10 Days Eastern Turkey Tour: A Journey Through Time and Culture

Eastern Turkey is a land where civilizations were born, faiths converged, and cultures flourished for thousands of years. This 10 Days Eastern Turkey Tour offers an immersive travel experience that blends history, archaeology, gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes—all starting from Istanbul and ending in the enchanting cities of Mesopotamia.

Designed for travelers seeking authenticity, this itinerary covers Cappadocia, Gaziantep, Mount Nemrut, Şanlıurfa, Göbeklitepe, Midyat, and Mardin, with carefully planned overnight stays to ensure comfort and depth of exploration.

👉 Ready to explore Turkey beyond the ordinary? This journey is your gateway to the East.

Why Choose a 10 Days Eastern Turkey Tour?

Eastern Turkey remains one of the most culturally rich yet least explored regions of the country. A 10-day itinerary allows you to travel at a comfortable pace while fully absorbing the region’s heritage.

Cappadocia Sky Filled with Colorful Balloons

Highlights of Eastern Turkey Travel

  • Ancient civilizations dating back over 12,000 years

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites

  • Unique regional cuisine and local traditions

  • Dramatic landscapes and historic architecture

Ideal for Culture & History Lovers

This tour is perfect for travelers interested in:

  • Biblical and Mesopotamian history

  • Early human settlements

  • Authentic local experiences

  • Photography and storytelling travel

Day-by-Day 10 Days Eastern Turkey Tour Itinerary

Ortaköy Mosque: A Jewel on Istanbul Bosphorus

Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul & Tour Introduction

Your journey begins in Istanbul, Turkey’s cultural and historical crossroads. After arrival, you’ll receive a tour briefing and enjoy free time to explore the city’s iconic skyline.

Optional experiences: Bosphorus stroll, local dining, or cultural shows.

👉 Start your Eastern Turkey adventure from the heart of Istanbul.

Secret Underground Cities in Cappadocia

Days 2–3 – Cappadocia (2 Nights)

Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most iconic destinations, famous for its surreal landscapes and ancient cave dwellings.

What You’ll Experience in Cappadocia

  • Fairy chimneys and volcanic valleys

  • Underground cities used by early Christians

  • Rock-cut churches with Byzantine frescoes

Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride

A sunrise balloon flight offers unforgettable panoramic views of Cappadocia’s lunar-like terrain.

Accommodation: 2 nights in a boutique or cave hotel

👉 Don’t miss Cappadocia—one of the world’s most photogenic landscapes.

Gypsy Girl Mosaic at Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Day 4 – Gaziantep (1 Night)

Known as Turkey’s gastronomic capital, Gaziantep blends ancient history with world-famous cuisine.

Gaziantep Highlights

  • Zeugma Mosaic Museum

  • Old bazaars and copper workshops

  • Authentic baklava and Antep pistachios

Accommodation: 1 night in Gaziantep

👉 Taste the flavors of Anatolia where culinary traditions were born.

Mount Nemrut Ancient Commagene Statues

Day 5 – Mount Nemrut & Adıyaman (1 Night)

A true highlight of the Eastern Turkey Tour, Mount Nemrut is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colossal stone heads.

Sunrise or Sunset at Mount Nemrut

  • Statues of ancient gods

  • Tomb of King Antiochus I

  • One of the most mystical views in Turkey

Accommodation: 1 night in Adıyaman

👉 Witness one of the most magical sunrises on Earth.

Göbeklitepe Archaeological Site in Turkey

Days 6–7 – Şanlıurfa & Göbeklitepe (2 Nights)

Often referred to as the “City of Prophets,” Şanlıurfa is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Göbeklitepe – The World’s Oldest Temple

Dated to 9600 BC, Göbeklitepe reshaped human history and religious studies.

Şanlıurfa Attractions

  • Pool of Abraham (Balıklıgöl)

  • Urfa Castle

  • Traditional bazaars and local music

Accommodation: 2 nights in Şanlıurfa

👉 Step into the birthplace of civilization.

Old Mardin Stone Houses and Historic City View

Days 8–9 – Midyat & Mardin (2 Nights)

Mardin and Midyat showcase the architectural and cultural richness of Mesopotamia.

Ancient Syriac Church Architecture in Mardin

Midyat – Stone Houses & Syriac Culture

  • Ancient monasteries

  • Telkari silver craftsmanship

  • Authentic Assyrian heritage

Mardin Old City

  • Zinciriye and Kasımiye Madrasas

  • Mesopotamian plains view

  • Arab, Kurdish, Syriac cultural harmony

Accommodation: 2 nights in Mardin

👉 Experience living history in the stone cities of the East.

Day 10 – Departure from Mardin

After breakfast, the tour concludes with transfers for departure or onward travel.

👉 End your journey enriched, inspired, and connected to history.

Accommodation Overview

Destination Nights
Cappadocia 2
Gaziantep 1
Adıyaman 1
Şanlıurfa 2
Mardin 2

All hotels are carefully selected for comfort, location, and authenticity.

Best Time to Take a 10 Days Eastern Turkey Tour

Ideal Seasons

  • Spring (April–June): Mild weather, blooming landscapes

  • Autumn (September–October): Perfect temperatures and fewer crowds

Weather Considerations

Summers can be hot, especially in Şanlıurfa and Mardin, while winters may bring snow to higher elevations.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

  • Culture & history enthusiasts

  • Archaeology lovers

  • Photographers & writers

  • Travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences

This tour is not rushed—it’s immersive and meaningful.

Why Book with TurkeyTravel.com?

  • Expert local guides

  • Carefully crafted itineraries

  • Authentic cultural experiences

  • Trusted service and support

👉 Your journey is handled by professionals who know Turkey best.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Eastern Turkey safe for travelers?

Yes, Eastern Turkey is safe and welcoming, especially when traveling with an experienced tour operator.

Do I need special permits?

No special permits are required for this itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for seniors?

Yes, with moderate walking and comfortable accommodations.

Final Call to Action – Book Your 10 Days Eastern Turkey Tour

Eastern Turkey is not just a destination—it’s a journey through humanity’s earliest chapters. From Göbeklitepe to Mardin, every step tells a story thousands of years old.

👉 Book your 10 Days Eastern Turkey Tour today with TurkeyTravel.com

👉 Contact us now for availability, pricing, and private tour options

👉 Discover the real Turkey—beyond the postcards

Your adventure into history starts here.

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