Trabzon: Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour lasting approximately 9 hours departs from multiple locations in Trabzon.
• Visit Sümela Monastery, a top regional landmark perched on a mountainside with a 10-minute walk to the site.
• Experience scenic stops such as Zigana Mountain Summit at 2000 meters and the Torul Glass Terrace at 240 meters high.
• Enjoy authentic Black Sea cuisine with a delicious lunch in a peaceful setting, plus a tasting at Gümühane fruit pulp and kome aisles.
• Pass by the historic Silk Road route at Hamsiköy and sample the famous rice pudding on site.
• Learn about the Greek Orthodox history of the region from guides speaking Turkish, English, or Arabic.
• Expect some physical activity including climbing 350 meters to reach Sümela Monastery, with no smooth roads involved.
• Rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 139 reviews, with high marks for knowledgeable guides and scenic spots.

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Exploring the Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy in a Single Day

The Trabzon: Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour offers an efficient way to experience some of the most iconic sights in the Southeastern Anatolia region. This full-day outing lasts around 9 hours, starting with an early pickup from 13 different central locations including hotels, bus terminals, and familiar landmarks like Radisson Blu and Mercure Trabzon. The tour is operated by ZANOS TOURS INTERNATIONAL, known for well-organized trips with knowledgeable guides.

This tour is especially appealing for those who want to see the famous Sümela Monastery without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating difficult roads. The guided approach ensures you get rich context for the sights, and the stops for food and viewpoints make the day both informative and relaxing. A key highlight is the 10-minute walk from the shuttle parking lot to the monastery, which involves a climb of about 350 meters on uneven terrain—something to keep in mind if mobility is a concern.

The balance of scenic stops, historical sites, and local food tastings makes this tour a well-rounded experience. The tour finishes with visits to Hamsiköy, where you can try a famous rice pudding, and the Torul Glass Terrace, offering panoramic views from 240 meters high. The Zigana Mountain Summit at an altitude of 2000 meters provides a breathtaking backdrop, making this trip ideal for lovers of natural beauty and cultural heritage alike.

From the Pickup to the Scenic Drive in Trabzon

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from one of 13 locations in Trabzon, including major hotels and transport hubs. The transportation includes a comfortable minibus, which many reviews praise for its cleanliness and ease of boarding. The group size is manageable, allowing for a relaxed pace and personal interactions with guides.

The initial journey takes about 45 minutes, giving plenty of time for the guide to introduce the day’s itinerary and share stories about the region. The small group setting ensures that participants receive attention and flexible pacing, especially during stops. The multilingual guides speak Turkish, English, and Arabic, making the historical and cultural explanations accessible to diverse visitors.

Throughout the drive, travelers enjoy the changing scenery from the coastal plains to the mountain landscapes, preparing for the upcoming adventure at high altitudes. The pickup and drop-off service is seamless, with reviews emphasizing the agency’s attention to detail and guest care.

Climbing to the Historic Sümela Monastery

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Sümela Monastery, perched on a mountainside and famous for its monasterial architecture and religious significance. After a scenic 45-minute drive, visitors hop onto a shuttle that takes them closer to the site, followed by a 10-minute walk uphill.

The climb involves navigating some uneven and steep terrain, as the roads are not smooth, and the total ascent is about 350 meters. The monastery itself is a spectacular sight, with ancient walls and frescoes that date back centuries. The views from the monastery overlook lush valleys and mountains, offering exceptional photo opportunities.

Many reviews mention that the entry fee for the monastery is approximately 20 EUR, which should be prepared for in advance. Despite some comments about the steep climb, the overall experience of exploring this iconic landmark is highly praised, with guides providing detailed explanations of its history and architecture.

Scenic Stops at Zigana Mountain and the Viewpoint

After visiting Sümela Monastery, the tour continues to the Zigana Mountain Summit, located at around 2000 meters altitude. This stop offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a favorite for photography. Travelers can take in the natural beauty of the mountains from a truly elevated perspective.

