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Daily Tour
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Trabzon – Ayder Highlands – Sumela Monastery – Uzungöl
Discover the emerald landscapes, misty highlands, and cultural treasures of Turkey’s Black Sea region on this 6-day Black Sea tour from Istanbul. Designed for travelers who want a relaxed pace and deeper exploration, this itinerary combines nature, history, local culture, and scenic beauty—all with flights, accommodation, and guided tours included.
Your journey begins with a hotel pick-up in Istanbul and transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Trabzon. Upon arrival, you will be met by your driver and transferred to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free at leisure—a perfect opportunity to explore Trabzon at your own pace. Walk through the city center, enjoy the coastal views along the Black Sea, or relax at local cafés.
Overnight in Trabzon.
After breakfast, depart at approximately 09:00 AM for a full-day tour into the heart of the eastern Black Sea.
Sürmene – Famous for its centuries-old tradition of handmade knives
Traditional Weaving Workshop – Observe fabrics woven on classic wooden looms
Ziraat Botanical Garden (Rize) – Walk among lush tea plantations and learn about Turkey’s tea culture
Fırtına (Storm) Valley – Tea break near the historic Ottoman Stone Bridge, surrounded by dramatic scenery
Ayder Plateau – Reach the famous highlands known for alpine meadows and cascading waterfalls
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, followed by free time to explore Ayder, take photos, or relax in the fresh mountain air.
Return to Trabzon in the evening.
Overnight in Trabzon.
After breakfast, depart for one of the most iconic landmarks in northern Turkey.
Sumela Monastery
Built by Greek Orthodox monks and dramatically set on a sheer cliff inside Altındere National Park, Sumela Monastery rises approximately 300 meters above the valley floor. Its secluded location reflects ancient monastic traditions—far from cities, surrounded by forests, caves, and rivers.
Karaca Cave
Continue to Karaca Cave, a spectacular natural wonder filled with stalactites, stalagmites, travertines, columns, and rare cave formations, often described as a hidden underground museum.
Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Hamsiköy Village
Your final stop is the charming mountain village of Hamsiköy, famous across Turkey for its traditional rice pudding (sütlaç) and local dry beans.
Return to your hotel in Trabzon.
Overnight in Trabzon.
After breakfast, pick-up at around 10:00 AM and depart for the legendary Uzungöl Lake.
Visit a horse farm and tea factory en route
Explore Uzungöl Nature Park, officially protected for its rich flora and wildlife
Walk around the alpine lake surrounded by spruce forests and wooden houses
The region is home to impressive wildlife such as roe deer, wild boar, bears, lynx, birds of prey, and trout. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and free time to explore or relax by the lake.
Return to Trabzon in the evening.
Overnight in Trabzon.
After breakfast, enjoy a free day in Trabzon. You may:
Explore the city center
Walk along the Black Sea coastline
Visit local bazaars and shops
Taste authentic Black Sea cuisine
A relaxed day to experience Trabzon like a local.
Overnight in Trabzon.
After breakfast, transfer to Trabzon Airport for your flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Istanbul, marking the end of your unforgettable Black Sea journey.
✔ Domestic flight tickets (Istanbul–Trabzon–Istanbul)
✔ Airport & hotel transfers
✔ Hotel accommodation in Trabzon
✔ Daily guided group tours as mentioned
✔ Meals as stated (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch)
✔ All entrance fees mentioned
✔ All local taxes
✘ Drinks
✘ Tips
✘ Personal expenses
✔ Slow-paced & in-depth Black Sea experience
✔ Combines highlands, monasteries, lakes & local culture
✔ Ideal for nature lovers & photographers
✔ Stress-free travel with flights & hotels included
✔ Excellent value for a complete regional experience
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