Car Hire Trabzon Airport — Essential for Exploring the Black Sea Highlands

Trabzon Airport (TZX), just 6km from the city centre, is one of Turkey’s most conveniently located airports. But its proximity to the city belies its role as the gateway to one of Turkey’s most dramatic and least-visited regions. The Black Sea highlands, with their misty mountains, tea plantations, and cliff-side monasteries, require a car to explore properly. Hiring a vehicle at the airport is not just convenient—it’s virtually essential for experiencing the region’s scattered attractions.

Within an hour of landing, you can be driving through forested mountains toward Sumela Monastery. Within two hours, you’ll reach the alpine lake of Uzungöl. The airport’s central location on the Black Sea coast also provides easy access east toward the Georgian border and west toward Giresun and Ordu. A rental car transforms Trabzon from a city break into a comprehensive exploration of Turkey’s greenest, most mountainous region.

Picking Up Your Rental Car at Trabzon Airport

Rental desks are located in the arrivals hall of the small, modern terminal. Turkish companies dominate, with some international brands represented. The airport’s size means efficient processing—typically 15-20 minutes.

Most companies have vehicles in adjacent parking within walking distance of the terminal. Given the airport’s proximity to the city, some visitors walk to hotels and collect cars later from city locations.

Required documents: Valid driving licence, passport, and credit card. An International Driving Permit is required for non-Turkish licence holders.

Vehicle choice: Mountain roads can be challenging. While standard cars manage most routes, consider a vehicle with good ground clearance if you plan extensive highland exploration.

Driving from Trabzon Airport

The airport connects directly to the coastal D010 highway. For Trabzon city centre, head east (10 minutes). For Sumela Monastery, head west then south into the mountains (about 1 hour). For Uzungöl, head east then south through the mountains (about 2 hours).

The coastal road runs along the Black Sea shore, while mountain roads climb steeply into the interior. Be prepared for winding roads and rapid elevation changes.

Top Destinations from Trabzon Airport

Sumela Monastery (50km, 1hr)

The cliff-side Greek Orthodox monastery is one of Turkey’s most dramatic sights. Set in Altindere National Park, it requires a drive through forested mountains. The monastery reopened in 2024 after extensive restoration.

Uzungöl (100km, 2hr)

A long alpine lake surrounded by mountains and traditional wooden houses. The scenery resembles Switzerland more than typical Turkey. Visit early morning for misty photographs.

Trabzon City (6km, 10min)

Hagia Sophia (a Byzantine church), the Atatürk Pavilion, and the medieval city walls. The bazaar area retains traditional character with tea houses and silver workshops.

Sera Lake (15km, 25min)

A tranquil lake popular for picnics and fishing. An easy drive from the airport for a first stop after landing.

Hamsiköy (70km, 1.5hr)

A mountain village famous for rice pudding and highland scenery. The drive passes tea plantations and traditional villages.

Tips for Driving in the Black Sea Region

Roads: Main roads are paved. Mountain roads are narrow, winding, and can be challenging. Allow extra time for mountain routes.

Speed limits: 50km/h urban, 90km/h open roads. Mountain roads require slower speeds.

Weather: The Black Sea region is Turkey’s wettest. Fog and rain are common at higher elevations. Check conditions before mountain drives.

Driving style: Local drivers are experienced with mountain roads. Use pull-outs to let faster vehicles pass.

Fuel: Stations plentiful in Trabzon. Fill up before heading into mountains—stations are sparse in highland areas.

Book your Trabzon Airport car hire through the search above for competitive rates with instant confirmation.