Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Tour

Trabzon , Turkey

Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Tour

Active

(72 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit the historical Sumela Monastery with a day tour from Trabzon center. Discover the natural beauties of Altındere National Park. Enrich your album with great photos.

Available options

Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation by new model air conditioned vehicle

Hotel Pick-up and drop-off

Tour guiding

All trips specified in the program

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Our first stop will be the Sumela Monastery, which is located within the Altindere National Park, and it will take approximately an enjoyable one-hour journey to reach there. We will reach the monastery by walking along the 300-meter-long forest path, which can be reached by shared taxis within the National Park. Before arriving at the monastery, you can visit St. Barbara Chapel, where you can see the magnificent view of the Sumela Monastery.

When we arrive at the Sumela Monastery, you will be greeted by the historic aqueducts, stone stairs, and social area created for visitors. Before entering the monastery, you can enjoy a few minutes of the surrounding nature and scenery.

As soon as you pass the entrance gate, which is reached by stone stairs, the monastery complex will be in front of your eyes with all its beauty. At the end of your visit to the monastery, which includes the main rock church, chapels, student rooms, library, guesthouse, holy spring, and many more sections, we will meet with the group leader and return by the same path.

On our return journey, we will first reach our tour vehicle through the forest path and then the national park service, and continue our journey to visit the Zigana Pass. Zigana, one of the most important passes of the historic Silk Road, is a place where many famous travelers, including Marco Polo, have traveled. After seeing the pass at an altitude of 2050 meters above sea level, we will move to Hamsikoy.

We will take a lunch break in Hamsikoy, which is famous for its natural beauty and rice pudding. After visiting Sumela, Zigana, and Hamsikoy, our tour will end in Trabzon, and we will depart, hoping to see you again on our next tour.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Museum and Entrance fees

National Park shuttle service fee

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

EN TR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

22 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

50 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We meet in front of the exchange office located next to Burger King, across from McDonald's. Please arrive at the meeting point before the tour's departure time.

About Trabzon

Trabzon, known as the Pearl of the Black Sea, is a vibrant city in northeastern Turkey. It offers a unique blend of rich Byzantine and Ottoman history, stunning Black Sea coastlines, and lush green landscapes. The city is famous for its Sumela Monastery, a breathtaking cliffside monastery, and its delectable local cuisine.

Top Attractions

Sumela Monastery

Sumela Monastery is a breathtaking cliffside monastery built into the rocks of the Pontic Mountains. It dates back to the 4th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Trabzon.

Historical/Religious Half day to full day Moderate (entry fee applies)

Trabzon Museum

The Trabzon Museum is housed in a historic Ottoman mansion and showcases the rich history and culture of the region, including Byzantine and Ottoman artifacts.

Museum 1-2 hours Budget (entry fee applies)

Boztepe

Boztepe is a hill overlooking Trabzon, offering panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea. It's a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty.

Nature/Scenic View Half day Free

Atatürk Köşkü

Atatürk Köşkü is a historic mansion where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, stayed during his visits to Trabzon. It has been preserved as a museum.

Historical 1 hour Budget (entry fee applies)

Uzungöl

Uzungöl is a picturesque lake surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. It's a popular destination for hiking, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Nature/Scenic View Full day Free (some activities may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hamsi

Hamsi is a small, delicious anchovy that is a staple of Trabzon's cuisine. It is often fried, grilled, or served in various dishes.

Main Dish Contains fish

Kuymak

Kuymak is a hearty dish made with melted cheese, cornmeal, and butter, often served with bread.

Main Dish Contains dairy

Pide

Pide is a Turkish flatbread similar to pizza, topped with cheese, meat, or vegetables.

Main Dish Can be vegetarian or with meat

Mücver

Mücver is a fried vegetable fritter made with zucchini, cheese, and herbs.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Altındere National Park Boating on Uzungöl Relaxing on Ortaköy Beach Enjoying a Turkish tea in a local tea garden Visiting the Trabzon Museum Exploring the Bedesten bazaar Swimming at Ortaköy Beach Skiing at the nearby Mount Ziganot (if snow conditions permit)

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Trabzon for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The sea is warm, and the city is lively with tourists.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Turkish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Trabzon is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of taxi drivers who may overcharge or take longer routes.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Trabzon Airport • 7 km from city center

By train

Trabzon Station

By bus

Trabzon Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Trabzon. It is affordable and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Hepsibisey

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Yavuz Selim Ortaköy Maçka

Day trips

Uzungöl

100 km from Trabzon • Full day

Uzungöl is a picturesque lake surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. It's a popular destination for hiking, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Sumela Monastery

56 km from Trabzon • Half day to full day

Sumela Monastery is a breathtaking cliffside monastery built into the rocks of the Pontic Mountains. It dates back to the 4th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the region.

Altındere National Park

50 km from Trabzon • Full day

Altındere National Park is a beautiful national park featuring the Altındere Valley, the Sumela Monastery, and the Seran Creek. It's a great place for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Festivals

Trabzon International Black Sea Festival • August Trabzon Cherry Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Sumela Monastery early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Sample local hamsi (anchovies) dishes, as Trabzon is famous for its fresh seafood.
Explore the local markets and bazaars for unique souvenirs and traditional goods.
Take a day trip to Uzungöl to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Try local pastries and sweets, such as künefe and baklava, for a delicious treat.