An extraordinary journey that combines the charm of Istanbul with the historical and spiritual richness of Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia, land of ancient civilizations. This itinerary is designed for those who wish to immerse themselves in the authenticity of Turkey, exploring millennia-old empires, unique archaeological sites, cities of great sacred significance, and traditions that still enliven local life today.
The tour begins in Istanbul, an extraordinary metropolis suspended between Europe and Asia, where visitors can admire masterpieces of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. Strolling through Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, travelers immerse themselves in the vibrant heart of the city, while a Bosphorus cruise offers unforgettable views of palaces, mosques, and historic residences along the shores. You will also admire the refined Rüstem Pasha Mosque, decorated with beautiful ceramics, and Chora Mosque (Kariye Camii), famous for its 14th-century mosaics and frescoes.
After Istanbul, the journey continues to Kars, with a visit to the Archaeological Site of Ani, known as “City of 1001 Churches.” Ani, one of the largest and wealthiest cities of medieval Anatolia, features imposing walls, cathedrals, and spectacular views over Arpaçay Valley, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the history and architecture of the era.
Next, the tour reaches Doğubeyazıt to admire Ishak Pasha Palace, located at the foot of Mount Ararat. This extraordinary example of Ottoman architecture in Anatolia includes mosques, courtyards, and a harem, and is renowned both for its refined stonework and the breathtaking panoramic views it offers.
In Van region, visitors explore Çavuştepe Castle, an important center of Urartian period, followed by a boat ride on Lake Van to Akdamar Island, home to the Church of Akdamar, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture, famous for its stone reliefs and the spiritual atmosphere that envelops the island.
The journey continues toward Bitlis and Diyarbakır, cities that preserve the region’s characteristic stone architecture, historic bridges, and traditional neighborhoods. In Diyarbakır, the tour includes Historic Walls (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Hasan Pasha Bazaar, Great Mosque (Ulu Camii), one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia, and Chaldean Church, reflecting the historical coexistence of diverse religious communities.
Along Tigris River, travelers explore Hasankeyf, a millennia-old city that today resembles an open-air museum with ancient settlements, bridges, and stone structures. The tour also includes Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the most important centers of Syriac Orthodox world, founded in the 4th century and still active, symbolizing the region’s rich religious tradition.
In Mardin, famous for its stone houses and panoramic views of Mesopotamian Plain, visitors admire Deyrulzafaran Monastery (Darülzeferan) and the Archaeological Site of Dara, with rock-cut tombs and large Roman cisterns. The tour also includes the Syriac churches, historic markets, and the charming streets of the city center.
In Şanlıurfa, travelers visit Göbeklitepe, the oldest known religious complex in the world, a testament to the earliest ritual practices of humanity. Continuing toward Kahta, the tour reaches Mount Nemrut, where the monumental statues of the Kingdom of Commagene and the spectacular sunsets create a truly unique experience. Along the route, travelers can also see Atatürk Dam, Karakuş Tumulus, and Cendere Bridge, all sites of great historical and natural interest.
The tour also includes Harran, with its iconic conical houses, Sacred Lake (Balıklıgöl), Abraham Mosque, and Urfa Bazaar, providing deeper insight into the history, culture, and spirituality of the region.
This journey is not just a tourist itinerary, but a true cultural and religious experience, allowing participants to discover the roots of civilizations in Anatolia and Mesopotamia. Ancient churches, monasteries, mosques, and archaeological sites blend with modern life, offering travelers a complete immersion in the history, culture, and spirituality of these millennia-old lands.
| Starting Point | Istanbul |
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| Destination Point | Sanlıurfa |
| Tour Day | On Request |
| Included Services |
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Vehicle & Domestic Flight
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Welcome to Istanbul
The Treasures of Imperial Istanbul
Romantic Istanbul: Markets, Palaces, and Bosphorus
Kars and Ani – The City of 1001 Churches.
Doğubeyazıt – The majestic Ishak Pasha Palace at the foot of Mount Ararat.
Van – Çavuştepe Castle and Akdamar Island between history and spirituality.
Bitlis and Diyarbakır – Between stone architecture, historic walls, and millennia-old traditions.
Diyarbakır and Hasankeyf – Millennia of history along the walls and the Tigris, between ancient cities and traditions.
Mardin – Syriac monasteries and churches amid history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Mardin and Göbeklitepe – Between ancient monasteries and the world’s oldest sacred site.
“Nemrut – Monumental statues and spectacular sunsets over Kingdom of Commagene.”
Harran and Şanlıurfa – Between conical houses, sacred sites, and millennia-old traditions.
Goodbye Turkiye
