29 October Special Iconic Land Where The Sun Rises: GAP And Tarsus Adana Tour | 4 Nights Accommodation, Bus Departure From Uşak

We begin our unforgettable journey to explore the thousands of years of history, ancient civilizations, and unique cultural heritage of Mesopotamia by meeting our valued guests at designated departure points. After taking our seats in our comfortable tour vehicle, we set off towards Southeastern Anatolia with an informative briefing from our professional guide about the tour program.

Departure Points

19:30 In front of Uşak National Sovereignty Park (Opposite the Traffic Control Authority)

During our journey, we will make necessary stops for breaks, continue our night travel with pleasant conversations and information shared by our guide about the region, and proceed on our way to greet the new day in the enchanting atmosphere of Mesopotamia.

Food, Drink, and Accommodation Information:
Dinner: Served at suitable rest facilities along the route. (Extra/Optional)
Accommodation: No accommodation provided. Overnight travel by tour vehicle.

After our night journey, we arrive in Gaziantep in the morning. After a break for breakfast (extra) at Zeugma Restaurant, 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, sculptures, and archaeological artifacts unearthed 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 depicting mythological stories, including the world-famous "Gypsy Girl" Mosaic, accompanied by our guide's commentary.

After our museum visit, we continue our journey towards Şanlıurfa. We head towards Göbeklitepe, recognized as the world's oldest monumental temple complex and listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. At this unique archaeological site, which sheds light on world history with its approximately 12,000-year-old heritage, 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 Göbeklitepe's discovery changed our understanding of history, we experience the excitement of witnessing one of the most important archaeological discoveries in human history. After our visit to Göbekli Tepe, before starting our tour of Şanlıurfa, we will take a short break for lunch (extra) at our restaurant 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. Accompanied by our guide's commentary, we visit the Halil-ür Rahman Mosque, the Tomb and Cave of Prophet Ibrahim, Ayn-ı Zeliha Pool, and the sacred Balıklı Göl, getting up close with the historical, religious, and cultural significance of the region.

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 being the symbol of Urfa.

Later, we check into our hotel and take a short rest break.

In the evening, along with guests who wish to participate, we join 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 feel the hospitality and traditional lifestyle culture of the region up close, will be one of the most enjoyable moments of our Mesopotamia tour.

Note: There is no dinner service at our hotel tonight. Guests who wish may have their dinner 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: Çorba Çorbası, İçli Köfte, Ekşili Patlıcan Dolması, Urfa Kebabı, Bostana Salatası, Çiğ Köfte, Şıllık Tatlısı, Ayran, Tea, Water, and traditional Mırra 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 at the Sıra Gecesi Entertainment in Şanlıurfa. (Extra/Optional)

Accommodation: Şanlıurfa / Orta Doğu Otel, Rever Otel, Hotel Vera Şanlıurfa, Grand Gülizar Otel, Elite World Inn Otel, Grand Urfa Otel, Narlı Ev Butik Otel and similar hotels.

After taking our breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we head to Harran, one of the oldest settlements in Mesopotamia, for the Harran Tour. 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 Harran Grand Mosque, Harran Castle, and the ruins of Harran University, considered one of the first Islamic universities in the world panoramically, and during the short free time provided, we have the opportunity to examine local products and capture photos in this historical atmosphere.

After our visit to Harran, we move towards Mardin, the stone city of Mesopotamia. Our first stop is the 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. Alongside our guide's descriptions, 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 have the opportunity to experience the unique tastes of the regional cuisine, including Mardin Tabak, as well as stuffed ribs, sembusek, ikbebet, alluciye, and other special dishes.

After lunch, we begin exploring the old streets of Mardin, which, with its stone architecture, resembles an open-air museum. During our walk through narrow, cobblestone streets, we visit in order the Kasimiye Madrasa, Şehidiye Mosque, Ulu Mosque, 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 set off for the Extra Dara Ancient City Tour, which will be carried out if all guests participate. Known as an important garrison city established to protect the eastern border of the Eastern Roman Empire, Dara Ancient City is one of the most important ancient settlements in Mesopotamia. While touring the cave tombs, water cisterns, necropolis area, and historical remains reaching us today alongside our guide's descriptions, we witness thousands of years of history.

After our tour, we move towards Midyat. We reach 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: Taken at the hotel as buffet or set menu. (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be taken at a local restaurant in Mardin. (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Taken at the hotel as buffet or set menu. (Included in Tour Price)
Accommodation: Mardin or Midyat / Raymar Hotel, Büyük Mardin Hotel, Parkmar Hotel, Katori Hotel, Mariad Hotel, Dayman Hotel, Akuti Hotel, Bay Grand Hotel, and similar hotels.

