Join our private daily excursion from Gaziantep to Halfeti, one of southeastern Turkey's most atmospheric towns, where stone houses and a mosque minaret rise eerily from the deep blue waters of the Euphrates. This relaxed, fully guided Gaziantep day trip combines a scenic boat cruise, free time in Halfeti's charming lanes and a visit to historic Şanlıurfa before returning to your hotel.
Halfeti's story is unlike anywhere else in Turkey. When the Birecik Dam was completed on the Euphrates in the 1990s, much of the old town and surrounding villages disappeared beneath the rising reservoir. A new settlement was built nearby at Karaotlak, while the old town's rooftops and minarets still break the water's surface, creating the haunting landscape visitors come to see. The area is also known for the rare black rose, the Karagül, which thrives in this unique microclimate.
Your boat cruise glides past Rumkale, a mighty fortress perched on sheer cliffs where the Merzimen stream meets the Euphrates. Over the centuries it served as a stronghold for many civilizations and remains one of the region's most impressive silhouettes. Back on land, Halfeti rewards slow exploration: stone houses, quiet cobbled streets and a suspension bridge with lovely views over the water.
The day tour continues to Şanlıurfa, where the hilltop castle dominates the old city. Its origins reach back to the 3rd century BC, to the era of the ancient Osrhoene kingdom, and the twin Corinthian columns on its summit are the city's emblem. After time to explore, you return comfortably to Gaziantep.
Practical notes: this is a relaxed-pace daily tour suitable for all ages (0–99), operated in English with a professional guide. Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Gaziantep, air-conditioned non-smoking transport, lunch and all entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary are included. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and a camera are recommended.
| Tour type | Private · day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full Day |
| Price | From €245 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 4 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours · TÜRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full day programme — click to see every stop.
Gaziantep – Halfeti Boat Tour – Savaşan Village – Rumkale – Şanlıurfa – Gaziantep Your day begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Gaziantep, travelling by air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle towards Halfeti on the banks of the Euphrates. On arrival, you will board a boat for a leisurely cruise over the dam waters that swallowed much of the old town in the 1990s. From the water you will see the submerged houses of Savaşan Village and its famous sunken mosque, its minaret still rising above the surface, before cruising past the imposing clifftop fortress of Rumkale. After the boat tour, enjoy free time in Halfeti itself: stroll through its narrow stone streets, soak up the tranquil atmosphere and walk up to the suspension bridge for panoramic views over the river. Lunch is included during the day. In the afternoon, depart for Şanlıurfa, the city famed for the Karagül black rose. Here you will visit Urfa Castle, whose origins date to the 3rd century BC and the Osrhoene kingdom era, crowning the hill above the old city with its iconic twin columns. After the visit, relax on the return drive to Gaziantep, where you will be dropped back at your hotel, bringing your memorable Halfeti day trip to a close.
Gaziantep → Halfeti → Gaziantep Sunken Village → Rumkale
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles — the same fleet we use on your tour.
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My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
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10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!