Home / Europe, Turkey Tours / Culinary, Wine, Food & Tasting

Istanbul to Mesopotamia Cultural & Gastronomy Tour (12 Days)

Istanbul, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Gobeklitepe Archeological Site, Adiyaman, Nemrut Mount, Gaziantep,
Duration

12 day(s)

Tour type

Private

Group size

1-40 people

Physical Level

easy

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Tour Overview

This immersive journey traces the cultural, spiritual, and culinary heritage of Turkey, beginning in the imperial city of Istanbul and extending deep into the ancient lands of Mesopotamia. Along the way, travelers encounter cliffside monasteries, sacred pools, prehistoric temples, majestic mountain sanctuaries, and vibrant living traditions preserved in villages and bazaars.

From the cinematic streets of Istanbul to the stone cities of Mardin, from Göbeklitepe—the world’s oldest temple—to the legendary flavors of Gaziantep, this tour is designed for travelers seeking authenticity, history, and meaningful local experiences. Carefully paced and enriched by expert guiding, it offers not only sightseeing, but genuine cultural connection.

Activities
Discovery Historical In-depth Cultural Sightseeing Photography Food & Culinary Walking Tour

Tour Features

Duration
12 day(s)

Max Group Size
1-40 people

Tour Code
ITMCGT12D

Departure Type
scheduled

Tour Category
Culinary, Wine, Food & Tasting

Guiding Method
Fully guided

Operated In

Age Requirement
11 - 99

Istanbul

Pickup Time:

----------------

Gaziantep

Dropoff Time:

Highlights
Evening Bosphorus dinner cruise in Istanbul

Itinerary

Day 1

(Dinner at the Bosphorus boat)

Upon arrival in Istanbul, you are welcomed and transferred from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to your hotel in the historic Old City, where centuries of empires echo through narrow streets and domed skylines.

As evening falls, step aboard a Bosphorus dinner cruise, gliding between Europe and Asia. Against the glow of illuminated palaces and bridges, enjoy dinner accompanied by traditional music and live performances—an atmospheric introduction to the soul of Istanbul.

Overnight: Istanbul

Day 2

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded)

After breakfast, the day unfolds through a unique lens: the cinematic world of Turkish television dramas, whose stories have carried Istanbul’s image across continents.

Visit Beykoz Kundura, wander the historic streets of Balat, cross the iconic Bosphorus Bridge, and follow the shoreline through Büyükdere and Bebek. A panoramic drive along the Üsküdar Harem Coastal Road reveals Istanbul’s Asian side, complemented by exterior views of Topkapı Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. At midday, pause in Eminönü to enjoy the classic street food experience of freshly grilled fish served in bread. Return to the hotel in the afternoon. Overnight: Istanbul

Day 3

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded )

Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for the journey to Mardin. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, ascend to Mardin Castle, where sweeping views stretch across the Mesopotamian plains, offering a timeless perspective over ancient lands. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a clean, modest, and authentic local restaurant, where traditional Mardin dishes are prepared with care and simplicity. Dinner included. Overnight: Mardin

Day 4

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded )

After breakfast, begin a full-day exploration of Mardin’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Visit Deyrulzafaran Monastery, the ancient Roman city of Dara, Ulu Mosque, Zinciriye and Kasimiye Madrasas, and the Archaeology Museum.

Time is also reserved for wandering the historic bazaar, where daily life unfolds amid stone arches and narrow lanes.Lunch is taken at a simple, affordable local restaurant (not included). Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Evening at leisure. Overnight: Mardin

Day 5

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded )

Depart Mardin by road toward Şanlıurfa, crossing landscapes steeped in ancient memory. Accommodation is arranged in a traditional village house or beehive homestay, offering an intimate and authentic cultural experience. Lunch becomes a shared activity through a hands-on cooking workshop, followed by a meal prepared together. In the afternoon, visit Göbeklitepe, the Harran Hive Houses, Harran Ruins, and the Aleppo Gate. Return to the homestay in the evening. Overnight: Şanlıurfa (Village House / Beehive Homestay)

Day 6

Begin the day at Balıklıgöl, the sacred Pool of Fish, a place of quiet devotion and reflection. Later, participate in a Harran ceramics workshop, learning traditional pottery techniques from local artisans. In the evening, enjoy a Sıra Gecesi, a deeply rooted Urfa tradition featuring music, storytelling, folk dances, and shared dishes. Overnight: Şanlıurfa

Day 7

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded)

Travel by road to Adıyaman. Explore the monuments of the ancient Kingdom of Commagene, including Karakuş Tumulus, Cendere Roman Bridge, and Arsemia. As the sun sets, ascend Mount Nemrut, where colossal stone heads watch silently over the landscape, creating one of Anatolia’s most unforgettable moments. Dinner is enjoyed at a local, non-touristic restaurant serving authentic Adıyaman cuisine. Overnight: Adiyaman

Day 8

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded)

After breakfast, visit Perre Ancient City, known for its rock-cut tombs and Roman remains. Lunch at a high-quality, affordable local restaurant (not included). The afternoon and evening are free. Overnight: Adıyaman

Day 9

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded )

Travel to Gaziantep, a city famed for its artistic heritage and culinary excellence. Visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, explore the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar, enjoy pistachio coffee at Tahmis Coffeehouse, and taste traditional Antep baklava at a small, locally owned bakery. Overnight: Gaziantep

Day 10

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded )

Embark on a gastronomy-focused walking tour, uncovering the flavors and techniques that define Gaziantep’s culinary identity. Conclude the experience with a hands-on cooking workshop, then enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight: Gaziantep

Day 11

(Breakfast Lunch And Dinner Inculuded)

After hotel pick-up, travel to a nearby village for a full-day family-hosted experience. Guests take part in daily rural life—making butter and cheese, preparing molasses, and sharing meals with the host family. Overnight: Gaziantep

Day 12

(Breakfast Inculuded )

Transfer from the hotel to Gaziantep Airport for departure. End of services.

Included

Accommodation (11 Nights Total)

Carefully selected hotels and authentic local stays:

Istanbul: 2 nights – Central Placas Hotel or Smiller

Mardin: 2 nights – Reyhani Kasrı Hotel or Smiller

Şanlıurfa: 2 nights – El-Ruha Hotel or Smiller

Adıyaman: 2 nights – Park Dedeman Adıyaman or Smiller

Gaziantep: 3 nights – Tugcan Hotel or Smiller

Professional licensed English-speaking guide throughout the tour

Meals & Services

Daily breakfast

Lunches during workshops and village experiences

Included dinners:

Mardin (traditional local restaurant)

Adıyaman (local cuisine restaurant)

Village family experience day

Airport & hotel transfers as per program

Istanbul

Bosphorus dinner cruise with live show

Turkish TV Series Filming Locations Tour

Panoramic city highlights

Mardin

Mardin Castle

Deyrulzafaran Monastery

Dara Ancient City

Zinciriye & Kasimiye Madrasas

Ulu Mosque & Archaeology Museum

Historic bazaar walk

Şanlıurfa

Göbeklitepe (UNESCO site)

Harran Ruins & Beehive Houses

Aleppo Gate

Balıklıgöl (Sacred Pool)

Harran ceramics workshop

Traditional Sıra Gecesi night

Adıyaman

Karakuş Tumulus

Cendere Roman Bridge

Arsemia

Mount Nemrut sunset experience

Perre Ancient City

Gaziantep

Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Coppersmiths’ Bazaar

Pistachio coffee at Tahmis Coffeehouse

Baklava tasting at a local bakery

Gastronomy walking tour

Hands-on cooking workshop

Village life family experience

All ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicles

Entrance fees to all museums and archaeological sites

Boat cruise on the Bosphorus

Local taxes and service charges

Excluded

International and Domestic flights

Travel insurance

Some lunches and dinners not specified as included

Beverages during meals

Personal expenses (shopping, minibar, laundry)

Tips for guide and driver (optional)

Tour Booking

Travelers
Departure Month
Private Tour Prices
Start End
Sep 6, 2026 Sep 17, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 7, 2026 Sep 18, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 8, 2026 Sep 19, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 9, 2026 Sep 20, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 10, 2026 Sep 21, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 11, 2026 Sep 22, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 12, 2026 Sep 23, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 13, 2026 Sep 24, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 14, 2026 Sep 25, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 15, 2026 Sep 26, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 16, 2026 Sep 27, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 17, 2026 Sep 28, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 18, 2026 Sep 29, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 19, 2026 Sep 30, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 20, 2026 Oct 1, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 21, 2026 Oct 2, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 22, 2026 Oct 3, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 23, 2026 Oct 4, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 24, 2026 Oct 5, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 25, 2026 Oct 6, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 26, 2026 Oct 7, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 27, 2026 Oct 8, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 28, 2026 Oct 9, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 29, 2026 Oct 10, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
Sep 30, 2026 Oct 11, 2026 €3545 (%10 Off) €3191
Double room
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