After the breakfast we will have at our hotel in the morning, we begin our tour of Midyat, one of the most impressive places in Mesopotamia with its stone craftsmanship and multicultural structure. 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 explore Midyat's magnificent mansions built from its unique limestone, delicate stone carvings, and narrow alleys, it feels like traveling through time. During our visit, we see iconic structures of the region such as the Midyat Guest House (Sila Konagi), Sahntana Konagi, historic Midyat houses, and the bazaar area while listening to our guide's descriptions. We take photo breaks enjoying the unique panoramic view overlooking the Mesopotamian Plain and fully experience Midyat's distinctive atmosphere. During the free time after the tour, you can visit silver workshops where you can see some of the finest examples of the world-renowned Telkari art and examine unique handcrafted jewelry. Additionally, you can make purchases of famous Syrian 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 its history dating back approximately 12,000 years, located on the banks of the Tigris River. In this ancient city, which was relocated to a new settlement area following the Ilisu Dam, we listen to Hasankeyf's sad yet equally captivating story with our guide's narration. During our panoramic tour, we see the Zeynel Bey Mausoleum, Artuklu Hamam, El Rize Mosque Minaret, Hasankeyf Castle, the historical Stone Bridge ruins 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 unique views of the Tigris Valley and receive detailed information from our guide about the history of Hasankeyf, one of the most important historical heritages of Mesopotamia.

After 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). Following our lunch break, an Extra Malabadi Bridge Tour may be organized with the participation of all guests, depending on the guide's initiative and time availability. After our lunch break, we arrive in Diyarbakir, one of the capitals of history and culture in Southeastern Anatolia. First, we view the magnificent Diyarbakir City Walls, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, panoramically, and then visit the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), considered one of the oldest places of worship in Anatolia. Continuing our tour, we enjoy a pleasant walk through the Sur District, which carries the traces of the past into the present with its narrow streets, including the Historical Hasan Pasa Inn, Four-Legged Minaret, and Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House. After getting to know Diyarbakir's deep-rooted history, culture, and unique atmosphere closely with our guide's descriptions, we set off towards Adiyaman. In the evening, we reach our hotel and settle into our rooms. Dinner and accommodation are at our hotel in Adiyaman.

Food 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: Diyarbakir or Adiyaman / Mira Hotel, Sur Palace Hotel, Tasaray Bardakci Hotel, Samos Hotel, White Star Hotel, Rabat Hotel, and similar hotels.

We are heading to Kahta for the extra tour of Mount Nemrut, where you can explore the magnificent legacy of the Kingdom of Commagene. Boarding our minibuses waiting for us here, we begin our visit to Mount Nemrut National Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We reach Mount Nemrut, located at an altitude of approximately 2,150 meters, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, known for its monumental tumulus dedicated by King I. Antiochos to the gods and his ancestors. Guided by our tour guide, we have the opportunity to closely discover the giant statues of the gods, eagle and lion reliefs, the tumulus, and the mysterious history of the Kingdom of Commagene located 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 visit to Mount Nemrut, on our way back, 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 nearly two thousand years of history, we view the Karakuş Tumulus, built as a royal tomb for the women of the Commagene kings, panoramically and learn about the history of the region. After our tour, we return to Kahta, board our tour vehicle, and continue our journey towards Gaziantep.

We continue our tour with the Atatürk Dam, one of Turkey's largest engineering projects along the route. During our stop 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 closely see 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 are given 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 nearly four-century-old history. 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.

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 era 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 meal 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 St. Paul's Well, located in the courtyard of the house where St. Paul, one of the important figures of Christianity, was born, according to tradition. After receiving information from our guide at this historically and religiously significant site, we proceed to the Shrine of Prophet Daniel, which holds an important place in the Islamic world. While experiencing the spiritual atmosphere of the region, we gain important knowledge about the past of this sacred place. After visiting the Shrine of Prophet Daniel, we continue our tour program after a break where we can examine tahini and various local specialties specific to Tarsus and its surroundings and do some shopping. 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 historic 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 our guide's narration about the story of this historical structure.

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. Afterwards, we begin our return journey and bid farewell to you, our valued guests, until we meet again at another of our events.

Food & Beverage Information:
Breakfast: Buffet or set menu breakfast at the hotel (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be taken at a suitable restaurant along the tour route (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will be taken during free time periods along the route (Extra/Optional)

Accommodation: This is the return day. No accommodation.