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Eastern Turkiye Tour | April 23 – May 2, 2026

Duration

11 Nights - 12 Days

Eastern Turkiye Tour | April 23 – May 2, 2026

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Tour Description

Eastern Türkiye – The Birthplace of Agriculture

April 23 – May 2, 2026
(Istanbul / Urfa / Diyarbakır / Gaziantep / Cappadocia / Konya)

Trace the origins of human settlement and agriculture through some of the most significant archaeological and cultural sites in the world.

Visit Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple
Discover Çatalhöyük, one of the earliest urban settlements
Wander through the lush Hevsel Gardens of Diyarbakır (UNESCO)
Explore the beehive houses of Harran
Cruise the Euphrates River past the sunken town of Halfeti
Admire Roman mosaics at Zeugma and experience the culinary capital Gaziantep
Witness the surreal beauty of Cappadocia and the spiritual serenity of Konya

About the Leaders

Gursan Ergil

For more information

Gursan Ergil spent six years living in the United States and studying landscape design, history, and preservation at Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum, where he later lectured on Islamic Gardens for two years. After moving United Kingdom from US, he continued studying at Cambridge Universtiy’s advanced garden history program. We celebrate two decades of collaboration with Unison Travel & Events through an inspiring tour titled “Gardens of Humanity.”

Itinerary

Day 1

Apr, 23

Arrival in Istanbul and welcome dinner. Overnight stay in Istanbul.

Day 2

Apr, 24

Journey to Şanlıurfa & Göbeklitepe Exploration Early Morning: Start your day early with a serene dawn moment and a light breakfast featuring local grains and cereals. Flight to Şanlıurfa: Board your flight to Şanlıurfa, the ancient city known as the “City of Prophets.” Lunch in Şanlıurfa: Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, where your local guide will join the group and introduce the cultural richness of the region. Guided Visit to Göbeklitepe: Explore Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex, dating back over 12,000 years to the end of the Pleistocene Epoch. This extraordinary archaeological site consists of massive circular enclosures with T-shaped limestone pillars carved with animal motifs and anthropomorphic figures, believed to have served ritualistic purposes for early hunter-gatherer communities. Led by the late Professor Dr. Klaus Schmidt, excavations at the site revealed early agricultural activity, including remnants of lentils, barley, chickpeas, and the world’s oldest wheat: single-grain red wheat from nearby Karacadağ. Evidence of fermentation practices in large stone vats suggests early brewing or food processing techniques. Sanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museums: Visit two of Türkiye’s most significant museums. The Archaeology Museum features Neolithic artifacts, including those from Göbeklitepe, while the Edessa Mosaic Museum showcases intricate Roman-era mosaics uncovered in the region. Evening – Historical Walk in the Old City: Stroll through the historical heart of Şanlıurfa, exploring the labyrinthine Hans (caravanserais), vibrant bazaars, and the sacred Balıklıgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish), a site deeply rooted in Abrahamic traditions. Dinner – Cevahir Han Restaurant: Conclude the day with a delicious regional dinner in a beautifully restored historical building. Overnight – Babil Antique Hotel: Stay at the charming Babil Antique Hotel in the city center, offering authentic atmosphere and comfort.

