Hidden Beauties of Eastern Turkey: 12 Days of Excursion

Arrival in Trabzon & Black Sea Exploration 🌊🏛️

After a morning flight from Istanbul to Trabzon, begin your adventure along Turkey’s stunning Black Sea coast.

🚩 Highlights of the Day:

✅ Hagia Sophia of Trabzon – A 14th-century Byzantine church featuring incredible frescoes and panoramic Black Sea views.
✅ Sumela Monastery – One of Turkey’s most iconic sites, this cliffside monastery is a breathtaking marvel dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
✅ Black Sea Coastal Drive – Enjoy a scenic journey along the Black Sea, passing charming villages, tea plantations, and rugged cliffs.
✅ Arrive in Hopa, a peaceful seaside town near the Georgian border, where you can relax for the night.

🌙 Overnight in Hopa.

Sights Visited

Hopa to Erzurum – A Journey Through Eastern Turkey’s Hidden Gems 🏔️🌿

Today, get ready for a scenic road trip from Hopa to Erzurum, passing through breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and historic mountain valleys.

🚩 Highlights of the Day:

✅ Artvin – A picturesque town surrounded by lush green mountains, deep valleys, and tea plantations. Known as the gateway to the Georgian Valleys, it’s an ideal stop for scenic views.
✅ Ishan Church (Ishan Monastery) – A 7th-century Georgian monastery tucked away in the mountains. Marvel at its well-preserved stonework, domes, and faded frescoes.
✅ Georgian Valleys – A spectacular drive through dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and winding rivers—a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
✅ Arrival in Erzurum – A city rich in Seljuk and Ottoman history, famous for its ancient medrese (theological schools), mosques, and fortresses.

🌙 Overnight in Erzurum.

Sights Visited

Exploring Erzurum & The Ancient City of Ani 🏰🌿🇹🇷
Today, embark on an extraordinary journey through history, from the Seljuk wonders of Erzurum to the medieval Armenian ruins of Ani near the Turkish-Armenian border.

🌅 Morning: Erzurum City Tour 🕌🏰
✅ Yakutiye Medrese (14th Century) – A stunning Seljuk-era madrasa, adorned with intricate stone carvings and calligraphy.
✅ Cifte Minareli Medrese – One of Erzurum’s most iconic landmarks, featuring twin minarets and an impressive Seljuk portal.
✅ Erzurum Castle – A historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
✅ Local Cuisine – Taste cag kebabi, a unique Erzurum-style rotisserie lamb kebab, considered one of the best kebabs in Turkey!

🚗 Midday: Travel to Kars via Sarikamis
Depart Erzurum and journey along the scenic Aras River Valley, a breathtaking route with rolling landscapes and historical significance.
📍 Stop at Sarikamis Battlefield – Reflect on this WWI battle site, where thousands of Ottoman soldiers perished during the harsh winter of 1914.

🌇 Afternoon: Discover the Ancient City of Ani (UNESCO World Heritage Site) 🏛️🏜️
Upon arriving in Kars, head straight to the ruins of Ani, once a thriving capital of medieval Armenia and known as the “City of 1,001 Churches.”
✅ Ani Cathedral (10th Century) – One of Armenia’s greatest architectural masterpieces, with impressive stone arches and faded frescoes.
✅ City Walls & Gates – Walk through the fortified walls that once protected this bustling Silk Road city.
✅ Church of the Redeemer & Church of St. Gregory – Admire these well-preserved examples of medieval Armenian architecture.
✅ Arpacay River – Enjoy stunning views over the natural border between Turkey and Armenia.

🌙 Evening: Return to Kars & Overnight Stay 🏨
Enjoy a traditional meal in Kars, perhaps trying the famous Kars cheese and a warm cup of Ayran Asi soup before resting for the night.

Sights Visited

Journey to Van via Mount Ararat & Ishak Pasha Palace 🏔️🏰
Today, immerse yourself in the legendary landscapes of Eastern Turkey, traveling through historic regions filled with breathtaking views and fascinating cultural heritage.

