Turkey's most impressive caves, rich in mineral formations. Located high in the mountains at 1,550 m above sea level, it's known for a fantastic variety of shapes — from massive flowstone columns and travertine pools to rare "cave roses" and mineral curtains. Who should definitely stop by: · Road trippers on the Trabzon–Gümüşhane route · Fans of scenic nature and photography — the artistic lighting inside creates the atmosphere of a real underground kingdom · Families and travelers of any age — the route has flat wooden walkways with railings throughout, so the visit is safe and doesn't require any physical preparation 📸 My personal experience I visited Karaca Cave myself. Inside, wooden walkways with lighting wind through multiple levels — easy to walk, with good views of the stalactites and columns. The lighting is done reasonably well, and there's plenty to see and photograph. It's a good stop on the way to Sumela or Zigana — as a standalone destination 100 km out of your way, it probably won't live up to the hype, but as part of a broader route through the region, it's a solid addition. ⚠️ IMPORTANT: current status The cave is currently closed to visitors. This spring, a rockfall hazard was found on the access road, and steel netting reinforcement work is now underway on the rock face. The tender for the work was finalized in June, but authorities haven't announced an exact reopening date yet. A silver lining for the future: once restoration is complete, two previously inaccessible chambers will be added to the visitor route for the first time. Before planning a trip, definitely call the administration to confirm status. ℹ️ Practical info (for future planning) 📍 Location: Gümüşhane province, Torul district, Cebeli village. ~17 km from Gümüşhane, ~100 km from Trabzon. 🎫 Tickets: prices change year to year. The Müzekart museum card is not accepted. 📅 Season: the cave is typically open from April 15 to November 15 (closed the rest of the year to preserve humidity levels), hours 08:30–17:30. 🌡 Climate inside: stays cool year-round. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker. ☕️ Amenities: free parking at the entrance, a viewpoint overlooking the gorge, a café, and souvenir shops. #KaracaMagarasi #Gumushane #TurkeyTravel #CaveExploration #HiddenGems #Turkey #traveltips #myitinerary

Panagia Sumela (Meryem Ana Manastırı) is one of the most breathtaking sights on Turkey's Black Sea coast. The complex is literally built into a sheer cliff of Karadağ (Black Mountain), roughly 300 m above the valley floor. When fog rolls into the gorge, the whole monastery seems to float in the air. 📸 What to see: · The cave church with frescoes from the 14th–19th centuries depicting biblical scenes — look closely and you can spot older Byzantine layers peeking through the later paintwork. · The rock-cut staircase and arched galleries — the best spot for atmospheric, textured shots. · Panoramic views over the pine forests of Altındere National Park from the upper terraces. ℹ️ Practical info: 📍 ~45 km from Trabzon, in the Maçka district. 🚗 By car or on a tour. Private vehicles can't drive up to the monastery itself — you leave your car at the national park's paid parking lot, then continue on the official shuttle, which also charges a per-person fee (round trip). Parking and shuttle prices change fairly often, so bring some extra cash in lira beyond the entrance ticket. 👟 Shoes: wear comfortable sneakers — there's a climb up stone steps ahead. ⏰ Opening hours: roughly 08:00–19:00 in summer, 08:00–17:00 in winter (ticket office closes earlier). Arrive at opening time to avoid the big tour groups. 🎟️ Entrance fee — €20 per person. The ticket office sometimes accepts cash only, so it's safer to have lira on hand just in case. #thingstodo #traveltips #turkey #sumelamonastery #blacksea #trabzon

