Where urban charm and natural wonder meet in Türkiye’s Black Sea region

Cradled between the Black Sea and the Altındere Valley National Park, Trabzon in Türkiye not only serves as a meeting point for nature, but also for travelers seeking deep exploration and new adventures.

Family favorites

Once a vital trade stop on the historic Silk Road, Trabzon—on the northeastern coast of Türkiye’s Black Sea region—still echoes the richness of its past. In the heart of the city, merchants continue to sell handcrafted treasures, while tea producers cultivate the surrounding land, as so many generations before them did.

But beyond its commercial significance, Trabzon is an unassuming travel destination well worth visiting—especially for families looking for a range of fun and safe activities. With car-free streets lined with independent sweet shops, grand monuments and museums steeped in history, and green spaces filled with the promise of adventure, this city makes for an action-packed travel itinerary.

In the summer, ride along the purpose-built cycle paths that hug Trabzon’s coastline. Stop off at Ganita Park, where adults can take in the spectacular sea views and kids can hop between playground equipment. Alternatively, the summit of Boztepe Hill (also known as Mount Minthrion) is an easy hike with a remarkable cityscape view. For a longer hike, explore the four sacred fountains dotted around the hill, taking a break at one of the local restaurants and cafes en-route.

As well as being great walking weather, summer marks the high season for the city’s cultural calendar. Visit in July for the Trabzon International Folklore Festival—a prestigious event that brings together folklore ensembles, dance groups, and musical performances from around the world. Dedicated to art, culture, and hospitality, it is a festival that welcomes visitors to Trabzon with open arms.

Edge of history

A short drive south of Trabzon city lies a natural gem: Altındere Valley National Park. Covering more than 4,000 hectares, this vast and scenic park invites adventure seekers to hike through dense pine forests and discover cascading waterfalls.

More daring travelers can visit the nearby ancient Torul Castle, walking along its glass observation deck to take in the breathtaking 360° panorama and 240-meter drop beneath their feet.

But it is the Sümela Monastery that stands as an emblem of the Altındere Valley National Park—unmissable due to its unique position perched on a sheer rock face. Believed to have been established by two priests at the start of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) era (330 CE), the monastery served as a vital center of Christianity for centuries. Today, it is recognized as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage site for its profound cultural, spiritual, and architectural influence.

Climb the 300 steps from the valley floor to the Sümela Monastery, where sweeping views of the forest canopy greet you. Inside, faded yet beautiful frescoes offer a glimpse into ancient monastic life.

To make the most of your time in the Altındere Valley National Park, consider spending the night at one of its many campsites. These sites offer pitched tents and basic amenities, providing a perfect opportunity to enjoy simple living, surrounded by both nature and history.

More daring travelers can visit the nearby ancient Torul Castle, walking along its glass observation deck to take in the breathtaking 360° panorama and 240-meter drop beneath their feet.

Hidden in the mountainous region of Türkiye’s Haçka Highland, Çal Cave is renowned for being one of the longest caves in the world. Stretching around two kilometers, visitors can walk the wooden pathways, passing an extraordinary display of limestone structures, waterfalls, and creeks as they go.

Those who journey deeper will encounter striking formations of stalactites and stalagmites, where it is said the pure air aids respiratory health.

A visit to Çal Cave is a chance to experience a concealed side of Türkiye. As an underground utopia, it also provides a welcomed escape from the summer heat, thanks to its consistently cool temperatures year-round.

Underground mysteries

Just west of the Altındere Valley National Park, in Trabzon’s Düzköy district, travelers can continue their excursion through nature—this time venturing underground.

Those who journey deeper will encounter striking formations of stalactites and stalagmites, where it is said the pure air aids respiratory health.

In Trabzon, history, nature, and mystery intertwine to create an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Its vibrant city center pulses with culture and hospitality, while nature parks and hidden caves reveal a world of wonder just waiting to be explored.