Zeugma Archaeological Site & Gaziantep Tour from Istanbul by Flight

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Tour details

Discover the Lost Roman City of the Euphrates!

Travel from Istanbul to southeastern Turkey for an unforgettable journey into the ancient city of Zeugma, one of the most significant Roman archaeological sites in the world. Once a thriving frontier city of the Roman Empire, Zeugma was renowned for its luxurious villas, extraordinary mosaics, and strategic location on the Euphrates River. Today, visitors can explore the archaeological remains at Belkis Village and admire the world-famous mosaics preserved at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep.

Tour Highlights

Visit the ancient city of Zeugma (Belkis).

Explore the world-renowned Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Discover Roman villas, bathhouses, and ancient streets

Enjoy panoramic views of the Euphrates River

Experience Gaziantep’s rich culinary heritage

ITINERARY

Early hotel pick-up from your hotel in Istanbul and transfer to the airport for your flight to Gaziantep. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. At your arrival at Gaziantep airport, meet your professional guide to start your visit at Zeugma Ancient City. The city is located approximately 55 km east of Gaziantep near Belkis Village. Zeugma was founded around 300 BC by Seleucus I Nicator and later became one of the Roman Empire’s most prosperous eastern cities. Explore the excavated Roman villas, observe preserved mosaic floors in their original locations, and learn about the rescue excavations that saved countless artifacts before parts of the ancient city were submerged by the Birecik Dam.

Enjoy authentic Gaziantep cuisine at a local restaurant, famous throughout Turkey for its rich culinary traditions.

After lunch, we will visit Zeugma Mosaic Museum. The museum houses more than 3,000 square meters of mosaics recovered from the ancient city and is considered one of the world’s most important mosaic museums.

Highlights in the museum: The legendary Gypsy Girl mosaic, Oceanus and Tethys mosaic, Dionysus villa mosaics, The bronze statue of Mars, Roman fountains and frescoes.

After the tour free time for optional shopping for local pistachios, baklava, copperware and traditional handicrafts.

Transfer to Gaziantep Airport for your return flight to Istanbul in the evening. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Istanbul.

What's included
  • Airport transfers in Istanbul
  • Round-trip domestic flights (Istanbul – Gaziantep – Istanbul)
  • Airport taxes and fuel surcharges
  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide
  • Air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour
  • Entrance fees to Zeugma Ancient City and Zeugma Mosaic Museum
  • Lunch at a local restaurant


Not included
  • Personal expenses
  • Additional food and beverages
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional shopping expenses
Need to Know
  • Early morning departures and late evening returns are required.
  • Summer temperatures in southeastern Turkey can exceed 35°C (95°F).
  • The archaeological site has uneven terrain and limited shade.
  • The tour is not fully wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the archaeological site.
  • Visitors should carry a valid passport or ID for domestic flights.
  • Museum opening hours and entrance fees may change without prior notice.
  • Photography is permitted in most areas; flash photography may be restricted inside the museum.
What to Bring?
  • Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll walk a lot on museum floors and possibly uneven outdoor terrain if you visit the ruins
  • Light, breathable clothing (especially in summer) – Gaziantep can get very hot
  • Hat or cap – strong sun exposure, especially at the site
  • Sunglasses + sunscreen – very important for outdoor parts of the tour
  • Water bottle – hydration is essential (some areas have limited shade)
  • Small backpack – easier than carrying a handbag all day
  • Camera or phone with good storage – the mosaics are very photogenic
  • Power bank – long touring days drain battery quickly
  • Cash (small amount) – for snacks, drinks, or personal expenses
  • Light jacket (spring/autumn) – museums are air-conditioned, and mornings can be cool