Private Göbeklitepe Day Tour from Istanbul

FromTRY 535
12 hours
Istanbul, Turkey

About this activity

Discover Göbeklitepe's ancient wonders on a private day tour from Istanbul, including flights, guided exploration, and local lunch.

Highlights

  • Explore the world's oldest temple complex
  • Marvel at ancient stone pillars and carvings
  • Learn about prehistoric rituals and history
  • Visit the Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum
  • Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in Şanlıurfa

Full description

Step back in time and uncover the mysteries of Göbeklitepe, the world's oldest known temple complex, on this exclusive private day tour from Istanbul. Begin your adventure with a comfortable round-trip flight to Şanlıurfa, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the fascinating archaeological site, showcasing its monumental stone pillars and intricate carvings. Delve into the prehistoric rituals and history that make Göbeklitepe a UNESCO World Heritage site. After the tour, savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Şanlıurfa, offering authentic Turkish flavors. This immersive experience combines history, culture, and cuisine for an unforgettable journey into Turkey's ancient past.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip flights from Istanbul to Şanlıurfa
  • Private guided tour of Göbeklitepe archaeological site
  • Lunch at a local restaurant in Şanlıurfa
  • Personal expenses and gratuities

Itinerary

1

Upon arrival in Sanlıurfa, you will be met by your tour guide at the airport holding a name sign with your name on it. You will be transferred to the Gobeklitepe Archeological site with a private van. During this journey, you will be informed about the history of Gobeklitepe before the tour of Urfa city and the archeological site of Gobeklitepe. History Gobeklitepe dates back to the early period of mankind ( about 12,000 BC – 9000 BC ), even earlier than Stonehenge. The discovery of the oval-shaped temples in 1996 by German archeologists created a new perspective in the history of humans with God. Today you will visit the Oldest Temple of the world and the site of ongoing archeological excavations, then we will drive to the Archeology Museum and Mosaic Museum where the relics are displayed.

Duration: 3 hoursAdmission: YES
2

This pool is believed by Muslims to be the place where Abraham was thrown into the fire by Nimrod. Abraham is mentioned in three major religions, Christianity, Islam, and Judaism but in Islam, he is called Ibrahim. The Pool Of Abraham is a special place for all 3 religions, which is why it is a remarkable spot for the tours to Southeastern Turkey.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
3

The museums contain remains of Sanliurfa (known as Edessa in antiquity), Gobeklitepe, Karahantepe, Harran.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
4

You will have a chance to shop in the Local Bazaar of Edessa.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
  • Flights are included; however, flight times may vary and are subject to change.
  • Gratuities for the guide and driver are not included and are at your discretion.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • Tour duration includes the airport transfers in Sanliurfa.
  • Pick up time will depend on the flight schedules between Istanbul and Sanliurfa.
  • Tour could be operated only if there are available flights.

Traveler reviews

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Traveling back in time

We have had the most informative, amazing and flavorful family trip to 12,000BC with the most knowledgeable guide 'Yeşim Bedlek'. Quality of our transportation to the quality of the food we had during our lunch break, and the tatse of the 'Menengiç-Pistacchio Coffee' at the end of our tour in the ols bazaar in Urfa was indeed memorable. I cannot recommend it enough... If I can make one suggestion is to book your Urfa trip atleast for two days and include 'Karahantepe and Nemrut' ruins. By this way you can see more and of course eat more as well... Don't wait book your trip to feel like Indiana Jones😄🤠

murataG1363YFDec 22, 2025TRIPADVISOR

High-quality visit of Goblekitepe and Mount Nemrud

Very professional, reliable, friendly, high-quality services from the time we were picked up at our hotel in Istanbul to our late return the following day. Our guide, Sitki, was a pleasure to share two days with, so were the drivers. Sitki was very organized and managed to bring us to all sights we wished to visit. His commentaries were as detailed as needed, easily understood and obviously well researched. We have travelled extensively; this was one of the most pleasurable tour we have enjoyed.

lacvueOct 14, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Tour duration includes the airport transfers in Sanliurfa. Pick up time will depend on the flight schedules between Istanbul and Sanliurfa. Tour could be operated only if there are available flights.