Trabzon

A major historic port city and the largest on the Black Sea coast, Trabzon serves as the cultural and economic heart of the eastern Black Sea. It's home to the stunning Sumela Monastery, vibrant bazaars, and excellent seafood restaurants.

Things to do

• Sumela Monastery — A Greek Orthodox monastery carved into a cliff face 1,200 meters above sea level, featuring stunning frescoes and panoramic views of the valley below.
• Hagia Sophia of Trabzon — A 13th-century Byzantine church converted into a mosque, showcasing intricate mosaics, marble work, and serving as the city's most iconic historical monument.
• Uzun Bazaar — The historic covered bazaar in the old town where locals and visitors browse traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and souvenirs in a bustling market atmosphere.
• Atatürk Pavilion — A beautifully preserved mansion built in 1903 that served as a summer residence, now a museum displaying period furnishings and Ottoman architectural details.
• Uzungöl Lake — A pristine alpine lake 90 kilometers inland surrounded by pine forests, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and experiencing the mountainous landscape of the region.
• Trabzon Seafront Promenade — A scenic waterfront walk along the Black Sea offering fresh sea breezes, tea gardens, and views of fishing boats and cargo vessels.

Food to try

• Hamsi Tava — Pan-fried Black Sea anchovies served whole with crispy edges and tender flesh, often seasoned simply with lemon and salt to highlight the fresh catch.
• Mıhlama — A creamy regional specialty made with cornmeal, cheese, and butter that's stirred into a thick polenta-like consistency and served bubbling hot in traditional earthenware.
• Anchovy Pilaf — Whole fresh hamsi baked within seasoned rice and herbs, creating a one-pot dish where the fish flavors infuse the grains as it cooks.
• Trabzon Tea — Strong, locally-grown black tea served in small tulip-shaped glasses, traditionally accompanied by a sugar cube or served with jam as a cultural ritual.
• Fisherman's Soup — A hearty broth made with mixed fresh fish, vegetables, and herbs reflecting the daily catch of local boats, served in waterfront restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Conservative dress in religious sites — When visiting mosques and monasteries, women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts, as these are sacred spaces deserving respect.
• Tea culture and hospitality — Accepting tea when offered by shopkeepers or locals is a sign of respect and builds rapport; refusing can be seen as dismissive despite the commercial context.
• Bargaining in bazaars — Haggling over prices in the Uzun Bazaar is expected and part of the social interaction, starting at asking price and working toward a mutually agreeable figure.
• Fishing village etiquette — The waterfront remains a working port; be respectful when photographing fishermen and their boats, and avoid interfering with nets or equipment during active fishing hours.