Things To Do
in Gaziantep
Gaziantep is a dynamic culinary and cultural hub in southern Turkey, perched near the Anadolu steppe and the Euphrates valley. Grounded in a long history that blends Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, the city boasts a renowned food scene centered on pistachios and spice markets. Its historic old town, fortified by the Gaziantep Castle, juxtaposes narrow alleys with modern cafes and art spaces.
Visitors can explore ancient bazaars, world-class museums, and a cuisine that draws travelers from around the globe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic streets of Gaziantep, where ancient architecture meets vibrant local life. Visit the impressive Gaziantep Castle, perched high above the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring dishes like menemen and fresh bread.
After breakfast, explore the stunning Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to some of the finest Roman mosaics in the world, providing insight into the region's rich history. Next, wander through the bustling bazaar, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and unique handicrafts. Take a break at a local café and indulge in a cup of Gaziantep's famous pistachio coffee.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Gaziantep restaurant to enjoy a feast of local specialties such as kebabs and baklava. Engage with locals and enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with laughter and music. End your day with a leisurely walk along the city’s illuminated streets, soaking in the beauty of Gaziantep at night.
Begin your culinary adventure with a visit to a local market, where you can see the vibrant colors of fresh produce and spices. Participate in a cooking class with a local chef, learning to prepare authentic Gaziantep dishes such as kebab and dolma. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a hearty lunch featuring your own creations.
Continue your gastronomic journey by visiting a local baklava shop, where you can learn about the delicate process behind making this world-famous dessert. Taste a variety of baklava styles, paired with a cup of Turkish tea. Spend the afternoon visiting artisan shops to discover regional products like pistachios and olive oil.
Dine in a well-known restaurant specializing in Gaziantep cuisine, where you can explore dishes that have been passed down through generations. Engage in friendly conversation with the staff who take pride in their culinary heritage. Conclude your day by enjoying a sweet dessert of künefe, a local favorite, while taking in the evening ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in city center | $50-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class pistachio-based cuisine and desserts
- Rich history and well-preserved historic bazaars
- Hot summers can be intensely dry
- Some areas may be crowded and navigating markets can be busy
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Pardon
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I'm well, thanks
Places to Visit in Gaziantep
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views over the old city’s skyline, with the fortress walls framing narrow lanes and historic mosques.
A historic covered market area with copperware, spices, and bustling alleyways ideal for candid street photography.
Ground-level textures of stone, wood, and colorful produce provide rich close-ups and lifestyle shots.
Photogenic geometric patterns, timber framing, and flowering balconies characteristic of Gaziantep’s historic streets.
Food in Gaziantep
Gaziantep Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A smoky eggplant puree topped with grilled lamb or beef kebab and finished with yogurt; a signature Gaziantep dish.
Must-Try!
Flaky phyllo layered with pistachios and sweet syrup; renowned around the world for its texture and flavor.
A hot dessert made from kadayıf pastry and melted cheese, drenched in syrup and topped with pistachios.
A variety of cold and hot mezze paired with lamb or beef kebabs, often featuring olive oil, garlic, and pepper flavors.
Fried dough breads and boat-shaped flatbreads served with cheese, herbs, and pepper-infused toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market district in the old city where you can sample street snacks, spices, pistachios, and sweet treats.
Vibrant market area with traders selling spices, nuts, dried fruits, and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; greet with a warm “Merhaba” (Hello) and a courteous demeanor when entering shops.
Dress modestly in religious and historic sites; remove shoes where required and avoid public displays of affection in more traditional neighborhoods.
Turkish hospitality is notable—if offered tea or coffee, accepting it is a sign of politeness and good conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Gaziantep
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically do not add a service charge; leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is common. For taxis, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, and most places also accept bank cards. Mobile wallets are increasingly common in larger shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming pistachios; ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets. Expect some spring rain.
Hot days and warm evenings; carry water, seek shade, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant weather with cooler evenings; a good time for food markets, street food tasting, and walks along the old town walls.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; most indoor attractions and museums are comfortable, and hearty dishes like soups are popular.
Gaziantep at Night
Hiking in Gaziantep
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nearby nature park with easy-to-moderate trails, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities to see local flora and birds.
Hikeable ridges and rural paths offering panoramic views of the plains and distant landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Gaziantep by plane.
Main international gateway to Gaziantep; flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and regional destinations; taxi or bus connections to the city center.
A major nearby airport about a 2–3 hour drive from Gaziantep; connections to domestic hubs and some international services.
An additional regional option within a few hours’ drive; useful for broader southeastern Turkey itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Turkish nationals, with significant Kurdish and Arab communities, and a large number of Syrian refugees contributing to a diverse urban culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region is passionate about football; local clubs and stadiums offer energetic match-day experiences.
Basketball venues and traditional wrestling events are common in local communities and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gaziantep.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many meze plates are vegetarian-friendly; ask for lentil, eggplant, or pepper-based dishes, and look for stuffed vegetable options such as dolma and sarma.