Iconic GAP Tour | 4 Nights Accommodation, Departing from Istanbul and Ankara
As you discover Mesopotamia’s most special historic cities and unique culture, an unforgettable travel experience awaits you with its history, flavors, and culture.
Adana - Gaziantep - Adıyaman - Diyarbakır - Mardin - Şanlıurfa 4 Round Trip | BusIstanbul – Kocaeli – Sakarya – Ankara – Night Journey
After picking up our valued guests from the designated meeting points, we begin our night journey with information provided by our guide regarding the tour program and travel details.
Vehicle Departure Points and Times:
• 19:00 Inçirli Ömür Plaza Opposite – In front of Nevada Cafe
• 19:30 Mecidiyeköy – In front of Mado
• 20:00 Kadıköy Civil Registry Office Entrance
• 20:10 Kozyatağı Hilton Hotel Entrance
• 20:30 Kartal Bridge – Towards Ankara
• 20:45 Gebze Center Entrance
• 21:15 İzmit Intercity Bus Terminal Entrance – Bus Stops
• 21:45 Sakarya Bus Terminal
• 01:00 Ankara Armada AVM Opposite (Next Day)
A Culinary and Historical Journey from Çukurova to Mesopotamia: Adana – Sabancı Central Mosque – Seyhan River – Taşköprü – Gaziantep – Zeugma Mosaic Museum – Gaziantep Castle – Coppermakers Bazaar – Elmacı Market – Yemeniciler Bazaar – Sedefçiler Bazaar – Tahmis Coffee House
After our night journey, we take breakfast as an extra during a break on our route in the morning hours and arrive in Adana. We begin our city tour with the Sabancı Central Mosque, one of Adana's iconic structures, known for its magnificent architecture along the Seyhan River. Then, we see the Taşköprü (Stone Bridge), which has survived from the Roman era to the present day and is one of Adana's most important symbols, taking a photo break while enjoying the river view.
After our tour of Adana, we turn our route towards Gaziantep, which was granted the title "Gazi" in 1921 due to its heroism during the War of Independence. Upon arriving in Gaziantep around noon, we take a lunch break so you can explore the city's world-renowned culinary culture. During this free time, you can try the city's standout flavors such as katmer, yuvalama, various kebabs, Antep pistachios, and Gaziantep baklava.
After our meal break, we begin exploring Gaziantep's treasures of history and culture. First, we visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, where unique mosaics excavated from the ancient city of Zeugma are displayed. Guided by our guide, we view mosaics ranging from daily life scenes of the Roman era to mythological depictions, including the Gypsy Girl Mosaic, which has become the symbol of the museum. After the museum tour, we view the Gaziantep Castle panoramically and continue towards the city's historic bazaars.
We tour the heart of Gaziantep's traditional commerce: the Coppersmiths Bazaar, Elmacı Market, Yemeni Shoes Bazaar, and Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Bazaars; having the opportunity to closely familiarize ourselves with products unique to the city, from copper craftsmanship and mother-of-pearl inlaying to traditional Yemeni shoes, Antep pistachios, and baklava. After our bazaar tour, we have free time at the Tahmis Coffee House, which completes Gaziantep's historical atmosphere. Guests who wish can taste the famous menengiç coffee or Turkish coffee here, and they can make their purchases according to our guide's recommendations.
After our free time, we complete our city tour of Gaziantep and head to our hotel. After settling into our rooms, we have dinner at our hotel and conclude the day.
Food, Drink, and Accommodation Information:
• Morning Breakfast: Not included in the tour fee. (Available as an optional extra at a restaurant.)
• Lunch: Not included in the tour fee. (Available as an optional extra at a restaurant.)
• Dinner: Included in the tour fee and served at the hotel.
• Accommodation: Gaziantep Hotels (Half Board)
In the Footsteps of the Kingdom of Commagene: Adıyaman – Karakuş Tumulus – Cendere Bridge – Mount Nemrut – Eastern and Western Terraces – Nisibis Bridge – Atatürk Dam – Diyarbakır – Ulu Mosque – Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum House
After having breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we proceed to Adıyaman following the Yavuzeli – Besni route. From there, guests who wish to participate will join our minibuses waiting for us in Kahta for the Nemrut Mountain Tour, which will be conducted as an extra activity. The first stop of our tour, where we will explore the thousands-year-old heritage of the Kingdom of Commagene, is the Karakuş Tumulus, one of the monumental tomb areas belonging to King I. Antiochos' family. After seeing the columns surrounding the tumulus and the eagle figure that gave the region its name, we continue our journey.
