Best Tourist Attractions in Trabzon 2026: Distances, Prices, and Expert Tips
24-08-2025
Best Tourist Attractions in Trabzon 2026: Distances, Prices, and Expert Tips
Looking for the best tourist attractions in Trabzon for 2026? Whether you plan to visit the enchanting Uzungöl or explore the Ayder cabins above the clouds, the right planning starts here. In this guide, we reveal the secrets of northern Turkey, with comprehensive updates on prices, distances, and hidden spots most travelers don’t know. Don’t head to Trabzon without knowing these details to ensure a perfect family trip away from the crowds.
Map of the Best Tourist Attractions in Trabzon and Northern Turkey 2026
To make planning your Trabzon 2026 trip easier and avoid wasting time on transportation, the region can be simply divided into eastern and western Trabzon. This approach helps travelers organize their daily itinerary smartly, visiting nearby attractions on the same day and making the most of each day without fatigue or miscalculated long distances.
The eastern part of Trabzon includes the most beautiful natural destinations, such as Uzungöl Lake, Sultan Murat Highlands, waterfalls, and peaceful mountain villages. The distances between these spots are shorter when grouped into one day.
The western part of Trabzon focuses more on historical landmarks, coastal villages, and areas close to the city center, making it ideal for light tours and easy day trips.
The Most Beautiful Places in Trabzon Near the City Center
If you’re staying in the city center, there are several attractive tourist spots you can easily visit without long trips.
- Trabzon Square (Meydan):
The vibrant heart of the city, where you’ll find the historic Aya Sofya, the traditional Kapalı Çarşı, and a variety of cafés and local restaurants serving Turkish tea, coffee, and fresh seafood, in addition to a large and diverse local market. You can also enjoy a short ride on the small wooden tram around the square—a favorite experience among visitors. - Boztepe:
The most famous viewpoint in the city, offering panoramic views of Trabzon and the Black Sea. It’s well known for its valley-view swings, along with elevated cafés and restaurants serving local dishes. The spot is perfect for sunset photos or a short family stroll.
Distances Between Trabzon, Uzungöl, Ayder, and Rize
To help you organize your daily itinerary accurately, the table below shows the approximate distances and travel times between Trabzon and the main tourist destinations in northern Turkey:
| Destination | Distance from Trabzon | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Uzungöl | 100 km | approx. 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Ayder | 165 km | 3 hours |
| Rize | 75 km | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Knowing these distances in advance helps you choose the right destination for each day and avoid overloading your schedule or combining far-apart locations in one day, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Best Tourist Attractions in Trabzon for Families and Young Travelers
Trabzon is a well-rounded destination that suits both families and young travelers, combining lush green nature, fun activities, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or new experiences for kids and youth, Trabzon offers a wide variety of options that make your itinerary rich and far from boring—especially when visits are spread wisely across several days.
Uzungöl: Must-Do Activities in the “Pearl of the North”
Uzungöl is one of the most vibrant destinations in northern Turkey and is ideal for families and young travelers thanks to the variety of activities it offers. A visit goes far beyond simply admiring the lake and includes experiences with different levels of adventure:
- Paragliding over Uzungöl: A true flying experience above the lake and lush green mountains, giving you a full aerial view and an adrenaline rush that’s hard to repeat. It turns your visit into something far from ordinary.
- Giant swings overlooking the valley: The feeling of flying while staying in place, with open views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Suitable for everyone, and one of the most eye-catching photo spots on social media.
- Highland tour around Uzungöl: A 4×4 drive to nearby villages and highlands, offering open views, fresh air, and quiet photo spots away from crowds—perfect for experiencing the real spirit of the north.
- Walking around the lake at sunrise or sunset: A simple yet powerful experience with calm surroundings, light mist, and mountain reflections on the water. Ideal for relaxation and clearing your mind away from noise and crowds.
The variety of these activities makes Uzungöl a perfect full-day destination without any sense of boredom.
Ayder Highlands: Wooden Cabins Above the Clouds
Ayder Highlands are among the most famous natural destinations in northern Turkey, especially known for their traditional wooden cabins built amid forests and misty mountains. These cabins offer a unique experience where visitors wake up to views of clouds and surrounding peaks, relax on balconies overlooking panoramic landscapes, and listen to the sound of nearby waterfalls—all while enjoying privacy and comfort.
You can also enjoy hiking along mountain trails through forests and meadows, relaxing in natural hot springs, tasting local dishes at rustic restaurants, and capturing stunning photos at sunrise or sunset. Ayder perfectly blends comfort, tranquility, and mental relaxation.