🌄 Morning: Travel to Mount Ararat & Dogubeyazit 🚗🏞️

Depart Kars and embark on a scenic road trip through the eastern highlands, passing by lush valleys, rugged plateaus, and ancient trade routes.
✅ Mount Ararat (5,137m) – Witness the snow-capped peak of Turkey’s highest mountain, often associated with Noah’s Ark. While climbing is not part of the tour, the views from the base are spectacular!
✅ Igdir Plain – Drive through the Igdir Valley, a striking contrast of green agricultural lands set against the rocky, arid landscapes near Ararat.
✅ Noah’s Ark Site (Optional Stop) – Visit a controversial archaeological site, believed by some to be the fossilized remains of Noah’s Ark.

🏰 Midday: Explore Dogubeyazit & Ishak Pasha Palace
Arrive in Dogubeyazit, a historic town with deep connections to Silk Road traders, Kurdish culture, and Ottoman rule.

📍 Ishak Pasha Palace (18th Century)
✅ A stunning blend of Ottoman, Persian, and Armenian architecture, perched on a hilltop overlooking the plains.
✅ Wander through its intricate halls, grand courtyards, and decorative tombs, each reflecting artistic influences from across Anatolia and Central Asia.
✅ Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes.

🚗 Afternoon: Travel to Van & Lake Van
Continue your journey southward toward Van, a city famous for its ancient Urartian heritage, stunning lakeside setting, and legendary “Van Cats.”
✅ Lake Van Views – As you approach the city, marvel at the azure waters of Turkey’s largest lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Upon arrival in Van, check into your hotel and relax for the evening.

🌙 Evening: Free Time & Local Cuisine 🍽️
🌟 Optional: Try Van’s Famous Cuisine
✔ Van Breakfast – A legendary Turkish breakfast featuring honey, clotted cream (kaymak), cheese, and freshly baked bread.
✔ Van Cat House – Visit a sanctuary dedicated to the famous white, odd-eyed Van cats.
✔ Explore Van City – Wander through historic bazaars and traditional tea houses, soaking in the local Kurdish culture.

🏨 Overnight in Van

Sights Visited

Discovering Van’s Historical Treasures & Akdamar Island 🏰⛰️🌊
Today, dive into the fascinating history of Van, from ancient fortresses guarding the Silk Road to an Armenian architectural masterpiece on Akdamar Island. The dramatic landscapes of Lake Van, combined with centuries-old history, will leave you in awe!

🌅 Morning: Journey to Hoşap Fortress (17th Century) 🏰
✅ Depart Van and drive through the rugged mountain terrain to reach the well-preserved Hoşap Fortress, built in 1643 by the Kurdish Mahmudi tribe.

📍 Hosap Fortress Highlights:
✔ Perched dramatically on a steep hill with breathtaking panoramic views.
✔ Walk through the stone gates, watchtowers, and battlements, once guarding the Persian trade route.
✔ Learn about the strategic importance of Hosap on the Silk Road.
✔ Explore ancient dungeons, living quarters, and ornate inscriptions decorating the fortress walls.

🚗 Afternoon: Visit Akdamar Island & The Church of the Holy Cross
Continue your journey to Lake Van, where you’ll take a boat trip to the breathtaking Akdamar Island—one of Turkey’s most picturesque and historically significant sites.

📍 Akdamar Island & Church of the Holy Cross (10th Century)
✅ A UNESCO-listed Armenian church, built by King Gagik I of Vaspurakan in 915 AD.
✅ Marvel at the intricately carved stone reliefs, depicting biblical stories, animals, and local legends.
✅ Admire the stunning contrast of the turquoise waters of Lake Van against the snow-capped mountains in the background.
✅ Learn about the Armenian heritage of the region and the symbolism behind the artwork decorating the church walls.
⛵ Enjoy a peaceful ferry ride back to the mainland, soaking in the beauty of Lake Van’s vast blue waters.

