Overview
Join a family-friendly journey from Istanbul to Göbeklitepe! Discover ancient wonders, mystical carvings, Harran’s beehive houses, and the sacred Balıklıgöl on this exciting day trip. Book now!
What's included
- ✓Flight tickets (Istanbul - Şanlıurfa - Istanbul)
- ✓Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- ✓English-speaking guide services
- ✓Entrance Fees (Göbeklitepe: $25 USD pp, Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum 10 USD pp))
- ✓All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
- ✕Drinks
- ✕Personal expenses
- ✕Lunch
- ✕Tips to guide and driver
What you'll do
- 1
Located near Şanlıurfa, Turkey, Göbeklitepe dates back 12,000 years (9600 BCE), making it the oldest known temple—older than Stonehenge and the pyramids. Discovered in 1994 by archaeologist Klaus Schmidt, the site consists of massive T-shaped limestone pillars, some 6 meters high and weighing 20 tons. These pillars are carved with animal figures, revealing early religious beliefs. Göbeklitepe challenges history, suggesting rituals led to settlements, not agriculture. It is believed to be the first pilgrimage center, marking the origins of organized religion. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, it is called the "zero point of history." The site is 15 km from Şanlıurfa and features a museum and visitor center. Göbeklitepe remains a groundbreaking discovery, reshaping our understanding of ancient civilizations.
⏱ 2 hours - 2
Ayn Zeliha Lake is a historic site in Şanlıurfa, Turkey, located near Balıklıgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish). According to legend, Zeliha, the foster daughter of King Nimrod, jumped into the flames in sorrow after her father ordered Prophet Abraham to be burned. Miraculously, the fire turned into water, forming Ayn Zeliha Lake. Today, it is a peaceful spot surrounded by gardens and tea houses, attracting visitors who admire its sacred fish, which must not be caught or eaten. The lake remains an important cultural and religious landmark in Şanlıurfa.
⏱ 30 min - 3
Balıklıgöl, or the Pool of Sacred Fish, is a historic and religious site in Şanlıurfa, Turkey. According to legend, King Nimrod ordered Prophet Abraham to be burned, but the fire miraculously turned into water, and the burning logs became sacred carp fish. Today, Balıklıgöl is a popular pilgrimage site. The fish are considered holy and must not be caught or eaten. Surrounded by mosques, gardens, and historical sites, it is a peaceful and spiritual place for visitors.
⏱ 30 min - 4
Availability & pricing
Operates on
Price from (per person)
$700
$650
Pick your exact date & check live availability on the booking page.
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Tour details & pricing provided by Viator. Bookings are completed on Viator.com.