Another notable stop is the viewpoint, which lasts about 25 minutes. Here, visitors get a chance to admire the landscape and breathe in fresh mountain air. These locations showcase the diversity of the region’s climate—sometimes called “the four seasons of the Black Sea in one day”—and highlight the area’s scenic and natural appeal.

The tour allows enough time for sightseeing without feeling rushed, and the guides often share interesting stories about the area’s geography and local legends. Many reviews indicate that these viewpoints are among the most memorable parts of the trip.

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Enjoying Black Sea Cuisine and Local Tastings

A real treat during this tour is the lunch break in Hamsiköy, a village known for its traditional dishes. The one-hour lunch stop is set in an idyllic setting, with options for tasting regional specialties. Many reviews highlight the deliciousness and reasonable prices of the food, including the famous Hamsiköy rice pudding that visitors can sample on-site.

On the way back, travelers stop at Gümühane to taste fruit pulp and kome aisles, which are local delicacies. These stops combine culture with authentic flavors, adding a culinary dimension to the day. The lunch and tasting experiences are often praised for their quality and value.

This aspect of the tour appeals especially to food lovers and those eager to experience Black Sea flavors in a relaxed setting, away from typical tourist spots.

Visiting the Torul Glass Terrace and Karaca Cave

The tour includes a visit to the Torul Glass Terrace, which soars 240 meters above the ground. This glass-floored observation platform offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and is perfect for those who enjoy a touch of adventure.

Another highlight, although temporarily closed in winter, is the Karaca Cave. This stunning cave features stalactites and travertines that create a natural spectacle. Review comments highlight the cave’s magnificent formations and its status as one of the most beautiful and healthy caves in the region. When open, it forms part of the enriching experience of natural wonder.

Both stops are well-reviewed for their scenic beauty and the opportunity to see nature’s geological artistry up close.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothes and bring rain gear in case of rainy conditions, as the tour operates rain or shine. The climb to Sümela Monastery involves some physical effort, with no smooth roads involved, so good footwear is recommended.

The tour provider emphasizes that no alcohol or drugs are permitted on the trip, ensuring a respectful environment. It’s suggested to eat breakfast before starting, as there is a full day ahead with multiple stops and activities.

The reserving process is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Turkish, and Arabic, to accommodate diverse groups.

Overall Experience and Ideal Participants

The Trabzon: Sümela Monastery and Hamsiköy Tour provides a well-organized way to explore key landmarks and scenic viewpoints in a single day. With an average rating of 4.6, the trip is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, food, and multiple stops.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, nature, and local cuisine but should be prepared for some physical activity and uneven paths. The small group format enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized explanations and flexibility.

While some reviews suggest that more time at certain stops like the monastery or cave could improve the experience, overall, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Trabzon’s highlights with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and cultural enrichment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting with pick-up in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation, guidance in multiple languages, lunch in Hamsiköy, tastings at Gümühane, and all entrance fees to the stops.

Is the climb to Sümela Monastery difficult?
Yes, reaching the monastery involves climbing about 350 meters on uneven terrain, with no smooth roads, so good footwear and some physical fitness are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing for flexible planning.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in Turkish, English, and Arabic to accommodate diverse visitors.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
While the tour is generally accessible, the climb and walking involved may be challenging for very young children or elderly participants with limited mobility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, rain gear, and appropriate footwear are advised due to the outdoor nature of some stops and terrain.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch in Hamsiköy and tastings at Gümühane are included, but additional meals or drinks are at your own expense.

Is the cave open year-round?
The Karaca Cave is temporarily closed in winter, so check availability when booking.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect Sümela Monastery, Zigana Mountain Summit, Hamsiköy rice pudding, Torul Glass Terrace, and scenic viewpoints with panoramic mountain vistas.

This detailed review presents all the essential information to help plan a memorable day exploring Trabzon’s most beautiful sites with comfort and confidence.

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