🌙 Evening: Return to Van & Local Cultural Experience
Upon returning to Van, enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the city’s local charm:

🌟 Optional Evening Activities:
✔ Van Castle (Sunset Visit): Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Van from this Urartian-era fortress.
✔ Try Local Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional meal featuring Van fish (inci kefali), murtuğa (buttered wheat dish), and local cheese varieties.
✔ Tea Houses & Bazaars: Stroll through Van’s historic bazaars, filled with handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, and Kurdish handicrafts.

🏨 Overnight in Van

Sights Visited

Journey from Van to Tatvan – Volcanoes, History & Stunning Lake Views 🌋🏰🌊
Today, embark on a breathtaking journey along the southern shores of Lake Van, where you’ll witness majestic landscapes, ancient tombs, and one of the world’s largest volcanic craters. This day blends natural wonders with historical treasures, offering an unforgettable experience in Eastern Turkey.

🌄 Morning: Scenic Drive from Van to Tatvan 🚗🌊
✅ Depart Van and follow the shoreline of Lake Van, passing through quaint villages and mountain landscapes.
✅ Enjoy panoramic views of Turkey’s largest lake, surrounded by rolling hills and dramatic peaks.
✅ Stop at key viewpoints for photography and a moment of serenity.

🌋 Mid-Morning: Explore Nemrut Crater & Caldera

📍 Nemrut Crater (Nemrut Volcano) 🌿🔥🏞️
✅ One of the largest volcanic craters in the world, created by the eruption of Mount Nemrut over 100,000 years ago.
✅ Walk around the stunning caldera, home to five crater lakes, hot springs, and diverse plant life.

✅ Lakes to Visit:
✔ Hot Lake (Iligol) – A geothermal lake, steaming year-round due to underground volcanic activity.
✔ Cold Lake (Sogukgol) – A crystal-clear, ice-cold lake, surrounded by lush greenery.
✅ Enjoy a light hike, spotting wildflowers, birds, and volcanic rock formations along the way.
✅ Take in the incredible views of Tatvan, Lake Van, and the surrounding peaks.

🏰 Afternoon: Discover the Seljuk Monuments of Ahlat
📍 Ahlat’s Seljuk Cemetery & Mausoleums (UNESCO Site)
✅ Visit the largest Islamic cemetery in Turkey, home to thousands of intricately carved tombstones from the 12th-15th centuries.
✅ Marvel at the detailed stone engravings, featuring Arabic calligraphy, geometric patterns, and floral motifs—a masterpiece of Seljuk-era art.
✅ Explore mausoleums, mosques, and historical relics, offering insight into Seljuk and medieval Turkish history.
✅ Learn about Ahlat’s significance as an early Turkish settlement, earning its title as the “City of Civilization.”

🌅 Evening: Arrival & Overnight in Tatvan
🌟 After a day filled with exploration and stunning scenery, arrive in Tatvan, a charming town nestled at the base of Mount Nemrut.
🌟 Check into your hotel and relax by the lake or enjoy a local dinner, featuring delicious Kurdish and Turkish cuisine.

🏨 Overnight in Tatvan

Sights Visited

Journey from Tatvan to Mardin – Ancient Cities, Gorges & Mesopotamian Views 🏰🌄🕌
Today, embark on a scenic and culturally rich journey through southeastern Turkey, exploring ancient towns, breathtaking gorges, and historic landmarks. Travel through regions that have witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations, culminating in the magnificent hilltop city of Mardin, with its panoramic views of the Mesopotamian plains.

🌄 Morning: Depart Tatvan & Travel through Bitlis Gorge

📍 Bitlis Gorge ⛰️
✅ Begin your day with a drive through the dramatic landscapes of Bitlis Gorge, a historic passageway through the mountains.
✅ Enjoy the scenic beauty of the rugged cliffs, winding roads, and cascading rivers.
✅ Stop for photo opportunities at viewpoints along the way.

