A Gobeklitepe day trip from Istanbul is an ideal excursion for history enthusiasts and travelers interested in early human civilization. This site, located near Sanliurfa, is one of the world’s oldest temples, dating back over 11,000 years. To explore the secrets of Gobeklitepe and immerse yourself in ancient history, many visitors opt for day trips to Gobeklitepe from Istanbul, which include flights, guided tours, and other conveniences. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip.
Quick Insights
- Convenient Day Trip from Istanbul: A Gobeklitepe day trip from Istanbul includes flights, transfers, and guided tours, making it easy to explore Turkey’s ancient history in one day.
- Main Attractions: Key stops include Gobeklitepe Archaeological Site, Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum, and Pool of Abraham, adding cultural depth to the tour.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather for outdoor exploration, while summer can be very hot.
- Guided Insights: Expert guides provide valuable context on Gobeklitepe’s historical and cultural significance, enriching the visitor experience.
- Flexible Tour Options: Choose between group, private, or multi-day tours based on your budget and interest level.
What is the best way to take a Gobeklitepe day trip from Istanbul?
The best way to take a Gobeklitepe day trip from Istanbul is to book a guided tour that includes round-trip flights to Sanliurfa, airport transfers, and an expert guide for the archaeological site. Most tours offer a full-day itinerary covering Gobeklitepe, the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum, and historic sites like the Pool of Abraham. This structured tour provides convenience, valuable historical insights, and maximizes your time exploring Turkey’s rich heritage.
Practical Information
- Gobeklitepe (means “Pot belly hill” in Turkish) is an archaeological site located on a hilltop in the Sanliurfa city, southeastern Turkey.
- Dates back to Pre-Pottery Neolithic period, 9000 BC to 10500 BC which is 6,000 years before the Stonehenge and 7,000 years before the Great Pyramid.
- Built by the early humans 11,600 years ago, before mental tools, wheel, writing, engineering and declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site, the First known Temple in the world, a Zero Point in Time.
- Consists of a complex monumental site of temples of precision cut 14-tonne pillars with totems, animal figurines and mysterious symbols.
- You can travel to Gobeklitepe from Istanbul by air via GAP Sanliurfa Airport. Day tour from Istanbul to Gobeklitepe is the most practical, comfortable and convenient way to visit Gobeklitepe from Istanbul.
Where is Gobeklitepe?
Gobeklitepe is located on the southeastern Anatolian region of Turkey, near the Orencik village, about 18 km. from the city of Sanliurfa, and about 50 km. from the GAP Sanliurfa Airport. Gobeklitepe is located about 1,300 km. from Istanbul.
How to Travel from Istanbul to Gobeklitepe
To make the most of your day trip to Gobeklitepe from Istanbul, the journey usually involves an early morning flight from Istanbul to Sanliurfa Airport, located about 45 minutes from Gobeklitepe.
- Air Travel: The quickest option is to fly from Istanbul to Sanliurfa, and most Göbeklitepe tours include round-trip airfare, airport transfers, and all logistics to streamline your day.
- Tour Packages: Booking a Gobeklitepe tour from Istanbul by flight saves time and ensures a seamless experience. Tours often provide a knowledgeable guide to bring historical context, making it easy to learn about Gobeklitepe’s fascinating past.
- Self-Guided Trip: If you prefer flexibility, you could arrange flights and drive from Sanliurfa to Gobeklitepe independently, though having a guide is highly recommended due to the site’s archaeological significance.
Archaeological History
Gobeklitepe archaeological site was built about 12,000 years ago, 9000 BC to 10500 BC which is 6,000 years before the Stonehenge and 7,000 years before the Great Pyramid, during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic era where there is no mental tools, wheel, writing and engineering.
Gobeklitepe is the first known temple in the world and also called as the Zero point in time.
The area was first discovered in the year 1963, during the surface survey by the joint work of the Istanbul and Chicago Universities, and declared as the V52 Neolithic Settlement.
In 1995, new excavations began with the management of the Sanliurfa Archaeological and Mosaic Museum and the German Archaeologist Klaus Schmidt (after 2007) and afterwards till today, it is revealed that Gobeklitepe was a cult center from the 12,000 years ago.
Who Built It?
Excavations still goes on. It is not solved yet that which civilization and for what reason Gobeklitepe was built. But the findings prove that the area was built for religious purposes.
UNESCO Designation
Gobeklitepe finding are excepted as the most unique archaeological discovery in the world, and declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site on July 2018 as well as the first Temple in the world.
What to See?
Gobeklitepe consists of a complex monumental site of temples of precision cut 14-tonne pillars with totems, animal figurines and mysterious symbols.
The findings on the Gobeklitepe archaeological site are exhibited at the Sanliurfa Archeological and Mosaic Museum, located at the city center (Address: Haleplibahçe Mahallesi, 2372. Sk., Merkez, Eyyübiye, Sanliurfa).
