Iconic GAP Tour 3 Nights Accommodation | Departing from Istanbul
Get ready to explore the ancient cities, unique flavors, and thousands of years of history of Mesopotamia. With the GAP Tour, which covers Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Mardin, Midyat, Diyarbakır, and the region's most special spots, an unforgettable journey awaits you where culture, history, and gastronomy come together.
Gaziantep – Şanlıurfa – Göbeklitepe – Harran – Mardin – Midyat – Hasankeyf – Diyarbakır – Kahta – Nemrut Dağı 3 Nights Accommodation Departure - Return | BusNight Journey
After picking up our valued guests from the designated departure points, we begin our overnight journey for the GAP Tour, which covers the route of Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Göbeklitepe, Harran, Mardin, Midyat, Hasankeyf, Diyarbakır, Kahta, and Nemrut Mountain, accompanied by brief information provided by our guide inside the vehicle.
Our Departure Points:
16:00 – In front of Doğtaş Furniture, opposite Incirli Ömür Plaza
16:30 – İETT Bus Stops in front of Mado, Mecidiyeköy
17:00 – In front of Kadıköy Marriage Office
17:10 – In front of Kozyatağı Hilton Hotel
17:30 – Kartal Bridge, direction Ankara
17:45 – In front of Lukoil, Gebze Center
18:15 – İETT Bus Stops at the entrance of İzmit Intercity Bus Terminal
18:45 – Entrance of Sakarya Bus Terminal
19:45 – Entrance of Bolu Terminal
21:45 – Entrance of Ankara ASTI Bus Station
After all guests have joined us, we continue our overnight journey with our comfortable bus, making necessary stops along the way.
Gaziantep – Zeugma Mosaic Museum – Göbekli Tepe – Halfeti – Halfeti Boat Tour – Rum Kale – Şanlıurfa
After our night journey, we arrive in Gaziantep in the morning. With guests who wish, we have an extra breakfast at Gaziantep Zeugma Cafe. After our breakfast break, we visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, where unique artifacts brought from the ancient city of Zeugma, submerged under the waters of the Birecik Dam, are exhibited. Along with the world-famous Gypsy Girl Mosaic, we get to know closely the valuable mosaics and historical artifacts from the Roman period accompanied by our guide's explanations.
After our museum tour, we head to Göbeklitepe, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is considered the oldest known center of belief in human history. Dating back approximately 12,000 years, this unique archaeological site sheds light on world history with its temple structures built before the transition to settled life. Accompanied by our guide's explanations, we explore the T-shaped colossal pillars, excavation areas, and the mysterious past of Göbeklitepe, followed by an extra lunch break.
After our lunch, we move towards Şanlıurfa, known as the city of prophets. Our first stop is Halfeti, located on the banks of the Euphrates River and known as the "Hidden Paradise." In this peaceful district famous for its Black Rose, guests who wish can participate in the Halfetti Boat Tour organized additionally. During our boat tour, we have the opportunity to see the old settlements submerged under the waters of the Birecik Dam, the Sunken Mosque within the waters, and the majestic historical Rumkale built upon towering rocks. After this enjoyable journey on the calm waters of the Euphrates, we check into our hotel.
In the evening, guests who wish can participate in the Urfa Sıra Gecesi program, organized additionally. Enjoying local delicacies along with folk songs, hoyratlar, and traditional music, we have the opportunity to experience up close the rich culture and unique atmosphere of Şanlıurfa.
Important Note: There is no dinner included in the hotel accommodation for this day of our tour. Guests who wish can join the Urfa Sıra Gecesi program with dinner. (Optional / Extra)
Morning Breakfast: Will be taken at a rest facility suitable for the tour route. (Optional / Extra)
Lunch: Will be taken at a restaurant suitable for the tour route. (Optional / Extra)
Dinner: Guests who wish can join the Urfa Sıra Gecesi program with dinner. (Optional / Extra)
Accommodation: Urfa Region Hotels
Şanlıurfa – Aynzeliha Lake – Balıklı Göl – Harran – Harran University – Conical Dome Houses – Old Mardin – Cumhuriyet Square – Latifiye Mosque – Ulu Mosque – Historic PTT Building – Deyrulzafaran Monastery – Mardin Streets
After the morning breakfast we will have at the hotel, we arrive at the Balıklıgöl complex, considered the heart of the land of prophets. According to legends, in this sacred place where fire turned into water and wood into fish; by visiting Halil-ür Rahman Mosque, Rızvaniye Mosque, Ayn-ı Zeliha Lake and Hz. Ibrahim Shrine, one can feel Urfa's mystical atmosphere.