Day 3

Apr, 25

Water & Food: Hevsel Gardens and Diyarbakır Exploration Morning – Departure from Urfa: After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Diyarbakır at 10:00 AM. Enjoy a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive through the Mesopotamian landscape. Lunch at Ameditan Restaurant: Upon arrival in Diyarbakır, stop for lunch at Ameditan, where you’ll enjoy regional flavors in a setting that blends tradition and taste. Guided Tour of the Hevsel Gardens: Meet your local guide and begin the day’s cultural journey with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Hevsel Gardens. These historic gardens, which date back to Sumerian times, span 7,000 decares of fertile alluvial soil. They have sustained local populations for millennia with orchards, vineyards, and vegetable plots. The area is also a haven for biodiversity, home to over 180 species, including otters, foxes, and a variety of birds and small mammals. Next Stop – Diyarbakır Castle and Citadel Museum: Explore Diyarbakır Castle, a massive fortification that has stood since Roman times and was used through the Sassanid, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. The outer and inner castle structures boast 5,800 meters of city walls and 82 bastions. From one of these bastions, enjoy a sweeping view of the Hevsel Gardens stretching toward the Tigris River. Visit the Citadel Museum and learn about the city’s rich military and architectural heritage. Stop by the Dağ Kapı (also known as Harput Gate), now serving as the Tourism Office and the State Fine Arts Gallery. Stroll through Diyarbakır’s Old City and Ulu Camii: Wander the cobbled streets of the old town and visit the Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Anatolia, blending Seljuk and local architectural styles. Return to Urfa: Depart Diyarbakır and begin the journey back to Şanlıurfa. Dinner En Route: Enjoy a relaxed dinner on the way, sampling more local cuisine. Overnight Stay at Babil Antique Hotel: Arrive back in Şanlıurfa and check in for your second night at the atmospheric Babil Antique Hotel.

Day 4

Apr, 26

Harran Plain & The Origins of Domestication Departure for Harran Plain: After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the ancient plains of Harran, located just outside Şanlıurfa. Lunch in Harran: Enjoy a traditional lunch in the heart of Harran, surrounded by the region’s unique architectural and historical textures. Exploration of Harran: Step into one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Harran holds deep spiritual significance as the place where Abraham is believed to have lived before his journey to Canaan, drawing both historians and religious travelers alike. The town is renowned for its beehive-shaped mudbrick houses, a rare architectural style dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. These cone-like dwellings, similar to Italy’s Trulli houses, are designed to withstand the region’s extreme heat—remaining cool in the scorching summers and warm in the cold winters. The Harran Plain is also a cradle of early agriculture. This is where sheep are thought to have been first domesticated, with evidence of agricultural practices going back over 10,000 years. The area reflects humanity’s first transition from a nomadic to a settled lifestyle. Return to Şanlıurfa: After a day immersed in early civilization, we return to our hotel in Urfa. Dinner & Traditional “Sıra Gecesi” Experience: Conclude the day with an unforgettable Sıra Gecesi, a traditional Urfa-style evening featuring local music, food, and communal storytelling—a joyful celebration of Kurdish and Turkish culture. Overnight – Babil Antique Hotel: Enjoy your final night in Şanlıurfa at the charming Babil Antique Hotel.

Day 5

Apr, 27

Halfeti: The Sunken Town & Gaziantep: Türkiye’s Culinary Capital Departure for Gaziantep (via Halfeti): After breakfast, we pack our suitcases and begin our journey toward Gaziantep, with a scenic and cultural stop in the town of Halfeti along the way. Lunch & Boat Tour in Halfeti: Arrive in Halfeti, a charming riverside town partially submerged due to the construction of the Birecik Dam. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before boarding a private boat for a tour along the Euphrates River. Sail past partially sunken stone houses, ancient caves, and the hauntingly beautiful minarets of flooded mosques. The route includes views of Çekem, Savaşan Village, and the historic Rumkale (Roman Castle). The surreal landscape and calm waters make Halfeti a dreamlike location—ideal for stunning photographs and quiet reflection. In recognition of its tranquil atmosphere and cultural preservation efforts, Halfeti was officially designated a Cittaslow (Slow City) in 2013 by the Cittaslow International Coordination Committee. Departure for Gaziantep: Continue your journey to Gaziantep, a city where culinary tradition meets rich history. Check-in at Divan Hotel: Arrive in Gaziantep and check into the elegant Divan Hotel, your base for exploring the city’s vibrant food culture. Dinner at the Culinary Arts Center (Mutfak Sanatları Merkezi): Savor a gourmet experience at Gaziantep’s Kitchen Arts Center, where you’ll be introduced to traditional dishes prepared with modern finesse. From spice-rich kebabs to delicate desserts like baklava, this evening is a tribute to the city’s title as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Overnight – Divan Hotel, Gaziantep: Rest in comfort at the centrally located Divan Hotel, rounding off a day filled with history, nature, and unforgettable flavors.

