A 3-Day Culinary Route: Gaziantep-Şanlıurfa-Diyarbakır

This six-day trip into southeastern culinary treasures will take your taste buds to the heights of flavours. From the rich and aromatic spices of Gaziantep to the hearty kebabs of Şanlıurfa and the unique flavours of Diyarbakır, each city offers a culinary experience like no other. Indulge in traditional dishes such as baklava, lahmacun, and kebab, while also exploring the local markets and sampling street food. By the end of the trip, you'll have a newfound appreciation for Turkish cuisine and a belly full of delicious memories.

9 Points

380 km

6 h

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Gaziantep stands as a global gastronomic capital, rich with centuries of culinary heritage. At dawn, the city is embraced by the warm, inviting aroma of katmer, a delicate filo pastry filled with pistachios, sugar, and rich kaymak. Then, you can visit the Gaziantep Culinary Museum, a treasure trove of historic cooking tools and captivating displays that vividly showcase the essence of traditional dishes such as baklava and stuffed vegetables, safeguarding the culinary wisdom handed down through the ages. Experience the rich Ottoman heritage of Gaziantep through Ali Nazik, a sophisticated dish featuring succulent grilled lamb atop a velvety layer of creamy yoghurt and a smoky aubergine puree. End your day with Tahmis Kahvesi, a café that delights both locals and tourists with its freshly brewed Turkish coffee, fostering vibrant everyday conversations.

Şanlıurfa, a city steeped in history and rich in gastronomic delights, offers a vibrant and traditional experience. Start your day at Göbeklitepe, a proud resident of the UNESCO World Heritage list, the world's oldest monumental site. Mornings in Şanlıurfa start with ciğer (crisp fried liver), and don’t get it twisted; this is a longstanding tradition in Şanlıurfa. Locals and tourists alike gather in the bustling bazaars, sampling traditional foods and haggling over handmade crafts. The city's beautiful environs produce eggplants for Patlıcanlı Kebap, a perfect choice for dinner. After your meal, Menengiç coffee, with its earthy smell and pistachio notes, invites casual conversations across countries. Try the regional favourite Şıllık Tatlısı (walnut crepes) with your coffee. End your day with Menengiç and Şıllık for a true taste of Şanlıurfa.

Steeped in history and bursting with culinary delights, visitors are captivated by the enticing smoky scents of Ciğer Kebabı in Dağkapı. This expertly grilled lamb liver, infused with cumin, sumac, and chilli flakes, is perfectly complemented by freshly baked lavaş bread and crisp vegetables. Strolling beneath the stone arches of Hasan Paşa Caravanserai, visitors are immersed in lively markets and traditional tunes. Then, visit the stunning Grand Mosque, a Seljuk gem that serves as both a spiritual haven and a community hub. Don’t forget to visit the magnificent Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens that proudly reside on the UNESCO World Heritage List.