Embark on a transformative 17-day adventure through Eastern Turkey, where history, culture, and nature converge. From Antakya’s ancient churches to the iconic statues atop Mount Nemrut, explore sacred sites, engineering marvels, and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the archaeological wonders of Göbeklitepe, Ani’s medieval ruins, and the captivating Sumela Monastery. Wander through bustling bazaars, cruise serene waters, and admire masterpieces like Ishak Pasha Palace. With highlights including Mardin’s crossroads of civilizations, Van’s majestic lakes, and Erzurum’s architectural gems, this immersive journey offers unforgettable moments at every turn.
Tour Itenary
Day 1: Arrival in Antakya – Where Ancient Faiths Converge
Arrive at Hatay Airport and transfer to Antakya. Explore the Grotto of St. Peter, one of the oldest Christian churches, and the Hatay Archaeological Museum (currently closed due to the earthquake damages), famous for its Roman mosaics. Visit the Catholic Church and transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: From Samandağ’s Ancient Wonders to Gaziantep’s Culinary Delights
After breakfast, travel to Samandağ to see the Titus Tunnel, an extraordinary ancient engineering feat. Continue to Gaziantep, arriving in time for dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3: Mosaics and Markets – Gaziantep to Adıyaman
Start your day with a visit to the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to the world’s largest Roman mosaic collection. Explore the bustling local market, Gaziantep Castle, and take a relaxing boat cruise in Halfeti. End the day with a drive to Adıyaman for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Day 4: Sunrise on Mount Nemrut – Guardians of the Ancient World
Visit Mount Nemrut to witness the iconic statues and tomb of King Antiochus. Stop at the Karakuş Tumulus, the Cendere Bridge, and continue to Şanlıurfa, the city of prophets. Dinner and overnight in Şanlıurfa.
Day 5: Exploring Şanlıurfa – The City of Prophets
Discover the birthplace of the prophet Abraham with visits to Balıklıgöl and the Urfa Museum. Explore the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum and the archaeological wonder of Göbeklitepe. Travel to Mardin for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Mardin – A Crossroads of Civilizations
Explore Mardin’s rich cultural tapestry with visits to Zinciriye Madrasa, Kirklar Church, Deyrulzafaran Monastery, and the scenic towns of Midyat and Hasankeyf. Transfer to Diyarbakır for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7: Diyarbakır – Walled City of Resilience
Tour the ancient city walls of Diyarbakır and the historic Malabadi Bridge. Continue to Tatvan for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Day 8: Nemrut Crater Lakes – Nature’s Masterpiece in Tatvan
Take a scenic tour of the Nemrut Crater Lakes and visit the historic town of Ahlat. Arrive in Van for dinner and overnight.
Day 9: The Wonders of Van
Explore the iconic Akdamar Island, Van Castle, Çavuştepe Fortress, Hoşap Castle, and the Van Museum. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 10: The Majesty of Ishak Pasha Palace
Visit the stunning Muradiye Waterfalls and the magnificent Ishak Pasha Palace. Dinner and overnight stay in Doğubeyazıt.
Day 11: Kars – The Ancient Ruins of Ani
Travel to Kars and explore the UNESCO-listed medieval ruins of Ani, the former administrative capital of the Armenian Bagratuni dynasty. Dinner and overnight in Kars.
Day 12: Exploring Erzurum
Head to Erzurum to visit the Çifte Minareli Medrese, Yakutiye Medrese, and Ulu Cami. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Erzurum.
Day 13: Sumela Monastery – A Clifftop Sanctuary
After breakfast drive to Trabzon. Visit the majestic Sumela Monastery, nestled high in the cliffs of Altındere National Park.
Day 14: Departure
After breakfast explore the Atatürk Mansion and Hagia Sophia Church before transferring to Trabzon Airport for your departure flight.