Day 6

Apr, 28

Zeugma & the Art of Mosaic | Journey to Cappadocia Visit to Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Gaziantep: After breakfast, we pack our belongings for the next leg of the journey—Cappadocia—but not before one last stop in Gaziantep: the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to one of the world’s most significant mosaic collections. The museum showcases extraordinary mosaics recovered from the Ancient City of Zeugma, whose name means “bridge” or “crossing” in Ancient Greek. Situated at a key point along the Euphrates River, Zeugma was once a vital hub for both commerce and military passage. When the Birecik Dam was constructed in 2000, much of the city was submerged. During this period, archaeologists managed to save 2,500 square meters of intricate Roman mosaic floors and wall panels from opulent villas. These works, now housed in the museum, depict mythological scenes, daily life, and stunning artistry that bring the Roman world vividly to life. Departure for Cappadocia: We begin our longest overland journey of the tour, a scenic 5.5-hour drive toward the magical region of Cappadocia, with a stop for lunch along the way. Lunch at Karslılar Güney Marina Restaurant: Enjoy a relaxed meal overlooking a peaceful river setting, perfect for recharging before the next leg of the journey. Continue to Uçhisar, Cappadocia: Resume the journey through the Central Anatolian landscape toward Uçhisar, one of the highest points in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views of fairy chimneys and volcanic valleys. Arrival in Cappadocia & Hotel Check-in: Arrive at the beautiful La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, nestled among the region’s surreal rock formations and traditional stone architecture. Dinner (Free Evening): Dinner is at your leisure this evening. You can choose to relax at the hotel, dine at a local restaurant, or explore the enchanting surroundings of Uçhisar at sunset. Overnight – La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, Cappadocia: Enjoy your first night in Cappadocia, resting in the comfort of a unique boutique hotel that blends modern charm with regional authenticity.

Day 7

Apr, 29

Drive to Cappadocia, Uchisar, Overnight in Cappadocia

Day 8

Apr, 30

Horses & Wines: A Taste of Ancient Cappadocia Vineyard Tour Begins: Following breakfast, we set off to explore Cappadocia’s vineyards and ancient winemaking culture. The name Cappadocia originates from the Hittite word “Katpatuka”, meaning “Land of Beautiful Horses.” This region is not only known for its surreal landscapes but also for its millennia-old winemaking traditions. Thanks to its volcanic soil, high altitude, and natural cave storage, Cappadocia has cultivated a distinct microclimate ideal for wine production. Visit to the Grape Church & Ancient Wine Presses: Our first stop is the Grape Church, a historical site where you’ll discover ancient wine press caves, offering insight into how grapes were processed thousands of years ago. Archaeological findings here reveal winemaking tools and artifacts that date back over 5,000 years, rooted in the legacy of the Hittites. Winery Lunch & Wine Tasting Experience: Next, we visit a local Cappadocian winery to enjoy a delicious lunch paired with a wine degustation session. You’ll sample regional varieties, including the iconic Emir grape, a crisp and aromatic white grape cherished since Hittite times. Visit to the “Rhythms of Life” Sculpture Park: In the afternoon, we explore the visionary ‘Rhythms of Life’ sculpture park by artist Andrew Rogers. His monumental land art installations are scattered across the Cappadocian landscape, blending seamlessly into the natural terrain. Rogers describes Cappadocia’s forms as “masterful symbols”—and his sculptures, visible from Google Earth, reflect this philosophy. Highlights include: • Horse • Cybele Statue • Seten Stone • Angel-Faced Bird • Tree of Life • Double-Bodied, Single-Headed Lion • Stone Age • The First Temple Each work is constructed authentically using local materials, preserving the spirit of the land. Dinner at Millocal Restaurant: Conclude the day with a carefully curated dinner at Millocal Restaurant, known for its regional flavors and cozy atmosphere. Overnight – La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, Cappadocia: Spend your second night in Cappadocia at the beautifully designed La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, soaking in the charm of the volcanic valleys under the stars.

