13-Day Private Eastern & Southeastern Türkiye Tour
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Highlights
Travel from Gaziantep to Trabzon on a 13-day private tour featuring Göbeklitepe, Mount Nemrut, Mardin, Van, Ani, Sumela and Uzungöl. Cross Southeastern and Eastern Türkiye to the Black Sea while combining history, culture, nature and regional cuisine with private transport and expert guiding.
- Discover three distinct regions of Türkiye on a 13-day private journey from Gaziantep to Trabzon.
- Explore Göbeklitepe, Mount Nemrut and Mardin through archaeology, religious heritage and distinctive stone architecture.
- Discover Lake Van, Akdamar, Ishak Pasha Palace and Ani across Eastern Türkiye’s rich cultural landscape.
- Complete the journey with Sumela Monastery, Karaca Cave and Uzungöl in the Eastern Black Sea landscape.
- Experience the 13-day route with private transport and professional guiding for a comfortable, well-planned journey.
Itinerary
IntroIntroduction
This 13-day private tour from Gaziantep to Trabzon connects the ancient cities of Southeastern Türkiye with the high plateaus of Eastern Anatolia and the green valleys of the Black Sea region. History, archaeology, architecture, local culture and natural landscapes come together in one extensive overland journey across Türkiye.
The tour begins with the cultural and culinary heritage of Gaziantep before continuing through Halfeti, Şanlıurfa, Göbeklitepe, Mount Nemrut, Harran, Mardin and Diyarbakır. Archaeological sites, historic bazaars, religious monuments and the distinctive stone architecture of Mesopotamia define the southeastern part of the route.
The journey then moves into Eastern Anatolia through Ahlat, Tatvan, Van, Doğubayazıt, Kars and Erzurum. Lake Van and Akdamar Island, Ishak Pasha Palace, the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Ani and the Seljuk monuments of Erzurum reveal different periods and civilizations of Anatolian history.
The final part of the tour reaches the Black Sea region, where Karaca Cave, Sumela Monastery and Uzungöl add dramatic natural scenery to the cultural journey. The 13-day route begins in Gaziantep and concludes in Trabzon.
The program operates as a private tour exclusively for your booking party. A dedicated vehicle and guiding service provide a more comfortable and well-organized way to experience three distinct regions of Türkiye within one continuous itinerary.
Day 1Day 1 – Arrival and Gaziantep City Tour
Your 13-day private tour begins with a meet-and-greet at Gaziantep Airport. The first visit is the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to an exceptional collection of Roman mosaics discovered at the ancient city of Zeugma. Its famous “Gypsy Girl” mosaic provides a memorable introduction to the archaeological heritage of Southeastern Türkiye.
The tour then continues to the historic area around Gaziantep Castle, followed by a short walk through traditional streets, stone buildings and old commercial quarters. At the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar, you can experience one of Gaziantep’s best-known craft traditions and the atmosphere of its historic market district.
Later, a short baklava stop is made at İmam Çağdaş or Koçak, two well-known names associated with Gaziantep’s culinary culture. After the sightseeing program, you are transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay in Gaziantep.
Accommodation
- Novotel Gaziantep · 4-star · or similar
Included activities
- Guided visit to Zeugma Mosaic Museum
- Walk through the historic area around Gaziantep Castle
- Visit to the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar
- Exploration of Gaziantep’s traditional market district
Special info
To complete the first day’s program comfortably and as planned, arrival in Gaziantep on a morning flight is recommended. The order and duration of visits may be adjusted according to the flight arrival time.
Day 2Day 2 – Halfeti Boat Tour and Şanlıurfa
After breakfast, depart Gaziantep and travel to Halfeti, a distinctive riverside town on the Euphrates. Part of the old settlement was submerged following the construction of the dam, creating a landscape where stone houses, steep riverbanks and traces of former villages meet the waters of the Euphrates.
In Halfeti, join a boat trip along the river. During the cruise, see Rumkale, dramatically positioned above the water, together with partially submerged historic settlements visible from the river. After the boat tour, continue by road to Şanlıurfa.
On arrival, visit Balıklıgöl and its historic surroundings, one of the city’s most important cultural and religious areas. The program continues around Şanlıurfa Castle, offering panoramic views across the old city. After sightseeing, transfer to your hotel. The evening is free, while guests who wish may separately consider attending a traditional Sıra Gecesi, featuring local music and regional culture.
Accommodation
- Nevali Hotel · 5-star · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Halfeti
- Halfeti boat tour on the Euphrates River
- Panoramic view of Rumkale during the boat tour
- Visit to Balıklıgöl and its historic surroundings
- Şanlıurfa Castle area and panoramic city views
Optional activities
- Traditional Şanlıurfa Sıra Gecesi evening
Day 3Day 3 – Mount Nemrut Sunset and Commagene Heritage
After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum. Its extensive collection, spanning from the Neolithic period to later civilizations, provides valuable context for the archaeological sites visited during the journey. The tour then continues toward Adıyaman, stopping first at Karakus Tumulus, one of the important monuments of the Commagene Kingdom, followed by Arsemia Ancient City, a former royal and ceremonial centre.
Later in the day, continue to Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the summit, explore the monumental East and West terraces, where colossal statues of kings and deities surround the ancient royal tumulus. The visit is timed to experience sunset across the surrounding mountain landscape, one of the most distinctive moments of the itinerary. After the visit, return to Şanlıurfa for a second overnight stay.
Accommodation
- Nevali Hotel · 5-star · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum
- Visit to Karakus Tumulus
- Visit to Arsemia Ancient City
- Mount Nemrut summit and terrace visit
- Sunset experience at Mount Nemrut
Special info
The Mount Nemrut visit is scheduled according to sunset time. Summit access and the daily program may be adjusted depending on weather and road conditions.
Day 4Day 4 – Göbeklitepe, Harran and Mardin
After breakfast, leave Şanlıurfa and travel to Göbeklitepe. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological area dates back around 12,000 years and is known for its monumental T-shaped pillars. During the guided visit, learn about its place in the Neolithic period, its stone craftsmanship and symbolic reliefs, gaining context for the early history of settlement in the region.
Continue to Harran, famous for its distinctive conical mud-brick houses. Once an important settlement of Mesopotamia, Harran offers a closer look at traditional architecture, the old settlement area and the character of the Şanlıurfa countryside.
In the afternoon, continue to Mardin. On arrival, take a short walk through the historic city, known for its stone houses, narrow streets and terraces overlooking the Mesopotamian Plain. The day ends with hotel check-in, followed by free time to enjoy the city centre at your own pace.
Accommodation
- Gazi Konağı Otel · Boutique · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Guided visit to Göbeklitepe
- Visit to Harran
- Walk through Mardin’s historic city centre
Day 5Day 5 – Mardin, Deyrulzafaran and Dara Ancient City
After breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring the historic heritage of Mardin, a city shaped by different cultures and religious traditions over centuries. Begin with a visit to the Great Mosque of Mardin, one of the prominent landmarks of the old city. Continue to Kasımiye Madrasa, admired for its stone architecture, courtyards and views across the Mesopotamian Plain.
The program then continues to Deyrulzafaran Monastery, one of the important centres of the Syriac Orthodox tradition. Its historic buildings and religious heritage provide valuable insight into Mardin’s multicultural past.
In the afternoon, travel to Dara Ancient City. Its rock-cut tombs, cisterns and defensive structures reveal another layer of Mesopotamia’s ancient history. After the visit, return to Mardin. The evening is free to explore the atmospheric stone streets or experience the city’s regional cuisine at your own pace.
Accommodation
- Gazi Konağı Otel · Boutique · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to the Great Mosque of Mardin
- Visit to Kasımiye Madrasa
- Visit to Deyrulzafaran Monastery
- Visit to Dara Ancient City
Day 6Day 6 – Zerzevan Castle and Diyarbakır
After breakfast, leave Mardin and travel toward Diyarbakır. The first major stop is Zerzevan Castle, a strategic Roman military settlement positioned along the empire’s eastern frontier. During the visit, explore the remains of the fortified settlement and see the rock-cut Temple of Mithras, one of the most distinctive archaeological features of the site.
