Discover the dramatic cliffside heritage of the Black Sea region on an unforgettable day tour. Perfect for travelers seeking a balance of profound culture and lush mountain nature, this daily excursion introduces you to northern Turkey's most celebrated religious landmark. Tailored for an intimate small group of up to 18 guests, our Trabzon day trip provides an engaging and comfortable journey into the spectacular Altindere Valley National Park.
The journey winds inland from the coast, making its first pause in Macka centre for a 20-minute refreshment break. From there, we continue toward Altindere Valley, stopping for photographs at the historic Asmali Bridge. Set against rushing mountain waters and dense woodlands, this charming crossing exemplifies the pristine natural scenery of the Black Sea backcountry and provides wonderful photo opportunities.
The highlight of the route is the world-renowned Sumela Monastery, an extraordinary monument of Greek Orthodox heritage nestled high against sheer cliffs. Founded centuries ago in an astonishing setting within Altindere Valley National Park, this architectural marvel features sacred courtyards, ancient frescoes, and rock-hewn chapels. Visitors have about two hours to immerse themselves in this unique historic sanctuary suspended between mountain rock and open sky.
While exploring the national park, you will also take in the nearby Ayavarvara (St Barbara) Church. This historic chapel offers profound insight into regional monastic life and serves as one of the finest vantage points for viewing Sumela Monastery perched dramatically against the towering cliff walls above the forested valley.
| Tour type | Shared small group · day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | Half Day (approx. 4.5 hours) |
| Price | From €65 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | English-speaking licensed guide |
| Stops | 2 |
| Entrance fees | Not included (paid on site) |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours · TÜRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full day programme — click to see every stop.
Tour ProgrammeThe tour departs at 09:30 from the agency in Trabzon city centre, with pickup available. Travel in a comfortable tour vehicle suited for up to 18 people alongside your guide.Our first stop is in Macka centre, where you have 20 minutes to rest and purchase refreshments (food and drinks are excluded).Next, we pause at Asmali Bridge for a brief photo stop to enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery.We then continue into Altindere Valley National Park for about two hours of exploration covering the Greek Orthodox heritage of Sumela Monastery and the nearby Ayavarvara (St Barbara) Church. Please note that the Sumela Monastery entrance ticket and Sumela shuttle fee are excluded.Following the visit, we begin the drive back, arriving in Trabzon around 14:00.
Trabzon → Half Sumela Monastery
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles — the same fleet we use on your tour.
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My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized — from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!