Depending on your departure time, a private transfer will take you to Istanbul Airport for your domestic flight to Mardin, with an approximate duration of 1 hour and 50 minutes. Upon arrival in Mardin, a private transfer will escort you from Mardin Airport to your hotel.

In Mardin, we will begin our visits with the Kasımiye Madrasa, an ancient Islamic school renowned for its stunning architecture, perched on the city’s hills and offering panoramic views of the region. Next, we will visit the Saffron Monastery, a historic monastery known for its architectural beauty and cultural significance, serving as a center for the Syriac community for centuries.

These visits will allow you to immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse culture of Mardin, a city famous for its unique blend of Arab, Turkish, and Syriac influences.

Tour Highlights: Kasımiye Madrasa & Saffron Monastery

In Mardin, after exploring the Kasımiye Madrasa and the Saffron Monastery, we will continue our tour by visiting the Copper Bazaar, a traditional market where you can admire local copper and metal craftsmanship while immersing yourself in the vibrant city atmosphere. Next, we will stroll through Mardin’s Old Quarter, famous for its narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, and traditional architecture that will transport you back in time and offer stunning views of the region.

After these visits, a private transfer will take you by road from Mardin to Şanlıurfa, approximately a 2 hour and 45 minute drive. Upon arrival, we will head to the Archaeological Site of Göbeklitepe, an ancient temple dating back over 12,000 years and considered one of the most significant sites in human history. Known as the “Temple of the Gods,” Göbeklitepe’s discovery has revolutionized our understanding of early civilizations and prehistoric religion. This visit offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the origins of humanity.

Tour Highlights: Copper Bazaar & Old Quarter of Mardin, Archaeological Site of Göbeklitepe

In Şanlıurfa, we will begin our visits at the Sacred Fish Lake, a mystical site linked to the legend of Abraham. According to tradition, this lake is where King Nimrod threw Abraham into the fire, and the carp that inhabit the lake are considered sacred. Next, we will visit the Cave of Abraham, an important place of worship believed to be the birthplace of the prophet Abraham. This site is a significant pilgrimage destination located in the heart of Şanlıurfa, surrounded by a spiritual atmosphere.

After these visits, we will take a private road transfer from Şanlıurfa to Gaziantep, approximately a 2 hour and 45 minute drive. Upon arrival in Gaziantep, we will explore the Old Streets of Gaziantep, a maze of alleys and traditional markets that preserve the essence of the ancient city. Here, you can experience vibrant local life and discover the city’s historic architecture. Then, we will stop at the historic Tahmis Coffeehouse, renowned for its traditional Turkish coffee and cozy atmosphere, where you can relax and enjoy a drink in a place full of history and charm.

Tour Highlights: Sacred Fish Lake & Cave of Abraham, Old Streets of Gaziantep & Tahmis Coffeehouse

In Gaziantep, our visit will begin at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, one of Turkey’s most important museums, renowned for its stunning collection of Roman mosaics. Many of these mosaics originate from the ancient city of Zeugma, located in the region. This museum is a must-visit for archaeology enthusiasts, offering a fascinating glimpse into daily life during the Roman era.

After the museum tour, we will take a private road transfer from Gaziantep to Adana, approximately a 3-hour drive. Upon arrival in Adana, our exploration will start with the impressive Sabancı Mosque, one of Turkey’s largest mosques, famous for its elegant architecture and grand dome. Next, we will visit the Roman Bridge, an ancient structure crossing the Seyhan River that has been an important symbol of the city for centuries. Built by the Romans, this bridge is a remarkable example of ancient engineering and offers spectacular views of the river and city.

Tour Highlights: Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Sabancı Mosque & Roman Bridge

In Tarsus, our visit will begin with the House of Saint Paul, an important historical and religious site believed to be the childhood home of Saint Paul. This house holds great significance for Christians and is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by a rich historical atmosphere.

After the visit, a private transfer will take you to Mersin Airport for a domestic flight from Mersin to Istanbul, with an approximate duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival in Istanbul, a private transfer will take you from Istanbul Airport to your hotel, where you can rest and continue enjoying the vibrant city.

Tour Highlights: House of Saint Paul

In Istanbul, begin your day with a scenic Bosphorus cruise, a boat tour that offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, palaces, and fortresses lining the strait that separates Europe from Asia. Next, visit the magnificent Dolmabahçe Palace, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece renowned for its opulence and beautiful gardens, which served as the residence of the Ottoman sultans during the empire’s final years.

Finally, explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, a colorful market filled with unique aromas and flavors. Here, you can enjoy an authentic Turkish experience by shopping for spices, sweets, teas, and handcrafted products. This tour immerses you in the rich history and culture of Istanbul.

Tour Highlights: Bosphorus Cruise, Dolmabahçe Palace & Spice Bazaar