Things To Do
in Sürmene

Sürmene is a charming coastal town located on the northeastern shores of Turkey, within the Trabzon Province. Known for its lush green hills and scenic views of the Black Sea, Sürmene is a hub for traditional craftsmanship, particularly in knife making. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Turkish experience.

Visitors can explore the area's natural wonders, historical sites, and enjoy the local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Coastal Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Sürmene's picturesque coastline and enjoy a tranquil walk along the beach while watching the sunrise.

afternoon
:

Head to the Sürmene Knife Museum to learn about the town's famous knife-making tradition, followed by lunch at a local restaurant where you can try some fresh fish dishes.

evening
:

Stroll through the town center and enjoy a traditional Turkish tea at a local cafe while observing the local lifestyle.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby mountains to enjoy stunning views and the rich biodiversity of the region. Don't forget to pack a picnic!

afternoon
:

Visit the local farmers' market to sample fresh produce and artisanal products, followed by a visit to a nearby historical site.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the sea, enjoying local specialties while listening to the gentle waves.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Cup of coffee$2
🚌Local bus fare$1
🏨Hotel night stay$40
🥖Loaf of bread$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood.
  • Less nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Limited English-speaking locals.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Sürmene

Visit one of these nice places.

Sürmene Coastline

Capture stunning sunrise and sunset shots along the picturesque coast with the Black Sea as a backdrop.

Sürmene Knife Museum

Photograph the intricate craftsmanship of the traditional knives and the museum's exhibitions.

Mountains of Sürmene

Stunning panoramic views from the hiking trails, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sürmene

Sürmene offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of the Black Sea region. Must-try local dishes include freshly caught fish, traditional pide, and local herbs.

Sürmene Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies, a beloved dish in the Black Sea region, served crispy and golden.

Must-Try!

Pide

Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients, often including cheese and minced meat.

Sürmene Knife Salad

A refreshing salad featuring local vegetables, herbs, and a special dressing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sürmene Farmers' Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sürmene has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and cool, wet winters. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. Rain is common throughout the year, especially in autumn and winter, making it lush and green.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially in religious areas.

Dress Modestly

Modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone; it is polite to greet people with 'Merhaba' (Hello).

Safety Guide

Safety

Sürmene is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are friendly and willing to help.

Tipping in Sürmene

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% at restaurants and cafes, although it is optional.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but carrying cash is recommended for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming nature make spring an ideal time to visit for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers; however, it can get crowded, making early morning or late evening visits more pleasant.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant, providing a beautiful backdrop for hikes and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall; a peaceful time to visit for those who enjoy solitude and winter landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Sürmene at Night

Sürmene's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities. Most locals enjoy relaxed evenings at cafes or restaurants, while a few bars may offer live music or entertainment. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Sürmene

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zigana Mountain Trail

A scenic trail offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for intermediate hikers.

Çaykara Nature Trail

An easy to moderate trail through lush forests, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Sürmene by plane.

Trabzon Airport (TZX)

Located approximately 30 km from Sürmene, Trabzon Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sürmene is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are available, though some areas may be uneven due to the hilly terrain.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Sürmene's population consists of Turkish locals, known for their hospitality and community spirit.

Tourists

An increasing number of tourists visit Sürmene, drawn by its natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in the region, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Fishing

Given its coastal location, fishing is a favored pastime among locals, with many engaging in traditional fishing methods.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sürmene is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns and Trabzon, but schedules may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sürmene.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

There are several vegetarian-friendly dishes available, but it's advisable to check with restaurants to ensure no meat is included.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Sürmene are adequate with a local hospital and several clinics available for minor health issues. For serious medical emergencies, larger hospitals in Trabzon city are accessible. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare needs.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide