A fascinating journey that combines the magic of Istanbul with the historical and spiritual depth of Eastern Anatolia, the cradle of ancient civilizations. This itinerary is designed for those who wish to discover the most authentic side of Turkey, exploring great empires, unique archaeological sites, sacred cities, and living traditions.
The tour begins in Istanbul, an extraordinary metropolis suspended between Europe and Asia, where visitors admire masterpieces of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. Strolling through Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, 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 Southeastern Anatolia with arrival in Diyarbakır, a city renowned for its imposing black basalt walls, a symbol of cultural and religious coexistence. Visits to Great Mosque and historic buildings reveal centuries of Roman, Islamic, and Ottoman history.
The tour then enters the heart of Mesopotamia, with stops in Hasankeyf, an ancient city on the banks of Tigris, and Midyat, famous for its stone houses and Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the most important centers of Syriac Orthodox tradition. Here, time seems to stand still amid caravanserais, local markets, and ancient artisanal traditions.
The journey continues to Mardin, one of Turkey’s most picturesque cities, perched on a hill overlooking Mesopotamian plain. Its narrow streets, honey-colored houses, and monasteries tell a unique story of spirituality and multicultural heritage.
From Mardin, travelers reach Şanlıurfa, known as “City of Prophets,” with a visit to Göbeklitepe, the oldest temple complex ever discovered, which has revolutionized human history. In Şanlıurfa, sacred sites such as Balıklıgöl and Harran offer a deeply evocative experience, rich in religious and cultural significance.
The tour continues to Gaziantep, with a panoramic stop in Halfeti, where a boat excursion allows visitors to admire villages submerged by the waters of Euphrates. In Gaziantep, the famous Zeugma Mosaic Museum preserves extraordinary Roman mosaics, and the city reveals itself as Turkey’s gastronomic capital, renowned for Antep pistachios and traditional sweets.
This comprehensive and engaging journey, accompanied by a professional guide, combines culture, archaeology, spirituality, and gastronomy, offering a unique immersion into the deepest and most authentic side of Turkey.