If you think you already know Türkiye because you have seen Istanbul, Cappadocia and the Mediterranean coast, there is another side of the country that feels completely different. Welcome to the Turkish Black Sea. 🌧️🌲 This is a region of dramatic green mountains, misty plateaus, dense forests, tea plantations, waterfalls, traditional villages and small coastal towns. The landscape changes constantly as you travel east, making it one of the most rewarding regions in Türkiye for a road trip. And honestly, this is not a journey I would recommend rushing. The best part of the Black Sea is often the road between the destinations. ⸻ 🗺️ My Suggested Black Sea Road Trip For a longer trip, I would plan the route approximately like this: Istanbul → Amasra → Sinop → Samsun → Ordu → Giresun → Trabzon → Uzungöl → Rize → Ayder → Artvin You can shorten the route depending on how much time you have, but if you have around 10–14 days, this itinerary gives you a wonderful mix of coast, mountains, culture and nature. ⸻ 🌊 1. Amasra — Where the Mountains Meet the Sea Start your Black Sea adventure in Amasra. This small coastal town is surrounded by rocky shores, green hills and beautiful sea views. Instead of treating it as a quick photo stop, spend some time walking through its historic streets, exploring the waterfront and enjoying a traditional Black Sea meal. The atmosphere here is much slower than in Türkiye’s major cities. It’s the kind of place where you can sit beside the sea with a cup of Turkish tea and simply watch the boats come and go. My tip: Stay overnight if you can. Amasra feels particularly peaceful after the day-trippers leave. ⸻ 🌲 2. Sinop — A Quiet Coastal Escape Continue east toward Sinop, one of the most peaceful stops along the route. Sinop combines a beautiful coastline with forests, historical sites and a relaxed harbor atmosphere. Hamsilos Bay and the surrounding natural areas are especially worth exploring. If you enjoy photography, this is a great place to slow down and capture the contrast between the dark green forests and deep blue Black Sea. And don’t leave without trying some fresh local seafood. ⸻ 🌿 3. Ordu — Green Hills Above the Sea As you continue toward the eastern Black Sea, the scenery becomes increasingly green. In Ordu, head up to Boztepe for a panoramic view of the city and coastline. This is one of those places where you really understand the geography of the Black Sea: mountains rising directly behind the city while the sea stretches endlessly in front of you. Spend some time exploring the city, but also leave room for the surrounding countryside. ⸻ 🍃 4. Giresun — Slow Down & Enjoy the Landscape Giresun is another great place to experience the quieter side of the region. The surrounding landscape is dominated by green hills, forests and traditional agricultural areas. The region is also famous for hazelnuts, while the broader Black Sea cuisine is known for fish, vegetables, tea, corn-based dishes and local dairy products. This is the kind of destination where I wouldn’t create a strict schedule. Find a local restaurant, order something regional and let the day unfold naturally. ⸻ 🏔️ 5. Trabzon — History Among the Mountains Then comes Trabzon, one of the most important stops in eastern Black Sea Türkiye. The city has a fascinating combination of history, culture and dramatic natural scenery. But the place I would prioritize is Sümela Monastery. Built dramatically into a steep mountainside, the monastery is surrounded by dense forest and feels almost hidden inside the landscape. The combination of architecture, history and mountains makes it one of the most memorable stops on this route. My tip: Don’t visit Trabzon only as a base for Uzungöl. Give the city itself some time too. ⸻ 💚 6. Uzungöl — The Iconic Black Sea Landscape From Trabzon, continue toward Uzungöl. A lake surrounded by steep green mountains, wooden buildings and misty landscapes — this is probably the image many travelers have in mind when they imagine the Turkish Black Sea. But there’s more to the area than taking a photo beside the lake. Walk around the surrounding area, explore the mountain roads and, if the weather is good, spend some time simply enjoying the scenery. And don’t worry if you wake up to clouds or mist. In the Black Sea, bad weather can actually make the scenery better. 