Diyarbakır

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Diyarbakır Fortress, where you can stroll along the ancient walls that offer breathtaking views of the Tigris River. Afterward, head to the nearby Great Mosque of Diyarbakır, one of the oldest mosques in Turkey, to admire its stunning architecture. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and tea.

In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Archaeological Museum of Diyarbakır, which houses artifacts from various civilizations that once thrived in the region. Take a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of the old town, where you can shop for handmade crafts and local produce. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Hasan Pasha Han, a beautifully restored caravanserai, for a quick snack or tea.

As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you can sample local specialties like kebabs and içli köfte. After your meal, take a stroll through the lively streets of the city center, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch a local music performance. End your day with a visit to a rooftop café, offering panoramic views of the city as the sun sets.

Begin your day at the bustling Kayapınar Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and sample fresh produce, spices, and artisanal goods. Engage with friendly vendors and shop for unique souvenirs, from traditional textiles to handmade pottery. Don't forget to grab a local breakfast dish, such as gözleme, at one of the market stalls.

After the market, visit the historic St. Mary’s Church, which showcases the city's rich Christian heritage, and take a moment to reflect in this serene space. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Deliller Han, where you can find local artisans at work and perhaps participate in a workshop to learn traditional crafts. Grab a late lunch at a nearby café and enjoy some local pastries like baklava.

In the evening, head to the city’s riverside park for a relaxing walk along the Tigris River, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset views. Look for a local restaurant that specializes in fish dishes, and treat yourself to a delightful dinner by the water. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife of Diyarbakır, perhaps catching a live music performance at a cozy bar.

Set off early to the ancient site of Hasankeyf, located about an hour from Diyarbakır, where you can explore the breathtaking rock-cut architecture and historical ruins. Take a guided tour to learn about the significance of the area and its rich history that dates back thousands of years. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the Tigris River, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby Zeynel Bey Tomb and the impressive remains of the medieval bridge that span the river, marveling at the engineering feats of the past. Afterward, take some time to relax in the charming local cafes, sipping on Turkish coffee while soaking in the atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to take photos of the breathtaking landscapes that surround Hasankeyf.

Return to Diyarbakır in the evening and treat yourself to dinner at a local kebab house, sampling the region's famous kebabs and mezes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the city walls, enjoying the view of the illuminated fortress. End your day with a traditional tea at a local tea house, engaging in conversation with locals about their customs and traditions.

Begin your morning at the Diyarbakır Contemporary Art Center, where you can explore various exhibitions that showcase both local and international artists. Immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere and perhaps participate in a workshop if available. Afterward, stroll through the city’s art district, where you can admire murals and street art that reflect the vibrant culture of Diyarbakır.

In the afternoon, visit the historical Konak Mosque, which features beautiful tile work and intricate designs that are a testament to the city’s architectural heritage. Afterward, spend some time at the Hasan Pasha Han, where you can browse through local artisan shops and even buy some unique pieces of art. Stop for lunch at a nearby café, enjoying a plate of traditional lentil soup.

As night falls, attend a cultural event or traditional music concert if available, allowing you to experience the local music scene firsthand. Afterward, indulge in a culinary experience at a fine dining restaurant that offers modern takes on traditional dishes. Wrap up your evening at a local coffee shop, sipping on a cup of Turkish coffee while engaging with locals about their artistic inspirations.

Set out early for a day trip to Kulp Valley, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich biodiversity. Spend your morning hiking along the scenic trails, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the breathtaking views of the valley. Pack a hearty breakfast to enjoy amidst nature, perhaps consisting of fresh bread, cheese, and olives.

In the afternoon, take a guided tour to explore the local flora and fauna, learning about the region's ecological significance. Enjoy a picnic lunch by a flowing stream, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Don't forget to take photos of the picturesque scenery and the unique wildlife you may encounter.

As the day winds down, return to Diyarbakır and treat yourself to a warm meal at a local eatery, enjoying dishes that highlight the flavors of the region. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of the city, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. End your day with a visit to a local bookstore or cultural center, discovering more about the region's literature and arts.

Begin your day with a visit to the Ulu Mosque, an architectural marvel that combines elements of Seljuk and Ottoman styles, and take a moment to appreciate its intricate details. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, where you can find local shops selling traditional crafts and goods. Enjoy a simple breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and bread.

After the mosque, head to the historic city walls, one of the best-preserved examples of ancient fortifications, and walk along the perimeter while taking in the panoramic views of the city. Visit the nearby Diyarbakır City Museum to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

As evening approaches, visit the historic Diyarbakır Surp Giragos Armenian Church, which has been restored and is a symbol of the city’s diverse heritage. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, sampling regional specialties that reflect the culinary diversity of the area. Cap off your day with a leisurely walk along the city walls, enjoying the cool evening air and the sights of the illuminated fortress.

Start your day by visiting a local village near Diyarbakır, where you can experience traditional Kurdish culture firsthand. Participate in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare local dishes under the guidance of experienced cooks. Enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared with fresh ingredients from the village garden.

After your cooking class, take a guided tour of the village, interacting with locals and learning about their customs and way of life. Visit a nearby traditional carpet workshop, where you can see artisans at work and learn about the intricate process of carpet weaving. Savor a leisurely lunch featuring the dishes you prepared earlier, sharing stories with fellow travelers.

In the evening, return to Diyarbakır and join a traditional dance performance, where you can witness the vibrant folk dances of the region. After the show, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant that features live music, allowing you to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to a local art gallery, appreciating the work of contemporary artists inspired by their cultural heritage.

Begin your day at the lush Amed City Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk surrounded by greenery and beautiful landscaping. Bring along a book or simply relax on a bench, soaking in the beauty of nature. For breakfast, pick up some fresh fruits and pastries from a nearby bakery to enjoy in the park.

In the afternoon, explore the nearby Hevsel Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its agricultural significance and stunning views of the Tigris River. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, learning about the history of agriculture in the region. Stop for lunch at a café overlooking the gardens, indulging in seasonal dishes made with fresh local ingredients.

As the sun sets, return to Amed City Park for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a picnic-style dinner with local delicacies, perhaps including stuffed grape leaves and a variety of mezes. End your day by watching the stars come out, reflecting on your experiences in Diyarbakır amidst the serene surroundings.

Kick off your day with a visit to a local bakery, where you can witness the bread-making process and sample freshly baked bread. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of menemen, a Turkish egg dish, accompanied by olives and tea at a nearby café. Take a moment to chat with the locals about their favorite breakfast spots and dishes.

Spend your afternoon at a local cooking school, where you'll learn how to prepare traditional Kurdish dishes with hands-on instruction from expert chefs. After cooking, enjoy the fruits of your labor by sharing a meal with fellow participants, exchanging stories and culinary techniques. Explore nearby food markets to gather ingredients for your next culinary adventure.

As evening approaches, book a table at a renowned traditional restaurant known for its unique regional dishes. Savor a multi-course meal that showcases the culinary diversity of Diyarbakır, from spicy kebabs to sweet desserts. End your culinary exploration with a visit to a local dessert shop, indulging in traditional sweets like kunefe or baklava.