After our visit to Balıklıgöl, we turn our route towards Harran, whose name means "the place where roads meet" and is one of the oldest settlements in Mesopotamia. With its approximately 5,000-year history, Harran was once an important center for science, trade, and culture. In Harran, we see the Harran Grand Mosque and University ruins, accepted as the first university of the Islamic world, the castle, caravanserai, and the region-specific Conical-Roofed Harran Houses. This unique architecture is a living testament to the harmony between the people of the region and nature over the centuries.
After our visit to Harran, following the Viranşehir – Kızıltepe route, after an approximately three-hour journey, we arrive in Mardin, known as the "Capital of Civilizations". This ancient city, where stone has turned into art, is a unique open-air museum where Syriac, Arab, Kurdish, and Turkish cultures have lived together for centuries. Our first stop in Mardin is the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, which served as the patriarchal center of the Syriac Orthodox Church for centuries. With its golden-yellow stones and mystical atmosphere, this structure carries the ancient faith heritage of Mesopotamia to the present day. Then, by visiting the Kasımiye Madrasa, which stands out with its commanding position over the Mesopotamian Plain, we get to know closely the scientific and architectural understanding of the Artuklu period. Continuing our tour, we go on a walk through the Old Mardin streets accompanied by our guide.
As we move through narrow stone streets, arched passages, and abbars; we have the opportunity to see the Grand Mosque, Şehidiye Mosque, Latifiye Mosque, Historical PTT Building, Cumhuriyet Square and the historical structures around it. At every step, we will encounter traces left by stone craftsmen from centuries ago to the present, and we will feel Mardin's timeless soul. After free time given in the bazaar area, we proceed to our hotel. Dinner and accommodation will be held at our hotel in Mardin or Midyat.
NOTE: Guests who wish may join the Mardin Night Tour, also known as "gece gerdanlık gündüzü seyranlık", and explore the Old Mardin Streets under the night illumination, or they may participate in the Mardin Reyhani Night. (Extra).
Breakfast: Will be taken at the hotel in buffet or set menu format. (Included in Tour Price.)
Lunch: Will be taken at a restaurant suitable for the tour route. (Optional / Extra)
Dinner: Will be taken at the hotel in buffet or set menu format. (Included in Tour Price.)
Accommodation: Mardin Region Hotels
Mardin – Dara Ancient City – Midyat – Midyat Guesthouse – Telkari Workshop – Sıla Mansion – Hasankeyf – Batman – Diyarbakır – Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum House – On Gözlü Bridge – Mardin Gate – Four-Legged Minaret – Diyarbakır Grand Mosque – Adıyaman
After having breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we set off towards Midyat, one of the most important centers of Syriac culture. For interested guests, an extra tour to Dara Ancient City is organized at this point. (The visit to Dara Ancient City is an optional program and will take place only with full participation.) In Dara, one of the important garrison cities of the Eastern Roman period, we have the opportunity to see rock tombs, water cisterns, and remnants of city walls.
This stone city, where different beliefs and cultures have coexisted for centuries, takes its visitors on a journey through time with its narrow streets and elegant architecture. Our first stop in Midyat is the Midyat Guesthouse, which has become one of the symbols of the region. This historic building, which has hosted many TV series and films such as Sıla, Hercai, and Ah Bir Bulut Olsam, reflects some of the finest examples of Syriac stoneworking. During our visit to the Guesthouse, we take photo breaks among courtyards and arched passages. Afterwards, we visit a telkâri workshop to get up close with the telkâri tradition, which Syriac masters have turned into an art and identity over centuries. Guests are given the opportunity to view examples of this elegant art form, where fine silver wires are patiently worked, and to shop if they wish. After our telkâri visit, we are given free time among the historic houses of Midyat. After feeling the soul of Midyat among stone balconies, narrow streets, and abbaras (traditional covered walkways), we meet our waiting vehicle in the bazaar and take a short break for shopping local dried coffee and nuts. Then, we turn our route towards Hasankeyf, the silent witness of Mesopotamia.
Hasankeyf, standing tall with its thousands of years of history along the banks of the Tigris River, is like an open-air museum with its caves and historical structures. Here, we visit Hasankeyf Castle, a secret water tunnel, the minaret of El Rızık Mosque, and caves carved into the rocks. After a short free time, we move towards Batman. After taking an extra lunch in Batman, an extra tour to Malabadi Bridge is organized for interested guests. Following our lunch, we arrive at Diyarbakır, one of the ancient cities of Mesopotamia.
