Southeastern Turkey Tour

After breakfast,  we drive to Mardin. Our Mardin tour is designed to showcase the highlights of this enchanting city, where ancient traditions and remarkable stone houses coexist harmoniously. Our first stop on the tour is the Old City of Mardin. As you step into its narrow streets, you’ll be surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of Mardin’s stone houses. These unique structures, crafted from the distinctive yellow limestone of the region, stand as a testament to the city’s architectural heritage. Walking through the labyrinthine alleys, you’ll be captivated by the intricate details and timeless charm of these ancient dwellings. Next, we will visit Kasimiye Medrese, a magnificent theological school that dates back to the 14th century. As you explore the Kaimiye medrese, you’ll gain insight into the intellectual and spiritual legacy of the region. Our journey continues to Deyrulzafaran Syriac Monastery, also known as the Saffron Monastery. This sacred place has been a spiritual center for the Syriac Orthodox Church for centuries.  We will then venture to Dara, an ancient city that dates back to the Roman period.  As you explore the remnants of its amphitheater, fortifications, and underground passages, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, where the bustling streets of a once-thriving civilization come to life in your imagination. After Mardin day tour, transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Mardin.

Legend: B – L

After breakfast, we will drive for Zerzevan Castle (Temple of Mithras). This ancient castle is located in the village of Dağlarca and was constructed during the Byzantine period in the 4th century. Situated on a high hill, the castle offers a stunning panoramic view. Here, you will explore historical structures and impressive remnants, while being captivated by the enchantment of the past. In fact, Zerzevan Castle, which is a 3,000 year-old Roman structure, has been destroyed and rebuilt many times since the Assyrians. The castle, which was last rebuilt during the Roman Empire, had a legion unit of 1,200 people, consisting of selected soldiers whose identities are not recorded.

After Zerzevan Mithras tepmple, we will drive to old city of Diyarbakir. Before we arrive in Diyarbakir, we will stop at dicle bridge. The Diyarbakir Dicle Bridge, also known as the On Gözlü Köprü (Ten Arches Bridge) is situated south of the city spanning the Dicle river (Tigris River).  This bridge, built in the 12th century by the Artukid ruler Melik Necmeddin, stands out with its stone craftsmanship and captivating structure. Located over the Tigris River, the bridge is a significant symbol of the region. Walking on the bridge, you will witness the flow of history and savor the breathtaking view. After Dicle Bridge, we will drive and stop on the way fro the wiev of Hevsel Gardens.  These gardens are fertile agricultural lands located along the banks of the Tigris River. Organized through irrigation systems used for thousands of years, these gardens offer a captivating view of greenery and nature. After we wiil drive to Diyarbakir city for hotel c-in. Overnight stay in Diyarbakır.

Legend: B – L

After breakfast, meet your guide for the full day Diyarbakir city tour. Our first stop will be at City Walls of Diyarbakir. The historical city walls, one of the most important structures carrying the traces of the past, adorn this ancient city. These walls have a history that spans thousands of years and are adorned with historical monuments, gates, and towers. Walking through the depths of history, you will find yourself on a journey through time. Next, we will visit the Hz. Suleyman Mosque. Built during the Ottoman period in the 16th century, this mosque stands out with its unique architecture. Our tour continues with a visit to the Virgin Mary Syriac Ancient Church. This ancient church served as a place of worship for the Syriac community and has been preserved for centuries. With its stone craftsmanship and remarkable details, the Meryem Ana Syriac Ancient Church provides visitors with a mystical atmosphere. After our stop will be at The Ulu Mosque is another important highlight of our Diyarbakır tour. Built in the 11th century during the Seljuk period, this mosque holds great historical and architectural value. We will stroll through the cobblestone streets of Diyarbakır, allowing you to immerse yourself even further in the city’s atmosphere. As you wander among the stone houses and historical buildings, you will encounter the traces of the past and bear witness to the cultural richness of the city. These streets are places where time stands still, and each step unveils a different story. We will continiu our tour to Cemil Pasa Mansion. In Cemil Pasha Mansion, you will have the opportunity to delve deeper into Diyarbakır’s history. This mansion belonged to Cemil Pasha, a renowned statesman of the Ottoman period. With its historical texture and traditional architecture, the mansion will make you feel the enchantment of the past as you wander inside. After the end of tour transfer to the airport for fly back to Istanbul by private car. Flight from Diyarbakir to Istanbul. Private transfer from the airport to the hotel in Istanbul. TOUR ENDS!

Legend: B – L

P.S: You can also customize this trip with additional days! Slow the pace with rest days in locations of your choice, or add additional sightseeing days along the route!