Arrival in Trabzon via Istanbul

Guests arrive in Istanbul and continue with a domestic flight to Trabzon.

Upon arrival in Trabzon, they are welcomed by our local team and transferred to the hotel. Depending on the flight schedule, there may be time for a first short introduction to the city.

Trabzon is one of the key cities of the Eastern Black Sea region, known for its green mountains, coastal atmosphere and rich historical background.

Overnight in Trabzon.

Sumela Monastery and Erzurum

After breakfast, we leave Trabzon and travel into the mountains to visit the impressive Sumela Monastery.

Built dramatically against a steep cliff in the Altındere Valley, Sumela Monastery is one of the most iconic historical sites of the Black Sea region, known for its setting, frescoes and spiritual atmosphere.

After the visit, we continue through scenic mountain landscapes towards Erzurum, one of the oldest cities of Anatolia and an important cultural centre of Eastern Türkiye.

Overnight in Erzurum.

Erzurum and Kars

This morning we explore Erzurum, a city with an impressive Seljuk and Ottoman heritage.

Possible visits include the Çifte Minareli Medrese, Yakutiye Medrese, Ulu Mosque, Erzurum Castle and local markets. Erzurum is also known for its regional cuisine, including cağ kebab and traditional local desserts.

Afterwards, we continue to Kars, a city with a unique atmosphere shaped by different cultural and historical influences.

Depending on timing, we can include a short orientation walk in Kars.

Overnight in Kars.

Ani and Doğubeyazıt

After breakfast, we visit Ani, the remarkable medieval city near the Armenian border.

Ani was once an important regional capital and today offers one of the most impressive archaeological landscapes in Eastern Türkiye, with city walls, churches, cathedral remains, mosque ruins and dramatic views over the surrounding plateau.

After the visit, we continue south towards Doğubeyazıt. The route offers wide plains, mountain views and, in clear weather, possible views of Mount Ararat.

In Doğubeyazıt, we visit the magnificent Ishak Pasha Palace, located on a high platform overlooking the old town and surrounding landscape.

Overnight in Doğubeyazıt.

Van Region, Ahlat and Tatvan

Today we travel towards the Lake Van region.

Depending on the routing and timing, we can include stops around Van or continue directly towards Ahlat and Tatvan. Ahlat is especially known for its historic Seljuk cemetery, one of the most important medieval Turkish-Islamic cemetery sites in Anatolia.

The day ends in Tatvan, located on the western shore of Lake Van, with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Overnight in Tatvan.

Bitlis, Hasankeyf and Midyat

After breakfast, we continue towards Southeastern Türkiye.

The route can include Bitlis, an old mountain town with traditional architecture and a strong local character. We then continue towards Hasankeyf and the Mesopotamian landscape.

Later in the day, we arrive in Midyat, famous for its golden-coloured stone houses, narrow streets, churches, monasteries and Syriac cultural heritage. The nearby Mor Gabriel Monastery is one of the most important historic monasteries in the region and dates back to late antiquity.

Overnight in Midyat.

Midyat, Göbeklitepe and Şanlıurfa

This morning we further explore Midyat or the surrounding Tur Abdin region, depending on the pace of the programme.

We then continue to Şanlıurfa, one of the most atmospheric cities of Southeastern Türkiye. The programme can include Göbeklitepe, one of the world’s most important prehistoric archaeological sites, as well as Balıklıgöl, the old bazaars and traditional Urfa streets.

In the evening, guests can experience the warm local atmosphere of Şanlıurfa, known for its music, traditions and cuisine.

Overnight in Şanlıurfa.

Harran and Mount Nemrut Region

After breakfast, we can visit Harran, known for its traditional beehive-style houses and its long history in the plains of Mesopotamia.

We then continue towards the Mount Nemrut region. Depending on the season and weather conditions, we can arrange a sunset or sunrise visit to Mount Nemrut.

Mount Nemrut is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for the monumental tomb-sanctuary of King Antiochos I of Commagene, with colossal stone heads and a spectacular mountain setting.

Overnight in Adıyaman / Kahta region.

Mount Nemrut and Gaziantep

For groups who prefer the sunrise experience, we start early with a visit to the summit of Mount Nemrut.

After the visit, we continue towards Gaziantep, one of Türkiye’s most important culinary and cultural cities.

In Gaziantep, the programme can include the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Roman and Late Antique mosaics, frescoes, sculptures and architectural fragments.

In the evening, guests can enjoy Gaziantep’s famous cuisine.

Overnight in Gaziantep.

Gaziantep and Adana

After breakfast, there may be time for further visits in Gaziantep, such as the old bazaar area, coppersmiths’ market, castle surroundings or local food experiences.

We then continue west towards Adana, a lively city on the Seyhan River.

Depending on arrival time, we can include a short city orientation, with possible views of the historic Stone Bridge and Sabancı Central Mosque.

Overnight in Adana.

Tarsus and Adana / Mersin Region

Today we visit Tarsus, one of the most historically significant cities of Southern Türkiye.

Tarsus is strongly connected with Saint Paul and also has an important Roman and ancient heritage. Possible visits include Saint Paul’s Well, Cleopatra’s Gate, the old streets of Tarsus and other historical points of interest.

After the visit, we return to Adana or continue to the Mersin area, depending on the flight schedule and hotel preference.

Overnight in Adana / Mersin region.

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Adana Airport or another suitable airport for the return flight.

Depending on the client’s wishes, the programme can be extended with Cappadocia, Antalya, Istanbul or additional days in the Mediterranean region.

End of the programme.