Trabzon is one of Turkey’s most intriguing Black Sea destinations, offering a rich mix of stunning landscapes, historic sites, and authentic local culture. What makes it especially appealing for full-day tours is its compact size combined with diverse attractions — you can easily explore mountain lakes, ancient monasteries, and lively city sights all in one day. We particularly love trips like the Uzungol Tour for its scenic beauty and cultural stops, and the private city tour for its personalized touch and in-depth insights. These experiences allow you to enjoy Trabzon’s highlights without the hassle of planning, transportation, or crowded group settings.
In this list, you’ll find a range of options from small-group excursions to luxury private tours, each designed to highlight different aspects of Trabzon and its surroundings. Whether you’re after a nature-filled escape or a cultural deep-dive, these tours promise memorable days filled with local flavor and breathtaking scenery.
1. Uzungol Tour: Full-Day Nature Adventure with Tea Factory Visit
At number 1, the Uzungol Tour offers a classic Black Sea experience, combining lush mountain scenery with visits to regional artisans. For around $52.26 per person, this 8-hour small-group tour provides round-trip transport from Trabzon, making it a no-stress way to see one of Turkey’s most photographed lakes. The tour emphasizes a relaxed pace, with a maximum of 15 people, so you can ask questions and really soak in the scenery.
The highlight is definitely the Uzungöl itself — a picture-perfect lake at 1090 meters above sea level, surrounded by quaint traditional houses and tea gardens. You’ll also visit the Sürmene Knife Factory Outlet, where regional craftsmanship is on full display, and shop for unique souvenirs. The Tea Factory visit is another favorite, showing how Turkey’s famous black tea is made and giving you the chance to buy some directly from the source. This trip is perfect for nature lovers and anyone interested in local crafts.
Bottom line: This tour strikes a great balance between scenic beauty, cultural stops, and comfort, ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day in the Black Sea. The consistently high reviews and friendly guides make it a reliable choice for first-timers.
2. Full-Day Private Tour to Uzungöl from Trabzon
At number 2, the Full-Day Private Tour to Uzungöl offers a more tailored experience. For around $349.82 per group (up to 5 people), this 8-hour private trip provides the flexibility to customize your day. You’ll stop at Surmene, famous for its knives, and visit the Arsin Tea Factory—which is a highlight for tea enthusiasts. The private option allows you to set your pace, extend stops, or explore hidden corners of Uzungöl that a larger group couldn’t easily access.
Once in Uzungöl, you get ample free time to walk, bike, or just relax by the lake. The tour also includes a visit to Yasay Falls, adding a scenic waterfall to your itinerary. The comfortable, air-conditioned transfers ensure a smooth ride, with the driver and guide providing insights along the way. Customers often praise the guide’s friendliness and the flexibility of the schedule, which makes this ideal for families or small groups wanting a more personalized experience.
Bottom line: If you prefer a flexible, private exploration with plenty of time to enjoy Uzungöl’s natural beauty and local crafts, this tour offers outstanding value and comfort.
3. Private Trabzon Full Day Tour With A Licensed Guide
Number 3 on our list is the Private Trabzon Full Day Tour, perfect if your priority is exploring the city’s historic and cultural sites with expert commentary. This 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes logistics simple. You’ll visit the Sumela Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff face, as well as the Atatürk Pavilion, where the Turkish leader stayed during his visits. The tour also takes you to Akçaabat for its renowned meatballs, and concludes with a visit to the Hagia Sophia Museum, where stunning frescoes await.
The Sumela Monastery is a true highlight, offering a snapshot of Ottoman architecture amid a forested landscape. The Atatürk Pavilion provides panoramic views over Trabzon and the Black Sea, while the city walk gives you a taste of local life. The tour is praised for the guide’s knowledge and the well-paced schedule, ensuring you see the best without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: This private tour suits travelers who want an immersive city experience with a mix of history, architecture, and local cuisine, all with flexible timing and personal attention.
How to Choose
When deciding between these full-day options, consider your interests and travel style. If you want to learn about nature and regional crafts, the Uzungol Tour offers a well-rounded experience at a great price. For more privacy and flexibility, the private Uzungöl tour allows you to customize your day, especially if traveling with family or friends. Meanwhile, the city-focused private tour is ideal for those wanting a deeper dive into Trabzon’s history and architecture.
Your choice should also factor in your budget, preferred pace, and interest in cultural versus natural sights. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot and preferred times.
Final Thoughts
Trabzon’s full-day tours offer a rich variety of ways to experience its mountains, lakes, and history without the stress of planning every detail. The Uzungol Tour is perfect for scenic lovers and casual explorers, while the private options give more personalized attention and flexibility. For those interested in city life, the private Trabzon tour provides an excellent overview of the region’s most iconic sites.
No matter which tour you pick, these experiences promise a memorable day. Booking in advance ensures you get the schedule and size you want, so don’t wait too long. With these options, you’re set to make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of Turkey.