Gaziantep travel guide

Photo of The New Halfeti in Gaziantep ,Turkey.

Introduction to Gaziantep

Gaziantep, Turkey - When thinking about this city in Turkey, images of the spectacular Gaziantep Museum of Toys and Games, Gaziantep Archeology Museum, and Gaziantep Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions and read through this Gaziantep travel guide, you'll find that this city in Turkey is more than what we see in books and social media. Gaziantep, and its community of more than 2 million people, is a culturally-rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Easily accessible from Oğuzeli airport, Gaziantep is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Turkey any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Gaziantep as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Gaziantep is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Gaziantep below!

History of Gaziantep

Gaziantep, located in southeastern Turkey, boasts a rich history dating back to the Hittites in the 4th millennium BC.

Over time, it was ruled by various civilizations including the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, each leaving their cultural imprint on the city. Gaziantep's strategic location on the Silk Road further enhanced its cultural diversity and economic prosperity.

The city played a significant role during the Turkish War of Independence, courageously resisting French occupation. In recognition of this bravery, Ataturk added the honorific 'Gazi' (meaning 'war hero') to its name in 1921.

Today, Gaziantep is renowned for its culinary traditions, ancient ruins, and the world’s largest mosaic museum, the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which showcases stunning relics from the Roman period. Its rich history and diverse cultural heritage make Gaziantep a must-visit location for history enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Local culture and customs in Gaziantep

Gaziantep, a city rich in history and culture, is located in southeast Turkey. Known for its warm hospitality, locals often greet each other with a friendly 'Merhaba' (Hello). Visitors should follow suit as a sign of respect. Public displays of affection are not common, so tourists should behave modestly in public spaces. Gaziantep is also home to many traditional arts and crafts, including copper work and 'Yemeni' shoemaking.

Local cuisine is a significant part of Gaziantep’s culture. The city is famous for its pistachios and 'Baklava', a sweet pastry that is a must-try. It's common for locals to sip 'Çay' (Turkish tea) multiple times a day, often served in tulip-shaped glasses. When invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift for the host. The city is predominantly Muslim, so during the month of Ramadan, many locals fast from dawn to sunset. Visitors should be mindful of this, especially when dining out during daylight hours.

Currency information for travelers in Gaziantep

The local currency of Gaziantep, like the rest of Turkey, is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 Kuruş and 1 Lira, while banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Lira.

Most businesses in Gaziantep readily accept major international credit cards including Visa and Mastercard. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, or for public transportation. ATMs are widely available and offer good exchange rates.

When budgeting for your trip, keep in mind that Gaziantep is generally less expensive than the major tourist cities like Istanbul or Antalya. Dining and shopping in Gaziantep can be quite affordable, but prices can vary based on the location and the type of service.

Language tips for travelers in Gaziantep

Turkish is the native language in Gaziantep, and while English is not widely spoken, younger generations and those working in tourism may have a basic understanding. Learning a few phrases can be beneficial for a smoother travel experience. Key phrases include 'Merhaba' (Hello), 'Teşekkür ederim' (Thank you), and 'Lütfen' (Please). Remember to say 'Hayır, teşekkür ederim' (No, thank you) when refusing something. Beyond phrases, learning the Turkish numerals can be useful in markets and restaurants.

Try to use gestures and visual aids to communicate when language barriers exist, and consider using a translation app for more complex interactions. It's always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak the local language, so don't be shy to practice your Turkish skills!

Best time to visit Gaziantep

The best time to explore Gaziantep, Turkey, is during the spring months from April to June and the autumn months from September to November. These periods offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Spring is particularly enchanting with blossoming flowers adding a touch of magic to the city's beauty. Autumn, on the other hand, is a gastronomic delight as it coincides with the pistachio harvest season, allowing travelers to participate in the unique experience of pistachio picking. The city, known as the pistachio capital of Turkey, hosts the Pistachio Festival during this period, offering a unique cultural experience. Summer months (July and August) can be extremely hot and winter (December through February) can be quite cold, so they are less ideal for travel. In terms of crowd levels, spring and autumn are perfect as they are relatively less crowded, offering a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Therefore, planning a visit during these periods will guarantee an ideal blend of comfortable weather, lesser crowds, and unique local experiences.