🏛️ Mid-Morning: Explore Hasankeyf – The Ancient City on the Tigris River

📍 Hasankeyf – A Town with 12,000 Years of History 🏰🏞️
✅ Arrive in Hasankeyf, an ancient city dramatically set along the Tigris River.
✅ Explore the Byzantine ruins, cliffside cave dwellings, and medieval bridges that tell the story of this historic settlement.
✅ Visit Hasankeyf Fortress, perched high above the river, offering stunning views of the valley.
✅ Learn about the impact of the Ilısu Dam project, which has partially submerged parts of this ancient city.
✅ Enjoy lunch in a traditional riverside café, soaking in the views before continuing your journey.

🌟 Afternoon: Discover Midyat – The Jewel of Mesopotamia

📍 Midyat – A Blend of Cultures & Craftsmanship 🏺💎
✅ Arrive in Midyat, a historic town known for its beautiful stone architecture and Syriac Christian heritage.
✅ Wander through the Old Bazaar, famous for its handcrafted silver jewelry (also known as “Telkari”), an intricate art form passed down for centuries.
✅ Explore the narrow alleyways lined with stone mansions, churches, and mosques, reflecting the town’s multicultural past.
✅ If time allows, visit the Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the world’s oldest functioning monasteries, dating back to the 4th century.

🌅 Evening: Arrival in Mardin – The Mesopotamian Jewel

📍 Mardin – The City of Stone 🏰🌄
✅ Arrive in Mardin, perched high on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the Mesopotamian plains.
✅ Explore the Kasimiye Medrese, an Islamic theological school with ornate stonework and peaceful courtyards.
✅ Walk through Mardin’s historic Old Town, where golden-hued stone buildings, ancient mosques, and churches create a stunning skyline.
✅ Enjoy a traditional dinner, featuring local Mesopotamian flavors, such as Mardin kebab, stuffed grape leaves, and almond desserts.

🏨 Overnight in Mardin

Sights Visited

Mardin to Diyarbakir – Ancient Monasteries & Mesopotamian Landmarks 🏰🕌🌉
Today, embark on a journey through time, exploring the Syriac Christian heritage of Mardin before traveling to Diyarbakir, one of Turkey’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Along the way, visit historical landmarks, experience architectural marvels, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Mesopotamia.

🌅 Morning: Visit to Deir-Al-Zafaran (Saffron Monastery)

📍 Deir-Al-Zafaran Monastery 🕌🌞
✅ Begin your day at the Saffron Monastery, one of the most significant religious sites in Mesopotamia.
✅ Learn about its 4,000-year history, from an ancient sun temple to a Syriac Orthodox Christian monastery.
✅ Marvel at the flat-arched roof, a rare architectural technique dating back to 1000 BC.
✅ Explore its chapels, halls, and ancient texts, offering insight into early Christianity in Mesopotamia.
✅ Enjoy panoramic views of Mardin and the vast Mesopotamian plains from the monastery’s hilltop setting.

🌄 Midday: Scenic Journey to Diyarbakir
🚗 Travel from Mardin to Diyarbakir (Approx. 1.5 hours)
As you travel northwest, pass through the historic landscapes of Upper Mesopotamia, once home to Assyrians, Armenians, Kurds, and Arabs.

📍 10 Arches Bridge (Ongozlu Kopru) – Bridge Over the Tigris 🌉🌊
✅ Stop at one of Diyarbakir’s most iconic landmarks, the 10 Arches Bridge, spanning the Tigris River.
✅ Built in the 11th century, this bridge was a crucial trade route linking Anatolia to Mesopotamia.
✅ Enjoy the picturesque surroundings and learn about its historical significance in regional commerce.
✅ Capture stunning photographs of the Tigris River, once a lifeline of ancient civilizations.

🌆 Evening: Arrival & Exploration of Diyarbakir

📍 Diyarbakir – A City of Walls & History 🏰🏙️
✅ Arrive in Diyarbakir, an 8,000-year-old city, and explore its vibrant old town.
✅ Walk along the Diyarbakir City Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Romans and Byzantines and expanded by Seljuks and Ottomans.
✅ Discover the Great Mosque of Diyarbakir (Ulu Camii), one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia.
✅ Experience the local culture in the historical Hasan Pasha Han, a former caravanserai turned lively bazaar and tea house.
✅ Enjoy a traditional Kurdish dinner, featuring meftune (stewed lamb & eggplant), kaburga dolması (stuffed ribs), and local pastries.

