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- November Mid-Term Break Special: Iconic Flight with Turkish Airlines, GAP Tarsus and Adana Tour | 4-Night Stay, Departing from Istanbul
November Mid-Term Break Special: Iconic Flight with Turkish Airlines, GAP Tarsus and Adana Tour | 4-Night Stay, Departing from Istanbul
Discover the thousands of years of history of Mesopotamia, ancient civilizations, and the unique culture of the Southeast! On this special route stretching from Göbeklitepe to Nemrut, from Şanlıurfa to Mardin, from Halfeti to Gaziantep; experience historic cities, UNESCO heritage sites, breathtaking landscapes, and the unforgettable flavors of the region all together.
Gaziantep – Şanlıurfa – Mardin – Midyat – Diyarbakır – Adıyaman – Adana – Tarsus 4 Nights Accommodation Round-trip | FlightIstanbul – Gaziantep – Zeugma Mosaic Museum – Göbekli Tepe – Şanlıurfa – Balıklıgöl – Hz. Ibrahim Shrine – Ayn-I Zeliha Lake – Sıra Night
On our first day, we begin our journey into the thousands of years of history of Southeastern Anatolia by meeting early in the morning at Istanbul New Airport. We must be present at the airport with our identification documents at least two hours before the flight time. As we take off on THY's TK22 scheduled flight departing at 06:25 towards Gaziantep Airport, we feel that ahead of us lies not just a trip, but a time travel experience where we will follow the traces of civilizations. After approximately 1.5 hours of flight, we land on the fertile lands of Gaziantep, meet our waiting guide, and board our vehicle. After a breakfast stop (extra) along the route, we begin to explore Gaziantep, one of the most important cultural and gastronomic cities of Southeastern Anatolia.
Our first stop is the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, considered one of the world's most important mosaic museums. Alongside valuable mosaics, statues, and archaeological artifacts brought to light from the ancient city of Zeugma on the banks of the Euphrates River, we witness the splendor of the Roman era. We have the opportunity to get up close with unique works telling mythological stories, including the world-famous "Gypsy Girl" Mosaic, accompanied by our guide's explanations.
After our museum visit, we continue our journey towards Şanlıurfa, heading to Göbeklitepe, which is accepted as the oldest monumental temple complex known in human history and is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. At this unique archaeological site with a history of approximately 12,000 years that sheds light on world history, we closely observe the T-shaped standing stones, the animal figures on them, and the excavation area alongside our guide's explanations. While listening to how the understanding of history has changed with the discovery of Göbeklitepe, we experience the excitement of witnessing one of the most important archaeological discoveries in human history. Before starting our tour of Şanlıurfa after visiting Göbeklitepe, we will take a short lunch break (extra) at our restaurant where we will have the chance to taste Urfa flavors.
After our break, we move towards Şanlıurfa. In this ancient city known as the City of Prophets, our first stop is the Balıklıgöl Complex, one of the most important centers of faith tourism. Alongside our guide's explanations, we visit Halil-ür Rahman Mosque, the Tomb and Cave of Prophet Ibrahim, Ayn-ı Zeliha Pool, and the sacred Balıklı Göl, getting to know the historical, religious, and cultural importance of the region up close.
After our tour, we take a short break at a local shop where we can closely familiarize ourselves with Şanlıurfa's famous spice culture. Here, we have the opportunity to examine and purchase natural spices, homemade pastes, and local products, with isot, which has become a symbol of Urfa, being the highlight. Afterwards, we check into our hotel and take a short rest break. In the evening, together with guests who wish, we participate in the Urfa Sıra Gecesi (extra) program, one of the most important traditions of Southeastern Anatolian culture. We spend an unforgettable evening with local music, folk melodies, artists keeping the Sıra Gecesi culture alive, and delicious Urfa dishes. This special event, where we will closely feel the hospitality and traditional lifestyle culture of the region, will be one of the most enjoyable moments of our Mesopotamia trip.
Note: There is no dinner service at our hotel tonight. Guests who wish may have their dinners within the framework of the extra Sıra Gecesi organization. Guests who do not wish to participate in the Sıra Gecesi program may evaluate their dinners freely in Şanlıurfa.
Sıra Gecesi Menu Content: Soup, Stuffed Meatballs, Sour Eggplant Rolls, Urfa Kebab, Bostana Salad, Çiğ Köfte, Şıllık Dessert, Ayran, Tea, Water, and traditional Mirra refreshment.
