What are the top places to see in Şanlıurfa? If you're visiting Göbeklitepe, where else should you go? Discover timeless sites, local flavors, and cultural highlights in this carefully curated guide—from the city center to unique historical and natural landmarks.

Witness a Mythological Tale at Balıklıgöl

Located in the heart of Şanlıurfa, Balıklıgöl (Fish Lake) is one of the city's most visited landmarks, rich in both mythological and religious significance. Legend has it that this is where Prophet Abraham was thrown into a fire by King Nimrod. However, God transformed the fire into water and the burning logs into sacred fish. Since then, these fish have been revered and protected. You can stroll around the lake, visit the Halil-ür Rahman Mosque and Rızvaniye Madrasa, and take photos during sunset. This area offers both spiritual and historical depth—an essential stop for first-time visitors.

Enjoy the Serenity of Halil-ür Rahman Mosque

Right next to Balıklıgöl, the Halil-ür Rahman Mosque stands out with its 13th-century Seljuk architecture. Combined with the lake's calming ambiance, this place is not just for worship but also a peaceful escape. Relax in its courtyard and let birdsong carry you away.

Discover 12,000 Years of History at the Archaeology Museum

One of the largest museums in Turkey, the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum showcases thousands of years of regional history. Artifacts from Göbeklitepe, Karahantepe, and other Taş Tepeler sites are displayed here, including human-shaped statues, stone tools, and clues to Neolithic life. Don't miss the neighboring Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, which features mosaics from the Roman period.

Take a Coffee Break at Gümrük Han

Gümrük Han, a historical caravanserai, is now one of Şanlıurfa's most popular coffee spots. With its arched stone structure and courtyard, you'll feel like a traveler from centuries past. This is the perfect place to enjoy Menengiç coffee and lively conversation.

Taste Liver Kebab and Şıllık Dessert in Urfa's Cuisine

Şanlıurfa's cuisine is a feast of meats and spices. Liver kebab is even served at breakfast. Stone-baked lahmacun, spicy isot pepper salad, and the local dessert şıllık are must-tries. Here, eating isn't just nourishment—it's culture.

Experience Urfa Hospitality at a Sıra Gecesi

Sıra gecesi is a tradition unique to Şanlıurfa, where music, poetry, storytelling, and food come together. Though you can join a tourist version, attending a local's home for an authentic experience is unforgettable.

Discover Handicrafts at Bakırcılar Bazaar

One of the most authentic areas of the city, this bazaar is filled with handmade copper items, spice vendors, and artisans. Beyond shopping, it's a walk through living history—every corner tells a story.

Get a Panoramic View from Şanlıurfa Castle

Towering above Balıklıgöl, Şanlıurfa Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the city. It houses what's believed to be remnants of the catapult used against Prophet Abraham. Walk along the ramparts for incredible sunset shots of the cityscape.

See Beehive Houses and Ancient Knowledge in Harran

Dating back thousands of years, Harran is known not just for its iconic beehive houses but also for being one of the oldest centers of learning. One of the first Islamic universities was founded here. The ruins evoke the spirit of Mesopotamia, especially at sunset behind the stone dwellings.

Explore Submerged Villages in Halfeti

Halfeti, partially submerged along the Euphrates River, is among the most peaceful stops in Şanlıurfa. On a boat ride, you'll pass sunken minarets, stone houses, and natural beauty. It's a serene, unforgettable glimpse into the past.

Halfeti is also famous for the "black rose," which only maintains its deep black color when grown here. Elsewhere, it blooms a dark red.

Uncover the Secrets of Prehistory at Göbeklitepe

Göbeklitepe, dating back to 9600 BCE, reshaped what we know about human history.

Massive T-shaped megaliths arranged in circles suggest ritual gatherings.

This site reflects organized labor, symbolic thinking, and building skills, making it unique among prehistoric cultures.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Göbeklitepe is one of the most important archaeological discoveries related to the Neolithic period.

👉Want to know more? Read our article: "Göbeklitepe in 10 Questions."

Explore the Unique Structures of Karahantepe

Another remarkable site, Karahantepe, continues to impress with newly unearthed buildings, human-headed statues, and mysterious symbols. Though excavations are ongoing, the site is open to visitors and delivers a powerful, enigmatic experience.

👉Curious about Karahantepe? Start with: "Karahantepe: Are You Ready to Discover the Mysteries of the Neolithic Era?"

Bonus: The 12,000-Year-Old Taş Tepeler Route

Taş Tepeler has quickly become one of Turkey's most exciting archaeological region, drawing interest from both locals and international visitors. The area includes more than just Göbeklitepe—sites like Karahantepe, Sefertepe, Sayburç, Çakmaktepe, and Gürcütepe reveal unique Neolithic structures. Each one offers insight into the earliest stages of human civilization and is part of the ongoing Taş Tepeler Project. Together, they form a vast open-air museum.

👉Explore more with our article: "Taş Tepeler in 10 Questions."

To truly explore and understand what you're seeing, the 👉 Stone Mounds App is your essential companion. With expert audio guides, 3D visuals, videos, and photos, the past comes alive—right in your ears and before your eyes.

Essential Travel Tips Before Visiting Şanlıurfa

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Şanlıurfa is during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). Summers can be extremely hot, which may make outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable.

Getting There and Around

You can fly directly to Şanlıurfa city center via GAP Airport, which offers regular shuttle services to the city.

Public buses from the city center provide easy and affordable access to Göbeklitepe.

For sites outside the city like Karahantepe and Halfeti, renting a car or joining a daily guided tour is highly recommended for convenience.

Entry Fees

For sites like Göbeklitepe, the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, and the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, tickets are available at the entrance. International visitors can easily purchase individual tickets or day passes on-site. For Turkish citizens, the Museum Card(MüzeKart) is accepted, offering access to multiple sites.

Where to Stay

Staying in the city center gives you walking-distance access to top sights like Balıklıgöl,Gümrük Han,Bakırcılar Bazaar, and the museums. You'll also be close to local restaurants and traditional markets, making your stay both practical and immersive.