How to Get to Sumela Monastery from Trabzon

First: getting to Trabzon from the US

There are no direct flights from the US to Trabzon. Most people fly into Istanbul and grab a quick domestic flight (around 2 hours) to Trabzon Airport (TZX). From the airport, Sumela is about 1 hour 15 minutes away.

Option 1: Book a tour (easiest)

Hotel pickup, guide, done. No transfers, no figuring out where the shuttle leaves from. If it's your first time in Turkey, this is the way.

Option 2: Dolmuş + park shuttle (cheapest)

1. Take a dolmuş (shared minibus) from Trabzon to Maçka – about 45 minutes.
2. From Maçka, take a local taxi or dolmuş to the Altındere Valley National Park entrance.
3. Inside the park, a paid shuttle takes you up closer to the monastery trail.

In summer there are sometimes direct dolmuşes from Trabzon to the monastery, but schedules change – ask at your hotel.

Option 3: Rental car (most freedom)

Pick up a car at Trabzon Airport or in town and drive south via Maçka. Roads are paved but mountainous, so take it easy. Parking at the park costs a small fee, and you'll still use the park shuttle for the last stretch.

Option 4: Taxi

A round-trip taxi with waiting time works if you're in a group – agree on the price before you leave.

The last bit: the walk up

From the shuttle drop-off it's a short but steep walk with stairs to the monastery. Moderate fitness is plenty – just wear real shoes.

FAQ

How far is Sumela Monastery from Trabzon?

About 45–50 km (roughly 30 miles) – around 1 hour by car.

Is there public transport to Sumela Monastery?

Yes. Take a dolmuş from Trabzon to Maçka, then a taxi or dolmuş to the national park, then the park shuttle.

Can I drive to Sumela Monastery?

Yes. You drive to the national park, park for a small fee, and take the shuttle for the final stretch.