Food and Accommodation Information:
Breakfast: Will be taken independently in Gaziantep (Extra/Optional)
Lunch: Will be taken independently in Halfeti (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will be taken during the Sıra Gecesi Entertainment in Şanlıurfa. (Extra/Optional)
Accommodation: Şanlıurfa / Orta Doğu Hotel, Rever Hotel, Hotel Vera Şanlıurfa, Grand Gülizar Hotel, Elite World Inn Hotel, Grand Urfa Hotel, Narlı Ev Boutique Hotel, and similar hotels.
Harran – Conical Dome Houses – Deyrulzafaran Monastery – Mardin – Old Mardin – Kasımiye Madrasa – Abbaralar – Dara Ancient City – Midyat
After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we head to Harran for the Harran Tour, one of the oldest settlements in Mesopotamia. In this ancient city that has hosted many civilizations throughout history, we get to know the region's unique architecture up close by visiting its iconic Conical Dome Houses. Afterwards, we view the panoramic sights of Harran Grand Mosque, Harran Castle, and the ruins of Harran University, considered one of the first Islamic universities in the world. During the short free time provided, we examine local products and have the opportunity to capture photos in this historical atmosphere.
After our visit to Harran, we move towards Mardin, the stone city of Mesopotamia. Our first stop is Deyrulzafaran Monastery, one of the most important religious centers of the Syriac Orthodox world. This impressive structure, which served as a patriarchal center for centuries and takes its name from the saffron flowers growing around it, enchants visitors with its stonework, courtyards, sun temple, churches, and mystical atmosphere. Guided by our tour guide, we gain detailed information about the monastery's history, Syriac culture, and the region's religious past.
After our monastery visit, we proceed to Mardin city center and take a break for lunch (extra) at our restaurant famous for local flavors. Guests who wish can experience the special tastes of regional cuisine, including Mardin Tabak, stuffed ribs, sembusek, ikbebet, alluciye, and other delicacies. After lunch, we move to our shop featuring local Mardin specialties. While taking a short tea break, we listen to presentations on the famous Blue Almond Candy, Mardin Çöreği, and region-specific nuts. Guests who wish can make purchases and take these special Mardin flavors home with them.
Subsequently, we begin exploring the old streets of Mardin, which, with their stone architecture, resemble an open-air museum. During our walk through narrow, stone-paved streets, we visit Kasımiye Madrasa, Şehidiye Mosque, Ulu Camii, Abbaralar (stone passages), Cumhuriyet Square, Tellallar Bazaar, and the historic Mardin markets. With our guide's explanations, we have the opportunity to closely discover the architecture, traditions, and history of this ancient city where different religions and cultures have lived together for centuries.
After a short free time in the enchanting atmosphere of Old Mardin, we depart for the Extra Dara Ancient City Tour, which will be conducted with the participation of all guests. Dara Ancient City, one of the most important ancient settlements in Mesopotamia, is known as an important garrison city established to protect the eastern border of the Eastern Roman Empire. Guided by our tour guide, we explore rock tombs, water cisterns, necropolis areas, and historical remains that have reached us today, witnessing thousands of years of history.
After our tour, we head towards Midyat. We arrive at our hotel in the evening hours and settle into our rooms. Dinner and accommodation will take place at our hotel.
Food, Drink, and Accommodation Information:
Breakfast: Served at the hotel as buffet or set menu. (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be served at a local restaurant in Mardin. (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Served at the hotel as buffet or set menu. (Included in Tour Price)
Accommodation: Mardin or Midyat / Raymar Hotel, Büyük Mardin Oteli, Parkmar Hotel, Katori Hotel, Mariad Hotel, Dayman Hotel, Akuti Hotel, Bay Grand Hotel, and similar hotels.
