Iconic Airplane Jet GAP Tarsus and Adana Tour | 4-Night Stay, Departing from Ankara

On the first day of our tour, we begin our journey extending into the thousands-year-old history of Southeastern Anatolia by meeting early in the morning at Ankara Esenboğa 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 Ajet Airlines' scheduled flight VF4192 departing at 07:40 towards Gaziantep Airport, we feel that the geography stretching before us is not just a trip but a time travel 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 among the world's most important mosaic museums. Alongside valuable mosaics, sculptures, 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 close to unique works telling mythological stories, including the world-famous "Gypsy Girl" Mosaic, together with our guide's explanations.

After our museum visit, we start our journey towards Şanlıurfa. We move towards Göbeklitepe, accepted as the world's oldest monumental temple complex and listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In this unique archaeological site with a history of approximately 12,000 years shedding 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 the changing understanding of history with the discovery of Göbeklitepe, we experience the excitement of witnessing one of the most important archaeological discoveries in human history. After our visit to Göbeklitepe, before starting our tour of Şanlıurfa, 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 becomes the Balıklıgöl Complex, one of the most important centers of faith tourism. Alongside our guide's explanations, we visit Halil-ür Rahman Mosque, Hz. Ibrahim's Tomb and Cave, Ayn-ı Zeliha Lake, and the sacred Balıklı Göl, getting close to the historical, religious, and cultural importance 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, 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 hours, 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 accompanied by 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 life culture of the region, 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 dinners within 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, İçli Köfte, Ekşili Patlıcan Dolması, Urfa Kebabı, Bostana Salad, Çiğ Köfte, Şıllık Dessert, Ayran, Tea, Water, and traditional Mırra refreshment.

Food and Accommodation Information:

Breakfast: Will be taken freely in Gaziantep (Extra/Optional)
Lunch: Will be taken freely 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.

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 visit its iconic Conical Dome Houses and get up close with the region's unique architecture. Then, 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 photograph this historical atmosphere.

After our tour of Harran, we head 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. Alongside our guide's narration, we gain detailed information about the monastery's history, Syriac culture, and the region's religious past.

After visiting the monastery, 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 more. After lunch, we move to our shop featuring local Mardin delicacies. 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 Mosque, Abbaralar (stone passages), Cumhuriyet Square, Tellallar Bazaar, and the historic Mardin markets. With our guide's narration, 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. Alongside our guide's narration, we tour rock tombs, water cisterns, necropolis areas, and historical remains reaching us today, witnessing thousands of years of history.

After our tour, we head towards Midyat. We reach our hotel in the evening 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 taken 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 Hotel, Parkmar Hotel, Katori Hotel, Mariad Hotel, Dayman Hotel, Akuti Hotel, Bay Grand Hotel, and similar hotels.

After breakfast 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 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 explore Midyat's magnificent mansions built from its unique limestone, delicate stone carvings, and narrow alleys, it feels like traveling back in time. During our visit, we see iconic structures of the region such as Midyat Konuk Evi (Sila Mansion), Shtana Mansion, historic houses in Midyat, and the bazaar area, guided by our guide's commentary. We take photo breaks to admire the unique panoramic view overlooking the Mesopotamian Plain and fully experience Midyat's distinct atmosphere. During the free time after the tour, you can visit silver workshops showcasing some of the finest examples of the world-renowned Telkari art and examine handcrafted jewelry pieces. Additionally, you may shop for 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, 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 visit Zeynel Bey Mausoleum, Artuklu Hamam, El Rızk Mosque Minaret, Hasankeyf Castle, the ruins 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 the most significant 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 depending on the guide's initiative and time availability, 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 District, known for its narrow streets that carry traces of the past to the present, visiting the historic Hasan Pasa Han, Four-Legged Minaret, Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House, and more. After getting to know Diyarbakır's deep-rooted history, culture, and unique atmosphere closely with our guide's commentary, we set off towards Adıyaman. In the evening, we reach our hotel and settle into our rooms. Dinner and accommodation will be at our hotel in Adıyaman.

Food, Drink, and Accommodation Information:

Breakfast: Buffet or set menu breakfast at the hotel (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: To 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.

We are heading to Kahta for the extra tour to Mount Nemrut, where we will discover 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. 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 located on the East and West Terraces. During the free time given at the summit, we take photos of the unique mountain scenery and enjoy this unforgettable atmosphere.

After our tour of Mount Nemrut, 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 reached us today. After listening to our guide's explanations about this historical structure with a history of approximately two thousand years, we view the Karakuş Tumulus, built as a royal mausoleum 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 way. During our break at the viewing 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 guests who wish (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 Euphrates Valley. After our boat tour, we are given some free time in Halfeti and fully experience the atmosphere of this peaceful town. Guests who wish can have lunch (extra) at the floating restaurants located here.

After our visit to Halfeti, we head to Gaziantep, the gastronomic capital of Southeastern Anatolia. During our walk 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 with 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 a history of approximately four centuries. Guests who wish can enjoy the famous menengiç coffee here and savor the historical atmosphere.

Then, 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: Will 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 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 Well of St. Paul, 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 Shrine 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 history of this holy place. After visiting the Shrine of Prophet Daniel, we continue with 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, which takes visitors back in time with its stone streets and historical structures. During our enjoyable walk through the narrow streets, we explore the historical houses, traditional markets, and the unique fabric of the city. Afterwards, we view 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 naval 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. After our enjoyable and full tour, we move towards Çukurova Airport for our flight departing at 22:20 from Adana - Ankara Esenboğa Airport with our valued guests. We bid you farewell until we meet again at another of our events.

Meal Information:
Breakfast: 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.