Day 9

May, 1

Up in the Air & Pigeon Valley: History, Nature & Optional Adventure Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride: Start the day with an optional sunrise hot air balloon tour, one of Cappadocia’s most iconic experiences. Float above fairy chimneys, volcanic valleys, and ancient cave dwellings as the morning light paints the surreal landscape in soft hues of orange and gold. Visit to Göreme Open Air Museum: After breakfast, we visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant monastic settlements in the region. Predominantly used between the 4th and 13th centuries AD, the site features a network of churches, chapels, refectories, kitchens, and communal halls carved into the rock. The walls are adorned with well-preserved frescoes, offering insight into the spiritual and communal life of early Christian monks. Monastic activity continued here until the 19th century, making it a remarkable timeline of continuity and devotion. Lunch & Midday Rest: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by a two-hour rest period, ideal for recharging before your afternoon adventure. Hike through Pigeon Valley & Horseback Riding (Optional): We begin a scenic walk through Pigeon Valley, a 4-kilometer trail that stretches from Uçhisar to Göreme. The valley is named after the pigeon nests carved into the soft volcanic rock. For centuries, locals nurtured pigeons here, using their manure to fertilize vineyards and their eggshells in the plaster of frescoes. For those seeking an added experience, horseback riding is available at Uçhisar Horse Farm, offering a unique way to explore the valley’s natural beauty. Dinner (Free Evening): Dinner is on your own this evening—feel free to revisit a favorite spot or try something new in the area. Overnight – La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, Cappadocia: Enjoy your final night in Cappadocia at the serene and charming La Maison de Cappadoce Hotel, reflecting on a day filled with both stillness and discovery.

Day 10

May, 2

Çatalhöyük & the Roots of Civilization | Rumi’s Legacy in Konya Departure from Uçhisar: After an early breakfast, we leave Cappadocia and begin our journey westward to Konya, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a cradle of early civilization. Journey to Çatalhöyük: En route to Konya, we head directly to the archaeological site of Çatalhöyük, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers profound insight into the earliest stages of urban development. Visit to Çatalhöyük: Dating back to between 7400 BC and 6200 BC, Çatalhöyük marks a monumental shift in human history—from nomadic life to permanent settlement. This Neolithic site features densely packed homes with roof-level entryways, no streets, and shared walls, highlighting a complex urban layout. The archaeological findings—grain storage containers, wooden bowls, clay pots, food processing tools, woven baskets, and mats—reflect an advanced understanding of agriculture, food storage, and community organization. Crops such as barley, wheat, millet, lentils, chickpeas, peas, almonds, and various herbs and fruits were cultivated or foraged. Çatalhöyük also shines as a center of early artistic and symbolic expression. Its walls were adorned with murals, reliefs, and sculptures, indicating a society rich in ritual and creativity. Visit to the Mevlana Museum, Konya: In the late afternoon, we visit the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to Jalal ad-Din Rumi, the 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic known simply as Rumi. A central figure in Turkish culture and spiritual thought, Rumi founded the Mevlevi Order, known for the Whirling Dervishes and their meditative dance. His philosophy of love, unity, and transcendence continues to inspire people around the world. The museum, once a dervish lodge, houses his tomb, manuscripts, musical instruments, and personal items. Farewell Dinner at Hacı Şükrü Lokantası: Enjoy a final dinner together at Hacı Şükrü Lokantası, a renowned Konya restaurant famous for its traditional Anatolian cuisine. It’s a warm and flavorful farewell to a journey through history, culture, and connection. Overnight – Grand Hotel, Konya: Spend the night at the centrally located Grand Hotel, reflecting on the final day of this transformative journey.

Day 11

May, 3

Fly to Istanbul, Farewell Dinner - Overnight in Istanbul

Day 12

May, 4

Departure

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Tour Date

April 23, 2026