Discover the Birthplace of Civilizations, Timeless Cities and Authentic Traditions
Journey into the cradle of civilization, where ancient kingdoms, sacred cities and living traditions shape one of Türkiye's most remarkable regions. From Diyarbakır and Mardin to Şanlıurfa and Mount Nemrut, explore extraordinary archaeological sites including Karahantepe and Göbekli Tepe, experience authentic regional cuisine and discover a landscape where thousands of years of history remain vividly alive.
Why This Tour
Follow the footsteps of the world's earliest civilizations across Upper Mesopotamia, where ancient cities, sacred landscapes and groundbreaking archaeological discoveries reveal the origins of human history. From Karahantepe and Göbekli Tepe to the royal sanctuary of Mount Nemrut, every stop adds another chapter to a story spanning more than 11,000 years.
This journey leaves the familiar behind, revealing a side of Türkiye few international travellers experience. Wander through Diyarbakır's basalt streets, Mardin's honey-coloured architecture and the timeless atmosphere of Şanlıurfa, where diverse cultures and traditions continue to shape everyday life.
Stand among the monumental statues of Mount Nemrut, admire the extraordinary mosaics of Zeugma, explore the sacred pools of Şanlıurfa and visit remarkable archaeological sites that span more than 10,000 years of human history. Every destination adds another chapter to one of the world's richest cultural landscapes.
True Blue Tour has been operating in Türkiye since 2001. This journey reflects years of local knowledge — the routes, timing, hotels, guides, restaurants and regional relationships that make each day work smoothly on the ground.
Route
Ancient basalt walls, the Great Mosque and the gateway to Upper Mesopotamia.
Honey-coloured stone streets, Syriac heritage and timeless Mesopotamian views.
Karahantepe, Göbekli Tepe, sacred landmarks and the spiritual heart of Mesopotamia.
Mount Nemrut's monumental sanctuary rising above the Anatolian landscape.
Zeugma mosaics, historic bazaars, Halfeti and Türkiye's celebrated gastronomic capital.
At a Glance
9 days
Small Group
9 days / 8 nights
Small Group Cultural Journey
Small Group Cultural Journey
Small group of maximum 14 travelers
Moderate, with regular overland travel and soft walking on uneven archaeological sites.
Carefully selected 4- star hotels and boutique properties
Daily breakfast and a selection of local lunches that showcase the diverse flavors of Türkiye
Culture lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, photographers and travelers seeking authentic experiences
Available on request
Diyarbakır
Gaziantep
The Experience
This is a journey into the landscapes where civilization first took shape—where ancient cities, sacred sites, and enduring traditions remain part of everyday life.
From the basalt walls of Diyarbakır to the honey-colored streets of Mardin, each destination reveals a different chapter of Upper Mesopotamia's remarkable story. Explore centuries-old monasteries, stand among the world's earliest ceremonial monuments at Karahantepe and Göbekli Tepe, experience the spiritual atmosphere of Şanlıurfa, and watch the sun cast long shadows across the monumental statues of Mount Nemrut.
Along the way, regional cuisine, warm local hospitality, and expert guiding add depth to every experience, creating a journey that feels immersive, authentic, and deeply connected to one of the world's oldest cultural landscapes.
"No place in the world is more rich in history than Mesopotamia."
Gertrude Bell
Day by Day
Where one of Türkiye's oldest stories begins.
Upon arrival at Diyarbakır Airport, you'll be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to settle in before meeting your fellow travellers for a welcome briefing, where your guide will introduce the journey ahead and the remarkable region you'll be exploring over the coming days. The evening begins with a welcome dinner celebrating the distinctive flavours of Southeastern Türkiye—the perfect start to a journey through one of the world's oldest cultural landscapes.
From mighty basalt walls to golden stone streets.
Begin the day inside Diyarbakır's UNESCO-listed Old City, where imposing basalt walls, the Great Mosque and the historic Ten Arches Bridge reveal centuries of history at the crossroads of civilizations. Later, travel south to Mardin. Rising above the Mesopotamian plains, its honey-coloured stone houses, narrow lanes and sweeping views create one of Türkiye's most distinctive historic landscapes.
Ancient faith, timeless architecture, and forgotten empires.
Explore the cultural heart of Mardin, beginning at the centuries-old Deyrulzafaran Monastery before continuing to the elegant Kasımiye Madrasa, where architecture and scholarship have flourished for generations. The afternoon is dedicated to Dara Ancient City, once a major frontier settlement of the Eastern Roman Empire. This evening, dine at the renowned Cercis Murat Konak, an elegant historic Syriac mansion founded by award-winning chef and social entrepreneur Ebru Baybara Demir. The restaurant is celebrated for preserving the rich culinary traditions of Southeastern Anatolia, offering an unforgettable introduction to the region's exceptional gastronomy.
