Budget Travel to Mardin 2024
Welcome to Mardin!
Mardin is one of Turkey’s hidden gems. It´s a place with lots of history, culture, as well as incredible landscapes and is the perfect destination for budget travellers who are looking for an adventure holiday.
In many ways Mardin is special, it is unique because of its wonderful mix of Christian monasteries, and Muslim mosques that date back centuries. The old town of Mardin is like a living museum, if you walk through its back streets, you will find a mix of Turkish, Arabic, and Kurdish cultures, offering an incredible mix of traditions and architecture.
The natural beauty of the city is also breath-taking views. You can sit at one of Mardin’s hilltop café terraces and watch the sunset over the stunning Mesopotamian plains, drinking a glass of tea for just a few cents.
The delicious local cuisine also makes it a foodie paradise, with lots of tasty budget-friendly restaurants offering local meat specialties that are unique to the region, as well as its locally produced wine.
In this travel guide, we’ll show you how to explore this wonderful ancient city and the surrounding area on a budget, making holiday memories that will last for years.
Key Takeaways
- Mardin is a place you can visit without spending a lot of money. It is perfect for visitors who are interested in history, nature, and cultural tourism.
- The region has a mix of Turkish, Kurdkish and Arab cultures that result in a unique local cuisine.
- Mardin is like a living museum with spectacular buildings and beautiful places that are breath-taking views.
- This part of Turkey is a place where different religions peacefully exist together, with mosques, churches and synagogues.
- The city isn’t a famous tourist destination, so it’s not too crowded nor too expensive.
- Mardin is located far from most other cities in Turkey, but there are good air and road links to the city.
- There are lots of interesting attractions and landmarks in and around Mardin that you should try to visit during your trip.
- Accommodation is affordable with many unique types of hotels available.
- The best times to visit Mardin are in the spring or autumn, when the weather is ideal.
Where is Mardin?
Mardin is located in the Kurdish region of south east Turkey. It is just under 1,500 km by road from Istanbul and approximately 1200 km from the capital, Ankara.
It is situated about 50 km by road from the border of Syria and 160 km from the nearest border crossing into Iraqi Kurdistan.
The city was originally one of the main trading points on the Silk Road.
Map of Mardin
A Brief History of Mardin
The history of Mardin stretches back as far as the Bronze Age. Over the years, many empires have ruled over this ancient city, including the Babylonian, Hittite, and Persian kingdoms, and later by the Roman, Byzantine, and Artuqid empires.
In the late 11th century, the city was taken over by the Selijuk Turks and became an important trading town along the Silk Route between the 12th and 15th centuries.
The city became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1516 when Sultan Selim I, conquered the city. He allowed religious freedom in the region, which benefited the Syriac (Assyrian) Christians who have been living there for centuries.
Mardin Old Town & New Town
Mardin is divided into two different parts: the new town (Yenişehir) and the old town (Eski Mardin). They are located fairly close to each other, maybe about 10 minutes by taxi.
In reality, the old town is the best place to be, although it only consists of one long road, which is called Cadde 1 (pronounced Jadday beer). From this main road, there are many smaller back streets that you should explore.
Cadde 1 is where most of the historical buildings, shops, restaurants, and hotels are located. This street is situated on the top of a steep hill and is overlooked by Mardin Castle. For this reason, most tourists who come to Mardin want to stay in the old town.
Exploring Mardin
If you want to step back in time, just walk through Mardin’s old town. You can easily lose yourself in the back streets, which are filled with beautifully preserved building. The architecture and beautiful stonework is simply amazing.
You can´t talk about Mardin without mentioning the spectacular views of the Mesopotamian plains. These flat lands cross over into Syria and beyond.
In every corner of old Mardin there is a treasure waiting to be discovered. It might be a historic landmark, a traditional house, or a charming local shop or a beautiful madrasa or mosque.
It is actually hard to take in the incredible beauty of this city, but as you explore this open-air museum, you will start to get a taste of Mardin’s fascinating past.
Mardin is both a city and a region that is renowned for its religious harmony, where wonderful mosques and monasteries today coexist in harmony. This is surely this city a place that we can all learn from.
