About Gaziantep
Gaziantep, often shortened to Antep, is a busy southeastern city that many Turks consider the country's culinary capital, and it belongs to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for gastronomy. Pistachios, Antep baklava, which holds protected geographical status in the European Union, buttery katmer and yogurt-based yuvalama are part of everyday life here. Yet the city is far more than a food stop. Mosaics rescued from ancient Zeugma, bazaars and caravanserais clustered around the hilltop castle, and old stone mansions tell the story of a trading crossroads thousands of years in the making.
Most Gaziantep tours begin with the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and a walk around the castle and old bazaars. Food tours then take over, from breakfast katmer and beyran soup to kebab grills, spice stalls and baklava workshops. Day trips run to Halfeti for a Euphrates boat ride, to the ancient site of Zeugma and to Yesemek, an open-air Hittite sculpture workshop. Give the museum and bazaars one day and the food scene at least another. With TurTalebi you can compare city and food tours from local Gaziantep firms and book securely by card.
Gaziantep Tours
Tours run by local firms in the area. Pick a date, see the price and book securely by card.
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All ToursTop Things to See
Zeugma Mosaic Museum
Often ranked among the largest mosaic museums in the world, it holds floors rescued from Roman villas at Zeugma before part of the ancient city was flooded. The famous Gypsy Girl mosaic has its own dimly lit room.
Gaziantep Castle
Built on an ancient mound in the middle of the city, the castle is the hub around which the old bazaars and hans gather. Restoration work may occasionally limit access to some sections.
Coppersmiths' Bazaar
In the Bakırcılar Çarşısı, artisans still hammer copper by hand into pots, trays and ornaments. The nearby Zincirli Bedesten and historic hans make the whole area a rewarding place to browse.
Baklava and Antep Cuisine
Pistachio baklava, katmer layered with clotted cream and pistachios, beyran soup at breakfast and yuvalama are just a few of the city's signature dishes. A guided food tour introduces you to the masters behind them.
Zeugma Ancient Site
Near Nizip on the Euphrates, the ancient city where the mosaics were found preserves the remains of Roman villas, part of them under a protective roof. Seeing where the mosaics came from is a fascinating companion to the museum.
Bey Quarter Mansions
The old Bey neighborhood near the castle is full of courtyard houses, carved stone facades and narrow lanes. Several mansions now serve as museums and cultural centers, so you can step inside.
Plan Your Trip
When to Go
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for walking the old town, and the pistachio harvest runs from late August into September. Summers are hot, often above 35°C (95°F), which makes the air-conditioned museums a welcome break. Winters are cool and wet but quiet, and a steaming bowl of beyran tastes even better on a cold morning. For food-focused trips, weekdays are calmer whatever the season.
Getting There
Gaziantep Airport is a short drive from the city center and has regular domestic flights from İstanbul, Ankara and other cities. By road, Şanlıurfa is about two hours away and Adana about two and a half. In the center, the castle, bazaars and most museums are within walking distance, and the Zeugma Mosaic Museum is a short taxi ride away. For Halfeti, Zeugma and Yesemek, a tour vehicle is the most practical option.
Practical Tips
- Katmer and beyran are breakfast dishes served early, so arrive hungry and start your day with them.
- Allow at least two hours for the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, and do not miss the Gypsy Girl room.
- Compare a few shops before buying copper or spices, and pick up vacuum-packed baklava at the end of your trip.