Weekend in Gaziantep

Covered market where you can watch artisans hammering copper into pots, trays, and coffee sets. Free to wander. Smell of metal and old wood. Lots of souvenir shops but more authent

Tip: Visit late morning when workshops are active. Don't buy without haggling - start at half the asking price. A small copper coffee pot makes a lightweight, authentic souvenir.

Small, free museum in a restored Ottoman house dedicated to Gaziantep's famed cuisine. Shows traditional kitchen tools, spice displays, and how local dishes like lahmacun and katme

Tip: Free entry and often has tasting samples of local snacks. Ask the staff about the history of the building - they're usually happy to chat. Combine with lunch nearby at a kebab shop.

Ancient city ruins on a hill 10km north of town, mostly unrestored but atmospheric. You'll see Roman temple foundations, a well-preserved rock-cut sanctuary of Jupiter Dolichenus, and views over the p

Tip: Take a dolmuş from the city centre to the village of Dülük, then walk up the path. Wear sturdy shoes - the site is uneven. Bring water and a picnic; no facilities. Best in spring when wildflowers are out.

Historic hilltop fortress in the city centre, rebuilt many times from Roman to Ottoman periods. Damaged in the 2023 earthquake but still partially open. Provides views over the old city and bazaar. En

Tip: Combine with the nearby copper market and spice bazaar. Go late afternoon for best light on the stone walls. Check current access restrictions before visiting.

World-class museum housing astonishing Roman mosaics from the ancient city of Zeugma. The 'Gypsy Girl' mosaic is the star, but the scale and condition of the whole collection are remarkable. Low entry

Tip: Go early, around 9am opening, to avoid crowds and heat. The mosaics look best in morning light from the skylights. Budget at least 2 hours.