After viewing the On Gözlü Bridge located over the Tigris River and the fertile Hevsel Gardens panoramically, we begin our tour at key points of the Diyarbakır Walls, considered one of the oldest defensive structures in the world with its approximately 9,000-year-old history: Keçi Burcu and Mardin Gate. Afterwards, we visit the Diyarbakır Ulu Camii, one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia and accepted as the 5th Harem-i Şerif in the Islamic world. Next, we see the unique Dört Ayaklı Minare (Şeyh Mutahhar Mosque), built in 1500 by Kasım Bey during the Akkoyunlu period, which stands out with its architecture built on four columns. After our tour of Diyarbakır, we bid farewell to this ancient city and follow the Diyarbakır–Siverek–Kahta–Adıyaman route. We cross the Nissibi Bridge, which rises over the Euphrates River and is known as the "Gate of the East," and take a short break. (A tea/coffee break may be provided at Nissibi Bridge depending on timing and regional congestion.) After our break, we reach our hotel in Adıyaman. Dinner and accommodation will be held at our hotel. (NOTE: Our overnight stay tonight will be in either Diyarbakır or Adıyaman depending on the end time of our tour program.)
Morning Breakfast: Will be served buffet-style or set menu at the hotel. (Included in Tour Price.)
Lunch: Will be served at a restaurant suitable for the tour route. (Optional / Extra)
Dinner: Will be served buffet-style or set menu at the hotel. (Included in Tour Price.)
Accommodation: Regional Hotels in Adıyaman or Diyarbakır
Kahta - Nemrut Mountain – Karakuş Tumulus – Cendere Bridge – Gaziantep – Gaziantep Castle - Bakırcılar Bazaar - Tahmis Coffee House
AT THE SUMMIT OF NEMRUT – THE HERITAGE OF GODS AND KINGS
After breakfast at our hotel in the morning, we set off following the route of the Atatürk Dam, one of the iconic structures of the GAP Region. With this magnificent view, we proceed towards Kahta. Upon arrival in Kahta, we begin the extra-organized Mount Nemrut program with our guests who wish to join. On this journey tracing the footsteps of the Kingdom of Commagene, our first stop is the Karakuş Tumulus, known for its eagle statue, built by King I. Antiochos of Commagene in honor of his mother and sister. This monumental tomb, constructed on a high terrace, reflects the grand burial traditions of the kingdom. Continuing our tour, we visit the Cendere Bridge, which has survived for approximately 1,800 years and showcases the engineering genius of the Roman Empire. Rising like an elegant arch among the mountains, this structure remains standing as a witness to history despite all the ravages of time. Then, we reach the Nemrut Mountain Summit, located at an altitude of 2,150 meters and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the magnificent tumulus built by King I. Antiochos as his own tomb and pantheon of gods awaits us. The colossal statues of Zeus (Oromasdes), Apollo, Mithras, Helios, Hermes, Heracles, Ares, Commagene, Tyche, and King Antiochos, located on the East and West terraces, present a unique synthesis of Greek and Persian beliefs. Guided by our guide's explanations, we recall Antiochos' worldview, which considered himself equal to the gods, and his famous will: "Let my birthday be celebrated as a festival every month and every year; on these days, let tables be set for the gods, my people, and me; let people eat and drink, and rejoice."
With these words, we strive to understand not only a monument but also a king's desire for immortality and his world of faith. After our tour of Mount Nemrut, we arrive in Gaziantep, which was granted the title "Gazi" (Hero) in 1927 for its heroic resistance during the enemy occupation.
In Gaziantep, one of Turkey's most important gastronomic cities, we take a pleasant meal break where we can enjoy katmer, yuvalama soup, baklava, pistachios, and many other local delicacies.
After our meal break, we visit Gaziantep Castle, Bakırcılar Bazaar, Baklavacılar, Elmacı Pazarı, Yemeniciler, and Sedefçilers Bazaars. Then, we sip our coffee at Tahmis Coffee House, immersing ourselves in the historical atmosphere of the region. During the free time provided according to our guide's recommendations, guests who wish may go shopping.
We meet at our bus at the scheduled time and begin our return journey. Throughout the trip, necessary stops are made, and we arrive in Istanbul in the morning hours. We bid farewell to our valued guests after dropping them off at their pickup points, hoping to meet again at another event.
Morning Breakfast: Will be served buffet or set menu at the hotel. (Included in Tour Price.)
Lunch: Will be served at a restaurant suitable for the tour route. (Optional / Extra)
Dinner: Will be served at a restaurant suitable for the tour route. (Optional / Extra)
Accommodation: There is no overnight stay tonight. The return journey will be made.