Facts
- The weight of the T-shaped pillars varies between 40 to 60 tons.
- The architectural work is beyond its time.
- There are embossed animal figurines on the pillars such as snake, wild boar and wild duck.
- Gobeklitepe is believed to be the mother land of wheat and the agriculture was for beer producing.
- Regarding the homogenic distribution of the limestone and soil on the site, and the many remnants’ being cleared out before the site was closed, it is believed that Gobeklitepe was buried under the ground. But there is no answer that why it was buried.
- The bottom floor of the temple has waterproof features and so it is believed that there were religious rituals with blood, alcohol or other liquids.
Why Visit?
Actually you should ask “Why Not Visit Gobeklitepe?” An UNESCO World Heritage Site, the first Temple in the World and the Zero Point in time, 6,000 years before the Stonehenge and 7,000 years before the Great Pyramid.
A chance to witness the Pre-Pottery Neolithic era history, to discover one of world’s first faiths belonging to the hunter gatherer ancestors of the human beings, to see a temple with extraordinary animal figurines and how people lived about 12,000 years ago and to admire the architecture very far ahead of its time.
Other Places To See in Sanliurfa
Sanliurfa is one of the favorite cities on the southeastern Turkey where you can admire the history, culture, art and gastronomy.
When you visit Gobeklitepe, you will also have a chance to experience and admire the Sanliurfa Archaeological and Mosaic Museum, which is the largest museum complex in Turkey and also hosts the findings belonging to Gobeklitepe, the Pools of Abraham and the Cave where it is believed that the Prophet Abraham was born.
And you may also experience the gastronomy of Sanliurfa, which is one the best in Turkey, taste the delicious flavors of the southeastern Turkey, as well as make shopping in the traditional local markets.
Gobeklitepe Visiting Hours & Admissions
Opening Hours
Open every day from 08:30-17:30
Ticket Price
Please check visiting hours and admissions from muze.gov.tr
Best Time to Visit Gobeklitepe
The best time of year to visit Gobeklitepe is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor exploration. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter, though less crowded, may have unpredictable weather.
Visiting during these seasons allows you to enjoy pleasant temperatures and avoid the peak heat of the summer months. Keep in mind that spring and autumn are popular seasons, so booking your tour in advance is advisable to secure your spot.
Highlights of Gobeklitepe Day Tours
Gobeklitepe tours cover several highlights beyond the archaeological site itself. Here’s what you can expect on a Gobeklitepe day tour itinerary:
- Gobeklitepe Archaeological Site: This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its ancient T-shaped pillars, intricately carved with animal motifs and symbols that provide insights into prehistoric ritual life. Archaeological tours in Turkey often emphasize the discovery of Gobeklitepe’s pillars, which reveal the spiritual practices of early Neolithic societies.
- Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum: Many day trips include a visit to this museum, which houses artifacts from Gobeklitepe and the surrounding Mesopotamian region, including tools, sculptures, and carvings that add depth to your understanding of the site.
- Pool of Abraham and Sanliurfa Bazaar: Tours often feature stops at the Pool of Abraham, a historic religious site associated with Islamic tradition, and the Şanlıurfa Bazaar, where you can experience local culture, crafts, and cuisine.
These locations create a well-rounded Sanliurfa day trip with Gobeklitepe, offering a deeper dive into Turkish history and culture.
What to Expect on a Gobeklitepe Tour
Visitors often ask, how to visit Gobeklitepe from Istanbul and what to expect. Here’s a typical outline for a Gobeklitepe tour:
- Tour Duration: A full day trip typically starts with early morning flights from Istanbul and ends with a late evening return, giving you a full day to explore. Plan for approximately 12-14 hours, including flight and travel time.
- Walking and Terrain: The Gobeklitepe site requires moderate walking across uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes and seasonal clothing are recommended, especially for outdoor activities.
- Cultural Insights: Expert guides provide in-depth information about the carvings, symbols, and cultural significance of Gobeklitepe, making the experience immersive and educational.
Sample Itinerary for a Gobeklitepe Day Tour
A typical Göbeklitepe day tour itinerary includes:
- Morning Flight from Istanbul to Şanlıurfa: Early departure from Istanbul to Şanlıurfa, with airport pickup and transfer to Göbeklitepe.
- Gobeklitepe Archaeological Site: Explore the site with a guide, who explains the significance of the stone pillars and the ancient Neolithic society that created them.
- Lunch Stop in Şanlıurfa: Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant, often included in the tour package.
- Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum: Visit the museum to view artifacts from Göbeklitepe and the region.
- Historic Sites in Şanlıurfa: Some tours include a visit to the Pool of Abraham and Şanlıurfa Bazaar for a taste of local culture.
- Evening Return to Istanbul: Return flight to Istanbul, arriving in the late evening.
This itinerary allows you to explore Gobeklitepe and nearby highlights within a single day, making it a convenient option for those on a tight schedule.