Our next stop is the Cendere Bridge, one of the most important historical structures from the Roman period that has reached us today. With a history of approximately eighteen centuries, we listen to our guide's explanations at the bridge and take a photo break. Then, continuing our ascent by minibus, we reach Nemrut Mountain at an altitude of approximately 2,150 meters. On Nemrut Mountain, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we explore the monumental sacred area built by King I. Antiochos of Commagene. Alongside our guide's explanations, we visit the East and West Terraces, Zeus Oromasdes, Apollon Mithras, Herakles Artagnes, and the statues of Commagene, as well as the protective Lion and Eagle statues, and take photo breaks amidst Nemrut's impressive scenery.
After our visit to Nemrut Mountain, we return to Kahta by minibus and transfer to our tour vehicle. We continue our journey with views of Atatürk Dam Lake and take a photo break at the Nissibi Bridge, which rises over the Euphrates River on the Kahta – Siverek route. After our break, we head towards Diyarbakır, one of the most important cities in terms of history and culture in Southeastern Anatolia.
Upon arrival in Diyarbakır, we begin our city tour and visit the Diyarbakır Grand Mosque, one of the oldest and most significant places of worship in Anatolia. Next, we see the Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum House, famous for his memorable lines "Yaş otuz beş! Yolun yarısı eder." (Age thirty-five! Half the road is done). If the building is under restoration or closed to visitors, it will be viewed from the outside. After seeing this important example of traditional civil architecture in Diyarbakır, we complete our city tour and move to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay will be at our hotel.
Food and Accommodation Information:
• Morning Breakfast: Included in the tour fee and taken at the hotel.
• Lunch: Not included in the tour fee. (Optional extra meal taken at a restaurant.)
• Dinner: Included in the tour fee and taken at the hotel.
• Accommodation: Hotels in Adıyaman or Diyarbakır (Half Board)
Tracing the Ancient Footprints of Mesopotamia: Diyarbakır – Mardin Gate – Keçi Burcu – Tigris Basin – On Gözlü Bridge – Batman – Malabadi Bridge – Hasankeyf – Tigris River – Hasankeyf Fortress – Midyat – Telkari Workshops – Midyat Guesthouse
After having breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we continue our tour of Diyarbakır. During our panoramic tour where we will witness the city's thousands of years of history with its historic walls, we see Mardin Gate, Keçi Burcu and the Tigris Basin, and take photos of the region's characteristic landscapes. Then we reach On Gözlü Bridge, one of Diyarbakır's iconic structures located on the Tigris River, and after a short photo break here, we follow the Bismil route to move towards Batman.
After arriving in Batman, we join the Malabadi Bridge Tour, which will be organized as an extra for interested guests. (Optional extra.) After seeing Malabadi Bridge, one of the important structures of the region with its historic stone craftsmanship and magnificent arch, we are given free time for lunch. After lunch, we turn our route towards Hasankeyf, one of the oldest settlement areas of Mesopotamia.
In Hasankeyf, which has a history of thousands of years along the banks of the Tigris River, we explore the historical heritage of the region accompanied by the new landscape formed after the Ilısu Dam. With the explanations of our guide, we see Hasankeyf Castle, historic cave settlements, artifacts reaching us from El Rızk Mosque and the Tigris Valley, and listen to Hasankeyf's story stretching from the past to the present. After the free time we give, we get into our vehicle and move towards Midyat, one of the most special stops of Southeastern Anatolia with its stone architecture and Syriac culture.
After arriving in Midyat, we begin our tour among the narrow streets and characteristic stone houses of the city. We get up close with telkari craftsmanship, one of the most important handicrafts of the region passed down from generation to generation by Syriac masters, and offer shopping opportunities for interested guests. Then we see Midyat Guest House, one of the finest examples of Midyat's stone architecture and also known for various series and film shoots. In this structure that stands out with its stone craftsmanship, courtyards and terraces, we explore Midyat's unique architecture and take a photo break.
During the free time we spend in the historic streets of Midyat, interested guests can shop for products specific to the region and try Syriac coffee and local flavors. After our free time, we complete our tour and move towards our hotel. Dinner and accommodation at our hotel.
Food, Drink and Accommodation Information:
• Morning Breakfast: Included in the tour fee and taken at the hotel.
• Lunch: Not included in the tour fee. (Taken optionally at an extra restaurant.)
• Dinner: Included in the tour fee and taken at the hotel.
