Hidden Treasures of Eastern Turkey: 12 Days of Discovery

Morning: Departure from Istanbul (or Izmir) to Kayseri

Your journey begins with a seamless transfer from your hotel in Istanbul or Izmir to the airport, where you’ll board a domestic flight to Kayseri, the historical gateway to Cappadocia.

Midday: Arrival in Kayseri
Upon arrival in Kayseri, a city rich in history and once a key stop along the ancient Silk Road, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation.

Afternoon & Evening: Leisure Time in Kayseri
After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. You can:

• Stroll through Kayseri’s Old Town, where Ottoman-era architecture meets vibrant local markets.
• Visit Hunat Hatun Complex, a stunning Seljuk-era mosque and madrasa.
• Try traditional Kayseri cuisine, including mantı (Turkish dumplings) and pastırma (cured beef).

🛏 Overnight in Kayseri – Rest and prepare for the adventures ahead in Cappadocia.

Sights Visited

Morning: Depart from the Enchanting Land of Cappadocia
Start your day in Cappadocia, a land of surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings. Known as the Land of Beautiful Horses, this region has captivated travelers for centuries with its unique rock formations and deep-rooted history.

Mid-Morning: Traverse the Historic Silk Road
Embark on a journey across Turkey’s vast hinterland, following the legendary Silk Road, which once connected the East and West. As you travel, imagine the caravans of traders, merchants, and explorers who once traversed this very path, carrying silk, spices, and knowledge between civilizations.

🏛 Kayseri – Pass through this ancient city, a former Silk Road trading hub, framed by the breathtaking silhouette of Mount Erciyes. A melting pot of history and commerce, Kayseri’s legacy as a center of trade is still evident in its bustling markets and historic architecture.

⏳ Karatay Han – Pause at this well-preserved 13th-century Seljuk caravanserai, an ancient roadside inn that once provided shelter to weary travelers and merchants along the Silk Road. Admire its impressive stone architecture, learn about its strategic role in medieval trade, and step back in time as you explore its grand courtyard and chambers.

Afternoon: Journey Through Anatolia’s Changing Landscapes
Continue your journey through Anatolia’s ever-shifting scenery, passing rolling plains, rugged mountains, and fertile valleys. Along the way, take in the contrast between Turkey’s ancient past and its modern present.

Evening: Arrive in Adiyaman
Reach Adiyaman by evening, a gateway to some of Turkey’s most remarkable historical treasures, including the awe-inspiring Mount Nemrut. Enjoy a well-deserved rest, preparing for the discoveries that await.

🛏 Overnight in Adiyaman

Sights Visited

A Journey Through Time: Exploring Southeast Turkey’s Landmarks

Morning: Ascend to the Majesty of Mount Nemrut
Begin your day with a visit to one of the most awe-inspiring historical landmarks in the world:

🌄 Mount Nemrut – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mountain hosts one of the most remarkable Hellenistic funerary monuments. Built by King Antiochos I of the Commagene Kingdom, the site features colossal stone heads and statues of gods and kings, surrounding a grand tumulus. The sheer scale and ambition of this ancient monument reflect the king’s quest for immortality. Watching the sunrise or sunset from the summit adds a mystical touch to the experience.

Midday: Discover the Ataturk Dam – An Engineering Marvel
🛠 Ataturk Dam – Spanning the mighty Euphrates River, this colossal structure is one of the largest dams in the world. A key element of the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP), it plays a crucial role in irrigation, hydroelectric power production, and regional development. As you stand before this modern marvel, take a moment to reflect on the Euphrates’ historical significance as the lifeblood of Mesopotamian civilization.

Afternoon: Immerse Yourself in the Spiritual and Historical Riches of Sanliurfa
🏛 Sanliurfa (Urfa) – A city steeped in history and spirituality, Sanliurfa is revered as the birthplace of Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim). With its rich Biblical and Islamic heritage, the city offers a unique blend of ancient traditions, vibrant culture, and sacred sites. Explore the enchanting Balıklıgol (Pool of Sacred Fish), the cave where Abraham was born, and the bustling bazaars that carry echoes of a storied past.

Evening: Rest and Reflect in Sanliurfa
After a day filled with history and breathtaking sights, unwind and enjoy an overnight stay in Sanliurfa, where the past and present seamlessly blend into an unforgettable experience.

