Trabzon City Tour

Your guide meets you in your hotel lobby to begin exploring Trabzon, the historic capital of the Black Sea region.

The first visit is the Hagia Sophia, built as a Byzantine church in the 13th century during the reign of Emperor Manuel Komnenos. Admire its beautifully preserved frescoes and stone carvings, and hear how it changed from church to mosque and museum, a reflection of the city's layered history.

You continue to the Ataturk Mansion, an elegant early 20th-century house surrounded by lush gardens. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk stayed here during his visits to Trabzon, and it is now a museum with his personal belongings and period furniture.

Next is Ortahisar, the historic core of Trabzon. With its preserved city walls and stone citadel, it has been home to Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilisations. Walking its cobbled streets, you see traditional houses, Ottoman fountains and bridges such as Zagnos and Tabakhane.

The historic Alacahan and Bedesten bazaars still keep the spirit of Trabzon's trading past, with local handicrafts and copperwork.

You then visit Kizlar Monastery (Panagia Theoskepastos), built during the reign of Alexios III (1349-1390) on the slopes of Boztepe. Surrounded by high walls above the city, it is peaceful and has panoramic views over Trabzon.

The day ends with a relaxing tea break on Boztepe Hill, with sweeping views of the Black Sea and the city below.

At the end of the tour you drive back to your hotel.