Uncover the mysteries of Turkey’s ancient past on this captivating full-day tour from Istanbul. Venture beyond the bustling city to explore the UNESCO-listed Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple, and the historic town of Harran, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements. With round-trip flights, transfers, and expert guidance, this immersive experience promises an unparalleled glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. But the real question is, what secrets will you uncover as you explore these remarkable archaeological marvels?
Key Points
- This full-day tour from Istanbul explores the UNESCO World Heritage site of Göbeklitepe and the ancient city of Harran, providing an unparalleled glimpse into Turkey’s rich history.
- The tour includes roundtrip flights from Istanbul to Şanlıurfa, private transfers, and guided visits to the key sites, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
- At Göbeklitepe, visitors can marvel at the massive carved stone pillars, some reaching up to 20 feet tall, and learn about the site’s significance as the oldest known temple in the world.
- Harran, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements, offers the opportunity to explore the impressive castle ruins and the unique beehive-shaped mud brick houses.
- The tour also includes a stop in the city center of Şanlıurfa, home to the Cave of Abraham, the Pools of Sacred Fish, and the Halil-Ür Rahman Mosque.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour offers an in-depth exploration of two remarkable archaeological and historical sites in Turkey – Göbeklitepe and Harran.
Travelers will start the day with a flight from Istanbul to Şanlıurfa, then visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Göbeklitepe, considered the oldest known temple in the world.
They’ll then explore the ruins of Harran, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements, including its iconic beehive-shaped mud brick houses.
Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide will provide context and insights.
With round-trip flights, all transfers, and entrance fees included, this experience offers a convenient and comprehensive way to discover these two fascinating ancient destinations in a single day.
Highlights of the Tour
Travelers will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Göbeklitepe, which is considered the oldest known temple in the world. This incredible archaeological site dates back over 11,000 years and features massive carved stone pillars arranged in a circular pattern.
Next, they’ll explore the ancient city of Harran, known for its distinctive beehive-shaped mud houses and the impressive Harran Castle.
The tour also includes stops in the city center of Şanlıurfa, which is home to several important historical and religious sites, including:
- The Cave of Abraham
- The Pools of Sacred Fish
- The Halil-Ür Rahman Mosque
This comprehensive day tour provides an unparalleled glimpse into Turkey’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Istanbul, followed by a flight to Şanlıurfa. From there, visitors explore the renowned Göbeklitepe archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure dating back over 11,000 years. After marveling at the ancient temple complex, the group continues to the historical city of Harran. There, they visit the iconic castle and ancient city walls, seeing the area’s rich history. The final stop is the city center of Şanlıurfa, where additional notable sites are discovered before the return flight to Istanbul.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Göbeklitepe | 2-3 hours |
| Harran | 1-2 hours |
| Şanlıurfa City Center | 1-2 hours |
Included in the Tour
The tour package includes English-speaking guide services throughout the day, ensuring visitors can fully understand and appreciate the historical significance of the sites. All transportation is provided, including roundtrip flights between Istanbul and Şanlıurfa, and private transfers to and from the sites.
Plus, the tour covers the entrance fees to the major historical attractions, including:
- The UNESCO World Heritage site of Göbeklitepe, the oldest known temple in the world.
- The ancient city of Harran, famous for its distinctive beehive-shaped homes.
- Noteworthy sites within the city of Şanlıurfa, such as its castle and city walls.
The only exclusions are personal expenses, meals not mentioned, and any other services not explicitly included.
Excluded From the Tour
Typically, the tour doesn’t cover personal expenses, meals not mentioned in the inclusions, and any other services not explicitly included in the package. For instance, you’ll need to cover your own costs for:
| Exclusion | Description |
|---|---|
| Personal Expenses | Souvenirs, additional activities, tips, etc. |
| Meals | Lunch and dinner, unless stated otherwise |
| Additional Services | Anything not listed under the "Inclusions" section |
While the tour provides a comprehensive experience, these exclusions allow you to tailor your spending and enjoy the trip at your own pace. Be mindful of your personal budget to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.
Airport Pickup and Transfer
Your tour begins with a pickup from your Istanbul hotel and a transfer to the airport.
From there, you’ll board a flight to Şanlıurfa, where your guide will greet you and accompany you throughout the day’s activities.
The convenient airport transfer and flight make for a seamless start to your adventure.
Hassle-free pickup from your hotel in Istanbul.
Smooth transfer to the airport for your flight to Şanlıurfa.
Warm welcome from your guide upon arrival in Şanlıurfa.
With all the logistics taken care of, you can sit back, relax, and look forward to exploring the ancient wonders of Göbeklitepe and Harran.
Exploration of Göbeklitepe
Exploring the Göbeklitepe archeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest known temple in the world, will take you on a captivating journey through humanity’s past.
This 12,000-year-old site features massive carved stone pillars, some reaching up to 20 feet tall, adorned with intricate carvings of animals, symbols, and abstract designs.
Visitors can wander through the excavated remains, imagining the rituals and ceremonies that took place here millennia ago.
The sheer scale and sophistication of this Neolithic site challenge our understanding of early human societies, and a knowledgeable guide will bring its history to life.
Prepare to be awestruck by this remarkable glimpse into our ancestral past.
Visit to Historic Harran
After experiencing the wonders of Göbeklitepe, the tour continues on to the historic city of Harran, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements.
Visitors can explore the impressive castle ruins and admire the unique beehive-shaped mud brick houses that have stood the test of time, offering a glimpse into Harran’s captivating past.
The highlights of this part of the tour include:
- Visiting the ancient city walls, which have protected Harran for centuries.
- Discovering the unique architectural features of the beehive-shaped houses, a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
- Learning about Harran’s role as a center of religious and scientific study in the ancient world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children as it involves extensive walking and visiting ancient archeological sites. However, older children who are interested in history and culture may find the tour engaging.
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Customers can work with the tour operator to adjust the schedule, add or remove sites, or personalize the experience to meet their specific interests and needs.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for walking outdoors. Layers are recommended as the weather can vary. Sturdy shoes are advised for the archaeological sites.
How Accessible Are the Historical Sites for People With Disabilities?
The historical sites on this tour are moderately accessible for people with disabilities. Guests should expect some uneven terrain and stairs, but the tour provider can accommodate needs with advance notice. Visitors should communicate any accessibility requirements when booking.
Can We Stop for Breaks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour allows for breaks as needed. The private tour provides flexibility to accommodate restroom stops, snack breaks, and any other requirements during the day-long excursion to the historical sites.
Recap
This full-day tour from Istanbul offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Turkey’s rich history.
Travelers will discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Göbeklitepe, the oldest known temple in the world, and the ancient city of Harran, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements.
With round-trip flights, transfers, and entrance fees included, this tour provides an immersive experience in Turkey’s captivating past.
