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Getting Around Trabzon

Getting Around Trabzon

Trabzon The Black Sea And Northeastern Anatolia, Turkey Travel Guide

Public Transit Overview

Dolmuş, these shared minibuses, represent the most common plus versatile form of public transport. They work on fixed routes but one can hail them anywhere along their route by waving a hand. They drop passengers off anywhere on demand (as long as it's safe and on their route).

Dolmuş are recognizable by the route names displayed on the front windows. They provide a quick, frequent, and affordable way to get around the city and to nearby districts.

Transit System Essentials

  • Dolmuş are the backbone of local travel, highly frequent and flexible.
  • City Buses, run by the municipality, cover wider areas though less frequently.
  • Trabzon Card for city buses or cash directly to dolmuş drivers.
  • Dolmuş operate from early morning to late evening; city bus hours vary by route.

Route Maps & Hubs

The central hub for many dolmuş routes lies around Meydan Parkı and the main bus terminal (Otogar). Signs on the front of each dolmuş point to its destination.

Ticketing & Fares

Public transportation uses the Trabzon Card, a contactless smart card, purchasable and top-up ready at kiosks or machines that sell snacks and drinks. For dolmuş, paying cash directly to the driver is common.

Accessibility

Public transportation, especially dolmuş, generally does not offer accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges. Dolmuş can get packed and require climbing a few steps.

Navigation Tips

Efficient Travel
  • Ask locals for dolmuş routes if unsure; they generally help.
  • Have small Turkish Lira notes ready for dolmuş fares, which are inexpensive.
  • Use Google Maps or Yandex Maps to identify bus routes and general directions.
Boarding & Exiting
  • When hailing a dolmuş, make eye contact with the driver to signal.
  • Confirm your place with the driver before boarding.
  • To get off, simply say "inecek var" (EEN-eh-jek var) or "müsait bir yerde".

Operational Hours

Dolmuş Start

Around 6-7 AM

Dolmuş End

Around 10-23:00

City Bus Start

Early morning

City Bus End

Late evening

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis provide a direct transportation option in Trabzon. International ride-ride-sharing apps such As uber or Lyft are not widely operational or popular here.

Licensed Taxis

  • Licensed taxis are yellow with a prominent "Taksi" sign on the roof.
  • They are widespread in the city center, at hotel stands, and could be hailed on the street.
  • Taxis are metered; always ensure the driver turns on the meter at the start of your travels.
  • Payment is almost always in cash; have small change ready.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • International ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft do not widely operate in Trabzon.
  • Some local taxi ordering apps might exist but are less frequent for tourists.
  • Traditional yellow taxis remain the standard option for point-to-point travel.
  • It's best to confirm this directly at your place of stay upon arrival.

Taxi Safety

  • Generally safe; always use licensed yellow taxis.
  • If hailing, check for clear markings and a meter.
  • Have your destination written in Turkish to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Be careful of drivers who refuse to use the meter.
  • Agree on a price beforehand for longer journeys if the meter is not used.
  • Having small Turkish Lira denominations speeds up payment.

Taxi Fares & Payment

Meter Use

Fares begin with a base rate and go up by distance. Always ensure the meter is running.

Short Ride Costs

Short rides within the city center are typically 80-200 TRY, varying with traffic.

Cash Payment

Taxi payment must be almost always in cash. Have smaller notes ready for convenience.

Rental Options

Renting a vehicle gives freedom to explore beyond the city limits, especially for day trips into the mountainous regions or by the coast.

Car Rental

  • A valid domestic driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are needed.
  • Your passport and a credit card for the deposit are also necessary.
  • Minimum age for rental typically 21-25; drivers should have held their license for 1-2 years.
  • Large global companies like Avis, Hertz, Enterprise operate at Trabzon Airport. DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.

Other Rentals

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists in Trabzon.
  • No widely available bicycle sharing programs exist. Some hotels might offer bicycle rentals.
  • Specialty vehicle selections like tuk-tuks or jeepneys do not apply to Trabzon.
  • Cycling not much infrastructure, and traffic can be challenging for cyclists.

Driving Conditions

Driving Laws

Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits vary by road type.

Speed limits: THE speed limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 kilometers per hour on rural roads.

Road Quality

Main roads and highways are generally well-maintained. The coastal highway (D010/E70) is good.

Mountain expect winding roads, steep, and sometimes in poorer condition.

Parking

Parking can be hard in busy city centers. Paid parking lots often are the only option.

Look for "Otopark" signs for assigned parking lots.

Safety Reminders for Drivers

Caution on Roads
  • Driving habits in Anatolia can act aggressively; stay watchful.
  • Be wary of erratic driving and sudden stops.
  • Watch for vehicles appearing from blind locations or making unexpected turns.
Weather & Terrain
  • Mountain roads can be prone to fog or rain-induced landslides.
  • Exercise caution on a mountain roads, especially after heavy rain or during winter snow.
  • Avoid driving in extremely heavy rain or snow if you are unfamiliar with the terrain.

Important Driving Notes

  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended.
  • Check the minimum age and license holding duration for car rental.
  • A credit card is generally needed for a security deposit.
  • Inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before driving.
  • Be cautious of erratic driving habits in urban areas.
  • Reduce speed on winding mountain roads, especially in adverse weather.
  • Watch for sun glare during certain times of day, especially on roads along the coast.
  • Some rural roads may have unexpected potholes or uneven surfaces.

Traveler's Insight

Careful planning and flexibility make navigating Trabzon's transport enjoyable. Embrace local approaches for a real feel.

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