From Istanbul: Gobeklitepe Day Tour

Uncover the secrets of humanity’s distant past on this captivating day tour from Istanbul to Göbeklitepe. This 11,500-year-old religious site is the world’s oldest known temple, challenging our understanding of early civilization. Explore the enigmatic stone circles and monumental pillars with knowledgeable guides, gaining insight into the site’s architectural marvels and cultural significance. A convenient flight, local lunch, and seamless return to Istanbul ensure a memorable journey into the dawn of human history. Get ready to delve deeper into this extraordinary archaeological wonder.

Key Points

• A 12-hour guided tour from Istanbul to the 11,500-year-old sacred ruins of Gobeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Roundtrip transportation includes hotel pickup, a 2-hour flight to Sanliurfa, and return to Istanbul after a local lunch.
• Explore the architectural marvels of Gobeklitepe, including massive stone circles and monumental pillars constructed using only stone-age tools.
• Gain insights into the historical significance of Gobeklitepe, which challenges conventional notions of early human civilization.
• Knowledgeable guides receive high praise from travelers for their passion and ability to bring the site’s history to life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Gobeklitepe Day Tour is a 12-hour excursion that transports visitors from Istanbul to the ancient site of Gobeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sanliurfa.

Priced from $922.72 per person, the tour includes pickup from centrally located hotels in Istanbul and a 2-hour flight to Sanliurfa.

The non-refundable tour allows guests to explore the 11,500-year-old sacred ruins, guided by a licensed tourism professional.

After a local lunch, travelers return to Istanbul by air.

Exploring Gobeklitepe

Visitors on the Gobeklitepe Day Tour can expect to explore one of the world’s most ancient and significant archaeological sites.

They’ll tour the 11,500-year-old stone circles and monumental pillars of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guides will share the site’s history, explaining how Gobeklitepe is rewriting our understanding of early human civilization.

Tourists will walk through the excavation area, seeing the impressive Neolithic architecture constructed using only stone-age tools.

Visiting this historic location in Sanliurfa, historically known as Edessa, provides a window into humanity’s distant past and its spiritual and social development.

Significance of the Ancient Site

Gobeklitepe’s significance as the world’s oldest known religious site has captivated archaeologists and historians alike.

Discovered in 1994, the 11,500-year-old ruins predate the invention of writing and challenge conventional notions of early human development. The site’s monumental stone pillars, linked by intricate dry stone walls, suggest a sophisticated society existed long before the emergence of agriculture.

The 11,500-year-old ruins of Göbekli Tepe predate writing and challenge notions of early human development, suggesting a sophisticated society before agriculture.

Experts believe Gobeklitepe was a sacred gathering place where communities came together for ritual practices. Its discovery has revolutionized understanding of the Neolithic period, indicating advanced civilizations predated the rise of the first cities.

Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique window into humanity’s distant past.

Architectural Marvels

Though built over 11,500 years ago using only stone-age tools, the architectural marvels of Gobeklitepe are nothing short of astounding. Massive monolithic pillars, some reaching 18 feet in height, are intricately carved and arranged into circular stone enclosures. These Neolithic structures are linked by dry stone walls, showcasing advanced engineering and construction techniques for their time. The significance of Gobeklitepe’s architecture lies not only in its technical prowess, but also in its potential as a ceremonial or religious complex, shedding light on the sophisticated societies that thrived millennia before written history.

| Architectural Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Monolithic Pillars | Towering stone columns, some up to 18 feet high |

| Circular Enclosures | Stone structures arranged in concentric circles |

| Dry Stone Walls | Interlocking stone walls connecting the pillars |

| Stone-Age Tools | Primitive implements used to construct the complex |

| Engineering Prowess | Advanced techniques for the Neolithic period |

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Connecting to History

Stepping back in time, visitors to Gobeklitepe can connect with the profound history that unfolds before them. This 11,500-year-old site, a UNESCO World Heritage, offers a rare glimpse into the origins of human civilization.

Wandering through the ancient stone circles, one can almost hear the whispers of the past. The monolithic pillars, carved with intricate symbols, reveal the sophistication of Neolithic people.

This journey to Gobeklitepe isn’t just a tour, but an immersive experience that challenges our understanding of human development and spirituality. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for our shared past.

Tour Itinerary

The Gobeklitepe Day Tour begins with a 2-hour flight from Istanbul to Sanliurfa, the nearest city to the archaeological site.

Upon arrival, visitors embark on a guided tour of the 11,500-year-old Gobeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They’ll explore the excavation site, marveling at the monolithic pillars linked by dry stone walls.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant in Sanliurfa.

After the tour, the group flies back to Istanbul, where a transfer to their hotel concludes the day’s activities.

The tour includes all transportation, flights, entrance fees, and a licensed guide.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Gobeklitepe Day Tour includes a range of services, such as 2 private transfers, a licensed guide, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance fees to museums and sites.

Domestic flights between Istanbul and Sanliurfa are also provided. However, the tour excludes drinks, personal expenses, and lunch. Travelers will need to cover the cost of their meals during the tour.

Traveler Experiences

Travelers who’ve experienced the Gobeklitepe Day Tour have praised the knowledgeable and attentive guides who led them through the ancient site.

Participants have consistently highlighted the well-organized logistics and the enjoyable overall experience. Many have expressed interest in extending their visit to explore other significant historical sites in the Anatolia region.

The tour’s 5/5 rating from reviewers underscores the high level of satisfaction among travelers. One reviewer noted, "The guide’s passion for the site brought the history to life, making it a truly memorable experience."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

While the Gobeklitepe Day Tour offers a set itinerary, travelers can likely customize their experience by discussing their preferences with the tour provider. Additional activities or site visits may be arranged to cater to individual interests.

What Are the Health and Safety Measures in Place?

The tour company follows strict COVID-19 protocols. Masks are required on transportation, and group sizes are limited to ensure social distancing. Hand sanitizer is provided, and all high-touch surfaces are regularly disinfected to prioritize traveler safety.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Nearby Sites?

Yes, the tour description notes that the Gobeklitepe day trip can be extended to visit other sites in the Anatolia region. Travelers can inquire about adding on excursions to nearby historical and cultural attractions during the booking process.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available for this Gobeklitepe day tour. Depending on the group size, travelers can expect to receive discounts ranging from 5-10% off the standard per person rate. The tour operator offers competitive group pricing.

Can the Tour Be Arranged on Short Notice?

The tour can typically be arranged on short notice, as the operator offers flexible booking options. However, availability may be limited during peak seasons, so early reservation is recommended to secure desired tour dates.

The Sum Up

This captivating Göbeklitepe day tour from Istanbul offers a remarkable opportunity to explore humanity’s ancient past. Exploring the world’s oldest known religious site, travelers will be awed by the architectural marvels and gain profound insights into the origins of early civilization. With a convenient flight, knowledgeable guides, and a seamless itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into the remarkable history of Göbeklitepe.

You can check availability for your dates here: