Immersive Eastern Türkiye : Culinary & Cultural Tour

The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a historic Ottoman imperial mosque in Istanbul, Turkey, renowned for its six minarets, stunning blue Iznik tile interior, and grand domed architecture built between 1609 and 1617 under Sultan Ahmed I.

The Hippodrome of Istanbul was an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium and social center, later transformed into Sultanahmet Square, famous for its monuments and historical significance spanning Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras.

Topkapı Palace was the beating heart of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. You will visit with your guide this amazing place.

This morning, take a domestic flight to Kars, a city where the echoes of empires still linger in its streets. Upon arrival, discover Kars’s fascinating blend of Russian-era architecture, Ottoman heritage, and vibrant local culture. In the afternoon, journey to the awe-inspiring Ani Ruins, the once-glorious medieval capital known as the “City of 1,001 Churches. ” Perched dramatically on the border overlooking the Arpaçay River, Ani’s silent stone walls and towering cathedrals whisper tales of Silk Road traders, ancient kingdoms, and lost civilizations. Stroll among its hauntingly beautiful remains, from the grand Cathedral of Ani to the Church of the Redeemer, and feel the weight of history beneath your feet.

Depart after delicious breakfast and Visit Ishak Paşa Palace, an Ottoman-Persian architectural masterpiece, with views of Mount Ararat. Overnight in Van.

This morning we will have the most famous breakfast in Türkiye. it is not a meal - an experience. Explore the imposing Van Castle, and take a boat trip to Akdamar Island to see its 10th-century Armenian church. Continue to Tatvan, a lakeside town on the shores of Lake Van.

Hidden high in Eastern Anatolia, Nemrut Caldera is one of Türkiye’s most dramatic natural wonders. Formed by an extinct volcano, this vast crater—nearly 8 km wide—feels like stepping into another world.

Rising from the basalt hills near Diyarbakır, Zerzevan Castle is a hauntingly powerful Roman frontier fortress, standing watch over Mesopotamia for nearly 1,700 years. Once a key military outpost on the eastern edge of the Roman Empire, this isolated stronghold feels frozen in time.

Encircling the old city like a giant stone crown, the Diyarbakır City Walls are among the longest and best-preserved fortification systems in the world.

Stroll through the atmospheric Old Town of Mardin with its golden stone houses. Explore Dara Ancient City, an important Byzantine site, and Deyrulzafaran Monastery, a spiritual center of the Syriac Orthodox Church. Then treat yourself to delicious baklava served with traditional Turkish ice cream — a perfect way to end your journey with a sweet delight.

Hidden in the plains near Mardin, the Dara Ruins reveal one of the most impressive and strategic cities of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. Founded in the 6th century as a frontier fortress against the Sassanids, Dara was once a masterpiece of military engineering.

Just outside Mardin, bathed in golden Mesopotamian light, Deyrulzafaran Monastery is one of the oldest and most important centers of the Syriac Orthodox Church. With origins stretching back over 1,600 years, this sacred complex has been a place of prayer, learning, and resilience.

Hidden in the hills of Şanlıurfa, Karahantepe is one of the most astonishing archaeological discoveries of recent years—part of the Taş Tepeler (Stone Hills) project and a true game-changer in our understanding of early human civilization.

Soğmatar is one of the most mysterious sacred landscapes of ancient Mesopotamia. Known as an important astral and moon-worship center, this remote site was dedicated to Sin (the Moon God) and celestial deities.

Known as the “City of Prophets,” Şanlıurfa is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities—a place where faith, history, and daily life are deeply intertwined. At its heart lies the sacred Balıklıgöl, believed to be where Prophet Abraham was thrown into the fire, which miraculously turned into water. Surrounding mosques, madrasas, and courtyards create an atmosphere of calm devotion. Just beyond the city, the story goes even deeper—Göbekli Tepe, Karahantepe, and Soğmatar rewrite the history of human civilization, taking you back more than 11,000 years.

Göbeklitepe is one of the most revolutionary archaeological discoveries in the world—often called the world’s oldest temple. Dating back over 11,600 years, it completely reshapes what we know about the origins of religion, society, and civilization.

One of the largest and most impressive museum complexes in Türkiye, the Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum brings the story of humanity to life—from the very first beliefs to classical civilizations. Inside the Archaeology Museum, discover extraordinary finds from Göbeklitepe, Karahantepe, Nevali Çori, and Soğmatar, including the iconic Balıklıgöl Statue, the world’s oldest life-size human sculpture. Stone pillars, ritual objects, and prehistoric tools reveal how early humans thought, believed, and lived.

Enjoy a local family lunch in a village before heading to Mount Nemrut. Watch the sun set over the colossal statues of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight in Adıyaman. You will experience local life in Adıyaman city. We will visit local Kurdish family at home and have a lunch with family. You will learn about culture and their special meals.

This morning, bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and timeless heritage of Eastern Turkey as you fly back to Istanbul, where your unforgettable journey began. As your plane rises above the mountains and plains, take a final look at the lands that have shared their ancient stories, warm hospitality, and breathtaking beauty. Upon arrival in Istanbul, your tour comes to an end — but the memories of majestic palaces, mystical ruins, sacred sites, and the vibrant spirit of Anatolia will stay with you long after you return home. Safe travels and may your path ahead be as enriching and joyful as your time here. Until we meet again, cherish the moments and carry a piece of Turkey's spirit with you wherever you go. Farewell and best wishes for your future adventures! Atlas Global Tours LLC