Continue toward Diyarbakır, stopping briefly at the historic Ten-Eyed Bridge over the Tigris River. On arrival in the city, explore the UNESCO-listed Diyarbakır City Walls and the historic district within the fortifications.
The city tour includes a visit to the Great Mosque of Diyarbakır, one of the city’s most significant religious monuments. A short walk through the traditional bazaars and historic streets introduces the commercial and architectural character of old Diyarbakır. After the sightseeing program, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay in the city.
Accommodation
- The Green Park Hotel · 5-star · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Zerzevan Castle
- Visit to the Temple of Mithras
- Visit to the Ten-Eyed Bridge
- Diyarbakır City Walls and old city tour
- Visit to the Great Mosque of Diyarbakır
- Walk through the historic bazaars
Day 7Day 7 – Malabadi Bridge, Nemrut Crater and Ahlat
After breakfast, leave Diyarbakır and continue east toward the landscapes of Eastern Anatolia. The first stop is Malabadi Bridge, an impressive example of Artuqid engineering. Its monumental stone arch across the Batman River reflects the architectural and transportation heritage of medieval Anatolia.
The journey then continues toward Nemrut Crater Lake near Bitlis. Formed within a volcanic caldera, the area combines crater lakes, mountain scenery and distinctive geological formations. Time is provided to enjoy the landscape and take photographs before continuing the journey.
Later in the day, visit Ahlat, known for its monumental Seljuk-era tombstones and historic cemetery. The carved stone monuments provide an important introduction to the artistic and cultural heritage of medieval Anatolia. After the visit, continue to Tatvan, located on the western shore of Lake Van, and transfer to your hotel for the overnight stay.
Accommodation
- Beyaz Köşk Hotel · Boutique · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Malabadi Bridge
- Visit to Nemrut Crater Lake
- Visit to the historic cemetery of Ahlat
Special info
Access to Nemrut Crater Lake may be adjusted according to seasonal weather and road conditions.
Day 8Day 8 – Akdamar Island and Van
After breakfast, leave Tatvan and travel along the southern shore of Lake Van toward Gevaş. From here, take a short boat journey across the lake to Akdamar Island. The crossing offers wide views across Lake Van and forms an important part of the day’s experience.
On the island, visit the 10th-century Church of the Holy Cross, one of the most remarkable examples of medieval Armenian architecture in the region. Its exterior stone reliefs depict biblical scenes and decorative motifs, while the island setting provides panoramic views across the surrounding lake and mountains. Time is available for a short walk and photographs.
After returning to Gevaş by boat, continue to Van city centre and check in at the hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest, a walk along the lakeside or independent exploration of the city.
Accommodation
- Van Life Hotel · 3-star · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Boat transfer to Akdamar Island
- Visit to Akdamar Island
- Visit to the Church of the Holy Cross
Special info
Boat services to Akdamar Island operate subject to weather and navigation conditions on Lake Van.
Day 9Day 9 – Van, Muradiye and Ishak Pasha Palace
After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to Van Castle, one of the major surviving landmarks of the ancient Urartian Kingdom. Built on a rocky elevation overlooking Lake Van, the site provides both historical context and panoramic views across the surrounding landscape.
Continue to the Van Cat House, where the region’s distinctive white cats, known for their characteristic eye colours, can be seen. After leaving Van, travel toward Doğubayazıt and stop at Muradiye Waterfall, a scenic natural break along the route.
The final major visit of the day is Ishak Pasha Palace, dramatically positioned above the plains near Doğubayazıt. The palace combines Ottoman, Seljuk and regional architectural influences and is one of the most distinctive historic monuments of Eastern Türkiye. After the guided visit, continue to Doğubayazıt town centre and transfer to your hotel.