Midyat – Midyat Guest House - Hasankeyf – Zeynel Bey Tomb - Diyarbakır – Hasan Pasha Caravanserai - Four-Legged Minaret - Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House - Kahta – Adıyaman
After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we begin exploring Midyat, one of Mesopotamia's most captivating places known for its stone craftsmanship and multicultural heritage. In this ancient district where Syriac, Arab, and Kurdish cultures have coexisted for centuries, we enjoy a pleasant walk through historic stone streets accompanied by our guide. As we discover Midyat's magnificent mansions built from its unique limestone, elegant stone carvings, and narrow alleys, it feels like traveling back in time. During our tour, we visit iconic structures of the region including Midyat Guest House (Sila Konagi), Shatana Mansion, historic houses in Midyat, and the bazaar area, all while listening to our guide's descriptions. We take photo breaks to admire the unique panoramic views overlooking the Mesopotamian Plain and fully experience Midyat's distinctive atmosphere. During the free time after the tour, you may visit silver workshops showcasing some of the finest examples of the world-renowned Telkari art and examine handcrafted jewelry pieces. Additionally, you can make purchases of famous Syriac wines from Midyat, natural cosmetic products, and local souvenirs.
After our free time, we head towards Hasankeyf, one of the most important settlements in Mesopotamia with a history dating back approximately 12,000 years, located on the banks of the Tigris River. In this ancient city that was relocated to a new settlement area following the construction of the Ilisu Dam, we listen to Hasankeyf's melancholic yet equally compelling story alongside our guide's narration. During our panoramic tour, we visit Zeynel Bey Mausoleum, Artuklu Hamam, El Rızk Mosque Minaret, Hasankeyf Castle, remnants of the historic Stone Bridge over the Tigris River, and thousands of years-old cave dwellings carved into the slopes. During our short tea and photo break, we enjoy the breathtaking views of the Tigris Valley while receiving detailed information from our guide about the history of Hasankeyf, one of Mesopotamia's most significant historical heritages.
Following our visit to Hasankeyf, we stop at a restaurant along our route in Batman where we can taste one of the most special flavors of Southeastern Anatolian cuisine for lunch (extra). After our lunch break, depending on the guide's initiative and time availability, an Extra Malabadi Bridge Tour may be organized with participation from all guests. After our lunch break, we arrive in Diyarbakır, one of the capitals of history and culture in Southeastern Anatolia. First, we view the magnificent Diyarbakır Walls, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, panoramically, then visit the Ulu Cami, considered one of the oldest places of worship in Anatolia. Continuing our journey, we enjoy a pleasant walk through the Sur Inner District, which carries traces of the past into the present with its narrow streets, visiting the Historic Hasan Pasa Han, Four-Legged Minaret, Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House. After getting to know Diyarbakır's deep-rooted history, culture, and unique atmosphere closely with our guide's descriptions, we set off towards Adıyaman. In the evening hours, we reach our hotel and settle into our rooms. Dinner and accommodation are at our hotel in Adıyaman.
Food, Beverage, and Accommodation Information:
Breakfast: Buffet or set menu breakfast at the hotel (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be taken during free time in Midyat (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will be served as buffet or set menu at the hotel (Included in Tour Price)
Accommodation: Diyarbakır or Adıyaman / Mira Hotel, Sur Palace Hotel, Tasaray Bardakci Hotel, Samos Hotel, White Star Hotel, Rabat Hotel, and similar hotels.
Kahta – Nemrut Mountain – Cendere Bridge – Karakuş Tumulus – Atatürk Dam View Terrace – Halfeti – Sunken City Boat Tour – Gaziantep – Zeytin Han – Gümrük Han – Bakırcılar Bazaar – Yemeniciler Bazaar – Almacı Market – Zincirli Bedesten – Tahmis Coffee House
We are heading to Kahta for the extra Nemrut Mountain tour, where we will discover the magnificent legacy of the Kingdom of Commagene. After boarding our minibuses waiting for us here, we begin our visit to Nemrut Mountain National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We reach Nemrut Mountain, located at an altitude of approximately 2,150 meters, one of the world's most impressive archaeological sites, known for its monumental tumulus dedicated by King I. Antiochos to the gods and his ancestors. Along with our guide's explanations, we have the opportunity to closely explore the giant statues of the gods, eagle and lion reliefs, the tumulus, and the mysterious history of the Kingdom of Commagene on the East and West Terraces. During the free time at the summit, we take photos of the unique mountain views and enjoy this unforgettable atmosphere.
After our Nemrut tour, on our return journey, we take a short photo stop at Cendere Bridge, one of the most solid bridges from the Roman period that has survived to the present day. After listening to our guide's explanations about this historical structure with a history of approximately two thousand years, we view Karakuş Tumulus, built as a royal mausoleum for the women of the Commagene kings, panoramically and learn about the region's history. After our tour, we return to Kahta, board our tour vehicle, and continue our journey towards Gaziantep.
