When you think about Turkey, popular places like Istanbul and Ankara come to mind. However, not many people know about the city of Gaziantep. It is a fun, friendly, yet underrated city to explore.
Visitors will find amazing museums, delicious food, stunning architecture, and welcoming locals. There are many interesting sights and activities in Gaziantep, making it one of Turkey’s hidden treasures. Thus, you must definitely make it a part of your itinerary for a trip to Turkey. But a major question that must now arise in your mind must be regarding the things to do in Gaziantep. Well, do not worry. As in this article, you will learn about some of the best things to do in Gaziantep.
Top 6 Things To Do In Gaziantep
When planning your tour of Gaziantep, remember these things to do in Gaziantep, Turkey. It will allow you to witness the city’s true colour and vibe.
1. Explore Mosaic Art At Zeugma Mosaic Museum
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The Zeugma Mosaic Museum is one of Gaziantep’s top attractions. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of mosaic art from the Roman Period, along with a wide array of artefacts and art pieces from the region. Even if you aren’t typically interested in museums, you’ll still appreciate the beauty of these artworks. For art enthusiasts, the museum holds the famous Gypsy Lady mosaic, making it a must-visit. Be sure to add the Zeugma Mosaic Museum to your list of things to do in Gaziantep.
Location: Mithatpaşa, Hacı, Sani Konukoğlu Blv., 27500 Şehitkamil/Gaziantep, Türkiye
Distance from Gaziantep Airport: 21.2 Km
Travel Time from Gaziantep Airport: 20-25 minutes
Entry Fee: 10 Lira
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Must Read: Best Places To Visit In Turkey
2. Visit The Gaziantep Museum Of Toys And Games
Image Credit:Dosseman for Wikimedia commons
Visiting the Gaziantep Museum of Toys and Games is one of the ideal things to do in Gaziantep to feel like a kid again and refresh all those sweet memories. It is a wonderful place to see and appreciate old toys as works of art. This museum takes you through a journey of toys and games that gave joy to generations of children. The museum has a collection of toys from various countries, including Europe, Turkey, the USA, and others. Many of these toys are handmade and between 50 and 150 years old. Visiting this museum will also give you a glimpse into the past and the craftsmanship that went into creating these delightful toys.
Location: Bey, Hanifi Oğlu Sk., 27010 Şahinbey/Gaziantep, Türkiye
Distance from Gaziantep Airport: 20 Km
Travel Time from Gaziantep Airport: 25-30 minutes
Entry Fee: 20 Lira
Best Time to Visit: April to June
3. Go On Wildlife Spotting At Gaziantep Zoo
Image Credit: Dosseman for Wikimedia commons
Gaziantep offers more than just museums and food. It is also home to Turkey’s largest zoo, featuring various wild animal species. The zoo includes animal enclosures, an aquarium, and a zoological museum, allowing visitors to see many animals and learn about their habitats. It takes at least two hours to explore the entire zoo. Near the entrance are large picnic areas where families can relax and enjoy a meal together. The zoo provides a fun and educational experience for everyone, making it one of the best things to do in Gaziantep, Turkey.
Location: Yamaçtepe, 27010 Şahinbey/Gaziantep, Türkiye
Distance from Gaziantep Airport: 28 Km
Travel Time from Gaziantep Airport: 28-30 minutes
Entry Fee: 7 Lira for Adults and 3.5 Lira for juniors
Best Time to Visit: September to October
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4. Buy Copper Items At Copper Craftsmen Bazaar
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Located in the centre of Old Town Gaziantep, the Copper Craftsmen Bazaar is a lively market with many activities. You can appreciate traditional copper craftsmanship here. The bazaar has numerous shops and stalls displaying beautiful copper items, making it perfect for afternoon visits. Finely crafted copper products like pots, pans, trays, tea sets, and decorative pieces will be found. These items are made using techniques passed down through generations, making them unique souvenirs. You can also talk to the skilled artisans, learn about their traditional methods, and watch them turn raw copper into amazing works of art.
Location: Boyacı, Eskici Çarşısı Sk., 27400 Şahinbey/Gaziantep, Türkiye
Distance from Gaziantep Airport: 19 Km
Travel Time from Gaziantep Airport: 30 minutes
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: September to October
5. Explore The Turkish And Islamic Arts Museum
Image Credit: Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the heart of Gaziantep, the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum offers a captivating journey through Islamic history. This museum is surely one of the best things to do in Gaziantep for admiring ancient religious artwork. It boasts an impressive array of ceramics, carpets, manuscripts, calligraphy, metalwork, and woodwork. Some highlights include the stunning collection of intricately designed tiles and ceramics, showcasing the vibrant colours and intricate patterns characteristic of Islamic art. Visitors can marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and explore the evolution of artistic techniques and styles across different periods. This museum is a treasure trove of artistic heritage, celebrating the rich cultural legacy of the Islamic world.
Location: Kolej Tape, Yeşil Cami Cd. No:5, 27070 Şahinbey/Gaziantep, Türkiye
Distance from Gaziantep Airport: 22 Km
Travel Time from Gaziantep Airport: 25 minutes
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: September to October
Suggested Read: Zoos In Turkey
6. Visit The Rumkale Fortress
Image Credit:Nightstallion03 Wikimedia Commons
Rumkale is a must-see fortress in Gaziantep. It sits on the border between Gaziantep and Urfa, along the Euphrates River. Many groups, like the Greeks, Armenians, Romans, Ottomans, and Egyptians, have controlled it throughout history. Today, you can visit this stunning fortress by boat, enjoying its perfect location and great views over the Ataturk dam waters. Boat tours from Halfeti offer a beautiful view of Rumkale. It provides stunning landscape views and a window into the past, making it one of the best things to do in Gaziantep.
Location: Kasaba, Kasaba Köyü Yolu, 27970 Yavuzeli/Gaziantep, Türkiye
Distance from Gaziantep Airport: 80 Km
Travel Time from Gaziantep Airport: 1.5 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Further Read: Desserts In Turkey
Gaziantep is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. With its rustic vibe, it is home to many places that can provide you with memories for a lifetime. But to ensure you make the most out of your visit, do the above-mentioned things to do in Gaziantep. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Turkey today and begin unravelling yet another hidden gem of Turkey.
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Cover Image Source: Ben Bender for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Gaziantep
Is Gaziantep a good holiday destination?
Yes, Gaziantep is definitely worth visiting. It is beautiful and full of history. You will get your money's worth but visiting the artistic museums, refreshing markets, and the overall vibe of the place.
What should I buy in Gaziantep?
Gaziantep is home to the famous copper craftsmen bazaar. You can buy different copper utensils and little copper trinkets. They are a great idea for souvenirs and little memoirs.
What food is famous in Gaziantep?
Antep baklava is the most famous dish in Gaziantep. Apart from this, Helva and Pekmez, a thick fruit preserve made from grapes, mulberries, and other fruits, are also very popular. Thus, don't forget to keep space for such delicious desserts.
What city is near Gaziantep?
Kilis, Birecik, Nizip, and Al-Safira, Syria, are some of the closest cities to Gaziantep.
How far is Gaziantep from Istanbul by plane?
Gaziantep is just a short 1-hour 45-minute flight from the city of Istanbul and a great vacation spot.
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