Accommodation
- Tehran Boutique Hotel · Boutique · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Van Castle
- Visit to the Van Cat House
- Visit to Muradiye Waterfall
- Visit to Ishak Pasha Palace
Day 10Day 10 – Ani Archaeological Site and Kars
After breakfast, leave Doğubayazıt and travel across the wide plains and high plateaus of Eastern Anatolia toward Kars. The main visit of the day is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ani Archaeological Site.
Once an important settlement and trading centre on the Silk Road, Ani contains the remains of churches, a cathedral, a mosque, city walls and structures from several historical periods. Set beside the dramatic Arpaçay Canyon, the site provides a remarkable overview of the multicultural history and architecture of medieval Anatolia.
After exploring Ani, continue to Kars city centre. Visit Kars Castle, see Kümbet Mosque and take a short walk among the distinctive stone buildings dating from the Russian period. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city independently or discover local products and regional flavours before the overnight stay in Kars.
Accommodation
- Hotel Katerina Sarayı · Boutique · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Guided visit to Ani Archaeological Site
- Visit to Kars Castle
- Visit to Kümbet Mosque
- Walk through Kars and its Russian-era stone architecture
Day 11Day 11 – Historic Erzurum and Taşhan
After breakfast, leave Kars and travel through the high plateaus and mountain landscapes of Eastern Anatolia toward Erzurum. On arrival, begin a walking tour through the historic centre.
The first visit is Çifte Minareli Madrasa, one of the best-known examples of Seljuk architecture in Anatolia. Continue to Yakutiye Madrasa, noted for its detailed stone craftsmanship, followed by the historic Great Mosque of Erzurum.
The program then continues to Erzurum Castle, which reflects several periods of the city’s long history. The final stop is Taşhan, a historic Ottoman-era commercial building where visitors can see jewellery and handicrafts made from Oltu stone, a material strongly associated with Erzurum. After completing the city tour, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay in Erzurum.
Accommodation
- Ramada by Wyndham Erzurum · 4-star · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Çifte Minareli Madrasa
- Visit to Yakutiye Madrasa
- Visit to the Great Mosque of Erzurum
- Visit to Erzurum Castle
- Visit to Taşhan
Day 12Day 12 – Karaca Cave, Sumela Monastery and Trabzon
After breakfast, leave Erzurum and travel through the mountain passes toward Türkiye’s Eastern Black Sea region. The first visit is Karaca Cave, located near Gümüşhane. Its stalactites, stalagmites and varied geological formations add a natural dimension to the cultural journey across the country.
Continue toward Altındere Valley in the Maçka district of Trabzon. Built dramatically into the cliffs above the valley, Sumela Monastery is one of the best-known cultural landmarks of the Black Sea region. During the guided visit, explore the sections open to visitors and experience the surrounding mountain and forest scenery.
After the Sumela visit, continue to Trabzon city centre. This stage marks the arrival of the journey on the Black Sea coast after travelling through Southeastern and Eastern Anatolia. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in Trabzon.
Accommodation
- Zorlu Grand Hotel · 5-star · or similar
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Karaca Cave
- Visit to Altındere Valley
- Guided visit to Sumela Monastery
Day 13Day 13 – Uzungöl Tour and Departure from Trabzon
After breakfast, leave Trabzon for Uzungöl, the final major destination of the 13-day journey. Set among the forested mountains of the Eastern Black Sea region, Uzungöl provides a scenic conclusion after the historical and cultural landscapes experienced throughout Southeastern and Eastern Anatolia.
Enjoy a walk around the lake, with views of traditional buildings, wooded slopes and the surrounding valley. Free time is available to explore at your own pace, take photographs or enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants.
After the Uzungöl program, return toward Trabzon according to your flight schedule. A transfer to Trabzon Airport marks the end of the private tour that began in Gaziantep and travelled through three distinct regions of Türkiye. From Göbeklitepe and Mount Nemrut to Van, Ani, Sumela and Uzungöl, the journey concludes with a broad perspective on the country’s history, cultures and landscapes.