The Best Gobeklitepe Tours
As Gobeklitepe is located very far away from Istanbul (about 1300 km.) and there are not much hotels and tourist facilities in Sanliurfa, we highly recommend you to visit Gobeklitepe by daily tours from Istanbul, made by the quality travel agents.
So with this opportunity you ‘ll save yourself from the hassle of making all the arrangements including the flight, hotel arrangement, attraction tickets and 2-ways transportation by your own.
Also there are several popular sights to visit and see in Sanliurfa that you may take the advantage of seeing them by daily guided tours.
As for the best tours, several options are available for visiting Gobeklitepe, so you should find the best Gobeklitepe tours that fit your schedule and interests:
- Group Tours: These are a budget-friendly choice and include shared transportation, a guide, and often lunch. They’re ideal if you enjoy meeting other travelers and are comfortable with a structured itinerary.
- Private Tours: If you prefer flexibility and personalized attention, a private tour is a better fit. Private tours can often be customized, allowing you to spend more time at Göbeklitepe and include additional stops in Şanlıurfa.
- Multi-Day Options: For those who wish to explore beyond Göbeklitepe, multi-day tours are available. These packages often include Harran, the ancient city with unique beehive houses, and other archaeological sites in the region.
When selecting a tour, look for operators with positive reviews and experienced guides. Reading customer feedback can help ensure you choose a reliable tour provider with a deep understanding of Gobeklitepe history.
Top Selling Gobeklitepe Tours
Here we only suggest the proven ways and top rated ones with travelers’ comments. You can feel free to book one of the below top selling tours.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts
How to Get to Gobeklitepe?
Location
There are few options to get to Gobeklitepe. Located in the Sanliurfa city of southeastern Turkey, the best way to travel to Gobeklitepe is to fly to GAP Sanliurfa Airport. You can easily find direct flights from Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara to Sanliurfa every day. It takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
After getting to Sanliurfa Airport, you can get to Gobeklitepe by taxis, car rentals, municipal buses or private tour buses to Gobeklitepe.
See the location map.
Transportation from Sanliurfa
by Taxi
Getting to Gobeklitepe from Sanliurfa Airport via taxi would cost about 650-800 TL and about 400-500 TL from Sanliurfa city center.
by Public Bus
The Sanliurfa Municipal Buses operate between Gobeklitepe and Sanliurfa city center, three runs every day between 10:00 to 18:00 (10:00, 13:00 and 16:00 from city center to Gobeklitepe and 12:00, 15:00 and 18:00 from Gobeklitepe to city center). Gobeklitepe Municipal Bus number is 100 and departure point from city center is Abide stop.
FAQs
What is Gobeklitepe, and why is it important?
Gobeklitepe is one of the world’s oldest known temples, dating back over 11,000 years. Located near Şanlıurfa in southeastern Turkey, it predates Stonehenge and the pyramids, offering a unique glimpse into early human civilization and ritual life. Its discovery has reshaped our understanding of prehistoric society and architecture.
How do I get to Gobeklitepe from Istanbul?
The most convenient way to reach Gobeklitepe from Istanbul is to book a guided tour that includes round-trip flights to Şanlıurfa. The tour usually includes airport transfers and transport to Göbeklitepe, making it easy to explore this ancient site within a single day.
What sites are included in a typical Gobeklitepe day tour?
A Gobeklitepe day tour often includes the Gobeklitepe archaeological site, Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum (featuring artifacts from Gobeklitepe), and the Pool of Abraham. Some tours also stop at the Şanlıurfa Bazaar, adding a cultural experience to the historical exploration.
Who would enjoy a Gobeklitepe tour?
A Gobeklitepe tour is perfect for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and travelers interested in early human civilization. The tour offers insights into prehistoric rituals and art, making it a unique experience for those fascinated by ancient history and culture.
How long does a Gobeklitepe day trip from Istanbul take?
A typical day trip to Gobeklitepe from Istanbul takes around 12-14 hours. It includes an early morning flight, a guided tour of the site, lunch, and an evening return to Istanbul, making it ideal for travelers on a tight schedule.
What is the best time to visit Gobeklitepe?
The best time to visit Gobeklitepe is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor exploration. Summer can be very hot, while winter weather can be unpredictable.
What should I bring on a Gobeklitepe day trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Depending on the season, it’s wise to dress in layers or bring a jacket, as Gobeklitepe is an open-air site with little shade and can get windy.
How much does a Gobeklitepe day tour from Istanbul cost?
A Gobeklitepe day tour from Istanbul generally costs between $250 and $500, depending on inclusions like flights, meals, and museum entry fees. Private tours are typically more expensive but offer a personalized experience.
Conclusion
Ready to step back in time to one of the world’s oldest temples? Book your Göbeklitepe day trip from Istanbul and uncover the mysteries of early civilization with an expert guide. Whether you’re a history lover or a cultural explorer, Göbeklitepe promises an unforgettable journey into the past. Start planning your tour today and experience the magic of this ancient site firsthand!