Budget Travel to South East Turkey 2024
Welcome to South East Turkey!
Southeastern Turkey is a fascinating region full of history and cultural diversity, perfect for travellers looking for unique experiences. This enchanting area offers a mix of ancient sites, lively cities, and stunning natural landscapes that invite you to explore its rich past and present.
Gaziantep is a lively city known for its amazing food, particularly its traditional sweets and desserts, such as baklava. The city has a mix of influences from Anatolia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, and it is a melting pot of cultures. While visiting the city, make sure you visit the amazing and huge Zeugma Mosaic Museum. It has some of the world’s most beautiful ancient mosaics and is definitely worth seeing.
If you go a few hours further east, you will come to the historic city of Şanlıurfa, where the Prophet Abraham was born. It is a place of pilgrimage and is full of sacred sites. King Nimrod is believed to have thrown Abraham into the fire at the beautiful Balıklgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish). It’s one of my favourite city spots, and it’s located close to the fascinating bazaar. If you are looking for souvenirs or gifts, this place offers a wonderful place to shop for local crafts and spices. If you are really interested in ancient history, you can easily visit the nearby sites of Göbeklitepe and Harran on a day trip.
Mardin is a city with beautiful stone architecture and narrow, winding streets. It is a region with a strong and varied cultural and religious heritage. The city looks like something out of a history book, with its honey-coloured buildings and views over the Mesopotamian plains. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, an ancient Syriac Orthodox monastery just outside the city, there are inexpensive tours that can take you there.
For history buffs like me, you will want to visit the ancient ruins of Mount Nemrut. Here you’ll find colossal stone heads that are part of an ancient tomb and temple complex, offering incredible views, especially at sunrise or sunset. Unfortunately, the site is not easy to get to unless you rent a car or go on an expensive excursion.
Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in southeastern Turkey. The rugged Taurus Mountains and the fertile plains of Mesopotamia are perfect for hiking and exploring. The area is also famous for its unique dishes, like the spicy Kebab dishes, including Adana and Urfa kebab.
Whether you want to explore the living history of the region, taste the flavours of unique culinary and traditions, or simply enjoy the breath-taking scenery, South eastern Turkey promises an unforgettable journey.
South Eastern Turkey FAQs
What makes the cuisine of Gaziantep so special?
Gaziantep’s food is amazing because it mixes flavours from Anatolia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. You should try their famous baklava, pistachio dishes, and tasty kebabs, such as Künefe and Katmer.
Is Şanlıurfa an important religious site to visit?
Yes, Şanlıurfa is a very important place in Islam. It has the Cave of Abraham and the Pools of Sacred Fish. The historic city centre and the Balıklıgöl area are also great places to visit.
What makes the historic town of Mardin worth visiting in south eastern Turkey?
Built on a hill, Mardin boasts beautiful traditional houses crafted from honey-coloured stone. Don’t miss the Mardin Castle and the Deyrulzafaran Monastery when you visit.
Is it safe for tourists to visit south eastern Turkey at the moment?
The region had some security issues before, but things have gotten better recently. It’s usually safe if you’re careful, stay updated on the news, and maybe join organised tours. Just take the usual precautions. I felt safer there than I do in many parts of London, so I wouldn’t worry too much.
What are some tips for making the most of your trip to south eastern Turkey?
Plan your trip ahead, keep up with the news, tell someone your plans, get an eSIM for internet access, pack a scarf for visiting mosques, and think about joining tours. Staying in central places is also a good idea.
What are the best times of year to visit south eastern Turkey?
The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, when the weather is nice and roads to places like Mount Nemrut are open. Summer can be very hot, so it’s better to avoid it.
What are some of the most impressive archaeological sites in south eastern Turkey?
You should definitely check out Göbeklitepe, one of the oldest temples in the world, the historical town of Harran, and the huge stone heads on Mount Nemrut from the Commagene Kingdom. They are really impressive!
How can travellers get around South eastern Turkey?
You can fly between big cities like Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa. Buses and shared taxis (dolmuş) are good for getting between towns. Having an internet eSIM is helpful for planning your trip and getting around.
What are some products to look for in south eastern Turkey?
Look for Gaziantep’s baklava, pistachios, and traditional leather shoes called Yemeni. In Mardin, you’ll find beautiful stone carvings and metalwork. They all make excellent souvenirs!
Are there any cultural festivals in south eastern Turkey?
Yes, there are fun festivals like the annual Pistachio and Baklava Festival in Gaziantep. There are also many religious holidays and local celebrations throughout the year.
Cultural Events in South East Turkey
Gaziantep
- Gaziantep International Gastronomy Festival (GastroAntep) (September)
- Type: Culinary
- Celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Gaziantep, featuring local dishes, cooking workshops, and food tastings.
- Zeugma Mosaic Festival (October)
- Type: Cultural and historical
- Highlights the ancient mosaics of the Zeugma Mosaic Museum with various cultural event.
- Şanlıurfa
- Şanlıurfa International Music and Dance Festival (April)
- Type: Music and dance
- Features traditional music and dance performances from local and international artists.
- Göbeklitepe Festival (September)
- Type: Historical and cultural
- Celebrates the archaeological significance of Göbeklitepe with lectures, tours, and cultural activities.
Mardin
- Mardin Culture and Art Festival (May)
- Type: Multi-disciplinary arts
- Includes concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions showcasing the diverse culture of Mardin.
- Mardin International Film Festival (November)
- Type: Cinema
- Showcases films from Turkey and around the world, with a focus on cultural and social themes.
- Şanlıurfa International Music and Dance Festival (April)
Mardin
- Mardin Culture and Art Festival (May)
- Type: Multi-disciplinary arts
- Includes concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions showcasing the diverse culture of Mardin.
- Mardin International Film Festival (November)
- Type: Cinema
- Showcases films from Turkey and around the world, with a focus on cultural and social themes.
Diyarbakır
- Diyarbakır Culture and Art Festival (June)
- Type: Multi-disciplinary arts
- Features music, dance, theater, and visual arts, highlighting the cultural heritage of Diyarbakır.
- Diyarbakır Sur Cultural Festival (October)
- Type: Cultural and historical
- Celebrates the historical Sur district with various cultural events and activities.
Adıyaman
- Nemrut Festival (June)
- Type: Historical and cultural
- Celebrates the ancient site of Mount Nemrut with cultural performances and guided tours.
Hatay
- Antakya International Film Festival (November)
- Type: Cinema
- Features a selection of international and Turkish films, focusing on cultural and social issues.
- St. Peter’s Festival (June)
- Type: Religious and cultural
- Celebrates the Feast of St. Peter with religious ceremonies and cultural events in Antakya.