We continue our tour with Atatürk Dam, one of Turkey's largest engineering projects along the way. During our break at the observation terrace, we observe the massive dam body rising over the Euphrates River panoramically and learn about its great importance for Turkey's energy and irrigation through our guide's explanations.
After our visit here, we turn our route again towards Halfeti, famous for its enchanting atmosphere on the banks of the Euphrates. With interested guests (extra), we join the Sunken City Boat Tour, having the opportunity to see up close the historical settlement submerged under the dam waters, the mosque with its minaret standing above the water, and the unique natural beauties of the Fırat Valley. After our boat tour, we allow some free time in Halfeti and fully experience the peaceful atmosphere of this town. Interested guests may have lunch (extra) at the floating restaurants available here.
After our visit to Halfeti, we head to Gaziantep, the gastronomic capital of Southeastern Anatolia. During our walking tour in the historic bazaar area, we view Zeytin Han and Gümrük Han, which have hosted the city's trade life for centuries, panoramically, and then enjoy a pleasant walk in Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmiths' Bazaar), where the finest examples of handicrafts are displayed. During our tour, we also have the opportunity to see Yemeniciler Çarşısı, famous for its traditional handmade yemeni shoes; Almacı Pazarı, featuring local spices, dried goods, and flavors unique to Antep; and Zincirli Bedesten, which has preserved its historical texture until today.
After our bazaar tour, we take a short break at Tahmis Kahvesi, one of the symbols of Gaziantep with its history dating back approximately four centuries. Interested guests can enjoy the historical atmosphere by tasting the famous menengiç coffee here.
During the subsequent free time, we have the opportunity to shop for Gaziantep's world-famous baklava, pistachios, various spices, and local products. After our free time, we move to our hotel. Dinner and accommodation will take place at our hotel in Gaziantep.
Food, Drink, and Accommodation Information:
Breakfast: Buffet or set menu breakfast at the hotel (Included in the Tour Price)
Lunch: To be taken during free time in Halfeti (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Buffet or set menu dinner at the hotel (Included in the Tour Price)
Accommodation: Gaziantep / Hotel Uğurlu, Büyük Veliç Otel, Kule Hotel Gaziantep, Gaziantep Plaza Otel, Utku Bey Otel, and similar hotels.
Adana – Historic Taşköprü – Sabancı Central Mosque – Tarsus – Cave of the Seven Sleepers – St. Paul's Well – Prophet Danyal's Shrine – Old Tarsus – Cleopatra Gate – Nusret Mine Sweeper Ship – Istanbul
After having breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we depart from Gaziantep and begin our journey towards the fertile lands of Çukurova. After a short rest stop along the way, we arrive in Adana, one of the most important cities on the Mediterranean coast. First, we view the historic Taşköprü (Stone Bridge), which has stood for approximately two thousand years over the Seyhan River and has become one of Adana's symbols, from a panoramic perspective. After listening to our guide's narration about the bridge's history stretching from the Roman period to the present day, we visit the Sabancı Central Mosque, one of Turkey's largest mosques. After receiving information from our guide about the mosque, known for its elegant architecture and magnificent domes, we take a short photo break by the banks of the Seyhan River.
Following our tour of Adana, we are given free time for lunch (extra). Guests who wish may have the opportunity to taste the unique flavors of Adana cuisine. After our lunch break, we head towards Tarsus, an ancient city that has hosted countless civilizations throughout its thousands of years of history. Our first stop in this timeless city, which has maintained its importance from antiquity to the present day, is the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, considered sacred in both the Christian and Islamic worlds. Along with our guide's narration, we listen to the history of the cave and its place in different faiths. Next, we visit the St. Paul Well, located in the courtyard of the house where St. Paul, one of the important figures of Christianity, was born, according to legend. After receiving information from our guide at this historically and religiously significant site, we proceed to the Mausoleum of Prophet Daniel, which holds an important place in the Islamic world. While experiencing the spiritual atmosphere of the region, we gain important information about the past of this sacred place. After visiting the Mausoleum of Prophet Daniel, we continue with our tour program after a break where we can shop while examining tahini and various local specialties specific to Tarsus and its surroundings. Our tour continues in Old Tarsus, whose stone streets and historical structures seem to transport visitors back in time. During our enjoyable walk through the narrow streets, we explore the historical houses, traditional markets, and the unique fabric of the city. Afterwards, we see the Gate of Cleopatra, which dates back to the Roman era and is believed to be the gate through which the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra entered Tarsus according to legend, and we listen to the story of this historical structure alongside our guide's narration.
