MYSTERIOUS MESOPOTAMIA, WHERE HISTORY BEGAN, THE CRADLE OF CIVILIZATIONS AND THE CENTER OF BELIEF
When you step into the Mardin-GAP tour, be prepared to embark on a journey where history and nature intertwine. This adventure, extending from the mysterious streets of ancient cities to the peaks of mystical mountains, invites you to a unique experience in the heart of Mesopotamia. Enriched with the fascinating stone architecture of Mardin, the magnificent statues of Nemrut and the underwater stories of Halfeti, this route carries the deep traces of the past to the future. These directions, filled with the legends of Balıklıgöl, the art of the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and the secrets of Göbeklitepe, will take you to a different time period at every step. If you are ready, let's set off to discover this historical and cultural richness!
TOUR PROGRAM
DAY 1: MARMARIS-GAZİANTEP JOURNEY
We meet our valued guests at Eşref Girginç Park (across from LC Waikiki) at 16:00 and start our dreamy tour. We head towards our first stop, Gaziantep.
DAY 2: GAZİANTEP FREE BREAKFAST - HISTORICAL TAHMİS COFFEE - ALMACI MARKET - COPPER MARKET - HAMAM MUSEUM - EMİNE GÖĞÜŞ CUISINE MUSEUM - COIN MUSEUM - MİLET HANI - GAZİANTEP CASTLE PANORAMIC - 14 MARTYRS' MONUMENT - ZEUGMA MOSAIC MUSEUM - ANTEP LOCAL TASTES - HOTEL
After the night journey and our breaks for our needs, we reach Gaziantep. We reach Gaziantep, one of the three important gastronomy cities of Turkey with its famous flavors and also a city of craftsmen, and have a free breakfast break to relieve our travel fatigue. As the next stop of the day, you can taste the local flavors with a cup of Turkish coffee at Tahmis Kahvesi, which has a historical atmosphere. After the coffee break, we go to Almacı Bazaar. Here you can buy local products and souvenirs, and enjoy shopping by bargaining. Then we find ourselves in the Coppersmiths' Bazaar. In this bazaar, where 'Copper Workmanship', one of the oldest professions of Gaziantep, is still exhibited as a handicraft, it is still possible to hear the sounds of hammers at every corner. We take a walking tour with our guide in this nostalgic, historical and always crowded bazaar. Then, we visit the Hamam Museum to discover the traditional hamam culture of Gaziantep. Then, we visit the Emine Göğüş Kitchen Museum to get to know the local dishes of Gaziantep, a city of gastronomy. We are going to the Devr-i Âlem Gaziantep Currency Museum to make another unforgettable and interesting museum visit. The weight of the money in the museum, which houses the money of more than two hundred countries, even countries that do not exist today, is around 4 tons, and the oldest money is a French coin dated 1792. Afterwards, we go to the Millet Han, an interesting structure that will allow you to understand the history of the region better, and then we see the Gaziantep Castle from a panoramic view and get information about the castle from our guide. We see the 14 Martyrs Monument, which was erected in order to prevent one of the most painful events in the history of the region from being forgotten, and after standing in silence, we go to the Zeugma Mosaic Museum. We visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, famous for the Gypsy Girl Mosaic, where mosaics that adorned the homes and palaces of the elite population of Mesopotamia in the past and which are unique in the world are exhibited. We examine the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which is the 2nd largest mosaic museum in the world, in detail. After completing one of the important visits of our trip, we go to our Gaziantep hotel for dinner and accommodation. (GAZİANTEP ACCOMMODATION) -4* Gaziantep Safir Hotel
DAY 3: HALFETI BOAT TOUR - RUMKALE - SAVAŞAN VILLAGE - URFA LUNCH - GÖBEKLİTEPE - BALIKLIGÖL - AYN ZELİHA LAKE - HZ. İBRAHİM MAKAMI - RIZVANIYE MOSQUE - URFA LOCAL PRODUCTS TASTING - URFA HOTEL - SIRA NIGHT
After breakfast at the hotel in the morning, we check out of the hotel and head to Şanlıurfa. On our way, we stop by the Halfeti district. The city, previously known as Rumkale, was abbreviated as Halfeti after two young people named Halil and Fatma threw themselves into the Euphrates. We see Rumkale on the Euphrates River and the village of Savaşan, which is under the Birecik Dam. Our guests who wish can join the boat tour here and see the village, which is half under water. After our enjoyable boat tour, we go to Göbeklitepe to make one of the most important visits of our trip. Göbeklitepe, which is the work of great organization and imagination, is the ground zero of history in many ways, beyond the oldest monuments and firsts of this size. We tour Göbeklitepe, which we think will inspire you with very different thoughts and amaze you, in detail with the narrations of our guide. After our Göbeklitepe tour, we go to Urfa city center and visit Balıklıgöl, also known as Halil-Ür Rahman Lake and Aynzeliha. In the region, which is considered sacred, there are carp species that are the subject of legends. According to legend, after Hz. İbrahim was thrown into the fire, a miracle occurred and the surroundings became rosy. It is believed that the place where this miracle took place was Balıklıgöl and its surroundings. After seeing the Halil-ül Rahman Mosque, we complete our visits and check in to our hotel. Our guests who wish can join the Urfa Sıra Night to be organized in the evening and relieve the tiredness of the long day by participating in Mesopotamian melodies, folk songs and games. Our guests who will not attend the Sıra Night can have a free dinner to try Urfa's famous kebab. Accommodation will be at our hotel in Şanlıurfa. (ŞANLIURFA ACCOMMODATION) 5* Nevali Hotel & Convention Center