🌫️ ⸻ 🍵 7. Rize — Welcome to Tea Country One of my favorite parts of the journey would be Rize. This is where the landscape becomes almost unbelievably green. Tea plantations cover the hillsides, and tea culture is an important part of everyday life in the region. Rize, along with Trabzon and Artvin, is one of Türkiye’s major tea-producing areas. Visit a tea garden, sit down for a glass of freshly brewed Turkish tea and look across the green hills. If you enjoy photography, this is a destination where you should definitely bring a wide-angle lens. My tip: Don’t just photograph the tea fields. Walk through them and look for the small roads, villages and mountain views around them. ⸻ 🏡 8. Ayder & Çamlıhemşin — Into the Mountains From Rize, head toward Çamlıhemşin and Ayder. This is where the trip becomes much more about nature and mountain life. Think: 🌲 Dense forests 🏔️ High plateaus 💦 Waterfalls 🌫️ Misty valleys 🏡 Traditional wooden houses 🌿 Mountain trails The area around Çamlıhemşin also offers opportunities for hiking, rafting and exploring highland villages. Fırtına Creek, for example, is known for rafting, while nearby highlands such as Pokut and Huser offer spectacular mountain scenery. If you have enough time, don’t just stay in Ayder. Go higher. The real magic of the eastern Black Sea often begins when you leave the main tourist roads behind. ⸻ 🏞️ 9. Artvin — The Wildest Part of the Journey Finish your road trip in Artvin. The landscape here becomes more dramatic again, with deep valleys, mountains, forests, lakes and canyons. Artvin is particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures. Hiking, trekking, camping, rafting and exploring mountain landscapes are all part of the region’s appeal. If you want to get away from crowded tourist destinations, this is the part of the journey I would prioritize. Take your time. Stop at viewpoints. Explore small villages. And don’t be afraid to take the longer road. ⸻ 🍴 Don’t Leave Without Trying Black Sea Food A Black Sea road trip isn’t complete without trying the regional cuisine. Look for: Kuymak / Mıhlama 🧀 Hamsi dishes 🐟 Cornbread 🌽 Black Sea-style cabbage dishes 🥬 Fresh seafood Local cheeses Turkish tea 🍵 Hazelnuts The region’s cuisine is strongly connected to its landscape, with fish, tea, hazelnuts, corn, cabbage, cheese and butter appearing frequently in local food traditions. And one important rule: Don’t eat only at places designed for tourists. Try small family-run restaurants whenever possible. ⸻ 📸 What Should You Photograph? The Black Sea is perfect if you love landscape photography. My personal shot list would be: 🌿 Tea plantations in Rize 🌫️ Mist covering a mountain village 🏔️ Kaçkar mountain landscapes 💦 Waterfalls around Çamlıhemşin 🌊 Black Sea coastal towns 🏡 Traditional wooden houses 🌲 Forest roads 🕌 Village mosques surrounded by mountains 🌅 Sunset over the coast 🍵 A traditional tea glass overlooking the mountains And don’t worry about getting perfect blue skies. Clouds, rain and fog are part of the Black Sea’s personality. ⸻ 🚗 My Biggest Road-Trip Advice Don’t plan every hour. The Black Sea is one of those places where the journey itself becomes part of the destination. You might see a small village from the road and decide to stop. You might find a viewpoint that isn’t on your itinerary. You might see a waterfall and turn around. Do it. That’s exactly what a Black Sea road trip should feel like. ⸻ 🌦️ When Should You Go? The Black Sea is famous for its lush greenery partly because of its rainy climate, so don’t plan the trip expecting perfect sunshine every day. The rain is one of the reasons the region looks so dramatically green. For hiking and exploring the highlands, warmer months are generally more comfortable. But if you want the classic misty, atmospheric Black Sea feeling, a little rain isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I’d say: Bring a rain jacket, waterproof shoes and a camera — and embrace the weather. ☔📸 ⸻ ❤️ Why I Would Choose the Black Sea Türkiye has beaches. Türkiye has ancient ruins. Türkiye has huge cities. Türkiye has Cappadocia. But the Black Sea shows you something completely different. It shows you green Türkiye. The Türkiye of mountain villages, tea gardens, wooden houses, family kitchens, winding roads, waterfalls and misty plateaus. And that’s why I think this journey deserves a place on any Türkiye itinerary. Don’t just visit Türkiye. Drive through it. Take the long road. Stop somewhere unexpected. Drink tea with a mountain view. And let the Black Sea surprise you. 🇹🇷🌿 📌 Save this route for your next Türkiye road trip! #Turkey #Türkiye #BlackSea #BlackSeaTurkey #TurkeyTravel #TravelTurkey #ExploreTurkey #VisitTurkey #BlackSeaRoadTrip #Rize #Trabzon #Artvin #Cappadocia #TravelInspiration #Tripcom

