Turkey

How to get from Ankara to Trabzon

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

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FASTEST
1h
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From
18€
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Distance
592 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Ankara to Trabzon

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Ankara
📍Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal (AŞTİ) is the main hub for coaches in Ankara. It's a large, modern complex with numerous shops, restaurants, and waiting areas. Make sure to arrive early to find your specific bus gate, as the terminal can be quite busy.
🚇AŞTİ is easily accessible via the Ankaray metro line (AŞTİ station). From the city center, it's a short metro ride, costing around 15-20 TL (€0.50-0.70). Taxis are also readily available, with a fare typically ranging from 70-100 TL (€2.50-3.50) depending on your starting point.
⏰Buses to Trabzon depart frequently throughout the day and evening from AŞTİ, with services often running every 1-2 hours, especially during peak seasons. Overnight buses are common. Check operator websites for the most current schedules.
💸 Transport from 18€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 1h
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

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Compare Flight and Coach Times

Always check both flight and coach schedules. A 9-hour overnight bus might save you a night's accommodation, but a 1-hour flight gets you there rested and ready to explore. For Ankara to Trabzon, the flight is often the smarter choice for time efficiency.

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Book Domestic Flights in Advance

Domestic flights in Türkiye, especially on popular routes, can be very affordable if booked ahead. Pegasus Airlines and Turkish Airlines often have promotional fares. Booking a few weeks out can secure prices similar to an overnight coach, making the flight a no-brainer.

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Choose Reputable Bus Operators

If you opt for the bus, stick to major companies like Kamil Koç, Metro Turizm, or Pamukkale Turizm. They generally offer modern, comfortable coaches with better service and reliability. Avoid lesser-known operators for long-distance travel to ensure a pleasant journey.

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Check Bus Terminal Locations

Türkiye's cities often have large, modern intercity bus terminals (otogar) located on the outskirts. Factor in travel time and cost to get to and from these terminals. For instance, Ankara's AŞTİ is well-connected but requires planning. Confirming the terminal helps avoid last-minute stress.

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Consider Overnight Travel Wisely

An overnight bus can save you a hotel night, but a 9-hour journey might leave you tired. If you struggle to sleep on buses, a cheap flight for around €35 is a worthwhile investment for a full day of sightseeing in Trabzon. Prioritize your comfort and energy levels.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating Türkiye's vast distances can feel a bit like a puzzle, especially when you're weighing up coaches versus flights. For a route like Ankara to Trabzon, you'll quickly discover it’s one where you have a clear choice, and picking the right one makes a huge difference to your travel experience. We’re here to give you the straightforward lowdown so you can make an informed decision instantly, without any guesswork about hidden travel times or unexpected inconveniences.

From Ankara to Trabzon, your primary options are a comfortable coach or a quick domestic flight. The bus journey typically costs around €18 and takes approximately 9 hours, often overnight. You'll find operators like Kamil Koç and Metro Turizm offer modern coaches with amenities like Wi-Fi and snacks. Alternatively, a domestic flight takes only about 1 hour and costs around €35, with airlines such as Turkish Airlines or Pegasus offering frequent services from Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) to Trabzon Airport (TZX).

While Türkiye's bus network is world-class, for a 9-hour haul like Ankara to Trabzon, a flight often wins, especially if you value your time and prefer to avoid an overnight journey on the road. The cost difference is minimal for the significant time saving. This route is a prime example of when a cheap domestic flight is a smart choice over the coach, allowing you more time to explore Trabzon's stunning Black Sea coast and Sumela Monastery.

Frequently asked questions — Ankara → Trabzon

✨ Why visit Trabzon?

  • ✓ Explore Hagia Sophia of Trabzon, a stunning Byzantine church converted into a mosque, then a museum, now a mosque again.
  • ✓ Wander through the historic Trabzon Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the Black Sea.
  • ✓ Visit Sumela Monastery, an incredible 4th-century Greek Orthodox monastery built into a cliff face near Maçka.
  • ✓ Discover Uzungöl, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush green mountains, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
  • ✓ Taste local delicacies at the Trabzon Bazaar, from regional cheese to famous Hamsi (anchovies).
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Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — Allows for exploring city highlights and a day trip to Sumela Monastery/Uzungöl.

☀️ When to visit Trabzon?

HUMID SUBTROPICAL CLIMATE

May to October — Pleasant temperatures for exploring and enjoying outdoor activities, avoiding harsh winters.

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In Trabzon — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Trabzon
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Trabzon?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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Hagia Sophia Trabzon Museum
Once a Byzantine church, then a mosque, and now a museum, this architectural marvel showcases stunning frescoes and a rich history. Its garden offers a serene atmosphere. Aim to visit in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the intricate details. Entry is typically around 3-5€.
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Uzungöl Lake & Nature Park
A picturesque lake surrounded by lush green mountains and traditional wooden houses, Uzungöl is a nature lover's paradise. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake or rent a bike. Be aware that it can get very busy during peak season; consider an early morning visit for tranquility. Expect transport costs of around 15-25€ for a shared shuttle.
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Sumela Monastery Visit
Perched dramatically on a cliff face in the Altindere Valley, Sumela Monastery is a breathtaking sight. Its frescoes and unique location make it a must-see. Note that parts of the monastery may be closed for restoration; check ahead. The entrance fee is around 5-7€, plus shuttle bus fare from the entrance.
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Trabzon Castle Exploration
The remnants of Trabzon Castle offer panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea. While mostly ruins, walking through its walls provides a sense of history. Combine your visit with nearby historic houses. Access is free, but wear comfortable shoes as paths can be uneven. Allow an hour for a good explore.
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Bazaar Shopping Experience
Dive into the vibrant local bazaar to experience authentic Trabzon life. From spices and local crafts to fresh produce, it's a feast for the senses. Don't hesitate to haggle politely for a better price. Visit during weekday mornings for a less crowded and more authentic experience. Many unique souvenirs can be found for under 10€.
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Taste Hamsi & Akçaabat Köfte
Trabzon's culinary scene is famous for Hamsi (Black Sea anchovies) and Akçaabat Köfte (meatballs). Seek out local restaurants, especially along the coast, for the freshest seafood. Pair your meal with local corn bread (mısır ekmeği). A hearty meal with drinks can range from 8-15€ per person. Ask locals for their favorite spots.
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Boztepe Hill Panorama
Boztepe Hill offers stunning panoramic views of Trabzon, stretching to the Black Sea. It's an ideal spot for sunset or sunrise photography. There are several tea gardens where you can relax and enjoy the vista with a cup of Turkish tea. Access is free, but expect to pay a few euros for drinks. Take a local dolmuş (shared taxi) up the hill.
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Atatürk Pavilion Visit
This elegant villa, once the summer residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is now a museum showcasing period furniture and personal effects. It offers a glimpse into early 20th-century Turkish elite life. The surrounding garden is also pleasant for a stroll. Entry typically costs around 1-3€. Visit on a weekday afternoon for a quieter experience.

⏱️ How long to visit Trabzon?

3 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, plan 3 to 5 days. This allows ample time to explore the city's historical sites like Hagia Sophia, Sumela Monastery, and Uzungol Lake. With 3 days, focus on Trabzon city and Sumela; 5 days lets you add Uzungol for a more relaxed pace and enjoy the Black Sea.

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