Doug Barnard in Eyyübiye, Şanlıurfa: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Şanlıurfa

Must-try foods in Şanlıurfa

• Urfa Kebabı
  Urfa KebabıThe city's namesake dish, this long, hand-minced lamb kebab is distinct from its neighbor (Adana) by being less spicy. It focuses on the high-quality flavor of the local lamb, seasoned primarily with salt and served with grilled tomatoes, peppers, and fresh lavaş bread.
• Çiğ Köfte
  Çiğ KöfteOriginally made with raw high-quality meat, bulgur, and the local 'isot' pepper, Şanlıurfa is considered the birthplace of this iconic dish. The local version is kneaded for hours until the meat is 'cooked' by the heat of the spices and friction, resulting in a deep, smoky flavor.
• Patlıcan Kebabı (Balcanlı Kebap)
  Patlıcan Kebabı (Balcanlı Kebap)A seasonal masterpiece where thick slices of eggplant are alternated with succulent lamb meatballs on a skewer. When grilled, the eggplant absorbs the lamb fat, becoming incredibly creamy. It is often served with a side of 'söğürtme' (smoked eggplant puree).
• Ciğer Kebabı (Liver Kebab)
  Ciğer Kebabı (Liver Kebab)A staple that locals eat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Small cubes of lamb liver and tail fat are skewered and grilled over high heat. It is traditionally served with a mountain of fresh parsley, mint, red onions with sumac, and plenty of dried isot pepper.
• Lahmacun (Urfa Style)
  Lahmacun (Urfa Style)Urfa lahmacun is distinct for its use of 'isot' (the local dark chili) and a topping that often includes pomegranate molasses and walnuts. It is baked in stone ovens until crispy and is significantly more savory and complex than versions found in western Turkey.
• Tirit
  TiritA deeply traditional breakfast dish often associated with the hospitality of Prophet Abraham. It consists of slow-cooked, tender lamb served over pieces of torn flatbread, soaked in a rich bone broth seasoned with garlic yogurt and a drizzle of sizzling butter.

Trip guide

• About Şanlıurfa
  About ŞanlıurfaŞanlıurfa, located in southeastern Turkey within the upper Mesopotamian plain, is a settlement with documented habitation extending back to the Neolithic period. As of 2026, it remains a primary center for archaeological research and heritage tourism. Historical Heritage The city is home to some of the earliest known examples of monumental architecture.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Şanlıurfa is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild and pleasant for exploring outdoor sites like Göbeklitepe. Avoid the summer months of July and August, as the region experiences extreme, dry heat that often exceeds 40°C (104°F). These shoulder seasons represent the peak tourist periods, so while the weather is ideal.
• Getting around
  Getting around Şanlıurfa

  • Air Travel (Şanlıurfa GAP Airport) Direct flights operate daily from Istanbul and Ankara via Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. The airport is 35km from the city; HAVAŞ shuttle buses or taxis provide transit to the center in roughly 30-45 minutes.
  • Intercity Bus (Otogar) Frequent, high-quality coach services connect Şanlıurfa to major hubs like Gaziantep (2.5 hours) and Mardin (2.25 hours). The main bus terminal (Otogar) is 5km north of the center, accessible via local buses or taxis.
  • Local Public Transit (UrfaKart) The city uses a network of municipal buses and smaller minibuses (dolmuş). Visitors should purchase an 'UrfaKart' for electronic fare payment. The historic core around Balıklıgöl is highly walkable and best explored on.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees to respect the city's conservative local culture, especially when visiting the Balıklıgöl area.
  • Always accept the first offer of tea in shops or homes as it is a fundamental gesture of hospitality and refusing can be seen as a rejection of welcome.
  • Use your right hand for eating and passing items, as the left hand is traditionally reserved for personal hygiene in local custom.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Şanlıurfa

  • TEKNOFEST 2026: The world's largest aviation and technology festival is scheduled to be hosted in Şanlıurfa from September 30 to October 4, 2026.
  • UNESCO Music Cities Meeting: As a designated 'City of Music,' Şanlıurfa will host this global gathering in 2026.
• Visit Urfa↗
  Visit UrfaThe official tourism portal for Şanlıurfa, providing travel guides and information for the historic Eyyübiye district and its sacred sites.