You should try to take the opportunity to visit as many of these iconic religious sites as you can during your visit, even if it is only to appreciate their beauty and historical significance. Regardless of your religion, there is a great deal of beauty in all the religious sites in the region.
For the budget traveller, many of the best tourist attractions are free to visit. especially the historic mosques. Some monasteries charge a small fee for tourists to visit, while some churches may ask for a small donation, which is not obligatory but appreciated, this is probably done out of need to survive the economic difficulties of the country.
All in all, the attractions in Mardin are affordable, making it a really budget-friendly and fascinating city to visit.
The Great Mosque: Ulu Cami
Mardin’s rich Islamic history can be seen in its numerous mosques and madrasas. The Great Mosque of Mardin, also known as Ulu Cami features a superbly decorated minaret and a beautiful prayer hall.
It dates back to the 12th century and is one of the oldest in the city. It has an unusual mix of both Seljuk and Artuqid architectural styles. It is free to enter, but you should try to avoid going there during prayer times, out of respect.
Latifiye Mosque
The Latifiye Mosque, also situated in old Mardin, is an architectural treasure dating back to the 14th century. Built by Abdul Latif bin Abdullah in 1371 and is known for its Artuqid design,.
The mosque has an elegant minaret that is decorated with intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy. However, the minaret was built at a later date than the rest of the mosque.
This wonderful mosque is a little hidden away, but it is definitely a place that shouldn´t be missed. The entrance is impressive, and the courtyard inside is magical. Entrance is also free.
Church of Forty Martyrs
This historical site which is also known as Mo Behnam Church is located in old Mardin and is also well-known for its stunning architecture and attracts both local and foreign tourists alike.
It was built in the 7th century and is considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in the region and is a must-see attraction. There is a small entrance fee to get in, which helps this place of worship survive.
Mardin Castle
The castle is an imposing structure that originally dates back about 3000 years, although it was rebuilt in 975 AD. It overlooks the old town and is visible from the entire town. It is approximately 1 km long and ranges from 40 to 150m wide, but unfortunately, it is now in a state of ruin.
From the top you can get panoramic views of the city and the Mesopotamian plains, but due to its strategic location, it has been converted into a military base and is not open to the public except for special occasions. However, if you are feeling energetic, you can walk up part of the hill to where it stands to get a bird´s eye view of the town.
Zinciriye Madrasa
The madrasa is an excellent example of Islamic architecture and is another unique landmark in Mardin. It was a historical Islamic educational institution with roots dating back to the 14th century and was commissioned by Sultan İsa Bey in 1385.
The madrasa is known for its exquisite architecture and detailed stone carvings. The building features a traditional courtyard that is surrounded by student rooms and classrooms.
The amazing domes and the view of valley below is breath-taking. The walk up the hill to the madrasa, may be challenging for older travellers.
It is not wheelchair accessible as there are many steps to climb to enter the building. There is a small donation to enter the madrasa, which is less than one euro.
Kasımiye Madrasa
Another magnificent building is the Kasimiye Madrasa. This significant Islamic institution is an example the city’s rich history of religious education.
It was commissioned by the Artuqid ruler Kasım Khan in 1473. Its stunning architecture, featuring intricate stone carvings and a distinctive courtyard make it a must-see attraction. There is a small fee to entre.
Mardin Museum
The Mardin Museum has several archaeological artefacts and provides a comprehensive overview. There is ancient pottery to historical documents, and the museum offers visitors information about the ancient city’s past. It is not a big museum and takes only 20 minutes or so to walk around. It definitely cannot be compared to the Sanliurfa museum.
Actually, what I like most about the museum was the building itself. It is a work of art, built using stone in a classical design. It is conveniently located, and overlooks the main square of Old Town with its statue of Ataturk below, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. It costs just a few euros to enter and is worth it.
Mardin City Museum
This smaller City Museum is located further down Cadde 1 and is housed in a more modern building. There is a beautiful classic Turkish motor car parked at the entrance that is in immaculate condition, which car enthusiasts will love.
