Planning a trip to southeastern Turkey can be daunting with so many incredible sites packed into this region. Thankfully, this 5-day tour from Paphlagonia Tour Travel Agency offers a well-rounded and thoughtfully curated experience, bringing together ancient marvels, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes. It promises a mix of archaeological wonders and authentic cultural encounters—perfect if you’re eager to understand the roots of civilization and explore lesser-visited Turkish gems.
What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, you’ll get the chance to visit Mount Nemrut—famous for its colossal statues and stunning sunrise views. Second, the tour covers Göbeklitepe, often called the world’s oldest temple, which rewrites our understanding of human history. Third, the itinerary includes vibrant cities like Diyarbakır and Mardin, offering a peek into Turkey’s diverse cultural tapestry. That said, a possible consideration is the packed schedule—there’s a fair amount of traveling between sites, which might be tiring for some.
This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and curious travelers who enjoy walking through history while also appreciating scenic drives and local cuisine. If you’re after an authentic experience with well-informed guides and a balance of sightseeing and leisure, this could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Comprehensive coverage: Visits to Mount Nemrut, Göbeklitepe, Mardin, Diyarbakır, and Gaziantep.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of the sites and local customs.
- Cultural immersion: Experience local crafts, taste regional delicacies, and explore historic markets.
- Comfortable logistics: Transportation in air-conditioned vehicles and boutique hotel stays.
- Early mornings and full days: Be prepared for a busy schedule, but with rewarding sights.
- Authentic sites: See lesser-touristed sites like Dara and Sanliurfa’s archaeological sites for genuine historical exploration.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
Looking for more options in Gaziantep? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 1: From Istanbul or Cappadocia to Mount Nemrut and Diyarbakır
Starting early, this tour departs from Istanbul at 7:00 am by plane or from Cappadocia by bus at 6:00 am, making logistical planning crucial. The journey kicks off with a trip to Adiyman Airport for a quick transfer to Kahta, the gateway to Mount Nemrut. Here, the highlight is the Eagle Tumulus and the Septimius Severus Bridge, setting the stage for the awe-inspiring statues of Nemrut. The sight of the massive stone heads facing the sunrise is a moment many travelers find unforgettable, especially with a knowledgeable guide pointing out the history behind these monumental sculptures.
Post-sunset, the group heads toward Diyarbakır, arriving in the evening. This city’s walls, inscribed on UNESCO’s tentative list, are a major highlight, along with sites like Goat Castle, Aden Gardens, and the Diyarbakır Archaeological Museum. The guides’ insights into Diyarbakır’s history and cultural significance add depth that mere sightseeing can’t provide.
Day 2: Diyarbakır’s Historic Heart and Mardin’s Architectural Charm
The morning kicks off with a tour of Diyarbakır’s city walls, one of the longest surviving in the world, along with visits to the Virgin Mary Church and the Great Mosque. The guides are praised for their knowledge, offering stories that bring these ancient walls and religious sites to life. The 4-columned minaret and Hasanpasha Caravanserai remind us of Diyarbakır’s historical role as a trade hub.
In the afternoon, the journey continues to Mardin, a city renowned for its stone houses and artuqlu architecture. Visitors can wander through Mardin houses, visit a filigree workshop, and enjoy a dessert tasting—and if you’re interested, wine tasting options are available. This part of the trip offers a delightful blend of history, craftsmanship, and regional cuisine, with the guides sharing stories about Mardin’s role across the centuries.
Day 3: Ancient Cities, Göbeklitepe, and Sanliurfa
The third day is dedicated to Old Mardin, including a visit to the Kasimiye Madrasah and Dara Ancient City—a site often overlooked but packed with ruins and stories of ancient civilizations. The tour then moves to Göbeklitepe, the archaeological site dating back over 11,000 years, which rewrites the story of human spiritual life.
The visit to Lake with Fishes and Abraham’s Birth Cave in Sanliurfa is a highlight, especially for those interested in biblical history. The guides’ explanations help contextualize the spiritual significance of these sites, making the experience more meaningful.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 4: Sanliurfa, Halfeti, and Gaziantep
The itinerary offers a mix of religious, historical, and scenic attractions. In Sanliurfa, the Archaeology Museum provides a rundown of the region’s history. Following this, the tour goes to Halfeti, famous for its boat tour to the Sunken City of Savaan Village—a unique experience of a city partially submerged by a dam, with hauntingly beautiful scenery.
