Highlights

• Embarking on a journey through Trabzon, Artvin, Erzurum, Kars, Van, Tatvan, Mardin, Diyarbakir, Nemrut, Sanliurfa, Göbeklitepe, and Gaziantep promises a captivating exploration of Turkey's diverse landscapes, cultures, and historical sites
• Trabzon: Explore the historical sites of Trabzon, including the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon, a former Byzantine church converted into a mosque. Visit the Sumela Monastery, perched on a cliffside overlooking a lush valley, known for its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere. Discover the vibrant bazaars and local cuisine, sampling delicacies such as hamsi (anchovies) and pide (Turkish pizza).
• Artvin: Journey through the scenic landscapes of Artvin, characterized by lush forests, towering mountains, and rushing rivers. Explore traditional villages like Şavşat and Arhavi, where you can experience rural life and hospitality. Hike in the Kackar Mountains National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species.
• Erzurum: Visit historical landmarks such as the Erzurum Castle, dating back to the Byzantine period, and the Çifte Minareli Medrese, an elegant Seljuk-era madrasa. Explore the Yakutiye Medrese, known for its intricate stone carvings and Islamic architecture. Experience Erzurum's winter sports facilities, including ski resorts like Palandöken, which hosted the Winter Universiade in 2011.
• Kars: Discover the medieval Ani Ruins, once a flourishing city on the Silk Road, now an archaeological site with impressive churches, mosques, and fortifications. Visit the Kars Castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains and mountains. Experience Kars' cultural heritage, including its unique cuisine influenced by Armenian and Georgian traditions.
• Van: Explore Van Fortress, a massive stone citadel overlooking Lake Van, dating back to the Urartian period. Visit the Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Akdamar Island, adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting biblical scenes. Enjoy boat tours on Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey, known for its stunning scenery and historical significance.
• Tatvan: Experience the natural beauty of Tatvan, situated on the shores of Lake Van, surrounded by mountains and volcanic landscapes. Explore nearby attractions such as Nemrut Crater Lake and Ahlat, an ancient cemetery with medieval tombstones.
• Mardin and Diyarbakir: Discover the ancient city of Mardin, known for its stunning architecture, including stone houses, churches, and mosques. Explore the narrow streets of the old town, adorned with intricate stonework and offering panoramic views of the Mesopotamian plains. Visit the historic city of Diyarbakir, with its well-preserved city walls, mosques, and bazaars, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
• Nemrut and Sanliurfa: Journey to Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colossal statues and funerary monuments dating back to the 1st century BC. Explore the ancient city of Sanliurfa, believed to be the birthplace of the prophet Abraham, and visit sacred sites such as the Pool of Sacred Fish (Balıklıgöl) and Abraham's Cave.
• Göbeklitepe: Visit Göbeklitepe, one of the world's oldest known temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient stone circles and T-shaped pillars dating back over 11,000 years, offering insights into the early development of human civilization. Gaziantep: Explore the historic city of Gaziantep, known for its rich culinary tradition and well-preserved historical sites. Visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to one of the world's finest collections of Roman mosaics, showcasing intricate designs and vibrant colors. Indulge in Gaziantep's famous cuisine, sampling local specialties such as baklava, kebabs, and pistachio-based desserts.