Day Trip

Sumela Monastery, Hamsiköy Village and Karaca Cave Tour

Provider:
Embark on a day tour from Trabzon to discover the historical Sumela Monastery, breathtaking Zigana Pass, stunning Karaca Cave, and the thrilling Torul Glass Terrace. Enjoy the famous Hamsiköy rice pudding while soaking in the region’s natural and cultural beauty. An unforgettable experience awaits!

About this activity

Duration 9 hours

Check availability to see starting times

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Live tour guide

English, Turkish

Instant Confirmation

Pick-up service

Mobile ticketing

Small group

Limited to a maximum of 15 participants

5% off on your 1st booking

Use WELCOME promo code in checkout

Highlights

  • Explore the historic Sumela Monastery in Altındere National Park and witness the region’s breathtaking nature.
  • Discover the historic Silk Road at Zigana Pass with stunning views and visit the magnificent Karaca Cave.
  • Experience thrilling moments at Torul Glass Terrace and enjoy panoramic views of the Black Sea region.
  • Discover the natural beauty of Hamsiköy and savor the famous Black Sea rice pudding in a charming setting.

Full description

Get ready for a journey through the captivating nature and rich history of the Black Sea region! This full-day tour departing from Trabzon offers you a day filled with cultural and natural wonders. Our tour starts at 09:00, with pick-up from your hotel in Trabzon or your preferred meeting point in our comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle. As we begin our journey, we head towards the magnificent Sumela Monastery, Hamsiköy, and Karaca Cave, all while enjoying the lush landscapes of the Black Sea.

Our first stop is Altındere National Park. After a relaxing one-hour drive, we arrive at the park, where we transfer to minibuses for the journey to Sumela Monastery. A short, scenic 350-meter walk through the forest brings us to the monastery. Along the way, you will pass ancient aqueducts and stone steps, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Before entering the monastery, we take a short break at the entrance terrace to soak in the breathtaking views and natural beauty. Then, we explore the Sumela Monastery, carved into the cliffs. This extraordinary structure, which has stood since the Middle Ages, features chapels, student rooms, and guesthouses. You’ll witness the perfect harmony of history and nature as you explore this timeless monument.

After our visit to Sumela Monastery, we continue our journey to Hamsiköy, a charming village surrounded by lush greenery. Here, we enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant known for its regional dishes. Following lunch, take a relaxing stroll through the tranquil village and don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous Hamsiköy rice pudding. This quaint village, with its traditional Black Sea architecture and serene atmosphere, will leave a lasting impression, giving you a deeper understanding of the local culture and natural beauty of the area.

After our visit to Hamsiköy, we proceed to Karaca Cave. On our way, we pass through the New Zigana Tunnel, the longest road tunnel in Europe at 14.5 km. This modern engineering marvel offers stunning views of the Zigana Pass. As we approach Karaca Cave, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring beauty of the cave’s stalactites, stalagmites, and travertines, which resemble natural works of art. This cave is one of nature’s masterpieces, offering visitors the chance to explore the hidden geological wonders beneath the surface. During our visit, you’ll marvel at the formations that took millions of years to create, providing an unforgettable experience as you delve into the mysterious underground world.

After exploring Karaca Cave, we take a short break at a local store where you can purchase traditional pestil and köme, two local delicacies of the Black Sea region. Here, you can sample these natural, regionally made treats and bring home some delicious gifts for your loved ones. These local products offer an authentic taste of the region’s culinary richness. Our tour continues with a visit to the Torul Glass Terrace, where you will experience an adrenaline rush while enjoying the breathtaking views of Torul and Zigana Mountain.

After this spectacular day filled with stunning landscapes and cultural experiences, we return to Trabzon, concluding our tour. We bid farewell, hoping to see you again on another adventure.

Includes

  • Transportation in an air-conditioned, comfortable vehicle
  • All trips specified in the program
  • Guiding service
  • Hotel pick-up service (optional)
  • Museum and Entrance fees
  • Food and drinks
  • National Park shuttle fee

Meeting point

Atatürk Square (Meydan)

We meet in front of the exchange office located next to Burger King, across from McDonald's. Please arrive at the meeting point before the tour's departure time.

Important information

Before the Tour: Departure is at 9:00 AM from the meeting point in Trabzon city center. Hotel pickups follow the operational schedule and may be before or after this time. Exact pickup details will be shared in advance.

Please complete the Participant Information Form linked in your confirmation email.

Getting to Sumela Monastery: Shuttle service is required to reach the national park and trailhead. A 350-meter forest path leads to the monastery, not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. The visit includes many stairs.

Lunch: Lunch will be at a local restaurant in Zigana or Hamsiköy. Not included in the tour price. Credit cards accepted.

Entrance Fees (per person):

  • Sümela Monastery: 20 Euro (MasterCard, Visa, or Euro in TL)
  • Shuttle: 70 TL
  • Karaca Cave: 100 TL
  • Torul Glass Terrace: 80 TL

What to Bring: ID/passport, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothes — including a raincoat, even in summer.

Note: The itinerary may change due to weather.

Customer reviews

4.7
Based on 10 reviews
Excellent7
Very good3
Average0
Poor0
Terrible0