DAY 4: KARAHANTEPE- KASIMIYE MADRASA - DEYRULZAFARAN MONASTERY - OLD MARDİN STREETS - CULTURE STREET - REPUBLIC SQUARE - FREE TIME - MARDİN HOTEL
After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we meet our guide in our vehicle and set off towards Karahantepe to begin our visits. Karahantepe is a place where new mysteries and secrets are revealed. After Göbeklitepe, we see the T-shaped columns in the region, which is considered a historical discovery that will make a splash in the world, as in Göbeklitepe, and we tour with our guide. We get information about the archaeological site and witness history in Karahantepe, which we think will increase in importance day by day. After this visit, we continue on our way to Mardin. In Mardin, known as the city where languages meet and stones speak, we first visit the Kasımiye Madrasah, which illuminates the cultural identity of Mardin. Then, we visit the Deyr-ül Zaferan, a Syriac ancient church and monastery, which is a temple that is approximately 4000 years old. While wandering in the mystical atmosphere of the monastery, we get information about the rituals performed here and its history. This structure, which impresses everyone with its magnificent structure, is a complex used as a Sun Temple in BC and later as a castle by the Romans. Then, we return to Mardin and get lost in the old streets of Mardin. We walk among stone structures, narrow streets and traditional houses, interacting with the local people. Don't forget to take photos! We take a look at the works of local artists on Kültür Sokak and have the opportunity to examine the handmade products in the shops. Then we reach Cumhuriyet Square. While relaxing in the cafes around the square, we feel the spirit of Mardin. We explore our surroundings by walking in the square. After our free time here, we go to our hotel for dinner and accommodation. (MARDİN ACCOMMODATION) 4* Park Dedeman Mardin Hotel
DAY 5: DARA ANCIENT CITY - MIDYAT DEPARTURE - MIDYAT BAZAAR - MIDYAT STATE GUESTHOUSE - FILIGREE WORKSHOP - FREE TIME - BATMAN HASANKEYF - HASANKEYF BOAT TOUR - DIYARBAKIR DEPARTURE - HOTEL (DIYARBAKIR ACCOMMODATION 4TH NIGHT)
After having breakfast at our hotel, we first hit the road to visit the ancient city of Dara, known as the Ephesus of Mesopotamia. In this valuable ancient city, which spreads over a very large area, churches, bazaar, agora, bridges, armory, dungeons, specially carved caves, silos and graves prepared by Roman soldiers who believed they would be resurrected by making holes in the stones have survived to the present day. We tour this valuable ancient city, founded by the Persians in 300 BC, in detail. Afterwards, we set off towards Midyat, where we will see the tolerant fusion of two different religions that have preserved their beliefs and traditions for two thousand years, blended with the Syriac culture and sweetened with vineyards. With its century-old houses and mansions that have hosted TV series, you will feel like you are on a movie set. We tour Midyat with our guide, and at the same time, we have the opportunity to observe the art of filigree, a five-thousand-year-old art. Here, we offer the opportunity to both shop and get information about the art of filigree. After our lunch break, we set off towards Batman to visit Hasankeyf. Located in the Mesopotamia region, one of the oldest settlements of humanity, and with the Tigris River flowing right through its center, its geographical structure suitable for protection and thousands of caves used as dwellings, Hasankeyf has maintained its strategic importance for centuries, and we see its state after it was completely submerged, and we receive valuable information from our guide. Guests who want to experience the region more closely can join the Hasankeyf Boat Tour, which will be held optionally. At the end of the day, we complete our examination in Hasankeyf and set off on our return journey. With the information we gained on this unforgettable day and beautiful memories, we reach our Diyarbakır hotel where we will have dinner and accommodation. (DIYARBAKIR ACCOMMODATION) 4* Plaza Hotel
DAY 6: DIYARBAKIR WALLS-HEVSEL GARDENS- FOUR-LEGGED MINARET-TEN-EYED BRIDGE- GRAND MOSQUE- HASANPASA INN- ADIYAMAN JOURNEY- NEMRUT MOUNTAIN- GAZİANTEP HOTEL