At the final stop of our Tarsus tour, we view the Nusret Mine Ship, one of the unforgettable symbols of Turkish maritime history that played a major role in the victory of the Gallipoli Campaign, from a panoramic perspective and take a photo break. With our guide's narration, we once again recall the strategic importance of the Nusret Mine Ship during the Gallipoli War. Following our enjoyable and full tour, we move towards Çukurova Airport for our flight departing at 22:55 from Adana - Istanbul New Airport with our valued guests. We bid you farewell until we meet again at another of our events.
Meal Information:
Breakfast: Open buffet or set menu breakfast at the hotel (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: To be taken at a suitable restaurant along the tour route (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: To be taken during free time in the area (Extra/Optional)
Accommodation: It is the return day. No accommodation.
Child Discount and Circular Rules
Child discount is valid for the 7–12 years age range.
The tour circular is valid as of the publication date of 21.09.2026. Subsequent circulars published for the same tour on later dates invalidate previous circulars.
Mandatory additional services are included in the tour price.
Important Information Regarding Flight Tours
- In flight tours, all operations related to flights are subject to the terms of the airline contract.
- Cancellation insurance does not cover air travel.
- A tiered pricing system is applied; advertised prices start from the lowest class rates.
- Economy class flights are used in flight tour programs.
- Air tickets are issued as round-trip together. If the outbound flight is not used, the return flight also becomes invalid due to the airlines' "sequential use" rule. Therefore, participation in only the return flight is not possible.
Museum – Archaeological Site – National Park Entries
All museum, archaeological site, and national park entry fees are borne by the guests. Guests may obtain a Museum Card from Museum Card sales points before or during the tour to take advantage of benefits at museums and archaeological sites where the Museum Card is valid.
Packaged Price Coverage
Our package tour prices include: hotel accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing tours specified in the program.
Rest Stops
Rest stops are provided at rest facilities along the route. Due to congestion, renovation, or other compelling reasons, changes may be made to rest stop locations, provided 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 staff. Extra tours conducted along the route may take place even if not all guests participate. Guests who do not wish to join an extra tour will be directed by our guide to rest areas before city entrances or to city centers. In this case, guests who agree to wait at the rest area are considered to have participated in the tour.
Due to weather conditions, road status, or similar reasons; if the guide deems it necessary, changes can be made to the program sequence (daily visit points or between days).
Go-Turkey cannot be held responsible for points that are part of the program but cannot be visited due to compelling reasons (weather conditions, road status, congestion at visit points, etc.) or because guests fail to adhere to the timing given by the guide.
Health Declaration
Guests must carry reports and information regarding any health issues they may experience during the tour, pregnancy status, or medications they continuously use.
Accommodation Information
The hotel names specified in the program are priority accommodation facilities. Changes to hotels may be made depending on availability. At the latest 48 hours before the tour departure, upon request, accommodation information will be shared with guests. In case of hotel changes due to congestion or compelling reasons, provided standards remain the same, guests will be informed by Go-Turkey authorities.
Important Notes
- In flight tours, flight delays may occur due to congestion.
- Night tours are extra and are organized based on participation.
Vehicles Used
Tour vehicles are planned according to the number of participants as follows:
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)
Minibus (17–27 people):
Isuzu Turkuaz
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, announcement system)
Mini-bus (up to 16 people):
VW Volt, VW Volt EL, Mercedes Sprinter, Mercedes Sprinter EL
(Special design reclining seats, ABS, ASR, air conditioning, refrigerator, announcement system)
Suggestions
- Clothing and footwear suitable for the geographical structure and weather conditions of the tour region should be chosen.
- It is recommended that you bring necessary charging equipment for photo and video shooting.
- Do not forget regularly used medications; allergic, chronic, or hereditary conditions should be reported to the guide.
- Personal care products, backpacks, and personal items that will make the journey enjoyable should be carried with you.
- In programs featuring boat tours and swimming breaks; it is recommended to bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and similar sea equipment.
The tour program and explanations above were originally prepared by Go-Turkey. They cannot be copied, reproduced, or published without permission. The program has been arranged in accordance with Law No. 6502 on the Protection of Consumers and should be evaluated as a whole.
Istanbul New Airport