Local tip for visiting Gaziantep

An insider tip for experiencing the authentic culture of Gaziantep is to visit the local bazaars and markets in the early morning, before the arrival of the tourist crowds. This is when the locals do their shopping, and the atmosphere is vibrant and lively, providing an authentic glimpse into daily life in Gaziantep. You'll have a chance to witness the hustle and bustle of the marketplace, interact with local vendors, and get a feel for the local culture and way of life. Moreover, you can enjoy the freshest produce and local delicacies, as it's the time when vendors bring in their fresh stock. Also, don’t shy away from haggling, it’s an integral part of the market culture and locals expect it. This off-the-beaten-path experience can significantly contribute to a richer and more immersive travel experience.

Top services in Gaziantep

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Gaziantep, Turkey. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 310 airlines that fly to Turkey. Browse the 5 top-rated tours available to you in Gaziantep. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Gaziantep.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Gaziantep, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Gaziantep on your vacation in Turkey.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Gaziantep from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Gaziantep!

Learn more about Turkey

There are many reasons to visit the city of Gaziantep, but a trip to Turkey needs no explanation.

Exploring Turkey, which spans 783,562 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Turkey offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Gaziantep Museum of Toys and Games, Gaziantep Archeology Museum, and the Gaziantep Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Turkey.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Turkey.

What to see in Gaziantep

Photo of Gaziantep castle in turkey.

Gaziantep has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Gaziantep.

Top attractions in Gaziantep

Home to plenty of top attractions, Gaziantep is more than just a wonderful city in Turkey. Gaziantep is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Turkey.

One fascinating sight in Gaziantep is the unforgettable Gaziantep Museum of Toys and Games. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Gaziantep. This remarkable attraction is located at Bey, Hanifi Oğlu Sk. , 27010 Şahinbey/Gaziantep, Turkey and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:30-17:30.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Turkey, check out our list of top attractions in Gaziantep below. Discover the best places to visit in Gaziantep, including the fascinating Gaziantep Museum of Toys and Games, Gaziantep Archeology Museum, Gaziantep Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum, Şahinler Vadisi Miniatürk, and Ömeriye Camii.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Gaziantep.

Things to do in Gaziantep

Photo of Gaziantep City view from Gaziantep Castle.

Enrich your travel experience in Gaziantep by joining tours and activities. Gaziantep offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Gaziantep below.

Most popular experiences in Gaziantep

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Gaziantep.

Gaziantep offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and Full-day Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Turkey.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Gaziantep by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Gaziantep

Travelers in Gaziantep can choose from 6 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Gaziantep one of the best travel destinations in Turkey.

Gaziantep also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Gaziantep City Hotels to Gaziantep Airport GZT Transfers is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Transportation Service. This experience costs around 75 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Gaziantep.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Gaziantep and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Gaziantep below.

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Discover the best things to do in Gaziantep. Choose from 5 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Gaziantep. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Gaziantep

Gaziantep, an unmissable culinary destination in Turkey, is renowned for its unique and extravagant flavors. The city's gastronomic scene is a delightful fusion of ancient traditions and contemporary tastes, providing a feast for every palate. Among the best places to eat in Gaziantep are the lively street food vendors in the old market district. Here, you can savor local favorites such as Lahmacun (Turkish pizza) and Cig Kofte (spicy raw meatballs). The city is also famous for its Baklava, a sweet pastry richly filled with pistachios. For upscale dining, head to Imam Cagdas or Birecikli, both renowned for their breathtaking array of traditional dishes, including Ali Nazik Kebab and Beyran Soup. Don't miss out on visiting the countless baklava shops for a sweet ending to your gastronomic journey. When exploring Gaziantep's food scene, be open to spontaneity and trying new flavors. The locals are passionate about their cuisine and will happily guide you to their favorite spots. Remember, the true essence of Gaziantep's cuisine lies in its diversity and the fusion of flavors, from the tantalizingly spicy to the deliciously sweet.

