Gaziantep is a city that rewards curious travelers with its rich culinary scene, ancient ruins, and vibrant streets filled with stories. What makes Gaziantep stand out as a tour destination is not only its UNESCO-recognized gastronomy but also its wealth of historical sites like Gӧbekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut. Among the many ways to explore, we’re especially taken with a guided walking tour that uncovers the city’s unique charm and a more extensive multi-day trip that takes you through some of southeastern Turkey’s most impressive ancient ruins. If you’re interested in local flavors and historic highlights, these experiences are well worth considering. For a detailed look at what the city offers, check out the Jewels of Gaziantep – Guided Walking Tour.
1. Jewels of Gaziantep – Guided Walking Tour
At number one on our list is the Jewels of Gaziantep – Guided Walking Tour, a two-hour stroll that captures the city’s essence. Priced at around $222.24 per person, this tour promises an intimate look at Gaziantep’s most charming spots with a professional guide leading the way. What makes this tour special is its focus on the UNESCO Creative Gastronomy City status—expect to hear about more than 400 local dishes and the stories behind Gaziantep’s renowned culinary tradition. The highlight is a visit to the Zugma Musik Muzesi, which boasts the largest mosaic collection in the world. The guide also shares legends and fascinating facts about the streets, buildings, and corners you wouldn’t notice on your own.
The tour begins in the lively district of Karagöz and ends in the heart of the city, giving you a manageable and engaging window into Gaziantep’s everyday life and history. Several reviews praise the guide’s storytelling skills and the rich detail provided about the city’s culture. For travelers with limited time who want a personalized, in-depth introduction, this walk hits the mark. The price reflects the quality and intimacy of the experience, making it a good value for those eager to understand what makes Gaziantep special.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an easy, engaging way to experience Gaziantep’s culinary and cultural highlights in just a few hours, perfect for first-time visitors or those with a tight schedule.
$222.24 per person
2. 5-Day Mt. Nemrut, Gӧbekli Tepe, Mardin and Diyarbakır Tour
Number two on our list is a comprehensive five-day journey through southeastern Turkey’s legendary sites. For around $810 per person, this tour takes you from the massive statues of Mount Nemrut to the ancient city of Diyarbakır, exploring five significant destinations including Gaziantep itself. The itinerary includes visits to the birthplace of Abraham in Şanlıurfa, the city walls and museum of Diyarbakır, and the Ulu Cami in Mardin. You’ll also explore the ancient city of Dara and the Deyrulzaferan Monastery.
What’s appealing here is the depth and variety of experiences packed into five days. This tour is ideal for travelers who love history, archaeology, and culture and prefer to see multiple highlights without multiple bookings. The inclusion of the Zeugma Museum in Gaziantep adds a local touch to the broader regional narrative.
Guests have appreciated the detailed itinerary and knowledgeable guides. The tour balances historic exploration with comfortable logistics, making it suitable for those with moderate fitness who want to immerse in the region’s past without rushing. The main consideration is the higher price and time commitment, making it best for travelers with a deeper interest in history or a limited amount of days in Turkey.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a well-rounded, multi-city experience, with enough time to absorb the history, culture, and sights of southeastern Turkey.
$810 per person
3. Mount Nemrut & Gӧbekli Tepe Tour from Istanbul (3D-2N)
For those based in Istanbul or looking for a quick yet immersive escape, the Mount Nemrut & Gӧbekli Tepe Tour from Istanbul offers a three-day adventure to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Priced on request, this tour maximizes your time by focusing on two of Turkey’s most famous archaeological marvels: the world’s oldest temple at Gӧbekli Tepe and the towering statues of Mount Nemrut.
Starting from Istanbul, you’ll travel through the Southeastern Anatolia region, visiting Gӧbekli Tepe’s mysterious stone pillars and the colossal statues at Mount Nemrut, where the statues’ grandeur makes a lasting impression. The 3D-2N format includes a mix of guided exploration and free time to soak in the views and atmosphere. The tour’s strength lies in its focus on two iconic sites with detailed commentary from guides with a deep understanding of the region.
Rated 4.7 out of 5, this experience appeals to history buffs eager to see Turkey’s oldest known temple and the majestic statues. It’s suited best for travelers with a sense of adventure who don’t mind some long travel days, and it’s an excellent option if your time is limited but you want to see two of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological sites.
Bottom Line: This shorter trip offers a concentrated dose of history and archaeology, perfect for travelers who want a quick but meaningful experience outside Istanbul.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a concentrated introduction to Gaziantep’s culinary and cultural scene, the Jewels of Gaziantep – Guided Walking Tour is a great pick. For a deep dive into multiple ancient sites and cities, the 5-Day Mount Nemrut, Gӧbekli Tepe, Mardin and Diyarbakır Tour offers an extensive exploration. If your time is limited but you want to see Turkey’s oldest temple and the towering statues of Nemrut with a bit of travel between, the Mount Nemrut & Gӧbekli Tepe Tour from Istanbul fits the bill.
Think about your interests, budget, and schedule. For instance, if culinary storytelling excites you, the first tour is ideal. If history and archaeology are your main priorities, the multi-day excursions will serve you better. Booking early is always wise, especially for popular multi-day tours, to secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Gaziantep’s diverse offerings cater to a wide range of travelers — from those seeking a short but rich cultural walk to multi-day explorations of Turkey’s ancient sites. For a quick taste, the Jewels of Gaziantep Guided Walking Tour provides a memorable and intimate experience. For history lovers wanting more, the 5-Day tour offers comprehensive coverage of regional highlights. Meanwhile, the short Istanbul-based tour delivers a condensed but awe-inspiring journey to two ancient wonders.
No matter which you choose, these tours provide a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of southeastern Turkey’s culture, history, and archaeology. Be sure to book early, and prepare to be surprised by what Gaziantep and its surroundings have to offer.