4 Day Historical Journey from Cappadocia to Göbeklitepe & Mount Nemrut

An immersive cultural route across the ancient lands of Southeastern Türkiye

This 4-day journey from Cappadocia to Mount Nemrut, Göbeklitepe, Harran, Halfeti, and Şanlıurfa invites you to explore some of the most significant archaeological and cultural landmarks in Türkiye. Designed for travelers with a deep interest in history, heritage, and storytelling, this itinerary reveals the layers of civilizations that shaped Anatolia over thousands of years.
Beginning in Cappadocia, the route unfolds through dramatic landscapes and sacred sites: from the monumental stone heads of Mount Nemrut at sunset to the tranquil waters of the sunken city of Halfeti, from the spiritual atmosphere of Şanlıurfa to Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex. Carefully paced and thoughtfully guided, this journey offers meaningful encounters with the past in an unhurried and immersive way.

Highlights of the Journey

• Scenic drive from Cappadocia to Adıyaman with photo stops along the way
• Watching the legendary sunset from the summit of Mount Nemrut
• Boat cruise through the sunken city of Halfeti on the Euphrates River
• Visits to Göbeklitepe, Harran, and Şanlıurfa’s key cultural landmarks
• Accommodation in carefully selected hotels with daily breakfast
• Domestic flight from Gaziantep to Istanbul at the end of the tour

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Cappadocia -> Adıyaman -> Mount Nemrut

Departing early in the morning from Cappadocia, we begin our scenic journey toward Adıyaman, passing through the striking landscapes of Kahramanmaraş. Along the way, we take short breaks to enjoy the changing scenery and refresh before continuing toward one of Türkiye’s most iconic archaeological sites.
In the late afternoon, we ascend Mount Nemrut, once the ceremonial center of the ancient Kingdom of Commagene. At the summit, colossal stone heads of gods and kings stand silently overlooking the horizon. As the sun sets behind these monumental figures, the mountain is bathed in golden and crimson tones- a truly unforgettable moment that feels suspended in time.
After the sunset visit, we transfer to our hotel in Kahta for overnight accommodation.
Overnight: Kahta / Adıyaman

Day 2 – Adıyaman → Harran → Şanlıurfa

Following breakfast, we set off toward Şanlıurfa, considered the spiritual heart of Southeastern Türkiye. En route, we pause near the impressive Atatürk Dam before continuing to the ancient city of Harran. Known for its distinctive beehive-shaped houses and ancient city walls, Harran offers a vivid glimpse into early Mesopotamian life.
Upon arrival in Şanlıurfa, we enjoy a local lunch before exploring the sacred Pool of Abraham (Balıklıgöl), a place of deep spiritual significance. Nearby, we visit the cave believed to be the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham, an important pilgrimage site revered across cultures and religions.
In the evening, we check into our hotel in Şanlıurfa for rest and reflection.
Overnight: Şanlıurfa

Day 3 – Göbeklitepe & Şanlıurfa Museums

After breakfast, we travel to Göbeklitepe, one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries in the world. Dating back more than 11,000 years, this monumental sanctuary predates Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, reshaping our understanding of early human civilization. Walking among its massive stone pillars, adorned with animal reliefs and symbolic carvings, offers a profound encounter with humanity’s earliest spiritual expressions.
After lunch, we return to Şanlıurfa to explore two exceptional museums. At the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, Roman-era mosaics reveal scenes of daily life and mythology, while the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum displays remarkable artifacts from the region’s deep past, including the famous Balıklıgöl Statue, one of the oldest known life-sized human sculptures.
The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Şanlıurfa

Day 4 – Şanlıurfa → Halfeti → Gaziantep → Flight to Istanbul

Today we journey toward Gaziantep, stopping first at Halfeti, a tranquil town partially submerged beneath the waters of the Euphrates. Boarding a boat, we glide through the remains of the sunken settlement, passing the iconic minaret rising from the water, a hauntingly beautiful and peaceful scene.
After a riverside lunch, we continue to Gaziantep to visit the renowned Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to some of the finest Roman mosaics ever discovered, including the celebrated “Gypsy Girl” mosaic.
In the evening, we transfer to Gaziantep Airport for your domestic flight to Istanbul.
Flight from Gaziantep to Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Arrival in Istanbul
(Flight times and arrival airport may vary depending on availability.)
End of services

What’s Included

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off as outlined in the itinerary
• All transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle
• Professional English-speaking licensed tour guide
• Domestic flight ticket (Gaziantep → Istanbul)
• 3 nights of hotel accommodation with breakfast
  • 1 night in Kahta / Adıyaman
  • 2 nights in Şanlıurfa
• Entrance fees to museums and archaeological sites
• Lunches from Day 1 to Day 4
• Local taxes, service charges, parking fees, tolls, and fuel

Not Included

• Dinners
• Drinks during meals
• Personal expenses
• Tips for the guide and driver
• Optional activities not mentioned in the program