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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

The Black Sea And Northeastern Anatolia, Turkey

Airport & Flights

Major Airport & Airlines

Trabzon Airport (TZX) is the main airport for Trabzon and the entire Eastern Black Sea region. It is a modern, regional airport.

Flight Options

  • Domestic flights operate frequently from Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Dollar Flight Club for deals.
  • International flights from several cities in the Middle East, with seasonal European direct flights.
  • Most international travelers connect via Istanbul or Ankara. Skyscanner for flight comparisons.

Seasonal Availability & Facilities

Prices for flights are generally higher during this period due to increased demand.

Airport Services

  • Fewer direct international flights operate in shoulder and low seasons, but domestic links continue.
  • Airport facilities include duty-free shops, cafes, restaurants, car rental agencies, and ATMs.
  • Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the terminal for traveler comfort.

Havaş Shuttle

The most common and convenient option for reaching the city center from the airport. Journey takes 30-40 minutes.

Public Buses

Municipality buses offer a cheaper alternative to Havaş, connecting to central areas.

Taxis

Readily available outside the terminal. Agree on a fare beforehand or ensure the meter use.

Bus & Road Travel

Long-Distance Buses

  • Turkey's long-distance bus network is excellent, with comfortable and affordable travel.
  • Trabzon Otogarı (Bus Terminal) serves as a major hub for connections across Turkey.
  • Major companies include Metro Turizm, Kamil Koç (FlixBus Turkey), and Ulusoy.
  • Direct buses connect to major Turkish cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Rize.

Self-Driving & Roads

  • Main roads and highways are generally well-maintained. DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) and your domestic license are needed for driving.
  • Driving habits can be aggressive; watch for erratic driving and sudden stops.
  • Parking can be challenging in city centers; paid parking lots are often the only option.

Other Land Transport

Border Crossings

Trabzon is not directly on an international border. The nearest major land border crossing is Sarp, with Georgia, approximately 200 km east.

Train Services

Trabzon lacks a train station. The closest major train station is in Kars, about 6-7 hours by bus, a connection for the Eastern Express.

Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals

These rentals are less common for tourists in Trabzon and generally not recommended due to local traffic conditions and hilly terrain.

Sea/River Arrivals

Port Services

Trabzon Port functions mainly as a commercial port. Historically, passenger ferries operated to Russia and Ukraine, but these are not regular tourist services currently.

Sea Travel Notes

  • Cruise ships occasionally dock in Trabzon, but this occurs less often than in other Turkish ports.
  • For cruise passengers, immigration procedures typically happen onboard or at the port terminal.
  • Upon arrival by cruise ship, taxis are readily available from the port area to the city center.

River Transportation

Trabzon has no significant river transportation options for tourists. The region's rivers are fast-flowing and largely unsuitable for passenger travel.

River Travel Notes

  • The rivers are mainly for natural landscapes, not passenger routes.
  • No formal boat taxis or unique local water transport exist for tourism.
  • Any river activities are typically specialized (e.g., rafting in certain areas), not general transport.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied on departing travelers from Turkey at airports or land borders. Any departure tax is typically included in your airline ticket price.

Timing & Process

  • For international flights, arrive at Trabzon Airport at least 2.5-3 hours before departure.
  • If departing by long-distance bus, arrive at Trabzon Otogarı at least 30 minutes before departure.
  • Allow extra time during peak season or Turkish public holidays for busy terminals.

Terminal Facilities

Trabzon Airport is a modern facility with services for departing travelers. Trabzon Otogarı also provides amenities for bus passengers.

Available Services

  • Trabzon Airport has check-in counters, security, cafes, shops, and duty-free (international departures).
  • Trabzon Otogarı has waiting areas, ticket offices, and small eateries for quick meals.
  • Both terminals offer essential amenities for a comfortable waiting period before your journey.

Traveler's Check

Documents Ready

Ensure your passport, visa, and tickets are easily accessible and valid.

Check-in Complete

Verify flight status and complete online check-in if possible to save time.

Transport Planned

Confirm your transportation arrangements to the airport or bus station in advance.

Smooth Departure

Organize your departure details for a hassle-free journey home. Double-check all flight or bus times and allow ample time for travel to the terminal.