04:00 – You will be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul and transferred to the airport for your flight to Diyarbakir. (Pick-up time may vary according to the hotel location and the flight time.)
07:15 – Flight from Istanbul to Diyarbakir. (Flight time may vary.)
09:05 – Arrival in Diyarbakir. Meet your guide at the airport and begin your cultural journey through one of Turkey’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
Guided Tour of Diyarbakir – Highlights:
- Old City Walls – Built with dark basalt stone, these impressive fortifications date back to Roman and Byzantine times, stretching over 5.5 km and encircling the old city with 82 watchtowers.
- Four-Legged Minaret (Dört Ayaklı Minare) – A unique architectural marvel from the 16th century, famous for its four narrow supporting legs and religious symbolism.
- Diyarbakir Archaeological Museum – Home to artifacts from the Neolithic period to the Ottoman era, offering insight into the city’s multi-layered past.
- Hazrat Suleiman Mosque – A sacred site dedicated to the legendary Islamic figure Süleyman, revered for its spiritual atmosphere and serene courtyard.
- Diyarbakir Inner Castle (Içkale) – A citadel dating back to antiquity, now a scenic area with restored buildings and panoramic views of the Tigris River.
- Surp Giragos Armenian Church – One of the largest Armenian churches in the Middle East, beautifully restored and a symbol of Diyarbakir’s multicultural heritage.
- Telegraph Office Street – A nostalgic walk through the heart of Ottoman-era communication history and charming old architecture.
- Great Mosque of Diyarbakir (Ulu Cami) – One of the oldest mosques in Anatolia, built in the 11th century with stunning black basalt and intricate stonework.
- Mesudiye Madrasa – An educational institution from the Artuqid period, renowned for its symmetrical design and rich Islamic architecture.
- Hasan Pasha Caravanserai – A 16th-century Ottoman inn that once hosted traveling merchants; now a vibrant bazaar with cafés, local crafts, and souvenirs.
- Coffee and Wine Break at Suluklu Inn – Rest and enjoy traditional Diyarbakir-style coffee or a local wine in a charming historical courtyard.
- 10 Arches Bridge (Dicle Bridge / On Gözlü Köprü) – A graceful stone bridge from the 11th century stretching across the Tigris River, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
The tour ends. Afterward, transfer to Diyarbakir Airport for your evening flight back to Istanbul.
21:45 – Flight from Diyarbakir to Istanbul. (Flight time may vary.)
23:50 – Arrival in Istanbul. You will be met at the airport and transferred back to your hotel. End of tour.
Why Choose This Tour?
This day trip offers a deep dive into the rich history, architecture, and flavors of southeastern Turkey. Diyarbakir is not just a destination—it’s a journey through time, culture, and tradition. From ancient walls to sacred mosques, from lively bazaars to tranquil river views, this city will awaken all your senses.
Anna –
The tour made Diyarbakir accessible and unforgettable for a first-time visitor. From the very beginning, everything ran smoothly and professionally. The old city walls gave the impression that time had paused in this remarkable place. We visited the iconic Four-Legged Minaret and learned its unusual story from the guide. Each site we visited—whether a mosque or a caravanserai—was full of atmosphere.
Lunch was one of the highlights, introducing us to unique southeast Anatolian cuisine. Suluklu Han was charming and authentic, where tea was served in the traditional way. We had time to relax, shop, and talk with locals. The final stop by the Tigris River felt like a peaceful conclusion to a full day. I would recommend this experience to anyone seeking something more real than just pretty views.
Stefano –
I’ve been on many day tours in Turkey, but this one stood out for its substance and variety. We visited locations that ranged from ancient defensive structures to peaceful religious spaces. The guide kept the group engaged without being overly formal or repetitive. One of my favorite parts was the Surp Giragos Church because of its architecture and significance. We also had the chance to see local neighborhoods, which gave the day a more realistic feeling. There was time to ask questions, take photos, and simply observe. Each stop had a purpose and added a different piece to the historical puzzle. This is one of those tours that stays with you long after it ends.