All-inclusive Private Guided Tour of Sanliurfa City
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All-inclusive Private Guided Tour of Sanliurfa City

Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This all-inclusive, private, guided tour is an easy add-on to any vacation in Turkey! We will pick you up from your hotel - no worries, no stress, and all-inclusive with a knowledgeable guide that speaks your language. Don't visit the area without experiencing the local sights and sounds of historic Sanliurfa.

Buckle up and drink your coffee, because Sanliurfa is full of ancient historical sights you do not want to miss! See the Biblical city of Haran (500-year-old mud houses) where you'll have a chance to ride camels and visit Jacob's well! After lunch, visit the Sanliurfa Archeology Museum. Experience a picturesque sunset at the famous Pool of Abraham (Fish Lake). Abraham is an important patriarch in Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. Sanliurfa is where Abraham lived before his migration to Canaan. ​

Available options

All-inclusive Private Guided Tour of Sanliurfa City

Pickup included

What's included

Entry or admission fee
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bottled water
Private transportation
Coffee and/or tea

Detailed itinerary

1

See the Biblical city of Harran (also spelled Haran) where Abraham’s family settled when they left Ur of the Chaldeans (Genesis 11:31–32). Harran is an ancient city of strategic importance and is now a village in southeastern Turkey. It lies along the Balikh River, 24 miles (38 km) southeast of Sanliurfa.
The town was located on the road that ran from Nineveh to Carchemish and was regarded as of considerable importance by the Assyrian kings. Its chief cult in Assyrian times was that of the moon god. One of the first science centers of the world and the first universities of the world were established here. The names of the city and university of Sanliurfa come from the cuneiform tablets. The name 'ha ra na' is written on them.

2

See Jacob's Well. Jacob was sent by his mother to find Laban to be safe. He travels a great distance to find Laban. Rachel, Laban's younger daughter, comes to the well to water her father's flock and Jacob sees her there. He falls in love with her and accepts to work for her father for 7 years just to marry her. Since Rachel has an older sister, Laban forces Jacob to marry the older sister and asks him to work for him 7 years more to marry Rachel. Jacob accepts the offer and works for Laban 7 years more. Finally, he marries Rachel.

3

The museum opened in 2015, and replaced the former museum of Sanliurfa. With a closed area of 34,000 square meters (370,000 sq ft), it is one of the biggest museums in Turkey. Sanliurfa has hosted many civilizations, so the museum is very rich in terms of artifacts. The museum consists of two major sections. To the north is the mosaic section and to the south is the archaeology section which is a three-story building. In addition to exhibition halls there are offices, a museum lab, a library, restaurants, markets and a playground for kids.

4

Experience a picturesque sunset at the famous Pool of Abraham (Fish Lake or Balikligol). This pool is believed by Jews and Muslims to be where Nimrod threw Abraham into the fire. Abraham is an important patriarch in Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. Sanliurfa is where Abraham lived before his migration to Canaan. Balikligol and neighboring Aynzeliha pools are among the most visited places in Sanliurfa.

5

Abraham's Cave, the cave of Abraham, is often said to be the birthplace of the prophet. The cave is a gaping mouth flanked by two columns. The cave has two entrances, one for each gender. Visitors, especially women, are required to wear appropriate clothes, so headscarves are handed out at the entrance. The cave itself is a sort of cave church and is usually hot because of the lack of ventilation and the large number of visitors.

Available languages

Guide guide
RU EN KU TR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Show your ticket to your tour guide. Then, your tour guide will purchase all expenses on your behalf.

About Sanliurfa

Sanliurfa, known as the City of Prophets, is a historic city in southeastern Turkey with a rich cultural heritage. It is renowned for its ancient sites, vibrant bazaars, and religious significance in both Islamic and Christian traditions. The city offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and traditional Turkish hospitality.

Top Attractions

Gölbaşı

Gölbaşı is a large artificial lake in the heart of Sanliurfa, surrounded by lush gardens and historic sites. It is believed to be the place where the Prophet Abraham was thrown into the fire by Nimrod.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Balıklıgöl

Balıklıgöl is a sacred pool believed to have healing properties. It is associated with the Prophet Abraham and is a place of pilgrimage for both Muslims and Christians.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Sanliurfa Museum

The Sanliurfa Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region's rich history, including items from the Neolithic period and the Bronze Age.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate

Halfeti

Halfeti is a picturesque village on the banks of the Euphrates River, known for its stunning landscapes and historic sites. It is often referred to as the 'Turkish Venice' due to its waterways and traditional houses.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, boat tours may have a fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Şıhıl Mahşi

A traditional dish made with fish stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices, then baked in a special clay pot.

Main Dish Contains fish and gluten

Şırnak Kebap

A spicy kebab made with minced lamb or beef, seasoned with hot peppers and other spices.

Main Dish Contains meat and spices

Balık Ekmek

A popular street food consisting of grilled fish sandwiched in bread, often served with vegetables and sauces.

Snack Contains fish and gluten

Popular Activities

Boat tours on the Euphrates River Hiking in the surrounding countryside Tea houses and cafes Strolling through the city's gardens and parks Visiting historic sites and museums Exploring the city's bazaars and markets Visiting indoor attractions like museums and mosques Experiencing the city's rich cultural and religious heritage

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The crowds are moderate, and the temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Turkish
  • Widely spoken: Arabic, Kurdish
  • English: Limited

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sanliurfa is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps.
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas.

Getting there

By air
  • Sanliurfa Airport • 15 km from city center
By bus

Sanliurfa Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Sanliurfa. Buses are affordable and frequent, but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Halfeti

Day trips

Halfeti
30 km from Sanliurfa • Half day to full day

Halfeti is a picturesque village on the banks of the Euphrates River, known for its stunning landscapes and historic sites. It is often referred to as the 'Turkish Venice' due to its waterways and traditional houses.

Harran
40 km from Sanliurfa • Half day to full day

Harran is an ancient city known for its unique beehive houses and rich history. It is believed to be the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham and is a significant site for both Muslims and Christians.

Festivals

Sanliurfa International Culture and Art Festival • July

Pro tips

  • Visit Gölbaşı early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Try the local specialty, Şıhıl Mahşi, at a traditional restaurant.
  • Explore the city's bazaars for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
  • Take a boat tour on the Euphrates River for a unique perspective of Halfeti.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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