Embark on an
extraordinary 11-day journey through the spiritual, historical, and cultural
heart of Turkey—where prophets once walked, civilizations rose and fell, and
ancient stories live on in every stone. This immersive adventure takes you from
the iconic landmarks of Istanbul to the mystical valleys of Cappadocia, the
birthplace of Apostle Paul in Tarsus, the culinary capital Gaziantep, the
hidden paradise Halfeti, the sacred city of prophets Şanlıurfa, the
world-changing archaeological wonder Göbeklitepe, the stone-carved monasteries
of Mardin, and the monumental walls of Diyarbakır.
Begin your
trip in Istanbul, exploring timeless masterpieces such as Hagia Sophia, Blue
Mosque, Topkapı Palace and Eyüp Sultan Mosque. Travel to Söğüt, the cradle of
the Ottoman Empire, and Bursa, the first capital of the Ottomans. Continue into
the fairytale landscapes of Cappadocia, with its underground cities, rock-cut
churches, ancient villages, and wine traditions.
Your journey
then carries you along the path of saints, empires, and ancient
peoples—visiting the birthplace of St. Paul in Tarsus, tasting the world’s
finest baklava in Gaziantep, cruising through Halfeti’s sunken city, and
discovering the sacred pools and mosques of Şanlıurfa, where the Prophet
Abraham’s story comes alive. Step into the world’s oldest temple at
Göbeklitepe, wander the mystical beehive houses of Harran, explore the
4,000-year-old city of Dara, and stand before the brilliant stone architecture
of Mardin.
Conclude your
adventure in Diyarbakır, home to monumental basalt walls, ancient mosques,
churches, historic inns, and the legendary Tigris River.
From sacred sites to breathtaking nature, from local flavors to ancient wonders, this tour offers a deep, unforgettable experience of Turkey’s most meaningful destinations—perfect for spiritual travelers, culture enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the cradle of civilization.
3
Nights Istanbul
1
Night Bursa
2
Nights Cappadocia
1
Night Gaziantep
2
Nights Şanlıurfa
1
Night Mardin
Professional
English-speaking local guides during tours
10
Breakfasts (usually at the hotels)
9
Lunches (on touring days, as specified)
10
Dinners, including
Welcome
dinner in Istanbul
Meet
& greet at Istanbul International Airport on arrival
All
airport–hotel–airport transfers in Istanbul and Diyarbakır
Professional
driver and local logistical support throughout the tour
All
intercity transfers and transportation for sightseeing tours by deluxe
air-conditioned vehicles
Bus/vehicle
transportation on routes such as Cappadocia–Tarsus–Adana,
Adana–Gaziantep–Şanlıurfa, Şanlıurfa–Mardin–Midyat–Diyarbakır (as per
itinerary)
All
sightseeing as per the day-by-day program, including for example:
Full-day
Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Istanbul City Tour
Full-day
Ertuğrul Gazi – Söğüt & Bilecik Tour
Full-day
Bursa City Tour
Full-day
Cappadocia Red Tour
Full-day
Cappadocia–Tarsus–Adana touring (Gümüşler Monastery & Tarsus visits)
Full-day
Adana & Gaziantep Tour (Zeugma Mosaic Museum & bazaars)
Full-day
Gaziantep–Halfeti–Şanlıurfa Tour
Full-day
Göbeklitepe & Harran Tour
Full-day
Dara, Deyrulzafaran Monastery & Mardin Tour
Full-day
Midyat, Zerzevan Castle, Mithras Temple & Diyarbakır Tour
Entrance
fees to museums and historical sites mentioned in the itinerary
Regional
meals in Adana, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Mardin and Diyarbakır
Traditional
Şanlıurfa Sıra Night dinner with live music
Local
taxes and service charges
24/7 tour operator assistance and emergency contact
This
is a cultural and faith-oriented tour covering long distances; expect some
early departures and full sightseeing days.
Domestic
flights are not included; please make sure your flight timings match the
program, or ask us to arrange them for you at an extra cost.
Modest
clothing is recommended for mosques and religious sites (women should bring a
scarf; shorts and sleeveless tops are not suitable).
Comfortable
walking shoes are essential, especially for old towns, ruins, uneven streets
and archaeological sites like Göbeklitepe, Dara and Harran.
Weather
in Cappadocia, Şanlıurfa, Mardin and Diyarbakır can vary by season; a light
jacket and hat are recommended.
Some
regions on this tour are more conservative; please respect local customs and
sensitivities.
Shopping
stops in bazaars and local workshops (silver filigree in Midyat, baklava in
Gaziantep, soaps and sweets in Mardin, etc.) are optional but recommended for
authentic products.
The
itinerary may be slightly adjusted due to weather, local conditions or flight
schedules, but all main visits will be maintained whenever possible.
This
tour is suitable for history lovers, cultural travellers, faith-based groups,
and educational or special-interest groups.
Domestic
flight tickets
Diyarbakır
→ Istanbul (final day flight)
Any
other domestic flight that may be added by guests or requested as optional
International flights to/from Turkey
Optional
activities (e.g. hot air balloon in Cappadocia, extra shows, additional tours
not mentioned in the program)
Drinks
during meals (unless clearly stated as included)
Personal
expenses (laundry, minibar, telephone, shopping, etc.)
For travellers!