We have breakfast at our hotel and meet our guide in our vehicle to start our day. We make a historical start to the day. First, we visit the Diyarbakır Walls and walk around the magnificent structure. We delve into the depths of history and discover the beauties of this important structure on the UNESCO World Heritage List. After the walls, we go to Hevsel Gardens. Here we enjoy nature and observe every shade of green. We spend pleasant moments with beautiful views near the Tigris River. Afterwards, we head towards the Four-Legged Minaret. We learn about the history of this interesting structure and take photos. We try to understand the originality of the minaret by examining the architectural details. Afterwards, we visit the 10-Eyed Bridge, one of the symbols of Diyarbakır. We admire the wonderful view of this historical structure that crowns the magnificence of the Tigris River and take the most beautiful photographs of our trip. We invite our guests who want to show off their skills on the bridge, where it is said that many visitors dance the halay, to the halay. After seeing the Diyarbakır Walls, we go to the Ulu Mosque, one of the most touristic places in Diyarbakır and also the oldest mosque in Anatolia. While visiting the mosque, we can easily understand how old and multicultural Diyarbakır is. The Grand Mosque, which is admired for its architecture, atmosphere and stonework, is also considered the 5th largest religious structure by the Islamic world. Afterwards, we have a tea and coffee break in a traditional atmosphere at Hasanpaşa Inn and then set off towards Adıyaman. After our journey, we reach the NEMRUT MOUNT NATIONAL PARK, known as the 8th wonder of the world. Located within the borders of Adıyaman province and 2150 meters high, Mount Nemrut is a place to visit that was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. What makes the mountain so valuable are the ancient tombs, monumental statues, architectural remains and unique view on it. King Antiochus I of Commagene, who ruled in ancient times, left the most magnificent ruins of the Hellenistic Period here to show his gratitude to his gods and ancestors. We listen to these stories with the valuable narration of our guide and take unforgettable photographs. After completing one of the most unforgettable visits of our trip, we set off for our Gaziantep hotel where we will have dinner and stay overnight. (GAZİANTEP ACCOMMODATION) -4* Gaziantep Safir Hotel
DAY 7: JOURNEY TO ADANA - TAŞKÖPRÜ - GRAND MOSQUE - GRAND CLOCK TOWER - ATATÜRK MUSEUM - CINEMA MUSEUM - HISTORICAL KAZANCILAR MARKET - ADANA LOCAL TASTES TASTING - DEPARTURE TO MARMARİS
After breakfast, we meet our guide in our vehicle and set off towards Adana. A pleasant journey with beautiful views awaits us. Our first stop in Adana is the historical Taşköprü. Here we take photos and learn the history of the bridge. We witness the importance of waterways in Adana. Then we go to the famous Ulu Mosque. We examine the architecture of the mosque and tour its impressive interior. We find some peace here and pray. Then we stop at the Grand Clock Tower. After taking a few photos in front of this impressive structure, we go for a walk to explore its surroundings. Afterwards, we visit the Atatürk Museum. Here, we follow the traces of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s arrival in Adana and examine the historical objects exhibited by the museum. After these emotional moments, we learn about the history of Turkish cinema at the Cinema Museum. This museum, full of old movie posters, set materials and nostalgic screenings, offers us an interesting experience. Then, we go to the Historical Kazancılar Bazaar. Here, we examine the spices and souvenirs of traditional Adana cuisine. We collect beautiful memories by shopping with the locals. Before our return journey to Marmaris, we say ‘Life comes from the Bosphorus’ and give you free time to experience the famous local flavors of Adana. We taste local flavors such as Adana kebab, tantuni and turnip juice, our palates are delighted! After making ourselves happy, we set off on our way back to Marmaris with the pleasure of having collected wonderful memories. DAY 8: NEEDS AND MEAL BREAKS - RETURN TO MARMARIS
After the needs and meal breaks we will take on the way, we plan to return to Marmaris in the afternoon. We thank you for joining us on this special trip and say goodbye with the hope of seeing you at the points we met and on other adventures.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
**Child discounts are valid when staying with two adults.
**The seating arrangement on the bus is determined by seat numbers, and the seat number is automatically assigned after the first payment. If you have any concerns about seat numbers, please contact us.
**Our guide has the right to make changes to the program and routes, provided that all visits are carried out, taking into account conditions such as weather and road conditions that may affect the course of the trip.
**In case of physical conditions that make it impossible for a visit to take place (road, weather, natural disaster etc.), our agency cannot be held responsible for the failure to take place.
**Child discounts are valid for accommodation with two adults.
**The prices given are early booking period prices and will be valid for reservations made until March 10, 2025.
**You can benefit from these prices by pre-registering with a deposit payment of 6000.00 TL per person during the first reservation.
**Çocuk indirimleri, iki yetişkin ile birlikte konaklama durumunda geçerli olmaktadır. **Verilen fiyatlar erken rezervasyon dönemi fiyatları olup, 10 Mart 2025 tarihine kadar yapılacak olan rezervasyonlar için geçerli olacaktır. **İlk rezervasyon esnasında kişi başı 6000,00 TL kaparo ödemesi ile ön kayıt yaptırıp bu fiyatlardan yararlanabilirsiniz.
Days : 8 | Nights : 7