Classic Eastern Black Sea Tour: The Gems of Trabzon, Rize, and Artvin
Prepared with the assurance of Marsis Tourism, the “Classic Eastern Black Sea Tour” is a true feast of nature and culture where you will immerse yourself in every shade of green and find peace in the sound of rushing streams. Starting from the centuries-old Sümela Monastery perched on the steep cliffs of Trabzon, and extending to the postcard-perfect views of Uzungöl, the exuberance of the Fırtına Valley, and the untouched tranquility of Artvin Borçka Karagöl, this classic route is meticulously designed for those who want to experience the Black Sea in all its authenticity.
You will experience the region’s rich gastronomy, dance the horon to the melodies of the local kemençe and tulum instruments, and become part of the warm and welcoming culture of the Black Sea. Even on challenging mountain roads and valleys, you will enjoy a comfortable journey with Marsis Tourism’s own luxury vehicles and experienced drivers, while learning the hidden stories of the Black Sea through the narratives of our professional guides. Get ready to rejuvenate in the heart of nature.
Day 1: A Journey Through History (Sumela Monastery and Trabzon City Tour): Meeting at the airport or bus terminal. Departure for Altindere National Park to visit the fascinating Sumela Monastery, carved into the steep cliffs of Karadag. Return to Trabzon center to explore the Trabzon Hagia Sophia Mosque with its unique frescoes and the historic Atatürk Pavilion, where the great leader Atatürk once stayed. Check-in at our hotel in Trabzon.
Day 2: The Capital of Tea and the Magic of Uzungol: Departure for Surmene in the morning. Watching the production of world-famous handmade Surmene knives and visiting a tea factory to hear the journey of Black Sea tea from the field to the cup, followed by a tasting session. Following the Solakli Valley to arrive at Uzungol, nestled among pine forests. Free time around the lake for nature walks and photo breaks.
Day 3: Adrenaline and Nature (Firtina Valley and Ayder Highland): Departure toward Rize. Learning about traditional weaving arts at Rize cloth (feretiko) workshops. Entering Firtina Valley with photo stops at historic Ottoman stone bridges (such as Timisvat Bridge). Optional Ziplining and Rafting excitement on the Firtina River for interested guests. Afterward, ascending to Ayder Highland, a natural oxygen tank at the foot of the Kackar Mountains, to view the Gelintulu Waterfall. Check-in at our hotel in the Rize region.
Day 4: Artvin’s Hidden Paradise (Borcka Karagol and Arhavi): Following breakfast, traveling along the Black Sea coast via Hopa to Artvin. Arriving in Borcka accompanied by the beauty of the Coruh River. Ascending via waiting minibuses to Borcka Karagol, one of Turkey’s most beautiful lakes, where spruce and pine trees reflect on the water. A peaceful walk around the lake. On the return, a photo stop at the Arhavi Double Bridges and return to the hotel.
Day 5: The Majesty of Zilkale and Farewell: On the final day of our tour, entering Cat Valley via Camlihemsin. A visit to the imposing Zilkale, built upon a steep cliff, and moments immersed in nature at the thunderous Palovit Waterfall. Free time for local Black Sea delicacies and souvenir shopping, followed by a transfer to Trabzon or Rize Airport for the return journey.
| ✅ Included | ❌ Excluded |
| Round-trip and main transfers via Marsis Turizm luxury vehicles | Round-trip flight or bus tickets |
| 4 Nights of hotel accommodation | All lunches |
| Daily breakfasts and dinners at the hotels | Museum and National Park entrance fees (Museum pass recommended) |
| Professional Turkish-speaking guiding services | Personal expenses and hotel extras |
| Compulsory travel insurance | Single occupancy supplement (Single room fee) |
| On-board hot/cold refreshments | Zilkale and Palovit Waterfall minibus transfer (Extra) |
| Borcka Karagol minibus transfer (Extra) | |
| Activities such as Ziplining, Rafting, and Swings (Extra) |
- Quota: Tours generally require a minimum participation of 20–25 people. If the minimum number is not reached, the tour operator reserves the right to cancel the tour by providing notice 2–3 days in advance.
- Weather Conditions: The guide reserves the right to modify the sequence of the program due to weather, road conditions, or force majeure, provided that all scheduled locations are still visited.
- Accommodation: In triple rooms, the third bed is typically provided as a fold-out or rollaway extra bed.
- Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made up to 30 days before the departure date usually qualify for a full refund; however, specific deductions may apply for cancellations made within the final week.