Overview
Eastern Turkey is a land where history whispers through ancient stones, and every horizon reveals a story etched by time. This captivating region blends delicious cuisine, cultures, empires, and breathtaking natural beauty — a place where every destination leaves a lasting impression. We don’t just show you destinations. we let you taste them. At Atlas global Tours, History and food come together to create memories that last a lifetime.
The tour starts and ends in istanbul. we fly to Kars, step into a world of legends at the medieval Ani Ruins, once a flourishing Silk Road capital known as the “City of 1,001 Churches.” Journey onward to the magnificent ishak Paşha Palace, a 17th-century masterpiece that harmoniously weaves Ottoman, Persian, and Armenian influences, offering panoramic views over the snow-capped Mount Ararat.
The adventure continues in Van, home to Lake Van, the largest and most enchanting lake in Türkiye. Cruise across its sapphire waters to Akdamar Island, where the Church of the Holy Cross stands proudly amid breathtaking scenery. In Mardin, wander through golden-stone alleyways, admire its ancient architecture, and visit the serene Deyrulzafaran Monastery, a spiritual beacon of Mesopotamia.
Diyarbakır invites you to explore its mighty city walls, now inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, encircling a city rich in art, faith, and folklore. In Şanlıurfa, the “City of Prophets,” uncover humanity’s deepest roots at Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple, and visit the mystical Pool of Sacred Fish, surrounded by legends and devotion.
Finally, ascend the windswept heights of Mount Nemrut, where colossal stone statues and the tomb of King Antiochus I greet the rising or setting sun — a scene that feels suspended between heaven and earth.
Every step through Eastern Turkey is a journey through civilizations — a tapestry of wonder, memory, and timeless beauty.
Highlights
- Daily authentic local food tasting
- Home kitchen , village oven & family run restaurants
- Small-Group immersive travel
- Slow pace , Real connections
- Focusing Unesco Heritage sites and visit eastern Turkiye's most famous places
Itinerary
Eastern Turkey is a land where history whispers through ancient stones, and every horizon reveals a story etched by time. This captivating region blends delicious cuisine, cultures, empires, and breathtaking natural beauty — a place where every destination leaves a lasting impression. We don't just show you destinations. we let you taste them. At Atlas global Tours, History and food come together to create memories that last a lifetime.
Welcome to Türkiye! Your adventure through Eastern Turkey begins in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where East meets West.
Arrive at your hotel and meet your Tour leader and travel companions at 1:00 PM for a welcome meeting and tour briefing. This afternoon, enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent Topkapı Palace, once the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans. Explore its lavish courtyards, imperial collections, and stories of royal life while taking in breathtaking views over the Bosphorus.
You will have welcome dinner and your guide will introduce local dishes for you. One of the most famous Ottoman dishes is Hünkar Beğendi and some special starters. Enjoy with traditional welcome dinner.
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.
Return to Kars in the evening, where you can relax or enjoy a cozy dinner in one of the town’s traditional restaurants. we will try The iconic winter dish of Kars. Goose is salted, air-dried outdoors, then slowly cooked and served with bulgur or pilaf. Deep, gamey, unforgettable flavor.
Depart after delicious breakfast and Visit Ishak Paşa Palace, an Ottoman-Persian architectural masterpiece, with views of Mount Ararat. Overnight in Van.
After Breakfast We will visit a cheese shop. Kars is famous for its Gravyer cheese (Swiss-style, nutty, aged) and rich Kars kaşar. The high-altitude pastures give the milk a unique aroma.
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.
Discover Nemrut Caldera, one of the world’s largest volcanic craters. Visit Zerzevan Castle, a Roman-era fortress, and the mighty Diyarbakır City Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in Mardin for the night.
We have a reservation for one of the popular traditional restaurant. You will have Mardin's signature meals like Kaburga Dolması Stuffed lamb ribs filled with rice, almonds, spices. Irok (Stuffed Kibbeh) and more interesting foods. Before we finish our experience, do not forget to have Kurdish traditional coffee Mırra.
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.
Head to Karahantepe and Soğmatar, mysterious ancient settlements linked to early civilizations. Overnight in Şanlıurfa.
Today you will try Urfa Kebab – The iconic local kebab made from seasoned minced meat grilled over charcoal. Less spicy than some other regional kebabs but deeply flavorful. Enjoy your meal.
Explore Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex and a UNESCO site. Visit the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum and the Mosaic Museum, home to the famous “Urfa Man” statue.
Get ready this evening for enjoyable activity. Sıra Gecesi is a traditional social gathering from Şanlıurfa, combining music, food, and friendship into one unforgettable night.
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
inclusions & exclusions
Inclusions
- Accommodation for 9 nights in quality hotels with breakfast included
- Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour
- Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
- All entrance fees
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- Domestic Flights
- Local Traditional Meals & Lunch with local Family
Exclusions
- International flights to/from Turkey
- Travel insurance (mandatory for participation)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary (such as most lunches and dinners)
- Personal expenses like drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and laundry
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and service staff
- Visa fees and related entry permits for Turkey
- Optional activities or tours not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any equipment or personal gear needed for the trip
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Visa requirements may change and depends on Nationality. Please check the Turkish embassy website in your country of departure.
Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis a, hepatitis b, rabies, and tetanus. For more details, please check WHO official website.
Best time to visit between 1st of May to 30th of September.
April- May and September – October is colder than June , July , August. The hottest month of the year is July, with an average daily maximum of 25°C. North east is cold, south east is very hot.
Yes, ATMs are widely available in large cities and towns, and both Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Credit Card Accepted almost in all businesses.
Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Türkiye is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
it is customary in Türkiye to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected, though not compulsory, and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people helping you on your tour. Recommendations for tipping Tour Leader / Guide is Per Person Per Day 10 usd, For Your Driver 5 usd per person per day, depending on the quality of the service.
it’s often heavily chlorinated, so you may choose to drink bottled water instead.
Turkey is a very safe country in which to visit — particularly within tourist areas.
However, that said, it always pays to be aware of petty crime (like pickpocketing), tourist scams, and touts — particularly in larger cities. It’s uncommon, but female travellers might also attract some unwarranted attention. Dress modestly and you should be fine.
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