7 Days Middle and Eastern Turkey Tour

7 Days Middle and Eastern Turkey Tour

Gobeklitepe, is located in the city of Sanliurfa, Turkey. It is an ancient temple and sanctuary dating back to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period. It is approximately 12,000 years old and this makes Gobeklitepe older than Stonhedge and Pyramids of Egypt and changed the written history of the world. It is discovered recently and drawing history enthusiasts from all around the world. Gobeklitepe site formed by monumental structures believed to be communal buildings used for social events and rituals. The most distinctive features are the towering T-shaped limestone pillars, extended about 5.5 meters in height, decorated with totems, animal figurines, and enigmatic symbols. Excavations in progress reveal that Gobeklitepe predates the Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge of Britain, consolidating its status as the oldest temple in the world. Gobeklitepe recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It holds the prestigious title of being the first known temple in human history and it is a significant milestone in our understanding of ancient civilizations.

Harran has built during the 25th and 20th centuries BC, evolving into a important cultural and commercial hub. It held great religious and political influence, dedicated to the moon god Sin. According to biblical accounts, the prophet Abraham lived in Harran with his father, who passed away in this city. Harran witnessed the rule of various empires, including the Neo-Babylonian, Macedonian, Seleucid, and Roman empires. Also Harran has a great significance at religious matters as well. It is known as the birthplace of the first Islamic University and is home to the oldest mosque in Asia Minor.

7-Day Middle and Eastern Turkey Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Istanbul

We will meet you at the airport in Istanbul and we will drive you to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 2: North Cappadocia Tour (Breakfast – Lunch)

We will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and drive you to airport for your flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, we will drive you to Cappadocia. Today we will be exploring the unique rock formations of Cappadocia also known as “fairy chimneys”. We will visit Goreme Open Air Museum and visit rock carved churches and caves. We will be visiting Dervent, Monk’s Valley, Zelve, Avanos Village and Cavusin Village. At the end of the tour we will drive you to your hotel. Overnight in a cave hotel in Cappadocia.

Day 3: South Cappadocia Tour (Breakfast – Lunch)

***Optional Hot Air Balloon Tour in the morning.

After breakfast, we will start the South Cappadocia tour. We will be visiting Visit Pigeon Valley (Guvercinlik) famous with rock carved bird houses and evileye tree. Explore one of the largest underground cities of the area, Derinkuyu underground city We will take a hike in Rose valley and explore the rose-colored rocks of Rose Valley, which change hues throughout the day. We will be discovering the cave tunnels, houses, and churches that are unique in this region. At the end of the tour, we will drive you back to your hotel. Overnight in Cappadocia.

Day 4: Cappadocia – Gaziantep (Breakfast – Lunch)

In the morning early we will leave Cappadocia and drive to Gaziantep.We will stop in Kahramanmaras for lunch and taste the famous ice cream. Upon our arrival at Gaziantep, we will go to the Gaziantep Mosaic museum, which has the Belkis-Zeugma Mosaics as well as more mosaics that were found along this region. Then we will tour Gaziantep that is popularly renowned for its copper bazzar and intricate copper works. We will try Gaziantep’s renowned baklava and witness the skilled craftsmanship of the local copper artisans. Overnight in Gaziantep.

Day 5: Sanliurfa (Breakfast – Lunch)

After breakfast, we will drive to Sanliurfa. We will be visiting the Urfa Archaeological Museum, where you can see exhibitions featuring artifacts discovered in the Harran and Gobeklitepe areas. Then we will explore Balikligol, a sacred area where significant events from the Bible and the Quran took place and we will be visiting the cave believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Abraham. At the end of the day, we will take a leisurely walk through the covered bazaar of Sanliurfa. Overnight in Sanliurfa.

Day 6: Harran – Gobeklitepe – Nemrut (Breakfast – Lunch)

After breakfast, we will drive to Harran and explore the famous conical-shaped domes and beehive houses. Explore the ruins of the oldest Islamic University and Harran Castle. Continue your journey to Gobeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and then proceed to Kahta. Along the way, visit Arsemia Castle, cross the Septimus Severus Bridge (Cendere Bridge), and see the Tumulus Tomb of Karakus. Upon arrival in Kahta, climb Mount Nemrut to witness the stunning sunset over the colossal statues of ancient gods and Commagene Kings, another UNESCO World Heritage site. After the tour, drive to Adiyaman for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Adiyaman to Istanbul (Breakfast)

On the final day of your tour, we will take a flight back to Istanbul from Adiyaman. Once you arrive in Istanbul, we will drive you to your hotel in Istanbul.