From Rize Merkez: Sumela Monastery and Trabzon Private Tour

This guided tour from Rize offers a well-rounded day filled with breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and authentic local experiences. As someone who has explored many parts of Turkey, I find this trip particularly appealing for travelers seeking a mix of nature and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What truly stands out are the spectacular views of Altindere valley, the impressive frescoes at Sumela Monastery, and the chance to taste the famous Hamsikoy rice pudding. The tour’s inclusion of entry tickets, comfortable transportation, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a seamless way to explore these top sights. However, keep in mind that some attractions, like Sumela’s entry fee, are paid separately, which is worth budgeting for.

This experience works best for those who love scenic drives, historical sites, and authentic villages. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate guided tours that provide depth without sacrificing comfort, especially if you’re new to the region or want a hassle-free day out.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenic drives through the Altindere valley and surrounding mountains.
• Expert guide-led insights into the history and frescoes of Sumela Monastery.
• Access to Turkey’s highest viewing terrace at Torul Castle, with breathtaking panoramic views.
• Unique cave experience at Karaca Cave, with its microclimate and mineral formations.
• Taste of local tradition with Hamsikoy’s renowned rice pudding.
• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup included, making the day easy and relaxing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary: A Day Full of Highlights

Pickup and Introduction

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Rize, usually arranged in the morning, with a friendly guide holding a travel agency board at Ricosta Hotel. The small group setting—up to four people per private group—means plenty of space for questions and personalized attention. The journey is in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort as you travel through the scenic Turkish countryside.

Sumela Monastery: The Crown Jewel

The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly Sumela Monastery, perched dramatically on the cliffs of the Altindere National Park. The drive there offers stunning views of the Altindere valley and river, which set the tone for this adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll appreciate the ease of access and the opportunity to explore without feeling rushed.

The monastery is renowned for its frescoes depicting biblical scenes, including The Creation of the Earth, Adam and Eve, and scenes from Jesus’s life. Our guide, who is certified and fluent in English, Russian, and Turkish, often shares insights about the artwork and the monastery’s history, making the experience more meaningful. Alexander, a recent visitor, described it as “gorgeous” and noted the “wonderful experience” of seeing the frescoes up close.

Torul Castle and Glass Terrace

Next, you’ll visit Torul city castle, which features the highest viewing terrace in Turkey. This glass platform juts out over the mountains, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding plains, rivers, and rugged peaks. It takes a bit of courage to step onto the terrace, but the view makes it worth it. The guide will likely point out various landmarks and share anecdotes about the region’s history.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Karaca Cave: Nature’s Art Gallery

The journey continues to Karaca Cave, a must-see for geology lovers and those keen on natural formations. Spanning approximately 105 meters in length and covering 1,500 m², the cave’s dripstones, minerals, and ponds create a surreal landscape. Inside, you’ll notice the difference in temperature—cooler than outside in summer, warmer in winter—a result of its microclimate.

Our guide explained that the cave’s diverse rocks and minerals are part of what makes it so visually captivating. Visitors often describe the experience as awe-inspiring, with the cave’s natural formations resembling frozen waterfalls and sculptures etched over thousands of years.

Hamsikoy Village and Rice Pudding

On the way back, you’ll make a stop at Hamsikoy village, famous for its lush nature and traditional rice pudding made from village milk. The village offers a glimpse into rural life, with simple, charming houses and a quiet pace. The rice pudding is a standout, with many visitors noting its natural, homemade flavor. As one reviewer, Alexander, said, “The monastery was gorgeous, but the rice pudding was just wonderful.”

This stop provides not just a delicious treat but also a chance to chat with locals and learn about their way of life, adding an authentic touch to the day.

Return to Rize

After a full day of sights, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, typically arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The flexibility of hotel pickup and drop-off means less stress and more time to enjoy the day.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour, priced at $345 for up to four people, offers great value considering the inclusion of transportation, a certified guide, and entry tickets to most sites. The entry fee for Sumela Monastery is paid separately (20), which is common for many attractions in Turkey.

The tour lasts about 8 hours, providing a relaxed pace that balances sightseeing with time to enjoy each location. The small private group setting enhances the experience, allowing for personalized interaction and flexibility.

What’s especially appealing is the transportation—a modern, air-conditioned vehicle makes the travel time comfortable, and hotel pickup and drop-off ease logistics.

However, it’s wise to wear comfortable shoes for walking around uneven terrains, especially at Sumela and Karaca Cave. Bringing a change of clothes can be helpful if you plan to spend time at the cave or get slightly dusty.

Additional Tips

• Remember to carry cash or card for extra expenses like souvenirs or snacks.
• The tour is conducted in English, Russian, or Turkish, so clarify your preferred language when booking.
• Check the weather forecast to bring appropriate clothing—layers are recommended since outdoor temperatures can vary.

Authentic Experiences That Make a Difference

The knowledgeable guides are a real highlight. One reviewer, Alexander, remarked that the guide made the Monastery visit “wonderful,” indicating the value of a guide who can deepen your understanding of the frescoes and history. Their insights transform a sightseeing trip into a more meaningful experience.

The views from Torul’s glass terrace are described as breathtaking, and the Karaca Cave offers a natural spectacle that energizes photography lovers. The Hamsikoy village stop rounds out the day with an authentic taste of local life and tradition, something that many travelers find memorable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those craving genuine local experiences. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a guided, organized day but still want to see a variety of sights—from monasteries to caves to mountain vistas.

If you’re traveling as a couple or small family, the private setting provides intimacy and flexibility, making it ideal for those who want a personalized experience. It’s also a good choice for visitors who want to maximize their sightseeing without dealing with transportation or language barriers.

The Sum Up

This From Rize Merkez to Sumela Monastery and Trabzon tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and authentic local flavor—all within a manageable 8-hour window. The inclusion of expert guides and comfortable transport means you can relax and focus on soaking in the sights, making it a smart choice for first-time visitors or those short on time.

The stunning views from the mountain lookout, the intricate frescoes of the monastery, and the unique experience inside Karaca Cave make this trip very worthwhile. Coupled with the chance to taste genuine Hamsikoy rice pudding and learn about village life, it’s a well-rounded day that balances education, adventure, and relaxation.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value guided insights, scenic landscapes, and a taste of local culture. It’s an excellent way to explore southeastern Turkey’s highlights without the stress of self-planning, delivering both value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Rize, making logistics seamless.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, depending on traffic and time spent at each stop.

Are entry fees included?
Most entrance fees are included, except for Sumela Monastery, which costs 20 and is paid separately.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Turkish. Confirm your preferred language when booking.

Is this tour private or group?
It’s a private group experience, limited to up to 4 people, ensuring a personalized journey.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and consider bringing a change of clothes for cave and monastery visits.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

You can check if your dates are available here: