This tour will get you acquainted with the historically important city of Trabzon, as well as leave you with time to explore the city on your own.
Meeting your coach at the pier, you will first set-off for a visit to the St. Sophia Museum, which was once a church, built by the Commenos family in the 13th century. St. Sophia was expanded by Emperor Manuel Paleologos VII in the same century, and later converted into a mosque during the 16th century. After having the chance to look around, you will understand why this is the most important historical building in Trabzon, and was converted into a museum in 1957. Some beautiful, but faint frescoes are still visible inside this remarkable building.
From St. Sophia, your tour continues to the Gulbahar Hatun Mosque, considered to be the most beautiful mosque in the city. The Mosque was built in 1507, just below and to the west of the citadel, by Selim I Yavuz for his mother, who is also buried here. This holy mosque is the oldest building in the town to have always functioned as a Muslim house of prayer (other, older buildings were only later converted into mosques).
Next, you will make your way to the country house of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic. Walk in the footsteps of this remarkable man and appreciate the views of Trabzon from above, a landscape he once gazed across, keeping late hours, drinking raki, conversing with companions and relaxing from the rigors of building a modern Turkish state.
Your excursion comes to a close with an orientation tour of the city and free time in the city center before it's time to transfer back to the pier.
Please note: Guests should note that Trabzon is a remote city with limited facilities. This tour includes nearly 1 3/4 hours of walking, including any walking at the guests' discretion during free time. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have a companion to assist them. Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Weather appropriate clothing; flat, comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunglasses are recommended. When visiting inside the Mosque, knees and shoulders must be covered. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted and guests must remove their shoes and wear head cover (provided by the tour guide) at the Mosque. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.