Things To Do
in Diyarbakır
Diyarbakır sits along the Tigris River with ancient city walls spelling centuries of history. The skyline is dominated by the towering Diyarbakır Walls and the crescent-shaped silhouette of mosques and minarets. The city blends Kurdish heritage with Turkish and Arab influences, creating a warm, hospitable atmosphere.
Expect a rich culinary scene, bustling bazaars, and a sense of timeless resilience in this southeastern Anatolian hub.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Diyarbakır Fortress, where you can stroll along the ancient walls that offer breathtaking views of the Tigris River. Afterward, head to the nearby Great Mosque of Diyarbakır, one of the oldest mosques in Turkey, to admire its stunning architecture. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and tea.
In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Archaeological Museum of Diyarbakır, which houses artifacts from various civilizations that once thrived in the region. Take a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of the old town, where you can shop for handmade crafts and local produce. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Hasan Pasha Han, a beautifully restored caravanserai, for a quick snack or tea.
As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you can sample local specialties like kebabs and içli köfte. After your meal, take a stroll through the lively streets of the city center, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch a local music performance. End your day with a visit to a rooftop café, offering panoramic views of the city as the sun sets.
Begin your day at the bustling Kayapınar Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and sample fresh produce, spices, and artisanal goods. Engage with friendly vendors and shop for unique souvenirs, from traditional textiles to handmade pottery. Don't forget to grab a local breakfast dish, such as gözleme, at one of the market stalls.
After the market, visit the historic St. Mary’s Church, which showcases the city's rich Christian heritage, and take a moment to reflect in this serene space. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Deliller Han, where you can find local artisans at work and perhaps participate in a workshop to learn traditional crafts. Grab a late lunch at a nearby café and enjoy some local pastries like baklava.
In the evening, head to the city’s riverside park for a relaxing walk along the Tigris River, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset views. Look for a local restaurant that specializes in fish dishes, and treat yourself to a delightful dinner by the water. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife of Diyarbakır, perhaps catching a live music performance at a cozy bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚎One-way public transport ticket | $0.5-0.8 |
| ☕Cappuccino/coffee | $2-3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and architecture (walls, mosques)
- Delicious regional cuisine (ciğer kebabı, künefe) and warm hospitality
- Limited nightlife and larger crowds in peak season
- Heat in summer can be intense and the city can be dusty in dry periods
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hesap lütfen" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Diyarbakır
Visit one of these nice places.
The centuries-old fortifications provide dramatic backdrops for sunrise and night photography, with towers framing the city.
Crackling rooftops and river reflections offer compelling urban and landscape compositions.
Food in Diyarbakır
Diyarbakır Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Liver kebab cooked over charcoal, often served with onions, herbs, and flatbread.
Must-Try!
A warm cheese-filled dessert baked to golden perfection and drenched in syrup, typically topped with pistachios.
Bulgar-based meat-filled croquettes with a crisp outer shell and savory filling.
Spiced raw bulgur patty, usually served with lettuce, herbs, and lemon; vegetarian versions are common.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market near the old city walls where you can sample street bites, spices, and sweets.
Cobblestone lanes lined with stalls offering dürüm, kebabs, grilled specialties, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Merhaba' (Hello) goes a long way; handshakes are common among men and women who are acquainted.
Dress modestly in religious sites; remove shoes where required; ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Diyarbakır
Ensure a smooth experience
In Turkey, rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is common; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash (Turkish Lira) and card payments are widely accepted; ATMs are common throughout the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket for street exploration.
Mild temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for walking, photography, and street markets.
Comfortable conditions and reduced crowds; great for outdoor sightseeing and river walks.
Diyarbakır at Night
Hiking in Diyarbakır
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails through historic Hevsel Gardens offering scenic views and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Diyarbakır by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights to Istanbul and Ankara; taxi or bus connections to the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Kurdish, Turkish, Arab, and other groups with strong cultural traditions and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and fan culture are common in city stadiums.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Diyarbakır.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Diyarbakır dishes can be adapted; opt for vegetarian meze, bulgur-based dishes, lentil soup, and salads; ask for no meat.