On the ground floor, there are a wide range of artefacts that give visitors an in-depth vision of life in old Mardin. There is also a collection of interesting paintings, both old and modern.
The basement section of the museum is dedicated to traditional rugs, with a collection of rugs that highlights traditional crafts that have been famous in the region for centuries. The museum will take you about 30 minutes to see and entry price is just a few euros and is also worth the visit.
Attractions around Mardin
Most of the churches and monasteries are located outside Mardin city, in the region surrounding the town of Midyat. The Syriac Christians refer to the area as “Tur Abdin”. These historically significant religious sites give visitors a good understanding of the Syriac culture and religious history of the Mardin region.
Unfortunately, there is no public transport to take you to these monasteries. This makes it complicated for solo travellers and those who are on a budget to get there. There are several options for getting to these fascinating historical gems.
The first option is to rent a car, this is of course, the most expensive way. The second choice is to take a taxi; this also works out expensive unless you are travelling in a group. Hitch hiking is definitely NOT recommended.
The last and best option is to go on an inexpensive organised tour. A tour includes all the must-see attractions and landmarks.
The Deyrulzafaran Monastery
The Deyrul zafaran Monastery is located several kilometres outside Mardin an it is a significant Syriac Orthodox Christian monastery dating back to the 5th century.
It is an architectural wonder from the Byzantine era and has long been a spiritual centre for the Syriac Orthodox community for centuries. Its historical significance and unique architecture make it a unmissable place to visit.
The monastery is situated on top of a hill, surrounded by orchards, and is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, including a distinctive red dome. There is a small entrance fee of a few euros.
The Church of the Virgin Mary
This is one of the most beautiful and important Christian religious sites in the region and is known for its detailed stone carvings and well-preserved fresco wall paintings.
It located approximately 30 km from the town of Midyat and offers visitors a unique spiritual experience that reflects the Syriac culture. There is a small entrance fee that helps pay for the maintenance of the site. You can pay either with Turkish lira or with a bank card.
The Mor Gabriel Monastery
Built in 397 by Mo Samuel, this monastery provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s religious history. Its wonderful architectural style makes it a must-visit site.
These monasteries are still in use today, with monks living there permanently. There is a small entrance fee. You can pay by card but if you pay by cash remember to take some small bank notes with you.
The Ancient City of Dara
While you are visiting the region you can explore the ancient ruins of Dara, which are interesting. The cave dwelling and cave tombs are definitely worth visiting.
There is a main burial chamber that you can enter and walk around and it is a little similar to cave dwellings in Cappadocia, but without the fairy chimneys.
There is also nearby impressive water cistern is an important archaeological site that dates back to the Roman period.
Midyat Town
This historical town is located about 70 kilometres from Mardin and just 20 kilometres from the Syrian border. It is a charming town and is famous for its historic stone houses with detailed stone carvings.
In many ways Midyat is similar to Mardina Old Town, but on a smaller scale and without the panoramic views.
Many Turkish historical soap operas are filmed in this town due to the well-preserved historical buildings and it is a popular place for Turkish tourists to come and see where these series are filmed.
Mardin Excursions
In order to see many of the best attractions in the area around Mardin, the best option is to go on an organised tour. There are not many places in Turkey where going on a tour is absolutely necessary, but in Mardin it definitely is.
There aren´t many tour agencies in the old town, but the best one is HGM Tourism. The website is in Turkish, but there is someone who speaks English in their office on Cadde 1 which is more or less opposite Mardin Museum.
They offer a really great tour, which is very reasonably priced. It was a full-day tour that visited the best monasteries, Dara and the cistern, and then stopped for lunch at a nice riverside restaurant. We finished the day with a visit to the historic town of Midyat.
This tour was really the only way to see so many wonderful places, and best of all, it was budget-friendly at around 25 euros, excluding entrance fees (which maybe add up to an extra 6-8 euros) and it also doesn´t including lunch.
The lunch was in a very nice restaurant by the riverside and only cost about 5 or 6 euros. It is a full day tours from around 9 to 5.
Shopping in Mardin
The main street of the old town (Cadde 1) is a great place for shopping. You will find plenty of stores selling just about every traditional Turkish handicraft item you could wish for.
