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Daily Tour
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Discover South-Eastern Türkiye and its extraordinary cultural heritage
This unforgettable journey takes you through the heart of ancient Mesopotamia, where civilizations, religions, and cultures have intersected for thousands of years. Explore some of the world’s oldest cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and legendary landscapes.
Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Istanbul and transfer to the airport for your flight to Diyarbakır. Upon arrival, meet your professional guide and begin exploring one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Diyarbakır, with a history spanning over 5,000 years, is famous for its massive black basalt city walls, built on a Roman city plan with four main gates.
Visits include:
Diyarbakır City Walls
Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii) – one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia
Church of the Virgin Mary, dating back to the 3rd century
We then drive to Hasankeyf, an ancient settlement with a history of nearly 10,000 years, once home to nine civilizations. Although partially submerged due to the Ilısu Dam, Hasankeyf remains a powerful symbol of Mesopotamian heritage with its mosques, tombs, and cave dwellings.
Continue toward Midyat, stopping to admire its historic stone houses and monastery, before arriving in Mardin.
Overnight in Mardin
After breakfast, we explore Mardin, a city renowned for its honey-colored stone architecture and breathtaking views over the Mesopotamian Plain.
Mardin played a crucial role in early Christianity and remains a cultural crossroads to this day.
Visits include:
Historic old town with traditional Arabic-style houses
Local bazaars and stone-carved streets
Deyr-az-Zaferan Monastery, founded in 762 AD and former seat of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate
Enjoy free time to wander the lively streets and absorb the unique atmosphere of this timeless city.
Overnight in Mardin
After breakfast, we drive toward Kahta, visiting several significant historical sites along the way:
Arsameia, ancient capital of the Commagene Kingdom
Cendere Bridge (Septimius Severus Bridge), dating back to the 3rd century
Karakuş Tumulus, a royal burial monument
We then ascend Mount Nemrut, one of Türkiye’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. At nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, the summit features colossal stone heads and statues of ancient gods, built over 2,000 years ago by King Antiochus I.
Witness the magical sunset (or sunrise, depending on conditions) and step into ancient mythology at one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.
Dinner and overnight in Kahta or Adıyaman.
After breakfast, drive to Şanlıurfa, passing the impressive Atatürk Dam, part of the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP), one of the world’s largest hydroelectric developments.
Şanlıurfa, also known as the City of Prophets, is deeply connected to biblical and Islamic history.
Visits include:
Urfa Castle (Roman columns)
Pool of Sacred Carp (Balıklıgöl)
Cave of Prophet Abraham’s birthplace
In the afternoon, visit Harran, famous for its ancient beehive houses and mentioned in the Book of Genesis as the place where Prophet Abraham lived. Harran is also known as the site of the world’s first Islamic university.
Overnight in Şanlıurfa
Optional: Visit to Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex (upon request).
After breakfast, drive to Gaziantep, one of Türkiye’s gastronomic capitals.
Visits include:
Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to world-famous mosaics including the legendary “Gypsy Girl”
Gaziantep Castle
Copper Bazaar
Before departure, enjoy time at a traditional baklava shop — Gaziantep is the birthplace of authentic baklava.
In the late afternoon, transfer to Gaziantep Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Arrival and transfer to your hotel.
Hotel accommodation with breakfast
Professional English-speaking licensed guide
All museum and site entrance fees
Air-conditioned transportation
Airport and intercity transfers as per itinerary
Drinks
Tips
Personal expenses
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