
Best Backpacking Destinations in Trabzon, Turkey
1. Sumela Monastery
An orthodox monastery built into a cliff, offering stunning views and rich history.
- Historical Significance: Dating back to the 4th century, it showcases Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the Altındere Valley.
- Spiritual Experience: A tranquil place to connect with your inner self amidst breathtaking landscapes.
2. Trabzon Castle
An ancient fortress with panoramic city views and a rich history.
- Architectural Wonders: A blend of Byzantine, Genoese, and Ottoman architecture.
- Historical Insights: Discover the city's past with a walk through its ancient walls.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning sunsets and cityscapes from the castle's vantage point.
3. Boğazköy
An ancient city of ancient Greater Iznik, offering a glimpse into history.
- Archaeological Wonders: Explore the remains of St. Sophia Church and the Archaeological Museum.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and near the beautiful Gök River.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient city.
4. Uzungöl Lake
A picturesque lake nestled amidst lush mountains, perfect for peaceful retreat.
- Natural Wonders: The breathtaking panorama of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Cultural Experience: Visit traditional Yöroldu village for a taste of local culture.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the serene beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
5. Van Lake
A large freshwater lake with islands hosting ancient sites.
- Natural Beauty: Stunning sunsets and picturesque islands.
- Historical Insights: Visit the ancient city of Göbeklitepe, one of the world's oldest known megalithic temples.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the lake and its surrounding islands.
6. Ağaçozan Cave
An impressive cave system with unique rock formations.
- Natural Wonders: Impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
- Adventure Opportunities: Explore the cave system with guided tours available.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the unique rock formations and the eerie beauty of the cave.
7. İçkilisse Monastery
An orthodox monastery with stunning mountain views.
- Historical Significance: Dating back to the 9th century, it showcases Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the mountains of Karaböcek.
- Spiritual Experience: A tranquil place to connect with your inner self amidst breathtaking landscapes.
8. Trabzon Museum of Archaeology
A museum housing artifacts from Trabzon's rich history.
- Cultural Experience: Gain insights into Trabzon's past through its artifacts.
- Historical Insights: Discover the city's history with exhibits dating back thousands of years.
- Educational Opportunities: Learn about Trabzon's cultural heritage and ancient civilizations.
9. Trabzon Atatürk Museum House
The former residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey's founding father.
- Historical Significance: An essential stop for those interested in Turkish history.
- Cultural Experience: Gain insights into the life of Atatürk and his impact on Turkey.
- Educational Opportunities: Learn about Turkey's founding father and his principles.
10. Zümrüd-i Hanım Tomb
A beautiful tomb of a wife of Ottoman Sultan Murad II.
- Historical Significance: An essential stop for those interested in Ottoman history.
- Architectural Wonders: A unique blend of Ottoman, Seljuk and Byzantine architectural styles.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the tomb and its surrounding gardens.
11. Ortahisar
An ancient city with unique rock-cut churches.
- Historical Significance: Discover the history of this ancient city and its rock-cut churches.
- Architectural Wonders: The unique rock-cut churches and the city's defensive walls.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient city.
12. Akçaören
An ancient city with rock-cut churches and a stunning canyon.
- Natural Beauty: The breathtaking Akçaören Canyon and surrounding landscapes.
- Historical Significance: Discover the history of this ancient city and its rock-cut churches.
- Adventure Opportunities: Explore the canyon with guided tours available.
13. Kümbet Graveyard
A medieval graveyard with unique rock-cut tombs.
- Historical Significance: Discover the history of this ancient graveyard and its tombs.
- Architectural Wonders: The unique rock-cut tombs and the surrounding landscapes.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the graveyard and its tombs.
14. Haydarbey Medrese
An impressive Ottoman seminary with intricate tile work.
- Architectural Wonders: Intricate tile work and unique architectural design.
- Historical Insights: Gain insights into Ottoman education and architecture.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the medrese and its tile work.
15. Tomb of Sultan Bayezid II
A stunning mausoleum dedicated to a great Ottoman sultan.
- Historical Significance: An essential stop for those interested in Ottoman history.
- Architectural Wonders: A unique blend of Ottoman, Seljuk and Byzantine architectural styles.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the tomb and its surroundings.