Sights Visited

Exploring Humanity’s Deepest Roots: Gobekli Tepe & Diyarbakir

Morning: Journey to the Dawn of Civilization at Gobekli Tepe
Start your day with a visit to one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world:

🕍 Gobekli Tepe – Step into history at this 12,000-year-old site, often referred to as the world’s first temple. Predating Stonehenge by over 6,000 years, this groundbreaking discovery reshapes our understanding of early human civilization. Wander through the massive, intricately carved T-shaped stone pillars, adorned with mysterious animal motifs and symbolic imagery, offering a rare glimpse into the spiritual beliefs of prehistoric societies. Gobekli Tepe challenges long-held assumptions about when and why humans first built monumental structures—suggesting that religion and communal gatherings may have preceded agriculture and settled life.

Midday: Travel to Diyarbakir – A Living Testament to History
After exploring Gobekli Tepe, continue your journey to Diyarbakir, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, where layers of history blend with a rich cultural tapestry.

🏰 Ancient City Walls of Diyarbakir – Walk along the 5.8-kilometer-long black basalt walls, originally built by the Romans and expanded by later civilizations. These awe-inspiring fortifications, second in length only to the Great Wall of China, offer panoramic views of the city and the Tigris River. Marvel at the craftsmanship, inscriptions, and intricate reliefs that tell the story of 5,000 years of history.

Evening: Discover Diyarbakir’s Vibrant Culture
As the sun sets, explore the city’s lively atmosphere, bustling bazaars, and impressive mosques. Indulge in traditional Kurdish and Turkish cuisine, with specialties such as:
🍆 Meftune – A tangy dish of lamb, eggplant, and sumac.
🥩 Kaburga Dolmasi – Stuffed lamb ribs, a true local delicacy.
☕ Menengic Coffee – A unique pistachio-flavored coffee, perfect for ending the night.

🛏 Overnight in Diyarbakir – Rest in this historic city, ready for another day of discovery.

Sights Visited

Journey Through Ancient Mesopotamia: Diyarbakir → Mardin → Hasankeyf → Tatvan

Morning: Depart from Diyarbakir to Mardin
Start your day with a scenic drive to Mardin, an enchanting city perched on a hilltop with stunning views of the Mesopotamian plains.

🏛 Mardin – Known for its distinctive golden stone architecture, Mardin is a city where time seems to stand still. Wander through its labyrinthine alleyways, admire the finely carved madrassas, mosques, and mansions, and soak in the ambiance of this historically rich cultural crossroads.

🕍 Deir-Al-Zafaran (Saffron Monastery) – Visit this sacred Syriac Orthodox monastery, an active religious site built over an ancient sun temple. Once the seat of the Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate, this monastery has been a center of worship for thousands of years. Marvel at its intricate stonework, peaceful courtyards, and centuries-old manuscripts as you learn about its spiritual and architectural significance.

Afternoon: Travel to Hasankeyf – A Vanishing Cultural Treasure
After lunch, journey to the ancient town of Hasankeyf, a site with a 12,000-year-old history, now threatened by the Ilisu Dam project.

🏰 Hasankeyf – Walk through the Byzantine ruins, ancient cave dwellings, and the historic bridge spanning the Tigris River. This town, with its rich Silk Road past, has been home to Romans, Byzantines, and Artukids. Reflect on the cultural loss as Hasankeyf faces submersion due to modern development.

Evening: Travel to Tatvan on the Shores of Lake Van
Continue your journey to Tatvan, a peaceful town on the western shore of Lake Van, Turkey’s largest and most iconic lake.

🌊 Lake Van – With its deep blue waters and volcanic mountain backdrop, this legendary lake is believed to have been home to the lost Urartian kingdom.

🛏 Overnight in Tatvan – Unwind by the tranquil lakeside, preparing for more discoveries ahead.

Sights Visited

Exploring the Majesty of Lake Van: Tatvan → Akdamar Island → Van

Morning: Scenic Drive Along Lake Van’s Shores
Begin your day with a breathtaking drive along the shores of Lake Van, Turkey’s largest and most iconic lake. With its deep blue waters and the majestic snow-capped mountains in the background, the landscape offers unforgettable views as you make your way toward the lively eastern city of Van.

🚤 Akdamar Island – Midway through your journey, take a short boat ride to this picturesque island nestled in the heart of Lake Van. This serene retreat is home to one of the most stunning historical landmarks in the region.