There are also shops dedicated to natural and hand-made soap. These bars of soap are famous in Mardin and are made using many different local ingredients and fragrances. They can make an affordable and useful gift.
Another type of shop that you will find on the high street are ones that sell local and specialised ground coffee. especially the famous “Dibek” Coffee, which is probably the most delicious coffee in Turkey and difficult to find in other parts of the country. Many of these shops also sell spices, herbs, and local sweet delicacies.
As previously mentioned, there are wine stores that sell both local and Syrian wines. Many of them are delicious, but they probably don´t make an easy gift to transport back home. In all of these types of shops, the prices are fixed and clearly displayed. So, don´t try to bargain.
There are also many interesting antique stores along Cadde 1, that sell fascinating and unusual items that you would find difficult to find elsewhere. I would probably try to negotiate a better price of an expensive item in an antique shop.
The Old Bazaar
The old bazar (Kapalı Carşi) is about 600 years old and is located just off Caddi 1. Here you will find a collection of small, charming shops and stalls selling spice, herbs, and a variety of other items that could make great and inexpensive souvenirs.
This bargaining process in the bazaar is part of the enjoyment of shopping in Turkey. Remember, when bargaining, it should be friendly and a win-win situation that is good for everyone.
It´s open from 9am until 6pm and it´s free to enter.
What to Eat in Mardin
When it comes to experiencing Mardin’s cuisine, you don’t have to overspend. The city offers a wide range of budget-friendly dining options that allow you to try traditional dishes without putting a strain on your wallet.
If you are in Yenirsehir (the New Town), you will find restaurants a little less expensive than in the Old town However, even in Old Mardin, there are lots of economic options hidden between the expensive, high-end restaurants.
You should try to sample some of the mouth-watering Mardin kebabs, meat and vegetable stews, and aromatic rice dishes that have been passed down through generations.
Don’t miss out on tasting the famous “meftune,” a popular eggplant dish, and “mahmudiye” (Chicken, cooked with apricots and almonds), which are local specialties known for their unique blend of spices and ingredients.
Where to Eat in Mardin
If you’re looking for affordable dining options, Mardin has a range of budget-friendly restaurants that cater to every taste.
Sultan Sofrasi Restaurant on Cadde 1 is perhaps the best and wallet friendly traditional restaurants in the Old town.
It is an absolute must for budget travellers who want to try traditional Mardini cuisine. There is one dish that is a mix of different local specialties, including Mardin Kebab, that is a game changer. There are some great views of the valley below from the restaurant. A huge meal costs about 7 euros and includes a small local dessert and a fresh Ayran yoghurt drink.
Of course, there are cheaper options available on Cadde 1, including several restaurants that serve low-cost options like “Pide” (Turkish Pizza) or a tantalising “Lahmacun” (thin and crispy meat-topped flatbread).
Haci Gazi Kebab Restaurant is another good option and is famous for its delicious and affordable kebabs.
If you walk along Cadde 1 you will see many cake shops selling affordable and traditional sweets, such as “baklava” and “künefe.” (An incredible dessert made with melted cheese.)
If your hotel or hostel doesn´t provide you with breakfast, then a traditional Mardin breakfast will set you up for the day at an affordable price.
However, for solo travellers, this breakfast can be overwhelming, as there is simply so much of it. For Turkish people, breakfast is a social activity in which sharing is caring.
Bajer Teras Cafe is a great option for experiencing a filling traditional Mardin breakfast. It is situated in a back alley just below Cadde 1.
Cafes & Nightlife
After a day of exploring the city, you can unwind at one of Mardin’s charming cafes and experience its relaxing atmosphere. Sip on aromatic Turkish tea, or “çay” in Turkish, as you enjoy the stunning views of the city and watch the sunset.
Atilla çay bahçesi or Atilla Tea Garden is a wonderful place that is located about half way along Cadde 1. It is set on a terrace that overlooks the picturesque valley below.
There are also views of the nearby minaret and mosque. It is perhaps the perfect budget-friendly and unpretentious place to have a tea or coffee in town.