What's Included
• Otellerde 3 gece konaklama
• Otellerde 3 adet açık büfe veya set menü sabah kahvaltısı
• Otellerde 2 adet açık büfe veya set menü akşam yemeği
• Turizm araçları ile ulaşım hizmetleri
• Rehberlik hizmetleri
• Programda belirtilen çevre gezileri
• 1618 nolu Turizm Kanunu’na göre zorunlu seyahat sigortası
Not Included
• Tur programında belirtilen ilk gün kahvaltı
• Tur programında belirtilen son gün akşam yemeği
• Tur programında isteğe bağlı / ekstra olarak belirtilen tüm organizasyonlar
• Öğle yemekleri
• Tüm kişisel harcamalar
• Şanlıurfa’daki akşam yemeği ve Sıra Gecesi
• Nemrut Dağı minibüs ücreti
• Halfeti Tekne Turu
• Müze Kart, gişe ve biletli geçiş sistemi ile giriş ücretleri
Child Discount and Circular Rules
Child discount is valid for the age range of 7–12 years.
The tour circular is valid as of its publication date, 19.01.2026. Circulars published on later dates for the same tour invalidate previous circulars.
Mandatory additional services are included in the tour price.
Important Information Regarding Flight Tours
- In flight tours, all operations related to flights are subject to the provisions of the airline contract.
- Cancellation insurance does not cover air travel.
- A tiered pricing system is applied; advertised prices start from the lowest class.
- Economy class flights are used in flight tour programs.
- Flight tickets are issued as round-trip together. If the outbound flight is not used, the return flight also becomes invalid due to the airlines' "sequential use" rule. Therefore, participation in only the return flight is not possible.
Museum – Archaeological Site – National Park Entries
All museum, archaeological site, and national park entry fees are borne by the guests. Guests may obtain a Museum Card from sales points before or during the tour to benefit at museums and sites where the Museum Card is valid.
Packaged Price Coverage
Our package tour prices include hotel accommodation, transportation, and side trips specified in the program.
Rest Stops
Stops are made at rest facilities along the route. Due to congestion, renovation, or other compelling reasons, stop locations may be changed, provided they are equivalent in terms of service quality and location.
Extra Tours and Program Flow
Night tours and extra excursions included in the tour program are organized depending on the number of participants and the availability of staff. Extra tours conducted along the route may take place even if not all guests participate. Guests who do not wish to join an extra tour will be directed by our guide to rest areas before city entrances or to city centers. In this case, guests who agree to wait at the rest area are considered to have participated in the tour.
Due to weather conditions, road status, or similar reasons, the guide may make changes in the program sequence (daily visit points or between days) if deemed necessary.
Go-Turkey cannot be held responsible for points that are part of the program but cannot be visited due to compelling reasons (weather conditions, road status, congestion at visit points, etc.) or because guests fail to adhere to the timing given by the guide.
Health Declaration
Guests must carry reports and information regarding any health issues they may experience during the tour, their pregnancy status, or medications they continuously use.
Accommodation Information
The hotel names specified in the program are priority accommodation facilities. Changes to hotels may be made depending on availability. At the latest 48 hours before the tour departure, upon request, accommodation information will be shared with guests. In case of hotel changes due to congestion or compelling reasons, provided standards remain the same, guests will be informed by Go-Turkey authorities.
Important Notes
- In flight tours, flight delays may occur due to congestion.
- Night tours are extra and are organized depending on participation.
Vehicles Used
Tour vehicles are planned according to the number of participants as follows:
Bus (28–46 people):
Mercedes Travego / Tourismo, Neoplan Cityliner / Tourliner, Mitsubishi Safir
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, kitchen unit, reading lamps, announcement system, CD/DVD)
Minibus (17–27 people):
Isuzu Turkuaz
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, announcement system)
Mini-bus (up to 16 people):
VW Volt, VW Volt EL, Mercedes Sprinter, Mercedes Sprinter EL
(Special design reclining seats, ABS, ASR, air conditioning, refrigerator, announcement system)
Suggestions
- Clothing and footwear suitable for the geographical structure and weather conditions of the tour region should be chosen.
- It is recommended to bring necessary charging equipment for photo and video shoots.
- Do not forget regularly used medications; allergic, chronic, or hereditary conditions should be reported to the guide.
- Personal care products, backpacks, and personal items that will make the journey enjoyable should be carried with you.
- In programs featuring boat tours and swimming breaks; it is recommended to bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and similar sea equipment.
The tour program and explanations above are originally prepared by Go-Turkey. They may not be copied, reproduced, or published without permission. The program has been arranged in accordance with Law No. 6502 on the Protection of Consumers and should be evaluated as a whole.
Istanbul