⛪ Church of the Holy Cross (Sourp Khach) – Visit this beautifully restored 10th-century Armenian church, an architectural masterpiece built by King Gagik I of Vaspurakan. The intricately carved stone reliefs adorning the church depict vivid biblical scenes, local folklore, and historical figures. Set against the stunning contrast of Lake Van’s turquoise waters and the surrounding rugged mountains, the site offers a profound historical and visual experience.

Afternoon: Journey to Van – A City of Rich Heritage
After exploring Akdamar Island, continue to Van, a city steeped in history, culture, and unique traditions.

🏛 Van’s Rich History & Local Culture – Once the capital of the ancient Urartian Kingdom, Van has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia. As you explore the city, take in the vibrant markets, historical sites, and lively atmosphere.

🍽 Taste Van’s Famous Breakfast – If time permits, indulge in Van’s legendary breakfast culture, known for its rich dairy products, honey, cheeses, and fresh-baked bread.

Evening: Discover Van’s Unique Charm
Spend your evening soaking in Van’s hospitality, wandering through its bazaars, and enjoying a relaxed lakeside atmosphere.

🛏 Overnight in Van – Rest in this historically significant city, preparing for more adventures ahead.

Sights Visited

Journey Through History: Van → Hoşap Castle → Van Citadel

Morning: Travel Along the Silk Road to Hosap Castle
Start your day with a southward journey from Van, following a historic branch of the ancient Silk Road (İpek Yolu). This legendary trade route once connected the East and West, serving as a lifeline for merchants and travelers.

🏰 Hosap Castle – Arrive at this 17th-century fortress, strategically built to protect the Silk Road and function as a toll station for passing traders. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, the castle provides a stunning visual contrast against the rugged eastern Anatolian landscape. As you explore its towering walls, hidden chambers, and intricate gates, step back in time to an era of caravanserais, trade routes, and ancient kingdoms. The views from the castle over the Hosap River valley are breathtaking and offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Midday: Return to Van for a Traditional Lunch
Head back to Van to enjoy a meal featuring the city’s delicious local specialties. Some must-try dishes include:
🍽 Van Otlu Peyniri – A local cheese infused with wild herbs.
🍽 Kavut – A traditional roasted wheat dish.
🍽 Murtuga – A rich, buttery dish often served for breakfast.

Evening: Sunset at Van Citadel (Tushpa)
As the day winds down, embark on a journey into the ancient heart of the Urartian Kingdom.

🏛 Van Citadel (Tushpa) – Dating back 3,000 years, this Urartian fortress stands as a testament to one of the region’s most powerful ancient civilizations. Walk through the ancient stone walls, royal inscriptions, and archaeological remains as you uncover the legacy of the Urartian kings.

🌅 Sunset Over Lake Van – Climb to the highest point of the citadel for a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Van. As the sun sets over Turkey’s largest lake, the golden hues reflecting on the water create a truly magical atmosphere—an unforgettable way to end your day in Van.

🛏 Overnight in Van – Rest and recharge for the next leg of your journey.

Sights Visited

Van to Kars: A Journey Through Nature, History, and Legend

Morning: Nature’s Beauty at Muradiye & Bendimahi Falls
Start your day with a scenic drive from Van through eastern Anatolia’s stunning landscapes, making your first stop at one of the region’s most serene natural wonders.

🌊 Bendimahi Falls (Muradiye Waterfalls) – Located near the town of Muradiye, these cascading waterfalls provide a tranquil and picturesque setting. Take in the breathtaking views of crystal-clear water tumbling down rugged cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery—a perfect spot to refresh and soak in nature’s beauty.

Mid-Morning: Travel to Dogubeyazit – A Land of Palaces and Legends
Continue your journey toward Dogubeyazit, home to one of Turkey’s most magnificent architectural landmarks.

🏰 Ishak Pasha Palace – Perched on a hill overlooking the vast plains of Dogubeyazit, this 18th-century palace is a masterpiece that blends Ottoman, Persian, and Armenian architectural styles. With its ornate stone carvings, intricate courtyards, and grand halls, Ishak Pasha Palace offers a glimpse into the opulence of its time. From the palace’s terraces, marvel at the panoramic views of the rugged Agri (Ararat) region.

Afternoon: Journey Along the Edge of Mount Ararat
After visiting the palace, continue northward along the western slopes of Mount Ararat, one of the most iconic peaks in the world.

🏔 Mount Ararat – Towering at 5,137 meters (16,854 feet), Mount Ararat dominates the landscape with its snow-capped peak and legendary status. Known in Turkish as “Agri Dagi” (Mountain of Pain) and in Kurdish as “Ciyaye Agiri” (Mountain of Fire), the mountain holds deep cultural and historical significance.

