Trabzon Province is a gateway to lakeside villages, forested mountains and the beautiful Black Sea coast. The city of Trabzon enchants you with medieval mosques and a flourishing food scene, while lakeside towns provide natural tranquillity and adventurous hiking.

Things to do

Once a key stop on the Silk Road, Trabzon is now the Black Sea's busiest port and a popular destination for cruise ships. Highlights include Aya Sofya, a 13th-century church that was converted into a mosque in the 1500s and which features beautiful biblical frescoes.

Catch your breath in Uzungol, a scenic lakeside village set in a lush valley. It looks like it's been plucked out of Switzerland, with verdant grass, soaring peaks and wood-panelled hotels. It's also a great base for hiking adventures through the Soganli Mountains.

Sumela Monastery is set high in the mountains and offers a glimpse at Turkey's Greek Orthodox roots. It clings to a sheer cliffside and is surrounded by evergreen forests. The main church is carved into a natural cave and is adorned with frescoes dedicated to the Virgin Mary. You can also enjoy sweeping views over Altindere Valley National Park.

History buffs can visit Ataturk Mansion, a 19th-century villa set in beautifully manicured formal gardens. It was handed to Ataturk in 1924 and is filled with photographs and memorabilia, including a hand-carved map of the infamous World War I Dardanelles campaign that Ataturk engraved on his desk.

Getting around

Trabzon Province is well-serviced by a network of local buses and “dolmus” minibuses. You'll also find plenty of taxis in Trabzon, while flights arrive at Trabzon Airport, five kilometres from the city centre.