Trabzon is a captivating city located on the northeastern coast of Turkey, overlooking the Black Sea. With a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene, Trabzon has much to offer to visitors. Let's delve into its history, famous neighborhoods, notable restaurants, and fun activities to do in the city: 
Trabzon has a history that stretches back thousands of years. It was an important trading hub during the Byzantine Empire and served as the capital of the Empire of Trebizond from the 13th to the 15th century. This historical significance is reflected in the city's architecture and cultural heritage.
Ancient Period: The region around Trabzon has been inhabited since ancient times. It was originally settled by various tribes, including the Colchians, an ancient Anatolian people. Trabzon's strategic location along trade routes connecting the Black Sea to the rest of Anatolia and the Mediterranean made it an important center of commerce and cultural exchange.
Byzantine Empire: Trabzon gained prominence during the Byzantine era when it became a significant Byzantine port city known as Trebizond. In the 13th century, the Empire of Trebizond was established, and Trabzon became its capital. The empire thrived as a center of trade, culture, and intellectual pursuits. Impressive architectural structures such as the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon (currently a museum) were built during this period.
Seljuk and Ottoman Periods: In the late 13th century, the Empire of Trebizond fell under the rule of the Seljuk Turks. Trabzon then became part of the expanding Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. As an Ottoman city, Trabzon continued to prosper as a significant trade hub, benefiting from its access to the Black Sea.
Cultural Crossroads: Throughout its history, Trabzon has been influenced by various civilizations, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman. This cultural blend has left its mark on the city's architecture, art, cuisine, and traditions. Trabzon's diverse heritage is evident in the blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and local architectural styles found in its historical buildings and monuments.
Strategic Importance: Trabzon's strategic location has also made it a contested territory throughout history. It was frequently sought after by empires due to its access to the Black Sea and its position as a gateway between Europe and Asia. The city's fortifications, such as the Trabzon Castle, were built to defend against invasions and played a crucial role in its history.
Modern Era: With the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Trabzon became an integral part of the newly formed country. Today, it is a thriving city that combines its rich history with modern development. Trabzon's historical sites, cultural heritage, and natural beauty continue to attract tourists from around the world.
Trabzon's history showcases its significance as a cultural crossroads, a center of trade, and a city that has endured numerous historical shifts and influences. Exploring its historical sites and learning about its past allows visitors to appreciate the city's deep-rooted heritage and the contributions it has made to the region's history and culture.
Famous Neighborhoods of Trabzon
The Old Town: Trabzon's Old Town, also known as Ortahisar, is a must-visit neighborhood. It features narrow, winding streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses. The iconic Trabzon Castle is situated here, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Boztepe: Perched on a hill overlooking Trabzon, Boztepe offers breathtaking views of the city and the coastline. It has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, with several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the scenery while sipping Turkish tea.
Uzungol: Although technically not within the city limits, Uzungol is a picturesque village located about 100 kilometers south of Trabzon. Surrounded by lush green forests and a serene lake, Uzungol is a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
What are famous restaurants of Trabzon?
Trabzon is renowned for its delicious Black Sea cuisine, which features an abundance of fresh seafood, local produce, and unique flavors. Some notable restaurants in Trabzon include:
Gürcan Balık: Located in the city center, Gürcan Balık is a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh fish and seafood dishes. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and panoramic views of the sea.
Akçaabat Köftecisi: This iconic Trabzon establishment specializes in köfte, a traditional Turkish meatball dish. Akçaabat Köftecisi is renowned for its flavorful köfte and homemade side dishes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Cemil Usta: Situated near the Hagia Sophia Museum, Cemil Usta is a charming restaurant that serves a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. From kebabs to regional specialties, the restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience.
What to do in Trabzon?
there are several activities you can do while in Trabzon:
Explore Hagia Sophia Museum: Visit the Hagia Sophia Museum, a former Byzantine church turned mosque turned museum. Admire its impressive architecture, intricate frescoes, and stunning mosaics.
Visit Sumela Monastery: Embark on a journey to the nearby Altındere Valley National Park to explore the famous Sumela Monastery. This ancient monastery is perched on a cliffside and offers magnificent views of the surrounding area.
Enjoy the Black Sea Coastline: Trabzon is blessed with beautiful beaches and a picturesque coastline. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy shores or take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands and hidden coves.
Discover Atatürk Mansion: Located on a hill overlooking the city, Atatürk Mansion is a historical building that once served as the residence of Turkey's founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Explore the mansion, which now operates as a museum, and enjoy the panoramic views it offers.
Where to stay in Trabzon?
There are some nice hotels you can choose from in the city of Trabzon:
Trabzon has a history that stretches back thousands of years. It was an important trading hub during the Byzantine Empire and served as the capital of the Empire of Trebizond from the 13th to the 15th century. This historical significance is reflected in the city's architecture and cultural heritage.
Ancient Period: The region around Trabzon has been inhabited since ancient times. It was originally settled by various tribes, including the Colchians, an ancient Anatolian people. Trabzon's strategic location along trade routes connecting the Black Sea to the rest of Anatolia and the Mediterranean made it an important center of commerce and cultural exchange.