🏨 Overnight in Diyarbakir

Sights Visited

Diyarbakir to Mount Nemrut – Ancient Walls & Colossal Gods 🏰🗿🌅
Today’s adventure takes you from the ancient city of Diyarbakir to the mystical summit of Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through centuries of history, from the Great Walls of Diyarbakir to the colossal statues of King Antiochos I, and witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Turkey.

🌅 Morning: Exploring Diyarbakir’s Historic Gems

📍 Ulu Cami (Mar Thoma Church & Mosque) 🕌⛪
✅ Visit one of Anatolia’s oldest places of worship, a former church-turned-mosque.
✅ Admire its distinctive black basalt stone architecture, a hallmark of Diyarbakir.
✅ Learn about its multicultural past, reflecting both Islamic and Christian heritage.

📍 Diyarbakir City Walls & Hevsel Gardens 🌿🏰
✅ Walk along the second-largest city walls in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
✅ Marvel at the intricate carvings & inscriptions on these 1,500-year-old fortifications.
✅ Capture stunning panoramic views over the Tigris River and the lush Hevsel Gardens, an ancient agricultural site that has supplied the city for millennia.

🚗 Midday: Journey Toward Mount Nemrut
🛳️ Crossing the Euphrates River by Ferry
✅ Depart Diyarbakir and head west toward Nemrut National Park.
✅ Experience a ferry crossing over the Euphrates River, one of the most legendary rivers in history, known from the Bible and Mesopotamian civilizations.
✅ Enjoy a scenic drive through rural Turkish villages and mountainous landscapes.

📍 Arrival in Narlice Village – Gateway to Mount Nemrut 🏡
✅ Stop in Narlice, a peaceful village at the base of Mount Nemrut.
✅ Have a traditional local lunch before ascending the famous summit.

🌄 Evening: Exploring the Sacred Summit of Mount Nemrut

📍 Mount Nemrut National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) 🗿🏛️
✅ Begin the hike or drive up to the summit of Mount Nemrut (2,134m / 7,001 ft).
✅ Discover one of the most mysterious archaeological sites in Turkey.

📍 Tumulus of King Antiochos I 🏛️
✅ Stand before the massive burial mound of King Antiochos I of Commagene (1st century BC).
✅ Learn how the king merged Greek, Persian, and Anatolian cultures in this impressive sanctuary.

📍 Colossal Statues of the Gods 🗿
✅ Encounter the majestic 8-9m (26-30 ft) tall statues, depicting:
Zeus–Oromasdes (King of the Gods)
Apollo–Mithras (God of Light & Sun)
Hercules–Artagnes (God of Strength)
Commagene Goddess & King Antiochos himself

📍 ✨ Sunset Over Nemrut – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience 🌅
✅ Witness one of Turkey’s most unforgettable sunsets as the sun casts a golden glow over the colossal statues.
✅ Feel the ancient aura of this sacred site as the statues come to life in the changing light.

🏨 Overnight Stay Near Mount Nemrut
✅ Rest in a guesthouse or lodge near Nemrut National Park, ready for another day of exploring Eastern Turkey.

Sights Visited

Mount Nemrut to Sanliurfa – Ancient Kingdoms & Sacred Legends 🏛️🌊🌿
Today, your Eastern Turkey adventure continues as you journey from the mystical peaks of Mount Nemrut to the spiritual heart of Sanliurfa (Urfa), the city of prophets. Along the way, explore the Commagene Kingdom’s royal tombs, a Roman engineering marvel, and the birthplace of Abraham.

🌅 Morning: Exploring Ancient Commagene & Roman Sites

📍 Karakus Tumulus – The Royal Tomb of Commagene 👑
✅ Visit this ancient burial site for Commagene royalty, where Queen Isias & princesses of the kingdom were laid to rest.
✅ Marvel at the remaining columned monuments, topped with statues of an eagle, lion, and bull, once symbols of royal power.
✅ Learn about the history of the Commagene Kingdom, a civilization that blended Persian and Hellenistic cultures.