• Accommodation: Mardin or Midyat Hotels (Half Board)
From the Stone Cities of Mesopotamia to the Dawn of Human History: Mardin – Deyrulzafaran Monastery – Kasımiye Madrasa – Old City of Mardin – Göbeklitepe – Harran – Şanlıurfa
After having breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we arrive at Mardin, the enchanting city of Mesopotamia paved with golden stones. In this unique city, which the local people call "The Capital of Civilizations" and "The Stone City of Anatolia," our first stop is Deyrulzafaran Monastery, which has hosted the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate for centuries. At the monastery, one of the most important religious centers of Syriac culture, we explore the historical structure and its unique architecture guided by our guide.
Next, we visit Kasımiye Madrasa, one of Mardin's most impressive structures, commanding a view over the Mesopotamian Plain. After taking a photo break at the madrasa, known for its stone craftsmanship, courtyard, and infinity pool, we begin our walk through Mardin's narrow streets. Accompanied by our guide, we stroll among the city's iconic landmarks such as Kırklar Church, Abbaralar, the Old PTT Building, Ulu Mosque, and Şehidiye Mosque, getting up close to some of the finest examples of stone architecture and gradually discovering Mardin's mystical atmosphere.
With interested guests, we undertake the Dara Ancient City Tour, one of the most important ancient settlements of Mesopotamia. (Optional extra – organized upon sufficient participation.) After our free time and lunch break, we follow the route via Kızıltepe – Viranşehir to reach Göbeklitepe, the site that led to the rewriting of human history. At Göbeklitepe, the world's oldest known temple complex with a history dating back approximately 12,000 years, we explore the mysterious world of the Neolithic period guided by our tour leader and visit this unique archaeological site listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Following our visit to Göbeklitepe, we turn our route towards Şanlıurfa, the City of Prophets. On the way, we reach Harran, whose name means "The Place Where Roads Meet" and is one of the most important settlements of Mesopotamia with a 5,000-year history. Here, we witness the region's ancient culture by visiting Harran University (Ulu Mosque), Harran Castle, the historic Caravanserai, and the world-famous Conical Harran Houses.
After our visit to Harran, we proceed to Şanlıurfa and check into our hotel. In the evening hours, interested guests can experience an unforgettable Mesopotamian night by participating in the Sıra Gecesi Program, a dinner event combining Urfa's traditional music, folk dances, and local flavors. (Optional extra.)
Important Note: Tonight's hotel accommodation includes bed and breakfast. Dinner is not included in the tour price. Interested guests may participate in the dinner-inclusive Sıra Gecesi program.
Dining and Accommodation Information
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Morning Breakfast: Included in the tour price and served at the hotel.
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Lunch: Not included in the tour price. (Optional extra, available at restaurants.)
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Dinner: Not included in the tour price. (Optional extra, available during the dinner-inclusive Sıra Gecesi program.)
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Accommodation: Şanlıurfa Hotels (Bed and Breakfast)
From the City of Prophets to the Hidden Paradise of the Euphrates: Şanlıurfa – Balıklıgöl – Halil-ür Rahman Mosque – The Station of Prophet Ibrahim – Rızvaniye Mosque – Ayn Zeliha Lake – Bedesten – Gümrük Han – Halfeti – Euphrates River – Rumkale – Savaşan Village – Boat Tour – Return to Istanbul
After having breakfast at our hotel, we begin our tour of Peygamberler Şehri Şanlıurfa. In our walking tour through the spiritual and historical center of the city, we first visit Balıklıgöl, which has become the symbol of Şanlıurfa. After hearing the story of this area, believed to be where Hz. Ibrahim was thrown into the fire, from our guide, we visit Halil-ür Rahman Mosque, Hz. Ibrahim's Shrine, Rızvaniye Mosque, and Ayn Zeliha Lake.
Following our visits, we have free time in the city center of Şanlıurfa, where we can closely observe the traditional bazaar culture. During this time, guests may choose to explore the historic Bedesten Bazaar, shop at copperware shops and local product stores, or enjoy their coffee at Gümrük Han, one of the city's important meeting points with its historic atmosphere.
We meet at our vehicle at the scheduled time, depart from Şanlıurfa, and after approximately one hour of travel, arrive at Halfeti, located on the banks of the Euphrates River and known for its black rose and unique stone architecture. Due to the construction of the Birecik Dam, part of the old settlement is now submerged; those interested join us for a Halfeti Boat Tour. (Optional extra.)
As our boat moves along the Euphrates River, we view Rumkale, one of the region's most impressive historical structures, in panoramic views, and listen to stories about the old settlements submerged under the dam waters from our guide. One of the most striking points of our boat tour is Savaşan Village, where we see the historic mosque minaret rising from the water and witness Halfeti's iconic landscapes. After the boat tour, we return to Halfeti and allow time for photos and free exploration.
