How to get to Diyarbakir

Watch the City from Diyarbakır Walls and Keçi Bastion: First of all, you can’t leave Diyarbakır without seeing its world-famous walls! Stretching for about 5 kilometers, these ancient walls feel like a time machine. Climbing up to Keçi Bastion and watching the city from above is an unforgettable experience. Especially at sunset, when the city lights start to glow, the view is simply breathtaking.

Visit the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami): Built in 639 AD, the Grand Mosque of Diyarbakır is one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia. The moment you step into its courtyard, you can feel the weight of history. As I wandered inside, I was amazed by its stunning architecture and deeply moved by its spiritual atmosphere.

Have Breakfast at Hasan Pasha Inn:How about starting your day with breakfast in a historic inn? Hasan Pasha Inn, a magnificent structure from the 16th century, is the perfect place for a traditional Turkish breakfast. I ordered a full spread with olives, cheeses, homemade jams, and freshly made gözleme (a type of stuffed flatbread). Everything was so fresh and delicious that I couldn’t stop eating! Finishing my meal with a cup of mırra (a strong regional coffee) while admiring the historical surroundings was the perfect start to my day.

Walk on the Ten-Eyed Bridge (On Gözlü Köprü): The Ten-Eyed Bridge over the Tigris River is one of the most picturesque spots in Diyarbakır. As I arrived, the soothing sound of the river instantly captivated me. Walking along the bridge and taking in the view of this remarkable historical structure was a truly peaceful experience.

Reconnect with Nature at Hevsel Gardens:One of the most tranquil spots in Diyarbakır is the Hevsel Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This lush green area is the perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Walking through the gardens, surrounded by birdsong and fresh air, was incredibly refreshing.

Experience the Soul of Kurdish Music at Dengbej House:To truly feel the cultural richness of Diyarbakır, you must visit Dengbej House. Here, you can listen to the purest form of traditional Kurdish music. As I sat and listened to the dengbejs (traditional Kurdish storytellers), I was amazed by the deep emotion and history embedded in their songs.

Enjoy a Coffee at Sülüklü Han:Built in 1683, Sülüklü Han is another historical treasure. Sitting here with a cup of Turkish coffee, surrounded by the centuries-old stone walls, feels like stepping into the past. The ambiance is so mesmerizing that you’ll want to linger for hours.

Witness History at Malabadi Bridge: If you have extra time, don’t miss the Malabadi Bridge in Silvan, just outside Diyarbakır. This stunning bridge, built during the Artuqid period, is nothing short of a masterpiece. Walking across it, I felt as if I had been transported back in time.

For accommodation suggestions, check out our Diyarbakır Hotels page.