If you’d like to learn more about staying close to nature, you can read our article: Ayder and Uzungöl Cabins… The Best of Rize and Trabzon in One Place.
Sumela Monastery and Karaca Cave: A Journey into History and the Heart of the Mountains
Sumela Monastery is located on a steep cliff in the mountains of Trabzon and is one of the region’s most iconic historical and religious landmarks, surrounded by forests and natural trails. Visitors can explore the ancient monastery, stone pathways, and historic frescoes while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views. After visiting the monastery, you can head to Karaca Cave to explore its natural rock formations and underground passages through an immersive walking experience.
This trip combines history, nature, and adventure, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking variety beyond the usual tourist spots.
Expert Tips Before Traveling to Trabzon:
To enjoy your trip to the best tourist attractions in Trabzon with maximum comfort and efficiency, here are some practical tips to help you save time and money, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience. From planning daily transfers to knowing local prices, this information makes your journey smoother and safer.
Best Way to Get Around: Rent a Car or Hire a Private Driver?
You basically have two logical options:
- Rent a car: Ideal if you enjoy freedom and moving at your own pace, and you’re confident driving on mountain roads. Offers full flexibility but requires extra caution, especially in rainy or crowded conditions، Book Your Car Now.
- Car with a driver: The more comfortable and safer option, particularly for families or those who prefer not to drive. The driver knows the roads, best timings, and saves you effort and stress.
In short, if your trip is a tourist one, including the highlands, don’t rely on public transport. Either drive yourself or hire a private driver—each choice has its time and place depending on your travel style.
Currency and Prices in Trabzon for 2026
- Official currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
- Average restaurant prices: A meal for one ranges from 150–250 TRY in mid-range restaurants and can reach 500–600 TRY in high-end restaurants.
- Tourist activities: Tickets for some attractions like Sumela Monastery are around 150–200 TRY, while paragliding or giant swing tours can range from 800–1200 TRY per person.
- Accommodation: Hotels in the city center start from 800–1200 TRY per night in mid-range hotels, while wooden cabins in Ayder Highlands or rural guesthouses reach 1500–2000 TRY per night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tourism in Trabzon (2026)
Here’s a collection of the most common questions from travelers planning to visit the top tourist attractions in Trabzon:
What is the best time to visit Trabzon and northern Turkey?
The period from May to October is ideal for nature lovers and those who enjoy mild weather. September is considered the “golden month” because it combines pleasant temperatures, lower tourist crowds, and the start of the beautiful autumn colors.
How many days are enough to visit Trabzon and Uzungöl?
To fully enjoy the main attractions (Uzungöl, Rize, Ayder, Sumela Monastery, and the city center), a stay of 7 to 10 days is recommended. This allows two days in the highlands (cabins) and the remaining days for exploring areas around the Trabzon city center.
Is tourism in Trabzon expensive in 2026?
Trabzon is considered an affordable destination compared to Istanbul or Europe. Due to currency fluctuations, tourists are advised to pay daily expenses in Turkish Lira, while hotel and car bookings are usually priced in dollars to ensure price stability. (Tip: Book early to get up to a 30% discount.)
Where is better to stay: Trabzon city center or Uzungöl?
City center: Ideal for shopping, easy access to services and restaurants, and daily trips to different areas.
Uzungöl & Ayder: Perfect for those seeking relaxation and tranquility, staying in wooden cabins amidst nature. However, these locations are farther from some attractions.
Do I need a private car in Trabzon, or can I rely on public transport?
Public transport in Trabzon is limited for reaching distant highlands. The safest and most convenient option is to rent a car (if you can drive on mountain roads) or hire a car with an experienced driver to enjoy the views without worrying about steep roads.
What are the top attractions near Trabzon Airport?
Trabzon Airport is conveniently located close to the city center. You can visit Boztepe viewpoint, Cevahir Mall, and Aya Sofya Trabzon in less than 15 minutes from arrival.
Ending Your Trip in Trabzon 2026
Don’t miss the chance to explore Best Tourist Attractions in Trabzon and enjoy everything this enchanting city offers—lush nature, unique activities, and historical landmarks. From the peaceful Uzungöl to Ayder Highlands above the clouds, from the ancient Sumela Monastery to the vibrant city center, every place offers an unforgettable experience.
To make your trip organized and comfortable from arrival to departure, get your 2026 pricing and the most requested tour schedule in Trabzon with a single click.
Contact us now and start your journey with ease and comfort.