In the evening, Mardin comes alive with lively bars and music venues where you can mix with locals and enjoy in the city’s social scene. There are many terrace restaurants with spectacular views, as well as other places that have offer live music. Some of them will offer alcohol and others place don´t.
The night time attractions in Mardin are quite different from those in other more conservative cities in Southeast Turkey and the middle of Cadde 1 can be quite a noisy place in the evening.
It can be nice to have the lively atmosphere with live music and even traditional dance shows, but it can go on until late and you should choose your accommodation carefully, so that the music doesn´t disturb your sleep.
Local & Syrian Wines
Along the main street in the old town, you will find several shops that are dedicated to selling both local and inexpensive imported Syrian wines. This is something very unusual in Turkey.
You can try some of the different wines on offer in the shop, but you should avoid this if you have no intention of buying a bottle afterwards. The wines vary in quality and price, but some of them are extremely good and are, in reality no more expensive than in the west.
Wine has been produced in this area of the world for millennia, and in spite of the recent government tax increases on alcohol, wine is still a popular drink and is available in most up market restaurants.
Where to Stay in Mardin
There are various options for affordable accommodation that cater to different budgets. The first thing to consider is if you are prepared to stay in Yenişehir, the new part of Mardin, instead of in the old town. There are pros and cons to choosing this option.
The pros include lower prices than in Old Mardin, a wider choice of low-cost restaurants in the New Town, and finally, it´s less noisy at night.
The cons are that you will want to spend most of your time exploring the Old Town area, both day and evening, and doing this is more difficult if you are staying in Yenisehir.
You can take the dolmus minibus for about 50 cents each way, or even a local bus, if you buy a MardinKart travel pass. A taxi will cost you about 5 euros minimum, more at night, and travelling back and forth between the old town and your hotel will soon become expensive.
Traditional Accommodation
For travellers seeking an authentic experience, traditional accommodation options in Mardin are well worth considering. Guesthouses and boutique hotels offer a unique glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Mardin Old town.
These unique and historical houses that are built of stone have been converted into hotels provide comfortable rooms and often feature traditional architecture and decoration, sometime with a courtyard, and allowing guests to really enjoy the local atmosphere.
You will find that most of the hotels in Yenisehir (New Town) are made using more modern construction methods and look similar to hotels anywhere else in Turkey.
In general hotels in Yenisehir are cheaper, but less popular.
Hostels and Hotels in Mardin
If you are a backpacker or a budget-conscious traveller, Mardin also offers a range of affordable hostels. This type of accommodation provides comfortable and clean rooms at lower prices, making them an ideal choice for those looking to save money on accommodation.
Hostels are also a great way to meet fellow travellers and exchange tips and recommendations.
Old City Mardin Hotel & Hostel located in the heart of the Old town is a cheap and clean option, but has mixed reviews.
Rosa Hostel is another centrally located option with slightly better review.
Budget hotels are also available in the old town, some of them are built using traditional stone and can often be quite beautiful.
Kasri Cihan, is a budget stone house hotel located in the Old town and is reasonably priced.
Prices of hotels in the summer months will be on average 30% more expensive than in the low season. You can check websites such as booking.com and agoda.com to find the best prices.
Apartment & Room Rental
For travellers who prefer a more independent and sometimes a more cost-effective option, apartment rentals and sharing can be a good choice. By renting an apartment, you can have more privacy and flexibility during your stay in Mardin.
Sharing an apartment with a Turkish host can help cut the cost, making it an even more economical choice. It is also a good way of learning more about local culture. It can often be the cheapest way to stay in the city.
Airbnb offers a wide range of accommodation, from basic shared apartments for as low as 15 euros per night to luxury stone houses that cost up to 100 euros in the summer. When you´re travelling in the low season you can expect to make big savings on accommodation expenses.
Make sure to check the comments that have been left by people who have stayed in the hotel or apartment and double check the location on a map before making a decision.
Remember, if you ae staying in a hotel or rented apartment that is situated in the central area of Cadde 1, it can be quite noisy until late at night.
