Introducing Trabzon

Scratch beneath the surface in Trabzon, and you’ll find ancient Greece. Historically known as Trebizond, this city on Turkey’s Black Sea coast is a treasure trove of past civilisations. Want to uncover some Hellenic heritage? Fancy some Byzantine beauties, Ottoman oddities or Turkish treats? You’ll find them all in Trabzon along with nature-fresh outdoor activities such as hiking in hills or by lakes. And if you want to savour local cuisine, make sure to order some garlicky akçaabat meatballs, a traditional Trabzon speciality.

Top three things to do in Trabzon

1. Discover Trabzon’s spiritual side

Trabzon’s religious heritage is world-class. While the medieval Hagia Sophia church is now a mosque, its priceless mosaics and frescoes are a reminder of its Byzantine glory days. You’ll also find frescoes at the ancient St Anne’s Church and the Greek Orthodox Sumela Monastery, which is also famed for its cliffside location.

2. Explore Trabzon’s great outdoors

The wooded Uzungol valley is scenic beauty personified, with a peaceful lake and opportunities for hiking and fishing. Pine-fringed Lake Sera is also a great spot for walking trails and a trip on a ‘swan boat’. While Boztepe hill boasts fantastic panoramic views over the city, harbour and Black Sea. It’s a great spot to enjoy the sunset.

3. Dig into Trabzon’s history

The Trabzon Museum is a former palace packed with ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, Byzantine-era treasures and Ottoman artworks. For more recent history, the Ataturk Mansion is well worth a visit. Located in a leafy hill overlooking the city, it displays exhibits about Turkey’s first president, Kemal Ataturk – it’s where he stayed when in Trabzon.