Trabzon is a vibrant Black Sea port city in northeastern Turkey, set between lush green mountains and the deep blue sea. Once the capital of the Byzantine Empire of Trebizond (1204–1461), the city retains extraordinary heritage—most famously the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon and Atatürk's mansion—while thriving today as a regional commercial hub. The surrounding highlands shelter alpine meadows, rushing rivers, and the iconic Sumela Monastery carved into a cliff face, making Trabzon a gateway for both history lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Cultural orientation
Essential context for travellers.
Remove shoes before entering mosques and private homes
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites
Greet with 'Merhaba' (hello) or 'İyi günler' (good day) — locals appreciate the effort
Accepting tea (çay) when offered is a social norm and refusal can seem rude
Bargaining is expected in the bazaar but not in standard shops or restaurants
Photographing people, especially women, always requires permission
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours — many locals fast
Do's and don'ts
Quick guide to local norms.
Do
- Accept tea or coffee when offered — it's a sign of hospitality
- Dress modestly near mosques, bazaars, and in conservative residential areas
- Say 'Afiyet olsun' (bon appétit) when people around you are eating
- Show genuine interest in local food — Trabzon residents are proud of their Black Sea cuisine
- Be patient: Turkish time can be relaxed; service may be slower than in northern Europe
- Carry cash — many small restaurants, taxis, and shops are cash-only
Don't
- Do not photograph mosques during prayer time without permission
- Do not raise your voice or display frustration publicly — composure is highly valued
- Do not assume everyone speaks English — learn a few Turkish phrases
- Do not point the sole of your foot at people when seated — considered disrespectful
- Do not discuss Kurdish politics or sensitive historical events unless you know your audience well
Etiquette by setting
How to navigate everyday situations.
Useful phrases
A few words go a long way.
Merhaba
Hello
Teşekkür ederim
Thank you
Lütfen
Please
Ne kadar?
How much?
Su/Su şişesi lütfen
Water / A bottle of water please
Çay, lütfen
Tea, please
Hesap lütfen
Bill/check please
Nerede?
Where is...?
Taksimetre açar mısınız?
Could you put the taxi meter on?
Affedersiniz
Excuse me / Sorry
İyi günler
Good day
Afiyet olsun
Enjoy your meal (bon appétit)
Religion & spirituality
Understanding faith in Trabzon.
Items:
- Faith
- Islam (Sunni)
- Prevalence
- The dominant religion; most residents are observant Muslims
- Note
- Prayer call (ezan) heard five times daily from mosques. During Ramadan, fasting is widely observed — consider timing meals discreetly in conservative areas.