November Mid-Term Break Special: Iconic Land Of The Rising Sun, GAP And Tarsus Adana Tour | 4 Nights Accommodation By Bus From Eskişehir

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 Point & Times;
Eskişehir Bus Terminal 22:00

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

Dining 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 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 commentary.

After our museum visit, we continue our journey towards Şanlıurfa. We head towards Göbeklitepe, accepted 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 past, 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 since the discovery of Göbeklitepe, 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 where we can 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 Lake, and the sacred Balıklı Göl, getting up close with the historical, religious, and cultural importance of the region.

After our tour, we take a short break at a local shop where we can get to know Gaziantep'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, 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 feel the hospitality and traditional lifestyle culture of the region closely, 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 can 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 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, which is considered one of the first Islamic universities in the world panoramically. 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. Guided by 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 special tastes of the regional cuisine, including Mardin Tabak, as well as stuffed ribs, sembusek, ikbebet, alluciye, and other delicacies.

After lunch, we begin exploring the Old Mardin streets, which, with their stone architecture, resemble an open-air museum. While walking 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 chance to get to know closely 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. 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 guide's descriptions, while visiting cave tombs, water cisterns, necropolis areas, and historical remains reaching us today, 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.

We are heading to Kahta for the extra tour to 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 capture photos of the unique mountain views and enjoy this unforgettable atmosphere.

After our visit to Mount Nemrut, on our return journey, we take a short photo stop at Cendere Bridge, one of the most well-preserved bridges from the Roman era 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 Karakuş Tumulus, built as a royal tomb 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 located along the route. During our break at the observation terrace, we view 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 towards Halfeti, famous for its enchanting atmosphere on the banks of the Euphrates. With interested guests, we join the (extra) 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 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 commercial 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 taking breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we head towards Kahta to explore the magnificent legacy of the Kingdom of Commagene. Here, we board our minibuses (extra) and begin our visit to Nemrut Dağı National Park, listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We reach Nemrut Dağı, located at an altitude of approximately 2,150 meters, one of the world's most impressive archaeological sites, featuring a monumental tumulus dedicated by King I. Antiochos to the gods and his ancestors. Guided by our tour guide, we have the opportunity to closely observe 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 capture photos of the unique mountain views and enjoy this unforgettable atmosphere.

After our visit to Nemrut, on our return journey, we take a short photo stop at Cendere Bridge, one of the most well-preserved bridges from the Roman era still standing 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 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 the Atatürk Dam, one of Turkey's largest engineering projects located along the route. During our stop at the observation terrace, we view 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 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 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 the Zeytin Han and Gümrük Han, which have hosted the city's trade life for centuries, panoramically, and then enjoy a pleasant walk in the Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmiths Bazaar), where the finest examples of handicrafts are displayed. During our tour, we also have the opportunity to see the Yemeniciler Çarşısı, famous for its traditional handmade yemeni shoes, the Almacı Pazarı with local spices, dried goods, and flavors unique to Antep, and the Zincirli Bedesten, which has preserved its historical texture until today.

After our bazaar tour, we take a short break at Tahmis Coffee House, one of Gaziantep's symbols with a history of 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 Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be taken during free time in Halfeti (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Buffet or set menu dinner at the hotel (Included in 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 learn about the cave's history and its place in different faiths. Next, we visit the Well of St. Paul located in the courtyard of his house in Tarsus, the city where one of Christianity's prominent figures, Saint Paul, was born. 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 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 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 listen to our guide's narration about the history 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 naval 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.

Dining 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.