Trabzon Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy Daily Tour

Trabzon , Turkey

Trabzon Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy Daily Tour

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(12 reviews)

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About this experience

Take part in a guided outing as you head to one of the region's most famous destinations - Sümela Monastery. Explore the grounds of the holy destination before seeing other landmarks such as Zigana Mountain Summit, Torul Glass Terrace, and much more.

Enjoy a scenic 45-minute journey before arriving at Sümela Monastery parking lot. Get ready to explore a location filled with historical, religious, and natural beauty.

Hop aboard the shuttle and head up to the monastery itself. Reach the legendary structure after taking a 10-minute walk.

Continue on your journey as you head to your next destination, Zigana Mountain Summit. Be in awe of a location at an altitude of 2000-meters. Admire views of nature from a unique vantage point and even stop for a bite to eat for lunch.

Available options

Trabzon Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy Daily Tour

Pickup included

What's included

air conditioned car

tour leader

Detailed itinerary

It is believed that the church was built between 365-395 AD. The rules of Cappadocia churches, which are frequently encountered in Anatolia, were made; in fact, there is a similar cave church in the Maşatlık area of Trabzon. Little can be said about the thousand-year period between the first foundation of the church and its conversion into a monastery. According to a legend told among the Black Sea Greeks, two monks named Barnabas and Sophronios of Athens had the same dream; in their dreams, they saw the place of Sumela where the icon was located, out of the three Panagia icons made by Saint Luke in the children of Jesus. Thereupon, unaware of the events, they came to Trabzon by sea, met there, told each other about their dreams and thought that the first church could be built. However, the fact that it is widely present in the frescoes in the monastery makes it thought that Emperor Alexios III of Trebizond, who is given special importance, is the real founder of the monastery.

Zigana Pass is a pass in the North Anatolian Mountains, within the borders of Gümüşhane province. Its altitude is 2032 meters.

The pass is located at the transition point between the Eastern Black Sea geographical structure and the Central Anatolian plateaus. The Harşit Valley is located on the Central Anatolian side. On the Central Anatolian side of the pass, villages are less common than on the Black Sea side, collective settlements are seen and the density of forests decreases. The pass is located among dense forests.

Hamsiköy is an old accommodation place located 19 km away from Maçka District on the northern route of the Silk Road from China and India to Europe on the northern skirt of Zigana Mountain. Its name comes from the Arabic Hamse village (five villages).
Hamsiköy has a unique natural beauty with its gushing waters flowing from its rivers throughout the valley, mountain slopes embraced by mist, forests with purple-flowered rhododendrons, historical mansions and fountains. In addition to its natural, cultural and historical values, it contributes to the economy of Trabzon and the country with its delicious milk originating from the flower flora of the region and the production of vacuum kashar, butter, string cheese and curd cheese.

Hamsiköy Sütlacı: The specialty of Hamsiköy Sütlacı is that the delicious milk originating from the flower flora of the region is cooked in a long time like one hour with a special cooking technique using only rice, sugar and salt.

What's not included

lunch

sümela monastery entrance

shuttle bus to sümela monastery

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The remaining 3 hours 45 minutes is for travel time.

Meeting point

The car will be waiting for you in front of burger kıng in Kahramanmaraş street or guide will contact with you.

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.