Uncover the mysteries of humanity’s distant past on this captivating day tour from Istanbul. Explore the UNESCO-listed Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple, and learn about the vibrant history and culture of the ancient region of Şanlıurfa. This small-group experience offers an in-depth exploration of the remarkable architectural and engineering feats of our ancestors, complemented by visits to the city’s renowned museums and natural wonders. Set out on a journey that will challenge your understanding of human civilization and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the remarkable achievements of our forebears.
Key Points
- This tour offers a day trip from Istanbul to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gobeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple dating back 12,000 years.
- The tour includes a 2-hour flight from Istanbul to Sanliurfa, followed by a 4-hour guided visit to the Gobeklitepe archaeological site.
- Along With Gobeklitepe, the tour also visits cultural heritage sites in Sanliurfa, such as the Archaeology and Mosaic Museum, Pools of Abraham, and Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum.
- The tour is designed for a small group of up to 10 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience with the guide.
- The tour package includes round-trip flights, all transportation, admission fees, and an English-speaking guide, with a flexible cancellation policy.
Tour Overview
The Gobeklitepe Daily Tour offers visitors an immersive experience, exploring the world’s oldest known temple and the historical sites of Sanliurfa.
This 15-hour tour begins with a pickup in Istanbul, followed by a 2-hour flight to Sanliurfa. At the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gobeklitepe, travelers will discover the 12,000-year-old temple, considered the oldest of its kind.
The tour then explores Sanliurfa’s rich cultural heritage, including the Archaeology and Mosaic Museum, the Pools of Abraham, the Cave, and the Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum. With a small group size of up to 10 participants, the tour ensures an intimate and accessible experience.
After the sightseeing, the group will fly back to Istanbul, where they’ll be dropped off.
Destination Highlights
After exploring the overall tour itinerary, the Gobeklitepe Daily Tour‘s key highlights come into focus.
At the heart of this experience lies the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gobeklitepe, boasting the oldest known temple in the world, dating back an astonishing 12,000 years. This archaeological marvel offers a rare glimpse into humanity’s distant past, showcasing the remarkable architectural and engineering feats of our ancestors.
Beyond Gobeklitepe, the tour also explores the vibrant city of Sanliurfa, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the region’s past by visiting the Archaeology and Mosaic Museum, the Pools of Abraham, the Cave, and the Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum, all brimming with captivating stories.
Itinerary Breakdown
The Gobeklitepe Daily Tour’s itinerary begins with a pickup from Istanbul, followed by a 2-hour flight to the city of Sanliurfa.
From there, participants spend 4 hours exploring the UNESCO-listed Gobeklitepe site, the world’s oldest known temple dating back 12,000 years.
Next, they’ll visit key historical and cultural attractions in Sanliurfa, including:
- The Archaeology and Mosaic Museum
- The Pools of Abraham
- The Cave
- The Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum
The tour concludes with a 2-hour flight back to Istanbul, where participants are dropped off.
Transportation and Accessibility
Beginning the Gobeklitepe Daily Tour, participants are picked up from their accommodations in Istanbul and transported to the airport for their 2-hour flight to Sanliurfa. The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to explore the historic site comfortably.
Once in Sanliurfa, transportation is provided to the various sites on the itinerary. This includes:
| Site | Duration |
|---|---|
| Gobeklitepe | 4 hours |
| Sanliurfa City | 2 hours |
| Archaeology and Mosaic Museum | Included |
| Pools of Abraham | Included |
| Cave | Included |
| Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum | Included |
At the end of the day, participants are flown back to Istanbul and dropped off at their accommodations.
Group Size and Duration
According to the tour details, the Gobeklitepe Daily Tour has a small group size, with participation limited to 10 individuals. The tour duration is 15 hours, spanning from pickup in Istanbul to final drop-off. This ensures a more intimate and personalized experience for the participants.
The small group size allows for better interaction with the guide and more flexibility in the itinerary. Travelers can look forward to:
- Exploring the world’s oldest known temple, Gobeklitepe, dated 12,000 years ago.
- Visiting the historical and cultural sites of Sanliurfa.
- Experiencing round-trip flights between Istanbul and Sanliurfa.
- Enjoying English-speaking guide services and all-inclusive transportation.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This gives visitors the freedom to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary without incurring any penalties.
The tour operator understands that travel plans can change, and they’ve designed their cancellation policy to be accommodating. Whether it’s due to unforeseen circumstances or a change in schedule, travelers can rest assured they won’t be charged for cancelling their Gobeklitepe tour reservation as long as they do so within the 24-hour window.
This policy adds an extra layer of convenience and peace of mind to the overall tour experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Gobeklitepe daily tour typically includes a range of services and experiences for participants. The tour package includes English-speaking guide services to provide insights into the ancient site. All transfers mentioned in the itinerary are covered, ensuring a seamless journey. Admission fees to the UNESCO-listed Gobeklitepe as well as other historical sites in Sanliurfa are included.
Lastly, round-trip flights from Istanbul to Sanliurfa are provided as part of the tour.
The key exclusions, on the other hand, are personal expenses and any meal services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions. This allows participants to have the flexibility to explore local cuisine at their own pace.
About Gobeklitepe
Gobeklitepe stands as the oldest known temple in the world, dating back over 12,000 years and providing a remarkable glimpse into the beliefs and practices of our ancient ancestors.
This archaeological site, located near the city of Sanliurfa in southeastern Turkey, features massive carved stone pillars arranged in a series of circular structures, suggesting a sophisticated religious or ceremonial purpose.
Researchers believe Gobeklitepe was constructed by hunter-gatherer societies long before the advent of agriculture and the development of complex civilizations.
The scale and complexity of this ancient site have captivated archaeologists and historians, offering invaluable insights into the spiritual and cultural evolution of humanity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Visit Other Sites in Sanliurfa?
Yes, it is possible to visit other sites in Sanliurfa beyond the tour itinerary. The city is home to various historical and cultural attractions, including the Archaeology and Mosaic Museum, the Pools of Abraham, and the Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum.
Can We Extend the Tour to Include a Visit to Harran?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include a visit to Harran. Harran is a nearby historic city that features ancient ruins and unique beehive-shaped houses, which would provide an additional cultural highlight to the Sanliurfa portion of the tour.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Flight to Business Class?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade the flight to business class. Travelers can contact the tour operator to inquire about upgrading their flight for an additional cost. The tour package itself doesn’t include business class flights.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking. There are no strict dress requirements, but avoiding overly formal or revealing attire is suggested for cultural sensitivity.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to confirm this with the tour operator beforehand, as some tour companies may have specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
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Recap
This captivating tour from Istanbul offers an immersive exploration of the world’s oldest known temple, Göbeklitepe, and the rich cultural heritage of Şanlıurfa.
Visitors will marvel at the remarkable architectural and engineering feats of humanity’s distant past while delving into the vibrant history and culture of this ancient region.
With a small group size and comprehensive itinerary, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the mysteries of this remarkable archaeological site.