If there is one thing the Black Sea coast of Turkey teaches you, it’s that the best views are never given to you on flat ground—you have to earn them, or in the case of Ordu, let a cable car carry you straight into the clouds. While travelers often rush through Ordu on their way to Trabzon or Rize, those in the know stop right here at the waterfront. The recipe for an unforgettable afternoon in Ordu is deceptively simple: board a glass cabin by the sea, soar 500 meters up a near-vertical emerald slope, and reward yourself at the summit with a steaming, buttery, impossibly loaded Kamber potato while the entire coastline glows below you. 🚡 The Ascent: Soaring Above Hazelnut Groves The journey begins at the seaside park in central Ordu. You step into the sleek cabin of the Ordu Teleferik, the doors slide shut, and within seconds, the noise of the coastal highway drops away into absolute silence. The Transition: In just seven minutes, you rise from sea level to 530 meters above the bay. As the cable line climbs steeply over the terracotta roofs of the old city quarters, urban brick gives way to dense, lush green hazelnut orchards—Ordu's famous global export. The Perspective: Looking down through the glass floor and windows, the Black Sea transforms from a flat blue horizon into a grand curved bay. The contrast between the dark turquoise water and the deep, jungle-like green of the Pontic hills is breathtaking. 🥔 The Star of the Summit: The Boztepe Kamber Potato You don't climb Boztepe just for the fresh air or the sunset—you come hungry. Among locals, Boztepe is synonymous with one specific culinary obsession: the Kamber patates (a grand, mountain-style Black Sea variation of the Turkish kumpir). When you order one at the summit cafes, watching it being constructed is half the magic: The Foundation: A massive, thick-skinned potato is pulled straight from the roasting oven, split wide open, and furiously whipped right inside its skin with generous slabs of salty local butter and melted kaşar cheese until the potato interior becomes an elastic, velvety mash. The Overload: Then comes the tower of toppings—pickled red cabbage, sliced black and green olives, sweet corn, spicy kisir (bulgur salad), Russian salad, diced sausages, and jalapeños, all drizzled with garlic yogurt and hot pepper sauce. The Experience: Holding a piping-hot, heavy potato in your hands while the crisp mountain air nips at your face is pure comfort food perfection. The heat radiating off the dish against the cool Black Sea breeze makes every single bite hit differently. 🌅 Golden Hour to City Lights: Timing Your Trip To get the absolute most out of Boztepe, timing is everything. Go Up Around 5:30 PM: Hop on the cable car in the late afternoon. This gives you plenty of daylight to explore the hilltop pine trails, snap clear photos of the coastal curve, and claim a outdoor terrace table with an unobstructed view. The Sunset Ritual: Grab a traditional tulip glass of dark Black Sea tea (çay) after finishing your Kamber potato. Watch the sun dip behind the mountains, painting the sea in shades of burnt orange, pink, and deep indigo. The Night View: Stay until twilight. As darkness settles, Ordu transforms into a twinkling constellation of golden streetlights tracing the shoreline far below, while the cable cars glide up and down like glowing embers along the wire line. 💡 Traveler Hacks for Ordu Teleferik & Boztepe Buy a Round-Trip Ticket: The queue at the bottom can get long on summer weekends, but buying a two-way digital ticket at the base saves you from waiting in line at the summit ticket booth later. Sit on the Sea-Facing Side: When boarding the cable cabin going up, snag the bench facing back toward the water for the best video shots as the city drops away beneath you. Dress in Layers: Even if it feels warm and humid down at the beach, the summit of Boztepe catches strong offshore winds. A light jacket or sweater is a must for evening dining outside. #travel2026 #travel #ordu #turkey