Meals
- Breakfast at your hotel
Included activities
- Visit to Uzungöl
- Lakeside walk and free time in Uzungöl
Special info
Please provide your departure flight details before the tour. The Uzungöl program and return transfer to Trabzon Airport will be arranged according to your flight schedule. The tour ends at Trabzon Airport.
What's included
- 12 nights of accommodation with breakfast at the hotels specified in the itinerary or properties of a similar standard
- A modern, air-conditioned and comfortable vehicle reserved exclusively for your private group throughout the tour
- Licensed professional guiding service throughout the itinerary
- Meet-and-greet at Gaziantep Airport and drop-off at Trabzon Airport at the end of the tour
- All road transportation between the cities and sightseeing points specified in the itinerary
- Organisation of the private tours, city tours and visits included in the program
- Transfers between the hotels and scheduled sightseeing locations
- VAT and applicable taxes for the services listed above
Not included
- Lunches and dinners
- Entrance fees to museums, archaeological sites, palaces, monasteries and other attractions
- Flights to Gaziantep and return flights from Trabzon
- Personal expenses and hotel extras
- Optional activities and services not specified in the itinerary
- Optional tips for the guide and driver
Important Information
Arrival and First-Day Program: To complete the Gaziantep sightseeing program comfortably, arrival in Gaziantep on a morning flight is recommended. The first day's schedule may be adjusted according to your actual arrival time.
Tour Start and End Points: The tour begins with a meet-and-greet at Gaziantep Airport and ends on Day 13 with a transfer to Trabzon Airport. Subject to operational arrangements, the tour may also begin at a hotel in central Gaziantep or finish at a hotel in central Trabzon.
Hotel Accommodation: The tour includes 12 nights of accommodation with breakfast along the route through Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Mardin, Diyarbakır, Tatvan, Van, Doğubayazıt, Kars, Erzurum and Trabzon. Hotels shown in the itinerary are examples and may be replaced with properties of a similar standard depending on availability and operational requirements.
Museum and Site Entrance Fees: Entrance fees for museums, archaeological sites, palaces, monasteries and other visitor attractions are not included in the tour price. The validity of Museum Passes or similar cards may vary by site and current regulations.
Site Accessibility: Access to museums, archaeological sites, castles, monasteries, religious buildings and other attractions is subject to opening hours, restoration work, security conditions and regulations set by the relevant authorities. The itinerary may be adjusted when necessary.
Mount Nemrut Visit: Access to Mount Nemrut depends on seasonal, weather and road conditions. Visit times may be arranged around sunset and operational conditions. Walking, steps and uneven or rocky surfaces should be expected.
Akdamar Island Boat Crossing: The visit to Akdamar Island depends on weather and navigation conditions on Lake Van and the operation of local boat services. The timing or daily itinerary may be adjusted when necessary.
Nemrut Crater Lake and Mountain Areas: Access to Nemrut Crater Lake and other high-altitude or mountainous locations may depend on seasonal weather and road conditions. When access is not possible, the itinerary may be adjusted according to current conditions.
Route and Daily Pace: This 13-day journey covers Southeastern Türkiye, Eastern Anatolia and the Eastern Black Sea region by road. Some days include long driving distances, early departures and extensive sightseeing programs.
Meals: Breakfast at the hotels is included. Lunches and dinners are not included. Your guide can recommend local restaurants, regional specialities and suitable meal stops along the route.
Pre-Tour Communication: Our operations team may contact you before the tour to confirm your arrival flight to Gaziantep, airport meeting details and departure arrangements from Trabzon. The requested participant information must be provided after booking.
What to Bring: A passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for the season are recommended. As the route crosses different climates and elevations, a light jacket or raincoat can be useful even in summer, while sun protection is recommended for the warmer regions.
Itinerary Adjustments: The main route and key visits will be maintained; however, the order of visits may change according to traffic, weather and road conditions, attraction opening hours and the pace of the group. As this is a private tour, rest stops and daily timing can be adapted where operationally possible.