It is a truly beautiful city where the walk is a story and going out to lunch is a holiday. Gaziantep is the region in Turkey that is best known for Baklava, kebabs and their cuisine going back thousands of years.
Gaziantep is not only about good food. It also has Roman mosaics, vibrant bazaars and historic mosques that reveal its history. There you will find real Turkish culture. You can walk in the ancient streets, visit archaeological sites, or just taste the local food. At Bodrum Gumbet, we believe that every traveler should be given a chance to witness the enchantment of Gaziantep Turkey in his or her life.
Connecting US Travelers to Gaziantep, Turkey
Gaziantep Turkey is a city of culture, history of the past and memorable tastes. A gastronomical center of the country, the region is where baklava, delicious kebabs, and UNESCO-proclaimed food culture originated. Yet, Gaziantep is all about much more than tasty food because the city is also a place where you can experience the greatest travelling experience. The mosaic of the ancient Romans, centuries old trade centers and a Turkish style of hospitality offer you the greatest experience of travelling.
This blog will cater to sharing the best of Gaziantep with the US tourists, including detailed instructions on the historical sites you must visit, and tips on trying authentic local foods. Interested in archaeological sites, fresh markets or the famous food and restaurants of Gaziantep? You can find some information here that could guide you on your journey of discovery and curiosity.
Attractions and Cultural Gems of Gaziantep, Turkey
Gaziantep Turkey has more attractions than it has tastes, it is a city which has a story to tell every street. These are tourist destinations offering a rare combination of history, customs, and busy bazaars for the travelers. These are some of the thrilling attractions and cultural gifts you can not miss on:
Zeugma Mosaic Museum
When you want to have fun with art and history, you can visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and see one of Roman mosaics worldwide. This is where you can visit the masterpieces that make you gasp, including the renowned mosaic of the Gypsy Girl that gives a peek into the fineness of ancient Roman life.
Gaziantep Castle
Gaziantep Castle is a Roman castle, which is tall and rises in the city center giving the visitors a panoramic view of the old town. The museum also reflects the resilience of the city during the Turkish War of Independence on the inside
Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmith Bazaar)
Go to the old bazaar where the copper ware is still hand made in the ways which were developed many centuries ago. It is an ideal shopping spot where you can buy handmade souvenirs and absorb local culture.
Rumkale
Rumkale is an ancient fortress situated on the banks of the Euphrates River and has a history of both Roman and Byzantine civilizations. The most enjoyable boat rides to get to it end up making your trip memorable as well as the site.
Yesemek Open-Air Museum
This archaeological site is believed to have been one of the largest ancient sculpture workshops in the world.The experience of walking through the uncompleted statues provides an exceptional look into the art of the Late Hittite period.
Your Food Bucket List for Gaziantep Turkey
Gaziantep, Turkey is a UNESCO-listed gastronomic paradise with its unique flavors and customs. You can choose multiple options of famous sweets, delicious breakfasts and even street food. These are the dishes worth trying among the travelers on their bucket list.
Baklava
It is the well-known dessert that is present in Gaziantep, composed out of numerous thin layers of filo pastry and then topped with Antep pistachios and sweet syrup. The reason why it is known globally is its unique combination of crunch and taste.
Ali Nazik Kebab
An old Anatolian stew with smoked-roasted eggplant, spicy yogurt, and soft cubes of lamb on it.
Beyran Soup
A spicy lamb broth made with rice, garlic, and red chilli flakes, as a hearty and energizing breakfast.
Katmer
A crumbly pastry filled with pistachios and clotted cream, and best when bought at a local bakery.
Lahmacun
It is commonly known as the Turkish pizza. This is crispy, thin flatbread seasoned with minced meat, herbs and spice, rolled up with fresh vegetables.
Antep Pistachios
These small but strong flavored pistachios are the pride of Gaziantep. They can be added to any meal or dessert.
Menengiç Coffee
It is an exclusive, caffeine-free drink with a roasted wild pistachio topping, with smoky aroma and smooth taste.
Best Hotels From Budget to Luxury in Gaziantep, Turkey
Bodrum Gumbet suggests many accommodation options in Gaziantep to suit all types of visitors. Some people may tend more towards overall luxury and contemporary comfort of the historic inn or the more atmospheric and historic atmosphere still, this is not hard to find in this city just as long as you know what you want to get. The following locations are some of the finest places to have a rest after a day of exploring the abundant culture and taste of Gaziantep:
Sirehan Hotel
The Sirehan Hotel is a 17th-century Ottoman caravanserai in the historic Ismet Paşa neighbourhood of Sahinbey. It has a natural charm, traditional decoration and stone courtyard. It provides you with affordable accommodation near the bazaars and landmarks of Gaziantep.
Novotel Gaziantep
Novotel Gaziantep is the name of a modern style hotel in Yaprak Mahallesi. It provides comfort in the area of the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and Zeugma Shopping Center. Beautiful mid-range travelers will love it, give pet-friendly options, outdoor pool, gym, and sleek rooms.
Tugcan Hotel
Tugcan Hotel is a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and good service in the middle of Sahinbey at Ataturk Boulevard The large rooms, enclosed pool, spa and excellent dining all offer a package with style that is comfortable for a traveller.
Grand Hotel Gaziantep
If you are seeking luxury, it is found in the style at Grand Hotel Gaziantep on Ali Fuat Cebesoy Boulevard for tourists. Travellers may relax in the rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city, in the spa, and in luxury restaurants without leaving the resort. It offers luxury lodging without being that far away in terms of proximity to Gaziantep main attractions.
Insider Travel Tips for US Visitors
Getting ready for a trip to Gaziantep, Turkey? Here are a few things to take note before the visit to make the most of it. These tips will guide you on how and when to get the best out of your visit to the city as a local:
- The most favourable season to visit Gaziantep would be the Spring season (April- June) or Winter (September- October) as the weather conditions would be ideal and most favourable for walking tours.
- The locals appreciate manners. Welcome with a smiling Merhaba (hello) and do not be too informal when visiting mosques or other traditional neighborhoods.
- Taxi services and city buses can also be used but it is the rarest of travellers who fail to travel on foot through the City Center. Your ride can also be made easy with the ride-hailing services.
- Even though Turkish is the main language, the very simple English understanding will pass in the touristic regions. A few simple words in the Turkish language can give you a handful of good points.
Day Trip Ideas Around Gaziantep
Travelling outside Gaziantep reveals memorable adventures, including the ruins of Hittite cities to charming riverside towns. These are fast tips on your schedule:
- Reach Halfeti to view the renowned Sunken City and enjoy a boat ride on the Euphrates.
- Visit lovely old villages of southern Rhodes, full of traditional stone houses with centuries-old architecture.
- Find secret archaeological locations that can show us the great history of Anatolia.
FAQs
Is Gaziantep safe for US tourists?
Yes, Gaziantep is relatively safe for US tourists. Like with any site you visit, know where you are going, do not explore unpopulated places at night and follow what is written in the law to ensure an incident free traveling experience.
What is Gaziantep famous for?
Gaziantep is also famous for the world known, Baklava, rich food history, archeological tourist attraction Zeugma Mosaic Museum, and well known traditional bazaars.
How many days do you need in Gaziantep?
It is suggested to spend three or four days exploring its food scene, historical places, and day trip destinations without sprinting around for a few days of visit.
Which season is ideal for a trip to Gaziantep?
The best time to visit Gaziantep is winter’s September/October/November or spring’s April June. It has beautiful weather, few tourists, and excellent sightseeing conditions.