Getting to Mardin
When it comes to planning your trip to Mardin, you’ll find various options for public transportation to and within the city.
Of course it is also possible to rent a car, but the city is located quite far away from most of the touristic areas of the country and there are a lot of police road checks on the main roads crossing Turkey, which could deter many drivers who don´t speak Turkish.
Although Police usually let western travellers pass by road checks without any problem.
There are no trains connecting Mardin to the rest of the country, but there is an excellent bus network, as well as an small airport that has regular domestic flights.
Flights to Mardin
If you prefer air travel, Mardin has its own airport that is located about 20 kilometres from the city and runs only domestic flights. Two airlines operate in Mardin, providing limited options for travellers.
To find affordable flights you should consider booking in advance and comparing prices from different airlines. Pegasus is usually a cheaper option than Turkish Airlines.
- Istanbul (IST) -2h.15m – Turkish Airlines
- Istanbul (SAW) – 2h Pegasus Airlines
- Ankara – 1h.30m – Turkish Airlines
- Izmir – 2h.15m – Pegasus Airlines
There are currently no international flights to Mardin Airport which is surprising considering the large amount of Kurdish Turks who are living in Germany.
Getting from the Airport to Mardin
Once you arrive at Mardin Airport, you’ll need to find a way to get to the city centre, which is located about 20 kilometres away. Fortunately, there are several transportation options available.
Taxis are a convenient choice, and you can find them outside the airport terminal 24 hours per day. Additionally, some of the more expensive hotels offer airport transfer services, so it’s worth checking with your accommodation if they provide this option.
There is also a regular airport shuttle bus (Havaş) service that operates between the airport, the new town, and the Old town. The shuttle bus stops just in the middle of Cadde 1. This is an extremely useful and low-cost option for budget travellers. It costs around 5 euros each way.
Intercity Buses to Mardin
If you prefer bus travel, Mardin is well connected to other cities in Turkey. The city is linked to Istanbul and Ankara via the national highway. Buses to other cities in southern Turkey, such as Adana, Sanliurfa, Gaziantep, and Van, also run frequently.
There are several bus companies that operate routes to Mardin, offering affordable and comfortable journeys. (See our guide to travelling around Turkey by Bus).
- Istanbul to Mardin: about 23 hours
- Ankara to Mardin: 16 hours
- Adana to Mardin: About 10 hours
- Gaziantep to Mardin: approximately 6h.15m
- Sanliurfa to Mardin: 3h.20m
Getting from the Bus Station to Mardin
Mardin Bus Station is located in the New town. From there you’ll be able to easily reach Mardin’s Old Town, where many of the city’s attractions are located. either by Taxis, buses, or minibus (Dolmuş).
These options are not only convenient but also budget-friendly, allowing you to explore Mardin at your own pace. The cost of a taxi fare from the bus station to the Old town is about 5 euros whilst a domus will cost you about 50 cents.
Getting around Mardin
If you are stayıng ın Mardın Old town you can walk everywhere and this makes life much easier.
if you are planning to stay in the New town you will have the inconvenience of having to take a dolmuş, bus, or taxi in order to get around.
If you take the city bus you will need to buy a local travel pass, which is not so easy to find, and you cannot pay cash on the bus. If you go by dolmus mini bus you can pay in cash and a taxi will cost you about 4-5 euros, depending on the time and area of the city you are in.
When to Visit Mardin
Probably the best time to visit the city is either in the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild.
The weather in the summertime is extremely hot, but in spite of the heat, many younger people still visit the city during this time of year to take advantage of university and school holidays.
Wintertime can be bitterly cold, and snow is not uncommon, making stone pavements slippery and difficult to walk on, especially if you are older or travelling with kids.
Is Mardin Worth Visiting?
Visiting Mardin is one of the highlights of touring south east Turkey. It is a hidden gem that is rarely visited by foreign tourists.
Its charm is not only thanks to its architectural beauty, its incredible history and stunning scenery, but also thanks to the charm of the Kurdish Turks who make travellers feel so welcome.
It has to be one of my favourite destinations in Turkey and is a place that I intend to visit again in the near future.
