Things To Do
in Diyarbakır

Diyarbakır is a vibrant city located in southeastern Turkey, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Surrounded by ancient city walls, the city features stunning architecture, including the Great Mosque of Diyarbakır and the historic Hevsel Gardens. The local cuisine is renowned for its flavorful dishes, particularly those influenced by Kurdish and Turkish traditions.

With a diverse population and a strong sense of community, Diyarbakır offers an authentic experience for travelers seeking to explore the heart of Anatolia.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the city walls of Diyarbakır, one of the best-preserved examples of ancient fortifications in the world.

afternoon
:

Explore the Great Mosque and the surrounding market area, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Kurdish restaurant and experience the local music scene at a nearby café.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the historical city of Hasankeyf, an ancient settlement known for its incredible rock formations and archaeological sites.

afternoon
:

Return to Diyarbakır and take a stroll through the Hevsel Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

evening
:

Cap off your trip with a night at a local tea house, enjoying traditional Turkish tea and sweets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel room (per night)$30-50
🍞Loaf of bread$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some tourists.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Diyarbakır

Visit one of these nice places.

Diyarbakır City Walls

An iconic landmark that provides stunning views and a glimpse into the city's history.

Great Mosque of Diyarbakır

A beautiful example of Islamic architecture, perfect for capturing intricate details.

Hasankeyf

A picturesque ancient town with unique rock formations and historical ruins.

Culinary Guide

Food in Diyarbakır

Diyarbakır's culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing traditional dishes that reflect the region's rich heritage.

Diyarbakır Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebap

Grilled meat skewers, often served with bread and salad.

Must-Try!

Mumbar

Stuffed sheep intestines with rice and spices, a local delicacy.

Diyarbakır Tava

A unique dish of lamb and rice, cooked together with local spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Diyarbakır Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors.

Güvercinlik Street

Famous for its street food, including delicious pastries and kebabs.

Climate Guide

Weather

Diyarbakır experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality

Turkish people are known for their hospitality; it is common to be offered tea or coffee.

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and respect local customs.

Greetings

A handshake is common; however, among women, it's polite to wait for the other person to extend their hand.

Safety Guide

Safety

Diyarbakır is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid any demonstrations. Petty crime may occur, so keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas.

Tipping in Diyarbakır

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are also used in major establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot weather can be expected; visiting historical sites early in the morning is recommended.

Autumn

Cool breezes and vibrant foliage create a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold temperatures may deter outdoor activities, but the city has a unique charm during this season.

Nightlife Guide

Diyarbakır at Night

Diyarbakır's nightlife is vibrant, with numerous cafes and bars offering live music and traditional dance performances. Many locals gather to enjoy tea houses and shisha lounges where you can relax and socialize. The atmosphere is lively, especially during weekends, with various cultural events and gatherings showcasing local talent.

Hiking in Diyarbakır

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Gabar Trail

A challenging hike with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for experienced hikers.

Zagros Mountains Trail

A beautiful trail offering diverse flora and fauna, suitable for all levels of hikers.

Airports

How to reach Diyarbakır by plane.

Diyarbakır Airport (DIY)

Located approximately 10 km from the city center, it serves both domestic and some international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Diyarbakır's old city is quite walkable, with many attractions located close to each other. The narrow streets are ideal for exploring on foot, although some areas may require navigating uneven surfaces. However, outside the old city, transportation options may be necessary to reach distant attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurdish

The Kurdish population is significant in Diyarbakır, contributing to the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Turkish

The Turkish community also plays a vital role in the local culture, influencing the city's traditions and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams attracting passionate fans.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling is also celebrated, with various local competitions held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Diyarbakır can be congested, especially during rush hours. Public transportation consists of buses and dolmuş (shared taxis), which are widely used and affordable. Walking is a viable option in the old city, but be prepared for some traffic in other areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Diyarbakır.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, but it's best to ask about ingredients.

Halal Food

Most food in Diyarbakır is halal, but always confirm with the restaurant if you have specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Diyarbakır are available, with public and private hospitals offering a range of medical services. Emergency care is accessible, but for serious conditions, larger cities may have better facilities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide