Where Culture and Flavor Meet: A Gaziantep Travel Guide

With its cultural richness, historical charm, warm-hearted people, and UNESCO-recognized cuisine, Gaziantep is one of Turkey’s most special cities.

In Gaziantep, where you can uncover a new flavor or a historical tale at every corner, we’ve prepared a travel guide to help you fully enjoy your trip—from must-see historical sites to must-try dishes.

1. Start with the Zeugma Mosaic Museum

It’s likely you’ve heard of the “Gypsy Girl” mosaic, a symbol of Gaziantep’s cultural richness. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to colorful and intricate mosaics that tell stories from thousands of years ago, is a must-visit for everyone, history enthusiasts or not. Notably, the museum holds a special place globally for its collection of ancient mosaics, making it an important destination beyond Turkey.

2. A Journey Through History at Gaziantep Castle

Our journey continues with Gaziantep Castle, another iconic landmark. With its historical structure and panoramic city views, Gaziantep Castle is a sight to behold, located right in the heart of the city. Serving as a watchtower for many civilizations over the centuries, the castle today allows visitors to experience something truly unique. One of the main reasons for this is the Gaziantep Defense and Heroism Panorama Museum, which tells the story of the city’s role during the War of Independence. Visiting Gaziantep Castle offers more than just a view of a historic structure—you’ll also uncover a museum that allows you to deeply feel the city’s history.

3. A Baklava Heaven: Sweet Stops

Can you leave Gaziantep without tasting its famous, delectable baklava? This sweet delicacy has gained international fame, celebrated for its traditional preparation and unique ingredients, making each bite a true masterpiece. Throughout Gaziantep, you can sample these crispy, melt-in-your-mouth treats at baklava shops or have them packed up to take a piece of Gaziantep’s sweetness home for friends and family.

4. Discover Handicrafts at Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmiths' Bazaar)

You can still trace the ancient art of coppersmithing, which has been shaped by the hands of artisans for centuries and is a fundamental part of Gaziantep’s culture. The must-visit place for this is Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmiths’ Bazaar). As you explore this traditional marketplace, you’ll have the chance to witness the process of creating copper items. Immerse yourself in the copper craftsmanship that has continued from past to present, and enjoy shopping among these hand-crafted treasures.

5. Discover Gaziantep Cuisine

Did you know Gaziantep is Turkey’s only city to be declared a “City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO? Gaziantep’s culinary culture, with hundreds of dishes and sweets, is a realm of its own, thoroughly deserving of this title.

Gaziantep’s cuisine is a cultural heritage, where each dish tells its own story, distinguished by its variety of ingredients and aromatic spices. The balance and skill in the preparation allow the flavors to stand out individually. So, which dishes should you try when you’re in Gaziantep? Starting the day with beyran soup—a rich, flavorful dish—is a local favorite, especially if you’re used to more classic breakfast items. Aside from beyran, yuvalama, various kebabs, içli köfte, and katmer are among the must-try specialties in Gaziantep.

Gaziantep’s culinary culture offers more than just a meal; it’s a journey through the city’s deep-rooted heritage. Our recommendation: embark on a culinary tour, but come with an empty stomach—you’ll find it hard to resist all the flavors awaiting you at every corner.

6. Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum: A Closer Look at Gaziantep Cuisine

To dive deeper into Gaziantep’s culinary story, be sure to add Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum to your itinerary. This museum provides an opportunity to truly get to know Gaziantep cuisine and the culture behind the flavors, making it an ideal stop, especially for those interested in gastronomy.

7. Shopping Fun at Zincirli Bedesten and Almacı Bazaar

Now, let’s talk about where to shop. Markets filled with spices, dried vegetables, natural soaps, and local products offer fantastic opportunities to experience Gaziantep’s local touch. We recommend visiting Zincirli Bedesten and Almacı Bazaar. As you stroll through these vibrant stalls, you’ll lose yourself in their colors and aromas. These two bazaars are excellent places to find local products such as menengiç coffee, zahter, and red pepper paste.

8. Delve into History at Dülük Ancient City

For history lovers, our final recommendation is Dülük Ancient City, one of the world’s oldest settlements. This ancient site, which has hosted civilizations from the Hittites to the Romans, allows you to journey back in time and uncover the stories behind its ruins. Be sure to see the Mithras Temple while you’re there.

Gaziantep offers a new cultural and culinary experience at every step. A unique destination for food enthusiasts, history lovers, and shopping aficionados, Gaziantep awaits discovery as one of Turkey’s hidden gems.