Mardin

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Mardin's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Mardin's Rich Heritage
morning
:

Visit the mesmerizing Deyrulzafaran Monastery to appreciate its stunning architecture. Engage with locals to learn about the history of this sacred site.

afternoon
:

Stroll through Mardin's charming streets, admiring the unique stone houses and cultural landmarks. Stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant to savor local delicacies.

evening
:

Wander up to the viewpoint to catch the sunset over the Mesopotamian plains. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop cafe with panoramic views of the city.

day 2
Discover Nature and Landscapes
morning
:

Take a morning hike in the beautiful Saffron Mountains to enjoy fresh air and stunning views. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the ancient town of Dara to explore its archaeological ruins. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Return to Mardin and explore local markets for unique handicrafts. Dine at a traditional restaurant and experience regional flavors.

day 3
Historical Sites of Mardin
morning
:

Start your day at the Mardin Museum to gain insights into the region's rich history. The exhibits showcase artifacts from various civilizations.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ulu Mosque and admire its beautiful carvings and architecture. Afterward, grab lunch at a nearby cafe.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the old city, taking in the architecture as evening descends. End your day with dinner at a local eatery, sampling regional treats.

day 4
Heart of the City
morning
:

Visit the famous Zinciriye Medrese, an ancient theological school offering stunning views. Explore its intricate stone carvings and peaceful courtyard.

afternoon
:

Head to a local café for a laid-back lunch accompanied by Turkish tea. Explore the bustling local bazaars for souvenirs and unique finds.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance if available to immerse yourself in local traditions. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant, where you can taste authentic Mardin cuisine.

day 5
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Join a local cooking class to discover the secrets of Mardin's diverse cuisine. Learn how to make traditional dishes using local ingredients.

afternoon
:

Taste the dishes you've prepared during the cooking class for lunch. Visit a spice market afterward to experience the aromatic ingredients used in the region.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a well-rated restaurant known for its unique flavors and ambiance. Try the regional specialty of kebabs to round off your culinary experience.

day 6
Scenic Sunset Views
morning
:

Take a leisurely walk around the old town to soak in the early morning light casting shadows on ancient stone walls. Enjoy breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the world's oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monasteries. Have lunch at a scenic spot nearby to enjoy the tranquility.

evening
:

Climb to the highest point in Mardin for breathtaking sunset views. Enjoy a dinner al fresco featuring Turkish specialties while watching the colors of the sunset.

day 7
Arts and Culture in Mardin
morning
:

Visit local galleries to appreciate the artworks by regional artists showcasing Mardin's cultural heritage. Meet with artists if possible to understand their inspirations.

afternoon
:

Join an art workshop to create your own piece inspired by Mardin's landscape. Enjoy lunch with fellow participants and share creative stories.

evening
:

Attend a local artisan fair to see handicrafts and products. Dinner at a cultural restaurant rounds off your artistic day with local flavors.

day 8
Photography Day
morning
:

Embark on a photography tour in the historic part of Mardin to capture its unique architecture. Experiment with different angles and lighting for truly stunning shots.

afternoon
:

Visit the colorful neighborhoods and vibrant street scenes to document daily life. Take a break at a café to review and edit your photos over lunch.

evening
:

Join a local photography exhibition to admire works by other photographers. End your day with a dinner that celebrates local food and strong community.

day 9
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning at the nearby Hevsel Gardens, walking among lush greenery and scenic views. Bring along a book to enjoy in the tranquil surroundings.

afternoon
:

Have a quiet picnic lunch while taking in the sounds of nature. Consider visiting a local wellness spa for some relaxation treatments afterward.

evening
:

Return to Mardin for an evening walk in a serene atmosphere. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner allowing for reflection on your peaceful day.

day 10
Spiritual Journey
morning
:

Start your spiritual journey with a visit to the Mor Hananyo Monastery, a serene and historical site. Engage in quiet reflection within the peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Participate in a workshop or talk about local spirituality and history. Share communal lunch with other participants to enhance the experience.

evening
:

Return to Mardin and spend a quiet evening at a local mosque or church for evening prayers. Experience dinner as a way to bond over stories of faith.

Discover Mardin

Read more in our Mardin 2024 Travel Guide.

Mardin Travel Guide