Things To Do
in Midyat
Midyat is a historic town in the Tur Abdin region of southeastern Turkey, renowned for its ancient stone houses and rich Syriac Orthodox heritage. The city sits on a temperate plateau, surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills that change color with the seasons. Its labyrinthine Old Town, centuries-old churches, and traditional craft workshops give visitors a tangible sense of living history.
Modern cafés and hospitable locals blend with the timeless scenery to create a warm, immersive travel experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and Turkish tea. After breakfast, wander through the cobblestone streets of Midyat, where ancient stone houses and historic architecture unfold at every turn. Be sure to visit the impressive Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monasteries, to appreciate its serene atmosphere and stunning craftsmanship.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional restaurant, sampling local dishes such as kebabs and stuffed grape leaves. Afterward, explore the Midyat Museum, which showcases the region's rich history and artifacts. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the centuries-old silver shops, where artisans craft intricate jewelry and traditional handicrafts.
As dusk falls, head to the town square where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while sipping on a cup of Turkish coffee. Look for a spot where you can observe the sunset illuminating the ancient buildings with a golden hue. For dinner, indulge in a feast of local cuisine, perhaps trying the famous Midyat kebabs, before enjoying a leisurely stroll through the town.
Begin your day at a local market, where the colorful stalls are filled with fresh produce, spices, and traditional crafts. Engage with local vendors and sample fresh fruits while soaking in the lively atmosphere of everyday life in Midyat. After shopping, visit a nearby traditional family home to learn about local customs and the art of making homemade bread.
After a cultural immersion, enjoy lunch at a place known for its authentic Midyat cuisine, featuring delightful dishes like kibbeh and bulgur pilaf. Spend your afternoon visiting a local art studio, where you can watch artisans as they create beautiful textiles and pottery. Participate in a short workshop to learn a few traditional techniques and take home a unique souvenir.
As evening approaches, attend a folk dance event in the town, where you can witness traditional music and dance performances. Join in the festivities and learn a few steps, enjoying the lively spirit of the community. Conclude your day with a dinner at a rooftop restaurant, overlooking the ancient skyline of Midyat as the stars begin to twinkle.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-40 |
| 🧶Local crafts item | $5-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short hop within town) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Syriac and historic architectural heritage
- Warm hospitality and a relaxed, safe travel environment
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options compared to big cities
- Occasional travel connections can be time-consuming due to regional geography
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Buralar güvenli mi?" - Is this area safe?
- "Nerede tuvalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Midyat
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow winding lanes, whitewashed walls, and archways create dramatic lighting for architectural and lifestyle photography.
Hilltop vantage point near Tur Abdin offering sweeping rural and monastery scenery ideal for wide shots at sunrise or sunset.
Historic gate frames against the skyline with minarets and domes visible beyond the stone rooftops.
Carved doors and ornate façades provide intricate textures and historical context for architectural photography.
Colorful stalls, copperware, embroidery, and daily life scenes perfect for candid street photography.
Food in Midyat
Midyat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked lamb ribs with aromatic herbs, a regional specialty often found in local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Crispy exterior with a spiced meat and pine nut filling; commonly served as a hearty starter or main.
Assorted meze plates paired with grilled kebabs, reflecting local Levantine influences.
A sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup, frequently enjoyed in cafés after meals.
A comforting lentil soup often served with a squeeze of lemon and bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A colorful, bustling market offering fresh produce, nuts, dried fruit, and regional sweets; great for a quick snack and local flavors.
Stalls specializing in olives, olive oil, and roasted nuts—perfect for sampling on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; when visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove shoes if required. Address elders with courtesy and wait for introductions.
Use your right hand for giving/receiving; avoid pointing with feet or gesturing aggressively in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Midyat
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, a tip of 5-10% at restaurants is customary. Round up at cafés and hotels for small services.
Turkish Lira is the primary method; many places accept credit/debit cards, but some smaller venues are cash-only. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry, with temperatures often in the 30s°C. Plan early-morning activities, wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated; many sites can close during the hottest hours.
Pleasant temperatures and golden light; ideal for walking tours, photography, and outdoor dining.
Cold with occasional rain or light snow; pack warm clothing and layers; some outdoor areas may be less accessible but the town is tranquil.
Mild and blooming landscapes; excellent for countryside walks and monastery visits.
Midyat at Night
Hiking in Midyat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged and scenic routes through olive groves and traditional villages, offering sweeping views of the plateau.
Gentle to moderate trails linking historic monasteries, with historical context and picturesque overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Midyat by plane.
Regional airport about an hour to 90 minutes from Midyat, with flight connections to Istanbul and Ankara; taxi or shuttle transfers available.
Major regional airport with broader domestic connections; can be used as an alternative gateway to southeastern Turkey.
Larger international-friendly airport within a few hours’ drive, with connections to several Turkish and international cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the area, contributing to the local culture and daily life.
A historic Syriac Christian presence with churches and cultural sites shaping the region's identity.
A notable presence in the broader region, contributing to linguistic and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and club activities are common in nearby towns and city stadiums.
Played in community centers and schools; casual courts and facilities are available in and around Midyat.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Midyat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian mezzes and vegetable-forward dishes. Ask for egg or dairy-free options if needed; stews and lentil-based dishes are common meat-free choices.