📜 Legend of Noah’s Ark – In Biblical tradition, Mount Ararat is believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark after the Great Flood. The mountain is equally revered in Armenian culture, where it is known as Masis, symbolizing national identity and heritage. As you drive along its western flank, take in the awe-inspiring views of this legendary peak.

Evening: Arrival in Kars – The Land of Empires
Arrive in Kars by evening, a city with a unique blend of Ottoman, Russian, and Armenian influences. Known for its stone-built architecture, rich culinary traditions, and proximity to the ancient ruins of Ani, Kars offers a distinct cultural experience.

🛏 Overnight in Kars – Settle in for the night, preparing for another day of exploration in this fascinating borderland city.

Sights Visited

A Journey to the Ghost City of Ani: Exploring the Medieval Armenian Capital

Morning: Discover the Lost Splendor of Ani
Set out from Kars in the morning for a visit to Ani, the hauntingly beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the glorious capital of the medieval Armenian Kingdom. Often called the “City of 1,001 Churches,” Ani was a thriving metropolis and major Silk Road trade hub before its decline.

🏛 Ani Cathedral – Begin your exploration at the Cathedral of Ani, a breathtaking example of medieval Armenian architecture. Designed by Trdat the Architect in the 10th century, the cathedral’s towering arches and weathered stone walls exude both grandeur and a sense of melancholy. Once one of the most significant churches in the region, it still stands as a powerful symbol of Ani’s lost brilliance.

🕌 Ruins of Ani – A City Frozen in Time
Wander through the crumbling yet majestic ruins of this once-bustling city, where echoes of its Armenian, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman past linger in the air. Highlights include:

• Church of St. Gregory of Tigran Honents – A beautifully preserved church featuring detailed frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
• Church of the Redeemer – A half-collapsed yet striking structure, showcasing intricate stone carvings.
• The Citadel – Perched high above the Arpaçay River, the ancient citadel offers breathtaking views of the natural border between Turkey and Armenia.
• Manuchihr Mosque – Built by the Seljuks, this mosque is a reminder of the city’s multicultural history and strategic importance.
• Massive Defensive Walls – These remarkably well-preserved fortifications, adorned with medieval inscriptions and reliefs, provide insight into Ani’s military strength in its prime.

As you wander through Ani’s silent ruins, let your imagination transport you back to an era when merchants, scholars, and travelers once roamed these very streets.

Afternoon: Return to Kars for Leisure and Local Exploration
After an immersive morning at Ani, return to Kars for a relaxed afternoon. You can:

🏛 Explore Kars’ Russian-era architecture, featuring stone-built buildings from the 19th-century Russian occupation.
🧀 Try Kars’ famous kasar cheese, a rich, aged cheese loved across Turkey.
☕ Enjoy a cup of traditional Kars tea or Turkish coffee at a local café, soaking in the city’s unique blend of cultures.

🛏 Overnight in Kars – Rest in this historic borderland city, reflecting on a day filled with history and wonder.

Sights Visited

Scenic Journey Along the Aras River: Kars → Sarikamis → Erzurum

Morning: Depart from Kars & Reflect at Sarikamis
Begin your day with a westward journey from Kars, following the path of the Aras River, a lifeline through the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

⚔️ Sarikamis – A Battlefield of History
Travel through the site of the infamous Sarikamis Campaign (1914-1915), where the Ottoman and Russian armies clashed in one of the most tragic battles of World War I. The bitter winter conditions claimed the lives of tens of thousands of soldiers, leaving a profound mark on the region’s history. Pause to reflect on this somber yet significant chapter of the past as you pass through Sarıkamış, a town now known for its pristine forests and ski resorts.

Mid-Morning: Journey Through the Aras River Gorge
Follow the Aras River, winding through awe-inspiring landscapes of:
🌊 Pristine riverbeds with crystal-clear waters.
🌿 Verdant fields of wild gorse and fern.
⛰️ Deep ravines and rugged cliffs, creating a dramatic and peaceful setting.

This stretch of the journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and serenity, as the Aras River continues its course toward Azerbaijan and the Caspian Sea.

