Apr 292 min read

Trabzon Travel Guide: Discover the Gem of the Black Sea

Updated: Jun 15

Trabzon, a city steeped in history and culture, is nestled on the Black Sea coast of northeastern Türkiye. Known for its rich Byzantine history, vibrant culture, and lush green landscapes, Trabzon offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, making it a compelling destination for travellers interested in history, nature, and Turkish cuisine.

Important Information about Trabzon

Category	Information
Country	Türkiye
Region	Black Sea
Official Language	Turkish
Total Area	4,685 km²
Climate Type	Black Sea (Cfa)
Average Yearly Temperature	14.4°C
Main Flora	Forest
Time Zone	GMT +3
Telephone Area Code	(+90) 462
Currency	Turkish Lira
Electrical Plug Type	Type C
Demonyms	Trapezian, Trapezuntine, Trebizonian, Trabzonlu, Trabzonite
Elevation	0 meters (0 feet)
Historical Establishment	Circa 756 BC
Vehicle Registration Plate	61
General Postal Code	61xxx

Getting to Trabzon

Aspect	Details
Major Airport in Trabzon	Trabzon Airport (TZX) serves as the main gateway, with flights from major Turkish cities and some international destinations.
Airlines	Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and SunExpress offer frequent connections.
Visa Requirements	Most travellers need a visa, which can be obtained online via Türkiye’s e-Visa system.
Customs Information	Customs regulations restrict the import of certain goods like narcotics and weapons; personal effects are generally allowed tax-free.

Best Time to Visit Trabzon

Month	Average Temperature	Recommendation
March - May	10°C - 20°C	Ideal for exploring historical sites and local festivals.
June - August	20°C - 27°C	Perfect for beach activities and enjoying the vibrant summer atmosphere.
September - November	15°C - 25°C	Great for sightseeing and experiencing the harvest season.
December - February	5°C - 10°C	Suitable for those who enjoy the quiet of the off-season and cooler weather.

Cultural Etiquette and Tips

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
It is polite to remove shoes before entering someone's home.
Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services, generally around 10%.

Top Attractions in Trabzon

Sumela Monastery: Perched dramatically on the cliff face, this 4th-century monastery is a must-visit for its architecture and frescoes.
Trabzon Hagia Sophia: A stunning example of Byzantine architecture.
Uzungöl: A serene lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for nature lovers.
Atatürk Köşkü: A historic mansion offering insights into the early republican period of Türkiye.

Local Cuisine

Sample local dishes like "Akçaabat köfte" (spiced meatballs) and "Hamsiköy sütlacı" (rice pudding).
Visit popular restaurants like "Nejla Hanim Ev Tatlilari" for authentic regional desserts.

Accommodation Options

Trabzon offers a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels like the Zorlu Grand Hotel to charming guesthouses in the city centre. Among these, the hotels in Trabzon cater to all preferences and budgets, with comfortable options available for budget travelers as well.

Also read: Best Places to visit in Trabzon

Getting Around Trabzon

Local minibuses (Dolmuş) are a convenient way to navigate the city.
Car rentals are available for those who wish to explore the region at their own pace.

Shopping in Trabzon

Visit "Trabzon Cevahir Outlet" for shopping, or explore local bazaars for traditional crafts like handmade silver jewelry.
Typical souvenirs include tea, local sweets, and Turkish delights.

Safety and Emergency Information

Trabzon is generally safe for travellers; however, it’s wise to observe usual safety precautions.
Keep emergency numbers handy (112 for medical emergencies, 155 for police).