Nightlife in Gaziantep

Gaziantep, a city in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, is not just a place of rich history and delicious cuisine, but also a city with a vibrant nightlife. Despite its traditional roots, the city buzzes with life after sunset, offering an eclectic mix of experiences. The best area for bars in Gaziantep is the city center, where you'll find an array of local taverns and international-style pubs. Here, you can sip on locally brewed beer, try raki, a traditional Turkish spirit, or enjoy a glass of fine Turkish wine. Among the must-visit establishments is the popular 'Beyaz Han', renowned for its live music and authentic atmosphere. For a more relaxed experience, head to 'Cafe La Vie', a lounge bar known for its stylish interiors, chilled music, and excellent cocktail selection. For those who appreciate culture, a visit to the Zeugma Mosaic Museum is recommended, where night exhibitions often take place. Remember to dress smartly as some establishments have a dress code. Also, note that the legal drinking age in Turkey is 18. The city's unique night culture, filled with music, laughter, and a sense of camaraderie, makes Gaziantep a city worth experiencing after dark.

Best shopping in Gaziantep

Gaziantep, a city rich in history and culture, is also a shopper's paradise. The best place to go shopping in Gaziantep is the vibrant Bakırcılar Çarşısı, the coppersmith bazaar. Nestled in the heart of the city, this historical market is brimming with copperware, jewelry, and local crafts, making it an ideal spot to pick up unique souvenirs.

If you're seeking the latest fashion trends, head to Sanko Park, a modern shopping mall hosting a variety of international and Turkish brands. Gaziantep's fashion is a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, and the city's boutiques and tailors are renowned for their craftsmanship.

Don't leave without trying Gaziantep's famous pistachios and baklava, which you can buy from numerous shops and stalls across the city. For a more authentic and immersive shopping experience, visit the city's bustling food markets. Remember to bargain, as it's a common practice in local markets, and allows you to interact more with the locals, enhancing your overall shopping and cultural experience in Gaziantep.

Best free things to do in Gaziantep

Discover the best free things to do in Gaziantep, a vibrant city rich in history and culture. Start with a stroll in the Old Town, where you can admire the stunning Ottoman-era architecture, intricate stone carvings, and quaint cobblestone streets - a perfect snapshot of Turkey's past. Next, head to the Gaziantep Castle, a Roman fortress that offers panoramic views of the city. For nature lovers, a visit to the Gaziantep Botanical Garden is a must. There, you can witness a variety of local and exotic plants in full bloom. For a glimpse into the local lifestyle, stop by the bustling Gaziantep Bazaar. This open-air market pulses with life, offering a feast for the senses with its vibrant colors, tantalizing smells, and unique sounds. Lastly, don't miss the chance to learn about the city's rich culinary heritage through a free cooking demonstration often conducted in local restaurants. Immersing yourself in these activities, you'll realize that the best free things to do in Gaziantep are those that offer a genuine taste of its culture and history.

Vacation packages in Gaziantep

Photo of Sahinbey neighborhood with Old stone streets of Gaziantep, Turkey.

The best and easiest way to visit Gaziantep is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Turkey.

Booking a vacation package to Gaziantep means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Gaziantep to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Gaziantep is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Gaziantep, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Gaziantep.

Popular types of vacations in Gaziantep

The most popular way to experience Gaziantep is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Turkey. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Gaziantep on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Turkey, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Turkey, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Gaziantep, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Gaziantep below.

Top vacation packages in Gaziantep

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Turkey.

Get more Gaziantep vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Turkey that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Gaziantep

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Gaziantep.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Gaziantep get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Turkey. Your customized holiday package to Gaziantep is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Gaziantep

To get to the city of Gaziantep the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Turkey can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Gaziantep by booking flights with any of the 5 airlines that offer direct flights to Oğuzeli airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Oğuzeli airport are Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, Ryanair, LATAM Airlines, and Azul. Go to this page to compare all flights to Gaziantep.

To reach the city of Gaziantep, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Oğuzeli airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Gaziantep, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Oğuzeli airport and Gaziantep below.

Find cheap flights to Gaziantep

Photo of Sunken village Halfeti in Gaziantep Turkey.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Gaziantep, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Turkey. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Gaziantep, Turkey, in January.

The cheapest one-way flight to Gaziantep costs around 73 EUR and is offered by the airline Pegasus.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Gaziantep cost approximately 37 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 25 and the return flight is scheduled on May 31. The flight time is around 2 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Adnan Menderes.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Turkey and the city of Gaziantep from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Gaziantep

Travelers visiting Gaziantep in Turkey can fly to Oğuzeli airport directly from 1382 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Oğuzeli airport and the city of Gaziantep in Turkey depart from Oğuzeli airport in Gaziantep, Turkey, Mid Delta Regional airport in Greenville, the United States, and Cochin International airport in Kochi, India.

Travelers can fly to Turkey by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Gaziantep; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Greenville; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kochi.

The airline that operates most flights to Turkey is Scoot. Scoot offers 27 scheduled flight routes to Turkey.

Discover the most popular flights to Gaziantep below. Click to view flights to Gaziantep, Turkey from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Gaziantep

Photo of Workshop is an open-air museum and archaeological site in Yesemek, Gaziantep.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Gaziantep is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Gaziantep usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Gaziantep offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Gaziantep and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Gaziantep planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Turkey can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Gaziantep. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Gaziantep.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Gaziantep in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Gaziantep

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Gaziantep provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Gaziantep. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Gaziantep

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Gaziantep for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Gaziantep provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Gaziantep are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Gaziantep.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Gaziantep. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Gaziantep on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Gaziantep that match the information provided.

Car rental in Gaziantep

Photo of Rumkale and river view from Gaziantep.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Gaziantep.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Gaziantep, Turkey, below.

Popular types of car rental in Gaziantep

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Gaziantep to find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Turkey at their own pace.

This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Gaziantep.

Check out all options available in Gaziantep and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Turkey below.

Search for car rental in Gaziantep

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Gaziantep. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Gaziantep, Turkey, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Gaziantep

Photo of Gaziantep Kalesi Castle Breathtaking Picturesque Frontal View on a Blue Sky Day in Summer.

The city of Gaziantep is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Turkey. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Turkey has it all.

Turkey is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Turkey that are as magical as the city of Gaziantep. The most popular travel destinations in Turkey are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Turkey

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Turkey. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Gaziantep

Photo of Abandoned Castle (Rum Kale) in Firat River (Euphrates River), Halfeti, Gaziantep, Turkey.

A taste of Turkey through a visit to Gaziantep can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Gaziantep to another remarkable destination in Turkey.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Gaziantep to other spectacular locations in Turkey, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Gaziantep

Travelers in Turkey can catch flights to domestic airports in Istanbul, Bodrum, Ankara, Kayseri, and Samsun. Domestic flights in Turkey are operated by 3 airlines: Pegasus, Turkish Airlines, and SunExpress. There are around 33 scheduled flight routes operating to Gaziantep on a weekly basis.

From Gaziantep, travelers can book scheduled flights to 26 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Gaziantep depart to many top-rated destinations in Turkey and are offered by Pegasus, Turkish Airlines, and SunExpress.

Search domestic flights from Gaziantep

Traveling to another city or region in Turkey? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Gaziantep to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Turkey on the selected dates.

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