Where History, Culture, and Flavor Meet 4 Days & 3 Nights

Gaziantep is a major city in southeastern Turkey, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with roots dating back to ancient Mesopotamian civilizations. Gaziantep is famous for its pistachios, baklava, and diverse culinary traditions. The city also has historical landmarks such as the Gaziantep Castle and the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses stunning Roman-era mosaics. As an economic hub, it plays a vital role in Turkey’s industry and trade.

Explore the Mystical Alleys of Gaziantep Old Town

Wander through the historic streets of Gaziantep’s old town, where cobblestone pathways lead to centuries-old houses, small artisan shops, and traditional Turkish tea houses. Exploring this area feels like stepping back in time, with beautifully restored Ottoman-era structures and local markets selling handmade crafts and spices.

Try Traditional Culinary Experiences

Gaziantep is the gastronomic capital of Turkey, and trying local dishes is an adventure in itself. Taste world-famous Gaziantep baklava, rich kebabs, and the delicious Beyran soup. For an authentic experience, visit local eateries and try your hand at making katmer, a crispy pistachio-filled pastry.

Visit the Exciting Gaziantep Zoo

The Gaziantep Zoo, one of the largest in Turkey, is a fantastic adventure for families and nature lovers. Home to a wide variety of animals, from lions to elephants, the zoo also has an aquarium and a safari park where visitors can see animals up close.

Discover the Secrets of the Underground Water Tunnels

Gaziantep has an ancient underground water system known as Livas and Kastels, dating back to the Roman and Ottoman periods. Exploring these historic tunnels, once used for water distribution and cooling, is an exciting experience for history enthusiasts.

Adventure Shopping at the Copper Market (Bakırcılar Çarşısı)

One of the most exciting shopping experiences in Gaziantep is visiting the Copper Market, where artisans craft beautiful hand-made copperware. The market is filled with vibrant sounds of hammering metal, and visitors can even try their hand at traditional copper craftsmanship.

Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Home to some of the world’s most stunning Roman-era mosaics, the Zeugma Mosaic Museum is a must-visit. The museum houses mosaics from the ancient city of Zeugma, featuring incredible artistic details. The famous Gypsy Girl Mosaic is a highlight, showcasing the craftsmanship of ancient Roman artists.

Gaziantep Castle

Standing tall in the heart of the city, Gaziantep Castle is an iconic landmark offering breathtaking panoramic views. Originally built by the Romans and later expanded by the Ottomans, the castle now serves as a museum displaying the city’s history.

Emine Gogus Culinary Museum

To understand why Gaziantep is a UNESCO-listed gastronomic city, visit the Emine Gogus Culinary Museum. This museum showcases the city’s rich culinary history, traditional recipes, and famous dishes, offering visitors a deep dive into Turkish food culture.

Gaziantep War Museum (Panoramic Museum of Heroism)

For history lovers, the Gaziantep War Museum provides a deep insight into the city’s heroic resistance during the Turkish War of Independence. Located in a historic stone mansion, the museum uses life-size figures, storytelling, and artifacts to bring history to life.

Rumkale (Halfeti Boat Tour)

Just outside Gaziantep, Rumkale is a spectacular fortress located on the Euphrates River. A boat tour from Halfeti takes visitors to this ancient fortress, where they can enjoy stunning views of submerged villages, deep blue waters, and the historical ruins of a hidden past.

Dos and Don’ts in Gaziantep

 Dos

1. Try the Local Cuisine – Gaziantep is a UNESCO-listed culinary city, famous for its baklava, kebabs, and Beyran soup. Visit local restaurants and street vendors for authentic flavors.
2. Visit the Markets and Bazaars – Explore the Copper Market (Bakırcılar Çarşısı) and Zincirli Bedesten for unique souvenirs like handmade copperware, spices, and textiles.
3. Respect Local Customs and Traditions – Gaziantep is a culturally rich and traditional city. Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or historical sites.

Don’ts

1. Don’t Ignore Cultural Etiquette – Avoid loud conversations or public displays of affection, as Gaziantep is more conservative than cities like Istanbul.
2. Don’t Forget to Bargain in Markets – Prices in bazaars are often negotiable. Politely haggle for a fair deal, but don’t push too hard.
3. Don’t Rush Through the City – Gaziantep has many hidden gems beyond its main attractions. Take your time to explore its streets, museums, and food culture.

Best time to reach in Gaziantep

Spring (March – May) → Best Time to Visit

 Pleasant temperatures (15-25°C)
Ideal for sightseeing, outdoor markets, and exploring historical sites
Lush greenery and blooming flowers make the city even more beautiful

Summer (June – August) → Very Hot

Extremely hot (35-40°C), making outdoor exploration difficult
Good for indoor attractions like the Zeugma Mosaic Museum
Fewer tourists, so prices for accommodation may be lower

Autumn (September – November) → Another Great Time

 Mild temperatures (15-25°C), similar to spring
Best season for food lovers—harvest time for pistachios and fresh Gaziantep baklava
Perfect for visiting bazaars, castles, and historical sites without extreme heat

Winter (December – February) → Cold but Unique

 Chilly (0-10°C), but a great time to enjoy warm dishes like Beyran soup
Not crowded, so a quieter experience in museums and attractions
Occasional snowfall adds a magical touch to Gaziantep Castle