After enjoying our time in Halfeti, we conclude our tour of Southeastern Anatolia, rich in history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty, and begin our return journey to Istanbul. After necessary stops for refreshments and meals along the route, we arrive in Istanbul in the morning, drop off our valued guests at their designated points, and bid farewell until another Go-Turkey organization.
Food, Drink, and Accommodation Information:
• Morning Breakfast: Included in the tour fee and served at the hotel.
• Lunch: Not included in the tour fee. (Optional extra, available at a restaurant.)
• Dinner: Not included in the tour fee. (Served at a facility on the return journey.)
• Accommodation: This is the return day; no accommodation is provided.
Child Discount and Circular Rules
The child discount is valid for the 7–12 age range.
The tour circular is valid as of the date it was published, 19.01.2026. Circulars published on later dates for the same tour invalidate the previous circular.
Mandatory additional services are included in the tour price.
Important Information About Tours with Flights
- For tours with flights, all procedures related to flights are subject to the provisions of the airline agreement.
- Cancellation insurance does not cover air transportation.
- A tiered pricing system is applied; the advertised prices are starting prices from the lowest class.
- Economy class flights are used in tour programs with flights.
- Flight tickets are issued as a round trip together. If the outbound flight is not used, the return flight also becomes invalid in accordance with the airlines’ “sequence of use” rule. Therefore, participation in only the return flight is not possible.
Museum – Archaeological Site – National Park Entrance Fees
All museum, archaeological site and national park entrance fees are the responsibility of our guests. Our guests may obtain a Müzekart from Müzekart sales points before or during the tour in order to benefit from advantages at museums and archaeological sites where the Müzekart is valid.
Package Price Includes
Our package tour prices include hotel accommodation, transportation and the excursions specified in the program.
Rest Stops
Breaks are taken at rest facilities along the route. Due to crowding, renovations or similar force majeure reasons, rest stops may be changed, provided that they are equivalent in terms of service quality and location.
Extra Tours and Program Flow
Night tours and extra excursions included in the tour program are organized depending on the number of participants and the availability of the assigned staff. Extra tours conducted along the route may take place even if not all guests participate. Guests who do not wish to join the extra tour will be directed by our guide to rest areas before the city entrances or to city centers. In this case, guests who agree to wait at the rest area will be deemed to have participated in the tour.
Due to weather conditions, road conditions or similar reasons, the guide may make changes to the sequence of the program (visiting points within the day or between days) if deemed necessary.
Go-Turkey cannot be held responsible for points that cannot be visited despite being included in the program due to force majeure (weather conditions, road conditions, crowding at visiting points, etc.) or because guests fail to comply with the timings provided by the guide.
Health Notification
Our guests are required to carry with them reports and information concerning any health problems they may experience during the tour, pregnancy status or medications they use regularly.
Accommodation Information
The hotel names specified in the program are the primary accommodation facilities. Hotels may be changed depending on availability. The information about the hotel where guests will stay will be shared with our guests, upon request, no later than 48 hours before the tour departure. If the hotel is changed due to crowding or force majeure reasons, provided that the standards remain the same, our guests will be informed by Go-Turkey representatives.
Important Notes
- On tours with flights, flight delays may occur due to heavy traffic.
- Night tours are extra and are organized depending on participation.
Vehicles Used
Tour vehicles are planned as follows according to the number of participants:
Bus (28–46 people):
Mercedes Travego / Tourismo, Neoplan Cityliner / Tourliner, Mitsubishi Safir
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, kitchen unit, reading lamps, announcement system, CD/DVD)
Midibus (17–27 people):
Isuzu Turkuaz
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, announcement system)
Minibus (up to 16 people):
VW Volt, VW Volt EL, Mercedes Sprinter, Mercedes Sprinter EL
(Specially designed reclining seats, ABS, ASR, air conditioning, refrigerator, announcement system)
Recommendations
- Clothing and footwear suitable for the geographical features and weather conditions of the tour region should be preferred.
- It is recommended that you bring the necessary charging equipment for taking photographs and videos.
- Regularly used medications should not be forgotten; allergic, chronic or hereditary conditions should be reported to the guide.
- Personal care products, a backpack and personal belongings that will make the journey more enjoyable should be kept with you.
- For programs that include boat tours and swimming breaks, it is recommended that you bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and similar marine equipment.
The tour program and explanations above have been specially prepared by Go-Turkey. They may not be copied, reproduced or published without permission. The program has been prepared in accordance with the Consumer Protection Law No. 6502 and should be evaluated as a whole.
Istanbul