Trabzon, Sumela Monastery & Uzungol (4 Days)

Overview

Discover the lush green Black Sea on this four-day tour from Istanbul to Trabzon. We visit the spectacular Sumela Monastery, a Greek Orthodox monastery clinging to a sheer cliff in the Altindere Valley, the serene alpine lake of Uzungol, and the frescoed Hagia Sophia of Trabzon. With its misty mountains, tea gardens and cool highlands, the region is a favourite escape for travellers from the Gulf and beyond. Round-trip flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, transfers and a guide are included.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Istanbul to Trabzon

We fly from Istanbul to Trabzon and explore the city: the 13th-century Hagia Sophia with its Byzantine frescoes, the Ataturk Mansion and the panoramic hill of Boztepe overlooking the Black Sea. Overnight at a 3-4 star hotel.

Day 2 - Sumela Monastery and Zigana

We drive into the Altindere Valley to the cliff-hanging Sumela Monastery. Founded in the 4th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was carved into the rock face of Mount Mela and reopened after major restoration. We continue over the green Zigana mountains, stopping in Hamsikoy, famous for its rice pudding.

Day 3 - Uzungol

A full day at Uzungol, an emerald lake cradled by forested peaks, with its lakeside mosque and highland villages. There is time for tea, gentle walks and unforgettable photos.

Day 4 - Return to Istanbul

After a relaxed morning we transfer to Trabzon Airport for our flight back to Istanbul.

Tour highlights

The cliffside Sumela Monastery in the Altindere Valley
The emerald alpine lake of Uzungol
The Byzantine Hagia Sophia of Trabzon
Green mountains, tea gardens and the rice pudding of Hamsikoy
Flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, transfers and a guide included

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. After several years of restoration for safety, Sumela Monastery reopened to visitors and is one of the most popular sights on the Black Sea coast. It is open daily, though access can depend on weather and conservation work.

Sumela is a Greek Orthodox monastery founded in the 4th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is carved dramatically into a sheer cliff in the forested Altindere Valley and is renowned for its rock church and frescoes.

The cool, green highlands, lakes and forests of the eastern Black Sea are a refreshing contrast to desert climates, which is why Trabzon and Uzungol have become favourite summer destinations for travellers from the Gulf countries.

Round-trip domestic flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels with half board, all transfers, site entrance fees and a professional guide. Lunches and personal expenses are not included.

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) is ideal, with green landscapes and pleasant temperatures. The region is rainy year-round, which keeps it lush, so a light raincoat is always useful.