Walk among humanity's earliest sacred monuments.
Leave Mardin behind and travel towards Şanlıurfa, stopping first at Karahantepe, one of the most important archaeological discoveries of recent decades. Continue to Göbekli Tepe, the world's oldest known monumental sanctuary and a site that continues to reshape our understanding of early civilization. Arrive in Şanlıurfa in the afternoon and enjoy free time to wander its lively streets, traditional bazaars or cafés at your own pace.
Where history, belief, and everyday life remain inseparable.
Discover the spiritual landmarks of Şanlıurfa, beginning at Balıklıgöl and the elegant Rızvaniye Mosque before visiting the remarkable Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, home to some of the finest Roman mosaics in the region. Later, take in panoramic views from Şanlıurfa Castle and explore the surrounding historic quarter. Optional Experience: Şanlıurfa Sıra Night – Enjoy a lively evening of traditional music, local cuisine and regional folklore in one of Eastern Türkiye's most cherished cultural traditions.
Stand among colossal stone gods overlooking one of Türkiye's most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Today's journey leads to Mount Nemrut, where one of antiquity's most ambitious royal monuments rises above the surrounding mountains. Built by King Antiochus I of Commagene in the 1st century BC, the summit sanctuary is unlike anywhere else in Türkiye. Walk among its colossal stone heads while discovering the remarkable story behind a kingdom that blended Persian, Greek and Anatolian traditions into a unique cultural legacy. After exploring this unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage Site, continue to Adıyaman for your overnight stay.
From the Euphrates to Türkiye's culinary capital.
Leave Adıyaman behind and follow the Euphrates to the peaceful riverside town of Halfeti, where a leisurely boat cruise reveals dramatic cliffs, quiet waters and the haunting remains of villages partially submerged by the Birecik Dam. Continue to nearby Zeugma, once one of the Roman Empire's most prosperous trading cities. Its remarkable archaeological legacy offers a glimpse into the wealth and influence of this important Silk Road settlement before you arrive in Gaziantep for the evening.
A city where every street tells a story—and every meal does too.
Spend the day discovering Gaziantep, where centuries of craftsmanship, trade and gastronomy have shaped one of Türkiye's most distinctive cities. Visit the world-renowned Zeugma Mosaic Museum before wandering through the historic Bey District and lively bazaars, where copper workshops, spice merchants and family-run bakeries continue traditions passed down through generations. From delicate baklava to regional specialities found nowhere else, Gaziantep offers a memorable finale to your journey through Upper Mesopotamia.
One last breakfast before your journey home.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before the tour comes to an end in Gaziantep. Depending on your onward travel plans, you may choose to continue your journey independently or transfer to Gaziantep Airport.
Check departure dates and reserve your place with a EUR 400 deposit.
Your feature stay
Stay in the heart of Mardin's Old Town, where traditional stone architecture and panoramic views across the Mesopotamian Plains create an unforgettable setting for this remarkable journey.
What’s Covered
Before You Book
If you're curious about the origins of civilizations, enjoy travelling beyond the familiar and appreciate journeys with a strong sense of place, this itinerary was designed with you in mind. Expect walks through historic neighbourhoods, archaeological sites and uneven stone streets, with occasional steps and gentle inclines. A moderate level of mobility will ensure you enjoy the experience comfortably.
Enrich Your Journey
Enjoy a lively evening of traditional music, local cuisine and regional folklore in one of Eastern Türkiye's most cherished cultural traditions.
75 €Common Questions
Yes. While the journey focuses on Southeastern Türkiye, it offers an exceptional introduction to the country's cultural heritage through ancient cities, sacred landscapes and some of the world's most significant archaeological sites.
No. The itinerary has been thoughtfully paced, allowing plenty of time to fully appreciate each destination rather than rushing from one site to another. While some days include scenic overland journeys between destinations, regular stops and carefully planned sightseeing ensure a relaxed and rewarding travel experience throughout.
Yes. Your guided visit includes the monumental sanctuary of Mount Nemrut, one of Türkiye's most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Yes. Both sites are included, offering a rare opportunity to explore two of the world's most significant prehistoric archaeological discoveries.
You'll stay in a carefully selected collection of quality hotels and boutique properties chosen for their comfort, location and authentic character. Final accommodation may vary depending on your travel dates and availability.
Yes. A private version of this itinerary is available on request and can be tailored to your preferred travel dates and pace.
Yes, provided you're comfortable with moderate walking. Some historic sites feature uneven ground, stone paths and steps. If you have any mobility concerns, we're happy to discuss suitable adjustments before you travel.
True Blue Tour · Türkiye
Join a scheduled small group departure or ask our team to shape a private version around your dates, pace and hotel style.