Afternoon: A Seljuk Marvel – Cobandede Bridge
🛤️ Cobandede Bridge – Stop to admire this stunning six-arched Seljuk-era bridge, a medieval engineering marvel spanning the Aras River. Built in the 13th century, this bridge once served as a vital link for Silk Road caravans. Take in the picturesque setting and capture the historic architecture in a scenic photo stop.

Evening: Arrival in Erzurum – A City of Architectural Splendor
Arrive in Erzurum by evening, a city renowned for its:
🏰 Seljuk & Ottoman architecture, featuring grand mosques and madrassas.
🍽 Hearty Eastern Anatolian cuisine, including Erzurum’s famous Cag Kebabi (wood-fire grilled lamb skewers).
🏛 Rich cultural heritage, shaped by its role as a major trade and military center for centuries.

🛏 Overnight in Erzurum – Settle into this vibrant city, ready to explore its historical and cultural gems the following day.

Sights Visited

Retracing Ancient Routes: Erzurum → Sumela Monastery → Trabzon

Morning: Journey Through the Pontic Alps – Following Xenophon’s Ten Thousand
Set out from Erzurum, embarking on a scenic route through the Pontic Alps, retracing the legendary march of Xenophon’s Ten Thousand, the Greek mercenaries who navigated these treacherous landscapes in 401 BC.

🌊 Karasu River & Askale – Follow the Karasu River, the northernmost branch of the Euphrates, as it winds through picturesque valleys. Stop in Askale, home to the ruins of a Byzantine fortress, once crucial in controlling trade and military routes through the region. Take in the panoramic views and reflect on the strategic importance of this ancient passage.

⛰️ Kopdagi Pass (2,390m) – Ascend to the Kopdagi Pass, marking the Black Sea watershed. At this breathtaking altitude, gaze out at the dramatic peaks and rolling landscapes before descending into the Coruh Valley, where deep ravines and lush forests signal the transition to the Black Sea region.

🏰 Bayburt Fortress – Passing through Bayburt, admire the massive fortress that looms over the town. Dating back to the medieval era, this stronghold served as a vital defensive structure on the ancient Silk Road, offering a commanding view of the valley below.

Afternoon: The Mystical Sumela Monastery – A Marvel of Faith and Architecture
Continue your journey into the Altındere Valley National Park, where dense forests and misty cliffs set the scene for one of Turkey’s most extraordinary religious sites.

🕍 Sumela Monastery – Nestled high on a sheer cliff face, this stunning Byzantine monastery has been a place of pilgrimage since the 4th century AD. The present structure, dating from the 12th century, features:
🎨 Intricately painted frescoes, depicting scenes from the Bible.
🏛 Ancient chapels, monastic cells, and breathtaking terraces, offering sweeping views of the valley below.
🧗 Dramatic mountain setting, creating an almost mystical atmosphere that has fascinated visitors for centuries.

Take your time exploring this awe-inspiring site, appreciating its unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural grandeur.

Evening: Arrival in Trabzon – A Gateway to the Black Sea
Arrive in Trabzon, a historic port city on the Black Sea coast, known for its:
⚓ Lively harbors & historic Silk Road significance.
🕌 Ottoman & Byzantine landmarks, including the iconic Hagia Sophia of Trabzon.
🍽 Delicious Black Sea cuisine, such as hamsi (anchovy dishes) and kuymak (cornmeal & cheese specialty).

🛏 Overnight in Trabzon – Settle into the vibrant coastal atmosphere, preparing for further exploration of this dynamic and historic region.

Sights Visited

Farewell to Turkey – Departure from Trabzon

Morning: Transfer to Trabzon Airport
After an unforgettable journey through Turkey’s stunning landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture, it’s time to head back to Istanbul or Izmir. You will be transferred from your hotel in Trabzon to the airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.

✈️ Flight to Istanbul or Izmir – Enjoy your flight as you reflect on the incredible experiences, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural encounters that made this journey truly special.

Final Thoughts: A Journey to Remember
From the mystical ruins of Ani to the awe-inspiring cliffs of Sumela, the legendary heights of Mount Ararat, and the timeless Silk Road cities, your exploration of Turkey’s historical and natural wonders has been nothing short of extraordinary.

🌍 Looking Ahead to Your Next Adventure
If you ever plan to return and explore more of Turkey’s hidden gems, whether it be the Turquoise Coast, the mystical lands of Rumi in Konya, or the ancient wonders of Ephesus, we’re always here to help plan your next journey.

🙏 Thank You for Traveling with Us!
We hope you carry unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to Turkey’s heritage with you. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you again soon!