Later, the group moves to Gaziantep, known for its culinary delights and historical sites like the Gaziantep Castle and Tütünhan Caravanserai. The Zeugma Museum is a highlight, showcasing mosaics and artifacts from the ancient city of Zeugma, often called the “Pompeii of the East.”
Day 5: Final Day and Departure
The last day involves a leisurely exploration of Gaziantep’s markets and coppersmiths’ bazaar, perfect for picking up souvenirs. The tour concludes with a transfer to the airport for flights back home or onward travel.
What Travelers Can Expect
This tour offers a well-balanced combination of guided sightseeing, local interactions, and free time for personal exploration. The guides are highly praised for their depth of knowledge and friendly approach, often sharing personal insights that enhance the experience. The transportation, in air-conditioned vehicles, ensures comfort during long drives, which are inevitable given the distances between sites.
The accommodation at boutique hotels adds a touch of local charm and comfort, with four nights included in the price. Breakfasts are typically included, but meals and drinks outside of those are not, so travelers should budget accordingly.
The schedule is quite packed, with early mornings and late evenings, but this allows maximum time at each site. For those who dislike rushing, this might feel a little intense, but many reviews mention that the experience is worth the effort.
The Value of the Tour at $814
Considering the price includes flights from Istanbul or transfers from Cappadocia, transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, and guided tours, the cost offers good value. The inclusion of a boat tour in Halfeti and visits to internationally significant sites like Göbeklitepe and Nemrut elevate this trip from a simple sightseeing tour to a meaningful cultural journey.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the expert guidance, which helps make complex sites accessible and interesting. For history buffs and those eager to learn about ancient civilizations, this tour packs a lot into five days for a reasonable price.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers with a curiosity for archaeology, history, and culture. It suits those comfortable with early mornings and full days on the move. If you appreciate guided insights and want to see some of Turkey’s most remarkable archaeological sites—and aren’t afraid of a little travel—it’s a fantastic choice.
The Sum Up
This 5-day tour of southeastern Turkey offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, all wrapped into an accessible package. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you visit must-see sites like Mount Nemrut and Göbeklitepe while also discovering lesser-known gems like Dara and Sanliurfa. The knowledgeable guides bring history to life, making complex stories understandable and engaging.
The included accommodations and transportation add convenience, and the overall value makes it a strong option for those eager to explore Turkey’s eastern treasures without the hassle of planning each detail. While the schedule is busy, the variety of sites and authentic experiences makes it worthwhile for anyone passionate about history and culture.
This tour is best for curious, active travelers who want a meaningful, guided experience that delves into Turkey’s ancient past and vibrant present. It’s perfect if you’re keen on seeing archaeological wonders, exploring colorful cities, and enjoying regional flavors—all in one compact, thoughtfully organized trip.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes flight tickets from Istanbul or transfers from Cappadocia, transportation by air-conditioned vehicles, professional guides, four nights’ boutique accommodation, entrance fees to all sites, and a boat tour in Halfeti.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks outside of breakfast are not included unless specified. Travelers should budget for lunches, dinners, and personal snacks.
How much walking is involved?
Expect a fair amount of walking, especially around ancient sites and city walls. Comfortable shoes are recommended to navigate uneven surfaces and cobblestones.
What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and weather-appropriate clothing. Early mornings and outdoor sites mean weather can vary.
Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour operates on a set schedule, but travelers can ask guides about additional options or free time during the day.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children or teens who can handle long days and walking. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.
What language are guides fluent in?
Guides speak English, Turkish, Russian, and German, making it accessible for various travelers.
How early do we start each day?
Most days begin early—around 7:00 am—so be prepared for early departures.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, enabling flexibility if your plans change.
Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Sites like Nemrut at sunrise, Göbeklitepe, and the sunken city in Halfeti offer incredible photo opportunities, just be mindful of flash and respect local customs.
This detailed, balanced tour review aims to give you a full picture of what to expect, helping you decide if this journey into Turkey’s southeastern treasures matches your travel dreams.
You can check availability for your dates here: