Discover Mesopotamia, the cradle of civilization, where the Tigris and Euphrates once nourished the world’s first great cultures with our Private 5-Day Tour of Mesopotamia and Gobekli Tepe. On this 5-day journey, you will explore the city of Mardin. This city reflects thousands of years of history in its golden stone houses, cobblestone streets, and the harmony of Assyrian, Christian, Muslim, and Jewish traditions. Here, landmarks such as the Grand Mosque, Kasimiye Madrasa, Deyrulzafaran Monastery, and the ancient city of Dara bring the past vividly to life. At the same time, the nearby towns of Midyat and Nusaybin add their own unique charm. We will visit Gobekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 12,000-year-old carved pillars stand as witnesses to humanity’s earliest rituals and spiritual expressions. Older than Stonehenge and the pyramids at Gobeklitepe. It is known as the “Zero Point in Time” and marks the dawn of civilization itself. This journey through Mesopotamia is more than travel—it is a step into the roots of human history, culture, and belief, offering an unforgettable experience at the very beginning of time.
Day 1: Istanbul to Mardin
- We will pick you up from your hotel in Istanbul and take you to the airport for your flight to Mardin.
- Upon your arrival at Mardin Airport, we will meet you and transfer you to the city center. Mardin is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. We will stroll through its charming limestone streets, admire its majestic mansions and stone houses, and visit the iconic Grand Mosque.
- In the afternoon, we will visit Kasimiye Madrasa before heading to your hotel for an overnight stay in Mardin.
Day 2: Dara – Nusaybin – Midyat (Breakfast)
- After breakfast, we will visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, built on the remains of an ancient solar temple. This historic site, dating back to the 5th century, once served as the spiritual center of the Syrian Orthodox Church. During the visit, you’ll explore the main chapel, the crypt, the old chapel, and the cellar—remnants of the ancient solar temple that once stood here.
- Next, we will head to Dara, an ancient Assyrian city later reconstructed by Roman emperors. We’ll explore the ruins of Dara, including the cemetery, water cisterns, fortification walls, and the Agora Church.
- From there, we will proceed to Nusaybin (Nisibis), which was once a key commercial hub. After exploring the city, we will visit the Church of Saint Jacob.
- We will pause for lunch by the Beyazsu River, enjoying the scenic surroundings, before continuing to Midyat. Midyat is a charming town with a unique character. We’ll stroll through its streets, soaking in the local culture and atmosphere.
- At the end of the tour, we will return you to your hotel in Mardin.
Day 3: Gobeklitepe – Sanliurfa (Breakfast)
- After breakfast, we will head to Sanlıurfa to visit the world-renowned archaeological site of Gobekli Tepe. Known as the oldest temple on Earth, this awe-inspiring site predates the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time as you explore this remarkable sanctuary, which is over 12,000 years old.
- Next, we will continue to Sanlıurfa, where you will visit the Archaeology Museum and the Mosaic Museum, delving deeper into the region’s rich history.
- We will then visit Balikligol (the Pool of Sacred Fish), a holy site associated with the birth of the Prophet Abraham. You’ll have some free time to explore the city at your own pace.
- At the end of the tour, we will transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay in Sanlıurfa.
Day 4: Adiyaman – Mount Nemrut (Breakfast)
- After breakfast, we will head to Adıyaman to visit the magnificent Mount Nemrut. At the summit, you will marvel at the mausoleum of Antiochus I of Commagene, a temple-tomb dedicated to the gods. Admire the awe-inspiring statues of the Kingdom of Commagene and enjoy the panoramic views from this 2,200-meter-high mountain.
- Next, we will proceed to Kahta to explore the ancient city of Arsemia, the impressive Roman Bridge of Cendere, and the Royal Tomb of Karakus.
- Finally, we will continue to Gaziantep, where we will spend the night.
Day 5: Antakya -Istanbul (Breakfast)
- After breakfast, we will head to Antakya.
- Our first stop will be the Antakya Archaeology Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of mosaics from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Next, you will have time to explore the historic Church of Saint Peter, a significant site in early Christian history.
- Afterward, we will transfer you to the airport for your return to Istanbul. We will meet and take you back to your hotel upon your arrival.