Byzantine Empire: Trabzon gained prominence during the Byzantine era when it became a significant Byzantine port city known as Trebizond. In the 13th century, the Empire of Trebizond was established, and Trabzon became its capital. The empire thrived as a center of trade, culture, and intellectual pursuits. Impressive architectural structures such as the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon (currently a museum) were built during this period.
Seljuk and Ottoman Periods: In the late 13th century, the Empire of Trebizond fell under the rule of the Seljuk Turks. Trabzon then became part of the expanding Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. As an Ottoman city, Trabzon continued to prosper as a significant trade hub, benefiting from its access to the Black Sea.
Cultural Crossroads: Throughout its history, Trabzon has been influenced by various civilizations, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman. This cultural blend has left its mark on the city's architecture, art, cuisine, and traditions. Trabzon's diverse heritage is evident in the blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and local architectural styles found in its historical buildings and monuments.
Strategic Importance: Trabzon's strategic location has also made it a contested territory throughout history. It was frequently sought after by empires due to its access to the Black Sea and its position as a gateway between Europe and Asia. The city's fortifications, such as the Trabzon Castle, were built to defend against invasions and played a crucial role in its history.
Modern Era: With the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Trabzon became an integral part of the newly formed country. Today, it is a thriving city that combines its rich history with modern development. Trabzon's historical sites, cultural heritage, and natural beauty continue to attract tourists from around the world.
Trabzon's history showcases its significance as a cultural crossroads, a center of trade, and a city that has endured numerous historical shifts and influences. Exploring its historical sites and learning about its past allows visitors to appreciate the city's deep-rooted heritage and the contributions it has made to the region's history and culture.
Famous Neighborhoods of Trabzon
The Old Town: Trabzon's Old Town, also known as Ortahisar, is a must-visit neighborhood. It features narrow, winding streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses. The iconic Trabzon Castle is situated here, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Boztepe: Perched on a hill overlooking Trabzon, Boztepe offers breathtaking views of the city and the coastline. It has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, with several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the scenery while sipping Turkish tea.
Uzungol: Although technically not within the city limits, Uzungol is a picturesque village located about 100 kilometers south of Trabzon. Surrounded by lush green forests and a serene lake, Uzungol is a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
What are famous restaurants of Trabzon?
Trabzon is renowned for its delicious Black Sea cuisine, which features an abundance of fresh seafood, local produce, and unique flavors. Some notable restaurants in Trabzon include:
Gürcan Balık: Located in the city center, Gürcan Balık is a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh fish and seafood dishes. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and panoramic views of the sea.
Akçaabat Köftecisi: This iconic Trabzon establishment specializes in köfte, a traditional Turkish meatball dish. Akçaabat Köftecisi is renowned for its flavorful köfte and homemade side dishes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Cemil Usta: Situated near the Hagia Sophia Museum, Cemil Usta is a charming restaurant that serves a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. From kebabs to regional specialties, the restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience.
What to do in Trabzon?
there are several activities you can do while in Trabzon:
Explore Hagia Sophia Museum: Visit the Hagia Sophia Museum, a former Byzantine church turned mosque turned museum. Admire its impressive architecture, intricate frescoes, and stunning mosaics.
Visit Sumela Monastery: Embark on a journey to the nearby Altındere Valley National Park to explore the famous Sumela Monastery. This ancient monastery is perched on a cliffside and offers magnificent views of the surrounding area.
Enjoy the Black Sea Coastline: Trabzon is blessed with beautiful beaches and a picturesque coastline. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy shores or take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands and hidden coves.
Discover Atatürk Mansion: Located on a hill overlooking the city, Atatürk Mansion is a historical building that once served as the residence of Turkey's founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Explore the mansion, which now operates as a museum, and enjoy the panoramic views it offers.
Where to stay in Trabzon?
There are some nice hotels you can choose from in the city of Trabzon:
- Zorlu Grand Hotel: Located in the heart of Trabzon, Zorlu Grand Hotel is a luxurious 4-star hotel known for its elegant rooms and attentive staff. The hotel offers a range of amenities including a fitness center, spa, and multiple dining options.
- Novotel Trabzon: Situated near the city center and overlooking the Black Sea, Novotel Trabzon is a modern 4-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms and stunning sea views. The hotel features a rooftop terrace, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
- Sera Lake Resort Hotel: If you prefer a serene and picturesque setting, Sera Lake Resort Hotel is an excellent choice. Located by the serene Uzungol Lake, this 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a restaurant with lake views.
- Ramada Plaza Trabzon: Situated near the airport, Ramada Plaza Trabzon is a well-appointed 5-star hotel that offers spacious rooms, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. The hotel also boasts panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding mountains.
- Horon Hotel: Located in the historic district of Trabzon, Horon Hotel is a boutique hotel that offers a charming atmosphere and comfortable rooms. The hotel is within walking distance of attractions such as the Hagia Sophia Museum and offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
- Ts Gold Hotel: Ts Gold Hotel is a budget-friendly option that provides comfortable accommodations in the city center. The hotel features clean rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location close to shopping areas and restaurants.
- Aypart Hotel: Aypart Hotel is a boutique-style hotel situated near the seafront in Trabzon. It offers cozy rooms, a terrace with sea views, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine. The hotel is within walking distance of popular attractions like Trabzon Castle and the Atatürk Mansion.