Gaziantep - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Gaziantep

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Gaziantep, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Gaziantep and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Gaziantep, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Gaziantep for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Gaziantep

Gaziantep is a historic city in southeastern Turkey, located near the Syrian border. It is known for its rich culinary culture, traditional architecture, and historical sites such as the Gaziantep Castle, Zeugma Mosaic Museum, and Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Copper Market). The city is also home to many authentic bazaars, where visitors can find unique souvenirs and taste traditional Turkish sweets and baklava. Gaziantep's climate is generally hot and dry, with mild winters and hot summers. It is a popular destination for those interested in experiencing both the traditional and modern aspects of Turkey.

What to visit in Gaziantep

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Gaziantep, Turkey: 1. Gaziantep Castle: This historical castle dates back to the Roman period and offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can explore the castle's towers and walls and learn about its history.
2. Zeugma Mosaic Museum: This museum houses one of the world's largest collections of Roman mosaics, with over 2,000 square meters of beautifully preserved mosaics dating back to the 2nd century BC.
3. Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Copper Bazaar): This traditional bazaar is famous for its handmade copper crafts, including pots, trays, and lanterns. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and browse the colorful shops.
4. Gaziantep Zoo: This popular zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, and birds. There's also a playground for children and a picnic area for families.
5. Şahinbey Park: This large park is a perfect spot for a picnic or a walk. There are walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and a lake with paddle boats.
6. Hasan Süzer Ethnography Museum: This fascinating museum showcases the culture and traditions of Gaziantep's people through exhibits of traditional clothing, household items, and musical instruments.
7. Tahtani Mosque: This beautiful mosque is known for its unique architecture, with a wooden dome covered in copper plates. Visitors can admire the intricate decoration and peaceful atmosphere.
8. Kalealtı Bazaar: This market is popular for its spices, dried fruits, and Turkish delights. Visitors can sample the local specialties and buy souvenirs.
Overall, Gaziantep offers a mix of historical and cultural experiences, as well as opportunities to enjoy nature and shopping. It is a great destination for travelers who want to explore Turkey beyond the usual tourist spots.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Gaziantep.

When to go on holiday to Gaziantep

The best time to visit Gaziantep is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the temperatures are milder and more pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. The winter months (December to February) can be cold and rainy, but also offer a unique chance to experience the winter festivals and traditional celebrations in the city. So depending on your preference, you can plan your trip accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Gaziantep

There are a few different options for getting to Gaziantep, Turkey: 1. By air: Gaziantep International Airport (GZT) is the main gateway to the city. It's served by several airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and SunExpress. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to get to your final destination.
2. By bus: Gaziantep is well-connected to other cities in Turkey by bus. Many companies operate daily routes to and from nearby cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Adana. The Gaziantep Bus Station is located in the city center.
3. By car: Driving from other cities in Turkey is also an option. The E90 highway passes through Gaziantep and connects it to other major cities in the region.
It's recommended that you check the current travel restrictions and entry requirements before planning your trip, as they may change due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Gaziantep, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Gaziantep

Gaziantep, located in southeast Turkey, is famous for its rich culinary traditions that are well-known even within Turkey. Here are some typical foods of Gaziantep with a short description for each of them: 1. Baklava - a sweet pastry made with layers of thin filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. Gaziantep Baklava is recognized as the best in Turkey.
2. Şiş köfte - a dish made with ground meat (usually beef), combined with bulgur wheat, tomato and various spices. It is then shaped into small balls and grilled on skewers until crispy.
3. Lahmacun - a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, onion, peppers, and spices, and then baked in a wood-fired oven. It's usually eaten as a snack or as part of a meal with other meze dishes.
4. Antep ezmesi - a spicy dip made with roasted red peppers, aubergine, garlic, and olive oil. It can be served as a side dish or spread on bread.
5. Katmer - a pastry similar to baklava but made with thicker layers of filo dough and filled with clotted cream and pistachios. It's usually eaten for breakfast or as a dessert.
6. İmam bayıldı - a vegetarian dish made with aubergine, onions, tomatoes, and garlic stuffed with a mixture of onions, tomatoes, and spices, and then baked in a tomato sauce until tender.
7. Kebab - Gaziantep has a wide variety of kebabs made with beef, lamb, or chicken, but the most famous one is beyti kebabı, which is made with marinated ground meat wrapped around a skewer and cooked over charcoal.
8. Künefe - a dessert made with shredded phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese, baked until crispy, and then soaked in sweet syrup. It's usually served warm and topped with crushed pistachios.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Gaziantep an expensive destination for tourists?

Gaziantep is generally considered an affordable destination compared to many other popular tourist destinations in Turkey. However, the prices of certain things like hotels and dining may be slightly higher compared to other cities in Turkey. Overall, the cost of living and traveling in Gaziantep is reasonable and can be managed on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Gaziantep

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Gaziantep are the city center, Sahinbey, and Şehitkamil districts. These areas offer easy access to the city's main historical and cultural sites, such as the Gaziantep Castle, Zeugma Mosaic Museum, and Bakırcılar Çarşısı. They also have a wide array of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals to suit various budgets and preferences. Additionally, these areas boast a vibrant culinary scene and lively atmosphere, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore.
You can check hotel prices at Gaziantep here:
Booking.com

Is Gaziantep a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Gaziantep is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city has a low crime rate and is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. However, as with any destination, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas, and keep your valuables secure. Additionally, it's always a good idea to research the current political and social climate of the destination you're traveling to.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Gaziantep.

What type of travelers will enjoy Gaziantep the most?

Gaziantep, Turkey is definitely a great place for all types of travelers, however, it is especially popular among history buffs and food lovers. The city is famous for its rich history, containing a number of interesting archaeological sites including the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, as well as a number of historical attractions such as the Gaziantep Castle and the copper bazaar.
In addition, the city is also famous for its culinary scene. Gaziantep is known for its spicy meat dishes including kebabs and baklava, and there are a number of great restaurants and food markets in the city that visitors can explore.
So, whether you're a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a young traveler looking for fun, or a family looking for an educational vacation, Gaziantep, Turkey is definitely a great destination to consider!

How to get around Gaziantep

In Gaziantep, you can use a variety of transportation options to move around the city, including buses, trams, taxis, and private cars. The city has an extensive public transportation system with several bus lines and a tram line connecting different parts of the city. Taxis are also available and can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi company. Private cars can be rented from various rental services in the city. Additionally, some travelers may choose to explore the city on foot, as Gaziantep has several pedestrian-friendly areas and attractions.

What to see around Gaziantep

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Gaziantep: 1. Zeugma Mosaic Museum - located in the town of Nizip, this museum has a collection of ancient Roman mosaics.
2. Rumkale - a medieval castle located on a hill overlooking the Euphrates river, about 30 km from Gaziantep.
3. Yesemek Open Air Museum - an archaeological site about 90 km from Gaziantep, where you can see the ruins of an ancient Hittite settlement and workshops.
4. Duluk Grand Canyon - a stunning natural canyon located about 40 km from Gaziantep, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
5. Elbistan Castle - a medieval castle located about 100 km from Gaziantep, with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
6. Hasankeyf - an ancient town with impressive ruins, located about 120 km from Gaziantep.
7. Mount Nemrut - a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 200 km from Gaziantep, where you can see the ruins of a 1st century BC mountaintop sanctuary.
All these places would make for an excellent day trip from Gaziantep, depending on your interests and preferences.
For every travel information about Turkey you can click here.

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