Where to Visit in Trabzon?

Trabzon, the largest province in the Eastern Black Sea region and the 29th most populous city in Turkey, is undoubtedly known for its natural beauty. Until 2012, Trabzon was not considered a metropolitan city. However, a decision made by the city council in 2012 granted metropolitan status to Trabzon, which now has a population of 800,000. Trabzon is a city with natural wonders that must be seen, with its beautiful plateaus, historical sites, and clean air. In this article, we have compiled information about the places to visit in Trabzon.

_{List of Places to Visit in Trabzon}

_Uzungöl

When you think of Trabzon, Uzungöl undoubtedly comes to mind. Uzungöl, a forested area, offers an indescribable vacation opportunity. Uzungöl, surrounded by a village, attracts a multitude of visitors during the tourism season. Located 97 kilometers from the center of Trabzon, Uzungöl should be at the top of the list of places to visit in Trabzon.

_{Çal Cave}

Çal Cave, which should be on the list of places to visit in Trabzon, is 8 kilometers long, making it one of the deepest caves in the world. Only a portion of Çal Cave is open to visitors, but after extensive work, stalactites, stalagmites, underground rivers, waterfalls, and lakes have been made accessible to visitors. The waterfall at the entrance is a natural wonder. Çal Cave, located 45 kilometers from the city center, is a must-visit site. It is also recorded as the second-longest known cave in the world.

_{Sera Lake}

Sera Lake emerged as a result of a landslide in 1950. Located within the borders of the Akçaabat district of Trabzon, Sera Lake is 12 kilometers from the center of this district. Sera Lake, with its stunning natural surroundings, offers opportunities for hiking and picnicking. It also allows for activities like riding pedal boats and enjoying fish restaurants.

_Boztepe

You can reach Boztepe by taking minibuses from the center of Trabzon, which is just a 10-minute drive away. It is recommended for those who want to get the best views of the coastal areas and the unique beauty of Trabzon while enjoying the forest air. Those who want to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city and the sea from an altitude of 250 meters can have a wonderful time at Boztepe.

_{Trabzon Castle}

Trabzon Castle, located in the center of Trabzon, is believed to have been built before the Common Era. You can visit Trabzon Castle every day until 5:00 PM without any entrance fee.

_{Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum}

The Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum is originally a church. It is known to have been built in the 13th century. Those coming from the western part of Trabzon can easily see this church. After Trabzon came under Ottoman rule, the church was converted into a mosque. In 1944, it was opened to visitors as a museum. The Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum displays many historical artifacts and can be visited by paying an admission fee of 8 TL.

_{Altındere Valley}

Altındere Valley is known as the largest national park in Trabzon. Located in the Maçka district of Trabzon, Altındere Valley covers a natural area of 4,500 hectares. The famous Sümela Monastery is also located in this area. Altındere Valley stands out with a hiking trail that exceeds 60 kilometers. This magnificent valley is just an hour away from the city center. The entrance fee to Altındere Valley is set at 3 TL, and it is highly recommended for visitors to Trabzon.

_{Kuştul Monastery}

Kuştul Monastery, located in the Maçka district of Trabzon, resembles a ruin. The last inhabitants left the monastery in 1923 as a result of a population exchange. Its historical significance adds to the mystery of this place.

_Bedesten

The historical Bedesten, which dates back to ancient times, serves as a covered bazaar with 48 rooms. It was originally used as a carpentry workshop, but later it was converted into a covered bazaar through restoration. Bedesten is a place where visitors can witness deep historical traces in its architecture. It opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM.

_{Little Ayvasıl Church}

The Little Ayvasıl Church is the oldest surviving structure built during the Byzantine period in Trabzon. Greek inscriptions can be seen at the entrance. With its castle-like appearance, the Little Ayvasıl Church is now open to visitors as a museum and is recommended to be added to the list of places to visit in Trabzon.

Sümela Monastery

Located 45 kilometers from the center of Trabzon, the Sümela Monastery was built between 365 and 395 AD. It is a remarkable structure with an impressive architecture, and it was mentioned in a decree by Fatih Sultan Mehmet. The Sümela Monastery is a must-see place in Trabzon that has garnered attention and research worldwide.

_{Vazelon Monastery}

Vazelon Monastery, located approximately 40 kilometers from the city center, is in the eastern part of Trabzon. It was built by the Greeks in 270 AD. In the present day, it has undergone multiple restorations and is considered one of the most important monasteries in Trabzon. Since 1923, Vazelon Monastery has been owned by Turkey. With its stunning natural surroundings, historical structure, and a touch of ancient history in its architecture, Vazelon Monastery is a must-visit in the list of places to see in Trabzon."