Things To Do
in Diyarbakır
Diyarbakır, located in southeastern Turkey, is renowned for its rich history and cultural diversity, being home to a mix of Kurdish, Turkish, and Assyrian communities. The city is encircled by the formidable Basalt walls, considered among the world's longest historical walls after the Great Wall of China, marking its historical significance from Roman times through various empires.
Diyarbakır's architectural heritage, including the Ulu Cami (Great Mosque), which is one of the oldest mosques in Turkey, showcases the region's blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic influences, making it a fascinating city for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Diyarbakır Fortress, known for its impressive walls and ancient architecture. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the city walls while soaking in stunning views.
Head to the Ulu Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Turkey, and appreciate its unique Seljuk architecture. Have a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, trying the famous Diyarbakır meat dishes.
Stroll through the vibrant streets of Sur, filled with art and culture. End your day with a traditional Turkish tea at a local café with views of the historic sites.
Visit the Four-legged Minaret, an architectural gem that reflects the rich cultural history of the city. Take time to explore the surrounding area and capture beautiful photographs.
Explore the area of Hevsel Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you'll find lush green spaces and breathtaking views of the Tigris River. Enjoy a picnic here while appreciating the natural beauty.
Visit a local bazaar to experience the colorful textiles and arts of the region. Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring the local flavors and hospitality.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as the Diyarbakır Fortress and the ancient city walls.
- Diverse cuisine featuring unique dishes, including kebabs and local specialties.
- Vibrant local markets and bazaars that offer an authentic shopping experience.
- Warm hospitality and welcoming nature of the local people.
- Stunning natural landscapes surrounding the city, including the Tigris River.
- Political tensions in the region that can lead to instability and safety concerns.
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to larger Turkish cities.
- High poverty rates in some areas, which can affect quality of life.
- Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers, as Kurdish is widely spoken.
- Seasonal extreme weather conditions, with hot summers and cold winters.
Best Activities in Diyarbakır
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic city walls, which date back to Roman times and offer scenic views of the city.
Enjoy a boat tour on the Tigris River, taking in the natural beauty and historical landmarks along the riverbanks.
Visit this unique architectural marvel, known for its four-legged structure, and learn about its history and significance.
Relax at the Gazi Köşkü Park, a peaceful green space with walking paths, picnic areas, and lush gardens.
Explore the various museums and historical sites in Diyarbakır, such as the Dicle Bridge and the Grand Mosque, to immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage.
Places to Visit in Diyarbakır
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful views of the Tigris River and the historic city walls.
Offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, providing great photo opportunities.
A historic house with a garden offering picturesque views and great photo spots.
Provides stunning views of the city, especially during sunset, and is a popular spot for photographers.
Food in Diyarbakır
Diyarbakır Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kürt Köftesi, a traditional Kurdish dish, consists of spiced meatballs made from a mixture of bulgur and minced meat, typically served with yogurt and fresh bread. To savor this dish, visit the local eateries in the historic Sur district.
Must-Try!
Meftune is a hearty stew prepared with lamb or beef, slow-cooked with an array of vegetables and spices. One of the best places to sample Meftune is at family-run restaurants in the old town area.
Kaburga Dolması, a regional specialty, features aromatic rice and ground meat mixture stuffed into lamb ribs before being slow-cooked to perfection. Seek out traditional kebab houses and local 'konak' restaurants to enjoy this dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Diyarbakır Hasanpaşa Bazaar is a bustling marketplace where you can savor an array of street foods like grilled meats, traditional pastries, and local sweets. Don't miss trying 'İsli Patlıcan' (smoked eggplant) and 'Büryan Kebab' while exploring the lively food stalls.
Gazi Köşkü Food Market is a vibrant hub offering a variety of fresh produce, local cheeses, and olives. It's an excellent spot to find traditional ingredients and witness the local food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Diyarbakır, it is important to show respect towards elders by using formal language and addressing them with appropriate titles.
Hospitality is highly valued in Diyarbakır, and it is customary to show warmth and generosity towards guests and visitors.
It is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or engaging with older generations in Diyarbakır.
Safety
Tipping in Diyarbakır
Ensure a smooth experience
In Diyarbakır, Turkey, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a small tip, around 5-10% of the total bill, at restaurants and for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.
Cash is widely accepted in Diyarbakır, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some local currency for smaller transactions and in more rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is the best time to visit Diyarbakır as the weather is mild and the landscapes are blooming with flowers. The temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's historical sites.
Summer in Diyarbakır is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. While it can be scorching during the day, the evenings are pleasant, and this season is ideal for experiencing the local culture and cuisine at various festivals and events.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C, making it another good time to visit Diyarbakır. The city is less crowded, and the fall foliage creates a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing and outdoor excursions.
Winter is relatively cold in Diyarbakır, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C to 10°C. While it's less favorable for outdoor activities, visitors can enjoy the city's traditional winter festivities and explore indoor attractions like museums and local markets.
Diyarbakır at Night
Hiking in Diyarbakır
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historical site with stunning views and walking paths, offering an intriguing mix of history and nature.
A UNESCO World Heritage site located along the Tigris River, featuring various trails and lush greenery, ideal for hiking and exploring.
A popular destination for hikers, known for its natural beauty and panoramic views, with trails suitable for all skill levels.
A city park that provides various walking and hiking trails amidst trees and natural landscapes, perfect for casual outings.
Located near the city, this area offers various hiking paths through forests and mountainous terrain, ideal for adventure seekers.
Aiports
How to reach Diyarbakır by plane.
The primary airport serving Diyarbakır, Turkey.
An international airport serving Gaziantep, located approximately 94 kilometers from Diyarbakır.
Located about 125 kilometers from Diyarbakır, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights.
Approximately 150 kilometers away from Diyarbakır, serving Malatya with domestic flights and some international services.
Located about 190 kilometers from Diyarbakır, this airport serves Şanlıurfa with both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Diyarbakır, significantly influencing the culture and language of the region.
A prominent ethnic group in Diyarbakır, constituting a significant portion of the population.
A minority group in Diyarbakır, with a historical presence in the region.
An ethnic group with its own language, primarily residing in and around Diyarbakır.
A small historical community in Diyarbakır; currently limited in number.
An ethnic minority in Diyarbakır, with a long history in the region but currently facing challenges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Diyarbakır, with a passionate following. The local team, Diyarbakırspor, has a rich history and a dedicated fan base.
Basketball has gained popularity in Diyarbakır, with various local clubs and institutions promoting the sport through youth programs and competitions.
Traditional wrestling holds cultural significance in Diyarbakır, with local tournaments celebrated as part of community festivals.
Volleyball has a growing presence in Diyarbakır, especially among youth and in schools, both for recreational play and organized competitions.
Athletics is promoted through schools and clubs in Diyarbakır, with events such as running and track and field gaining traction among young athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Diyarbakır.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the local cuisine heavily features meats, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes such as stuffed vegetables, lentil soups, and falafel wraps. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to the staff, and they are usually accommodating.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, rice-based pilafs, and vegetable stews, which are naturally gluten-free. Some eateries also offer gluten-free bread or have the flexibility to adapt traditional recipes to accommodate gluten-related dietary needs.