📍 Cendere Bridge – Roman Engineering at Its Finest 🌉
✅ Explore this 2nd-century Roman bridge, one of the oldest still in use today.
✅ Built by the XVI Legion for Emperor Septimius Severus, this bridge spans the Cendere River and stands as a testament to Roman military engineering.
✅ Capture stunning landscape photos of the surrounding mountains and the river gorge.

🚗 Midday: Journey to Urfa (Sanliurfa)
📍 Ataturk Dam – One of the World’s Largest Water Projects 🌊
✅ Stop at the massive Ataturk Dam, the largest of the GAP Project, which transformed the agricultural landscape of Turkey.
✅ Learn how the dam supplies irrigation & hydroelectric power to the region.
✅ Admire the vast expanse of water & impressive dam structure, crucial to Turkey’s economy.

🌟 Afternoon: Discovering the Sacred City of Urfa

📍 Balıklıgol (Holy Pools of Abraham) 🐟
✅ Visit Urfa’s most famous religious site, where legend says King Nimrod threw Prophet Abraham into the fire—and God turned the flames into water and the embers into sacred fish.
✅ Walk along the serene pools filled with sacred carp, which locals believe should not be caught or eaten.
✅ Explore the Halil-ur-Rahman Mosque, a beautiful Ottoman-era mosque surrounded by lush gardens.

📍 Cave of Abraham’s Birth 🏠
✅ Step inside the cave where Abraham (Ibrahim) is believed to have been born.
✅ Learn about the prophetic traditions and the historical significance of Urfa in the Abrahamic religions.
✅ Experience the quiet, spiritual atmosphere, with many visitors coming for prayer and reflection.

📍 Urfa Bazaar – A Glimpse into Traditional Life 🛍️
✅ Wander through one of Turkey’s most vibrant bazaars, where history meets daily life.
✅ Shop for handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, spices, and traditional scarves.
✅ Experience the lively atmosphere of tea houses, artisans at work, and street vendors.

🍽️ Evening: Traditional Urfa Dinner & Local Delights
📍 Taste Urfa’s famous dishes, such as:
🍢 Urfa Kebab – A less spicy but flavorful version of the famous Adana kebab.
🥩 Ciger Kebabı – Grilled liver kebab, a local specialty.
🥖 Lahmacun & Pide – Thin Turkish pizza topped with minced meat and fresh herbs.
🍵 Menengic Coffee – A unique pistachio-based coffee, special to the region.

✅ Optional: Experience a Traditional “Sira Gecesi” – A Urfa Night of Music & Dance 🎶💃
Join a Sira Gecesi (Night of Companionship), a traditional evening of live folk music, storytelling, and dancing in a historic setting. Enjoy the rhythmic sounds of the bağlama (Turkish lute) and experience the warmth of Urfa’s local culture.

🏨 Overnight in Urfa
✅ Rest in a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Sanliurfa, preparing for tomorrow’s journey to Gobekli Tepe – the world’s oldest temple.

Sights Visited

Sanliurfa to Gaziantep – The Dawn of Civilization & Culinary Wonders 🏺🍽️🏰
Today, your journey through the cradle of civilization continues as you visit Gobekli Tepe – the world’s oldest known temple – before heading to Gaziantep, Turkey’s culinary capital, to explore its legendary bazaars, mosaics, and historic citadel.

🌅 Morning: Exploring the Ancient Past at Gobekli Tepe

📍 Gobekli Tepe – The Oldest Temple in the World (11,000+ Years Old) 🏺
✅ Walk among the ancient T-shaped megalithic pillars, standing for over 11,000 years—older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids.
✅ See intricate reliefs of animals and symbols carved into the stones, revealing the ritualistic and religious practices of early humans.
✅ Learn about the groundbreaking discovery that rewrote history, proving that complex societies existed before agriculture and permanent settlements.
✅ Admire the panoramic views of the surrounding Mesopotamian plains, the land where human civilization began.
🚗 After your tour of Gobekli Tepe, depart for Gaziantep (approx. 2-hour drive).

