5 Days Gobeklitepe, Nemrut, Mardin and Diyarbakr Tour

Exploring the Heart of Mesopotamia: A 5-Day Journey Through Southeastern Turkey

This 5-day tour of Southeastern Anatolia offers a fascinating glimpse into the cradle of civilizations, combining archaeological wonders with vibrant local culture. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it’s a well-paced, engaging experience that balances history, scenery, and gastronomy beautifully.

What we love most about this tour is its focus on Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known human-made structure, alongside the towering Mount Nemrut with its colossal statues. The inclusion of diverse sights like Mardin’s stone architecture, Diyarbakır’s fortresses, and historic monasteries adds layers of authenticity and depth. Plus, the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle and small groups or private options makes the journey comfortable and personal.

One potential consideration is the intensive schedule—days are packed with sightseeing, which might feel rushed for those wanting more time at each site. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to enjoy history and culture without the hassle of planning, but who are also prepared for some long days on the road.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and anyone looking to experience Turkey beyond the usual tourist spots. If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized adventure into ancient civilizations, this trip promises to deliver.

Good To Know

• Authentic archaeological focus with visits to Göbeklitepe and Mount Nemrut, two iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Cultural diversity from vibrant cities like Mardin and Diyarbakır, showcasing Anatolia’s unique architecture and monasteries.
• Comfortable logistics with air-conditioned vehicles and options for private or small group experiences.
• In-depth explorations of ancient cities like Harran, Dara, and Midyat provide a broad picture of regional history.
• Gastronomic opportunities integrated into the tour, allowing tasting of local flavors.
• Flexible starting points from Diyarbakır, Mardin, or Gaziantep, accommodating different travel plans.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Complete 5-Day Journey Through Southeastern Anatolia

Day 1: Adyaman and Mount Nemrut

Your adventure kicks off with visits to the Golden Eagle Statue and the historic Septimus Severus Bridge, setting a tone of grandeur and antiquity. You’ll then explore the Arsemia Ancient City, an impressive ruin perched above the Euphrates River, before heading up to Mount Nemrut — the star of this day.

Mount Nemrut is a highlight, known for its giant stone heads that gaze across the mountain at sunrise or sunset, creating an almost surreal experience. The views from the summit are breathtaking, offering a panoramic shot of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Travelers often comment on the awe they feel standing amidst these colossal statues, some over 2,000 years old, which are remarkably well-preserved.

Reviews note that the early start is worthwhile to beat the crowds, and guides tend to share engaging stories about the purpose of these statues, believed to be tomb guardians. The journey up the mountain is manageable with some light walking, but sturdy shoes are recommended.

Day 2: Diyarbakır and Midyat

Moving into Diyarbakır, you’ll visit the archaeology museum and stroll along the impressive Ancient Bridge spanning the Tigris River, both reflecting the city’s long-standing strategic importance. The Diyarbakır Fortress offers a glimpse into medieval defensive architecture and city life.

Post lunch, the tour ventures to Midyat, a town renowned for its stone architecture and historic streets. Here, you’ll explore local markets, and if time allows, visit the Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the oldest Syriac monasteries in the world. Travelers appreciate how the guide explains the complex history of the region, which blends different cultures and religions.

Day 3: Dara and Mardin

Today is rich with monasteries and ancient cities. First, you visit Dara, a little-known but well-preserved ancient city with ruins that tell stories of Roman and Byzantine occupation. The site, often quieter than others, allows for an intimate exploration.

Next, the tour takes you to Deyrul Zaferan Monastery, a significant religious site with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. Afterwards, Mardin welcomes with its cots stone houses, winding alleyways, and hillside views. The Mor Gabriel Monastery and Kasmiye Madrasah showcase the region’s spiritual history, with guides offering detailed explanations to bring the sites to life.

You’ll also visit Harran, famous for its beehive-shaped houses and ancient Islamic history. Travelers note that the blend of Old and New in Mardin makes it a highlight, offering both photo opportunities and insights into regional culture.

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Day 4: Sanliurfa and Göbeklitepe

The day begins in Anlurfa (Urfa), often called the “City of Prophets”, with visits to Balıklıgöl (the Pool of Sacred Fish) and the imposing Urfa Castle. Then, the star attraction: Göbeklitepe, the oldest known human-made structure on earth, dating back over 11,000 years.

Many travelers describe Göbeklitepe as a humbling experience. The site’s massive T-shaped stones and intricate carvings evoke a sense of awe, and guides do a great job explaining its significance in human history. The site is relatively small but profoundly impactful, especially when the sun hits the stones at the right angle.

Later, the tour explores Halfeti (famous for its hidden city submerged during dam construction) and Balköl Lake, offering scenic beauty and unique photo opportunities.

Day 5: Gaziantep and Zeugma

Your last day is dedicated to Gaziantep, famed for its culinary heritage. The Gaziantep Castle provides a historic backdrop, while the city’s bazaar is perfect for sampling local delicacies like baklava and exploring artisan shops.

The highlight is visiting Zeugma, an ancient city renowned for its mosaic artworks. Many mosaics have been recovered and displayed in the Zeugma mosaic museum, offering a vivid glimpse into Roman artistry.

The tour concludes with a city tour that balances history, art, and local flavor, leaving you with a well-rounded impression of Southeastern Turkey’s extraordinary past and vibrant present.

Why This Tour Offers Exceptional Value

The price of $913 per person encompasses a thorough exploration of key archaeological sites and cultural landmarks that would be difficult to arrange independently. The inclusion of museum tickets (if selected) and local guides ensures you gain context and stories that elevate the experience beyond surface sightseeing.

Travelers consistently praise the comfortable transportation and the small group or private options, which foster a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The accommodations typically feature B&B style stays, blending comfort with local charm, and the logistical planning minimizes hassle.

What truly sets this tour apart is its balance: you get to see monumental sites like Göbeklitepe and Mount Nemrut, explore charming towns like Mardin and Midyat, and indulge in regional gastronomy—all within a manageable timeframe.

However, keep in mind the full schedule—if you prefer slow, leisure-filled days or have mobility issues, some sites might feel a bit rushed. Also, the tour doesn’t include lunches or drinks, so budget accordingly for meals and refreshments.

Who This Tour Is Best For

• History and archaeology lovers seeking in-depth visits to ancient sites.
• Cultural enthusiasts interested in regional architecture, monasteries, and local traditions.
• Those wanting a comfortable, organized experience with knowledgeable guides.
• Travelers who are fine with a busy itinerary that covers a wide area in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include flights?
No, flights are not included, but the tour can arrange airport pickups from Diyarbakır, Mardin, or Gaziantep.

Can I start the tour from Diyarbakır, Mardin, or Gaziantep?
Yes, the tour can begin from any of these locations; just inform the provider about your arrival airport.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tour offers options for private or small groups, making it ideal for solo travelers who prefer a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, umbrella, and hiking shoes for comfort and protection during sightseeing.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchairs, epilepsy, altitude sickness, recent surgeries, or specific allergies.

How intense is the schedule?
It’s quite packed, with sightseeing each day. Expect some long days on the road, but the pace is designed to maximize your experience.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, if you select the B&B option, you’ll stay in comfortable accommodations for four nights.

What language are guides speaking?
Guides speak both English and Turkish, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a meal plan included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own.

This 5-day tour offers a meaningful, well-organized adventure into Turkey’s ancient past, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those eager to uncover the stories etched into the stones of Mesopotamia and Anatolia, all while enjoying comfortable travel and expert guidance. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural explorer, or simply hungry for authentic experiences, this journey promises to be memorable.

You can check if your dates are available here: