Gaziantep travel guide

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Introduction to Gaziantep

Home to more than 1.6 million people and the magnificent Gaziantep Castle, Erikche Piknik Forest, and Botanical Garden, Gaziantep is an adventure awaiting you. With a unique historical background and an incredible variety of natural and architectural beauty, Gaziantep is a highlight in Turkey. This city in Turkey is a travel destination with plenty to offer curious travelers.

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

Easily accessible from Oğuzeli, Gaziantep is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Turkey any time of the year. Before booking a flight to Gaziantep, it's helpful to know that the city observes the UTC+03:00 time zone.

Explore this culturally-rich city and easily plan your trip to Turkey. For an enriched understanding of the city’s cultural tapestry and local events, you might want to consult the official website of Gaziantep.

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

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Gaziantep, Turkey. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Gaziantep, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Turkey. Check out the best things to do in Gaziantep by browsing over 8 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Gaziantep with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Gaziantep from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Gaziantep with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Gaziantep travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Gaziantep!

Learn more about Turkey

With destinations such as Gaziantep, a trip to Turkey needs no further explanation. Spanning over 783,562 square kilometers, Turkey is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Turkey has something to enchant every traveler.

In Gaziantep alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Gaziantep Castle, Erikche Piknik Forest, and Botanical Garden. Thus, a trip to Turkey becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Turkey offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Turkey. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Turkey and its offers.

What to see in Gaziantep

Photo of Gaziantep castle in turkey.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Gaziantep, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Gaziantep offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Gaziantep travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Gaziantep

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Gaziantep is more than just a wonderful city in Turkey. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Turkey's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Gaziantep is the unforgettable Gaziantep Castle. 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.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Gaziantep, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Gaziantep, including the fascinating Gaziantep Castle, Erikche Piknik Forest, Botanical Garden, Mothers Park, and Gaziantep Museum of Toys and Games.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Gaziantep.

Things to do in Gaziantep

Photo of Gaziantep City view from Gaziantep Castle.

You've explored Gaziantep's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Gaziantep. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Gaziantep, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Gaziantep

A visit to Gaziantep gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Historical Tours, Bus Tours, Walking Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Gaziantep, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Gaziantep. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Gaziantep offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Gaziantep

In Gaziantep, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 6 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

Gaziantep also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Gaziantep City Hotels to Gaziantep Airport GZT Transfers, for example, is the cheapest Round-Trip Airport & Hotel Transfer option in the city. This experience costs around 75 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Gaziantep adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Gaziantep right below.

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Discover the best things to do in Gaziantep. Choose from 8 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 and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Gaziantep.

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.

How to get to Gaziantep

International travelers can fly to Gaziantep by booking flights with SunExpress, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, AJet, and Corendon, offering flights to Oğuzeli. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Gaziantep.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Gaziantep, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Gaziantep. Go to this page to compare all flights to Gaziantep.

Find cheap flights to Gaziantep

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

Booking budget-friendly flights to Gaziantep is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Gaziantep. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Gaziantep, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Gaziantep even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Gaziantep both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Gaziantep

Travelers visiting Gaziantep can easily access the city via Oğuzeli, offering direct connection to 21 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Gaziantep below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Gaziantep and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Car rentals in Gaziantep

Photo of Sunken village Halfeti in Gaziantep Turkey.

To navigate Gaziantep effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 3 car rental companies in Gaziantep, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Gaziantep start at 46 EUR per day or 325 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Renault Clio. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Gaziantep, starting at 41 EUR per day or 285 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Renault Clio.

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

Popular types of cars for rent in Gaziantep

Renting a car in Gaziantep is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Gaziantep, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Gaziantep for your upcoming adventures in Turkey below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals 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 Workshop is an open-air museum and archaeological site in Yesemek, Gaziantep.

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.

Each destination in Turkey offers something unique to experience! 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 about 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 Rumkale and river view from Gaziantep.

Experience the authentic charm of Turkey by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Gaziantep. Explore other destinations around Turkey with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Gaziantep to other amazing locations in Turkey, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Turkey for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Gaziantep.

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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