🏛️ Afternoon: Discovering the Treasures of Gaziantep

📍 Zeugma Mosaic Museum – Home to the Legendary Gypsy Girl 🏺
✅ Visit the world’s largest mosaic museum, showcasing Roman-era mosaics excavated from the ancient city of Zeugma, submerged by a dam project.
✅ Marvel at the “Gypsy Girl” Mosaic, one of the most mysterious and iconic artworks of antiquity.
✅ Explore stunning, colorful mosaics depicting Greek mythology, gods, and daily life in Roman times.

📍 Gaziantep Citadel – A Fortress Through the Ages 🏰
✅ Climb to the top of this historic citadel, standing as a guardian over Gaziantep for centuries.
✅ Enjoy panoramic views of the city and learn about its role in ancient and modern conflicts.

📍 Old Town of Gaziantep – A Journey Through Time 🛍️
✅ Wander through the atmospheric cobblestone streets, lined with historic stone houses, mosques, and caravanserais.
✅ Visit the Copper Bazaar, where artisans craft traditional handmade copperware, a famous local trade.
✅ Explore the spice markets, filled with the aromas of sumac, saffron, and red pepper.
✅ Visit the Emine Gogus Culinary Museum, where you can learn about Gaziantep’s rich food culture.

🍽️ Evening: Savoring Gaziantep’s World-Famous Cuisine
Gaziantep is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and is world-renowned for its culinary excellence. Tonight, indulge in some of its must-try dishes:
🥩 Ali Nazik Kebab – Smoked eggplant puree topped with tender lamb pieces.
🥟 Beyran Soup – A rich lamb stew flavored with garlic and red pepper, perfect after a long day of exploring.
🌯 Yuvalama – A unique local dish of tiny meat dumplings cooked in a yogurt-based sauce.
🥮 Baklava – Gaziantep’s crown jewel—taste the world’s finest pistachio-filled baklava, made with the region’s famous Antep pistachios.
☕ Menengic Coffee – A traditional Turkish coffee alternative made from wild pistachios.

✅ Optional: Enjoy a Gaziantep Culinary Experience with a Local Chef 🍽️👨‍🍳
Join a local cooking workshop, where you can learn to prepare authentic Gaziantep dishes and taste traditional flavors from the birthplace of Turkish cuisine.

🏨 Overnight in Gaziantep
✅ Rest in a boutique hotel or restored historic inn, located in the heart of the Old Town, ready for your final adventures in Eastern Turkey.

Sights Visited

Departure & Final Farewell to Turkey ✈️
This morning, you will be transferred from your hotel in Gaziantep to the airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul (or another destination, depending on your travel plans).

📌 Departure Options:
✅ Gaziantep ➝ Istanbul – Return to Istanbul for international departures or additional sightseeing if you’re extending your stay.
✅ Gaziantep ➝ Izmir – Continue to Western Turkey, where you can explore Ephesus, Pamukkale, and the Aegean coast.
✅ Gaziantep ➝ Cappadocia – Extend your journey with a visit to Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides.
✅ Gaziantep ➝ Home – If your tour concludes here, we wish you a safe and pleasant journey home!

🌍 Memories to Last a Lifetime
As your incredible journey through Eastern Turkey comes to an end, we hope you leave with:
✔️ Unforgettable experiences of Turkey’s untamed landscapes, ancient ruins, and cultural gems.
✔️ A deep appreciation for the country’s rich history and warm hospitality.
✔️ Newfound stories and photographs that will stay with you forever!

📩 Need Help with Future Travels?
We are always happy to assist with:
✅ Extensions to other destinations in Turkey (e.g., Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya).
✅ Customized private tours to match your interests and travel style.
✅ Hotel & transportation arrangements for your next adventure!

🛫 Safe Travels & Thank You for Joining Us!
We loved being part of your adventure and hope to see you again in the future.