Exploring the Sümela Monastery & Uzungöl: A Day Tour in Trabzon
If you’re planning a trip to northeastern Turkey, the Sümela Monastery & Uzungöl tour offers a chance to see some of the region’s most iconic sights in just a day. While the experience has its highs and lows, it provides a good introduction to Trabzon’s natural beauty and historical gems — especially if you’re short on time or want an organized, guided trip.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to explore the remarkable Sümela Monastery, perched on a mountainside, with breathtaking frescoes and a history dating back to the 4th century. You’ll also get to enjoy the tranquil vistas of Uzungöl, a lake embraced by lush greenery and misty mountains. Plus, the visit to a tea factory highlights the region’s unique agricultural identity, making the day both scenic and culturally interesting.
However, the trip isn’t perfect; some travelers note that the schedule can feel rushed and logistical hiccups — such as the need for shuttle buses and extra fees for entry — may cause minor frustrations. Still, if you’re looking for a comprehensive day out with experienced guides, this tour could hit the right notes.
Ideal for those who love a mix of nature, history, and local culture, this tour suits travelers who enjoy guided experiences, don’t mind a long day, and want to maximize their time in Trabzon. Now, let’s unpack what this tour involves and what you can really expect.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- All-in-one experience: Combines cultural, natural, and culinary highlights of Trabzon in a single day
- Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides help bring history and local customs to life
- Stunning vistas: Offers fantastic views of Uzungöl and the picturesque surroundings
- Flexible free time: Allows about 2 hours to explore Uzungöl at your own pace
- Additional costs: Extra fees apply for the shuttle bus and entry tickets, which add to the overall cost
- Potential scheduling issues: Some reviews mention feeling rushed and logistical delays
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Uzungol.
What to Expect from the Tour
This 10-hour guided journey kicks off early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel or designated spot in Trabzon. From there, the adventure begins with a visit to the Sümela Monastery — the star attraction.
Visiting Sümela Monastery: A Mountain-top Marvel
Upon arrival, you’ll usually need to pay an entry fee of 20 TRY. The journey to the monastery involves a shuttle bus ride (about 70 TRY), which takes you from the parking area to the start of a 300-meter walk up a winding path — a manageable hike for most, but worth noting for those with mobility issues.
The monastery itself, built into the rock face, offers a glimpse of religious architecture from the 4th century, with frescoes and centuries-old stonework telling stories that have survived earthquakes and wars. Guided tours often highlight these features, and you’ll learn about its history as a spiritual hub and a place of refuge.
One reviewer, Maria, pointed out that the visit felt rushed — “we visited too late and missed some sights” — indicating that timing can be tight, especially if you want to linger. Your guide will aim to balance the visit with other stops, but be prepared for a brisk pace.
Exploring a Tea Factory: A Must-See for Tea Enthusiasts
After descending from the monastery, you’ll visit a tea factory, vital to the regional economy. Here, a guide explains the journey of tea from garden to cup, with opportunities to sample different types of Turkish tea. The factory visit provides insight into Black Sea agriculture and the significance of tea production in this part of Turkey.
You’ll also stop at a sales office where you can taste and purchase local products like Turkish delight, chocolate, coffee, and aromatic teas. This is a good chance to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a break with local flavors.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyUzungöl: Lake of Dreams
The highlight for many is the visit to Uzungöl. The tour typically arrives at the Observation Terrace, where panoramic views of the lake framed by forested mountains make for excellent photo opportunities. You’ll be given a few moments here to snap pictures before heading down to the lakeside.
You then get about 2 hours of free time to explore Uzungöl at your leisure. Whether you want to walk around the lake, relax in a café, or visit the Dursun Ali Nan Museum, you’ll find plenty to do. The scenery varies through the seasons — lush green in summer, vibrant in autumn, and snow-dusted in winter, which makes Uzungöl a year-round destination.
Return Journey and Additional Stops
On the way back to Trabzon, your guide may stop briefly at the Historical Tiled Bridge, built in 1935, for some quick photos. The entire day wraps up around 6:00-7:00 pm, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Practical Details and Cost Analysis
The $95 per person price covers transportation, the guide, and the planned itinerary. However, additional costs include a 70 TRY shuttle bus fee to reach the monastery and a 20 TRY entry ticket. These extra expenses should be factored into your budget, especially if you’re traveling on a tight budget.
The group size isn’t specified but, based on reviews, it appears to be a typical large group, which can affect the intimacy of the experience. Still, guides seem to handle the crowds well.
Timing can be tight, with some reviewers feeling rushed at key stops, especially the Sümela Monastery. If you’re someone who appreciates a leisurely pace, you might find this aspect frustrating. The tour’s structure, however, works well if you want to see several highlights without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.
Transportation & Logistics
Transportation is provided, but keep in mind that the shuttle bus to Sümela involves an extra fee. The bus ride and walk to the monastery can be manageable for most, but if you’re traveling with mobility concerns, it’s worth considering.
The tour starts at 09:00, meaning an early start, but this ensures you can fit everything into the day. The return around evening gives you ample time to relax afterward.
Authentic Experiences from Reviewers
Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, describing them as friendly and helpful. Ahmed praised the organization: “everything was well arranged, and the tour guide was very friendly.” Conversely, others noted some schedule mismanagement, feeling they were hurried at Sümela and spent too little time at each site, with one mentioning the trip lasted over 11 hours — longer than expected.
A common positive note is the stunning views of Uzungöl, with travelers finding the scenery worth the early wake-up and busy schedule. The photo stops at the Tiled Bridge and the observation terrace add to the visual appeal.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for travelers eager to cover multiple highlights in a single day. If you enjoy guided trips, appreciate historical sites like Sümela, and want to enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of Uzungöl, it’s a good fit. It’s also suitable for those interested in learning about regional industries like tea production.
However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend extra time at each site, you might find the schedule a little rushed. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a full, structured day with lots of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
This Sümela Monastery & Uzungöl tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Trabzon’s most captivating sights in just one day. While the schedule can feel a bit tight, the experience provides a snapshot of Turkey’s natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural richness.
You’ll love the stunning mountain views, the fascinating history of the monastery, and the chance to taste regional teas and sweets. The guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, helping you get the most out of each stop.
On the downside, the extra costs and potential for feeling rushed are worth considering if you’re a slow traveler or prefer to explore at your own pace. This tour offers great value for those looking to see a lot without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.
If you’re after an active, comprehensive day in Trabzon with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, this trip could be a memorable part of your Turkey adventure.
FAQ
What time does the tour start?
The tour departs from Trabzon at around 09:00, but it’s best to check availability as starting times might vary.
How much does the shuttle bus to Sümela cost?
The shuttle bus fee is 70 TRY, payable directly during the trip, which takes you from the parking area to the start of the walk to the monastery.
Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. However, there are stops where you can buy food or enjoy snacks at Uzungöl.
Is the walk to Sümela Monastery difficult?
The walk involves a 300-meter uphill path after the shuttle bus, which is manageable for most but may be challenging for travelers with mobility issues.
How long is the free time at Uzungöl?
You get approximately 2 hours to explore Uzungöl at your own pace, whether that’s walking around, relaxing by the lake, or visiting the museum.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans change.
The Sümela Monastery & Uzungöl tour provides a balanced glimpse into the natural and historic treasures of Trabzon. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy guided adventures, stunning views, and cultural discoveries, and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.
You can check if your dates are available here: