Visiting Sanliurfa: A Complete Guide to the City of Prophets

The sacred pool and mosque in Sanliurfa — Source: Pixabay

Sanliurfa, the City of Prophets, is one of Turkey’s most sacred and ancient destinations, home to the pool of Abraham at Balikligol and close to the astonishing ruins of Gobekli Tepe. This guide brings together our articles on its holy sites, its old city and where to stay on a budget.

Our Sanliurfa Guides

Who Comes to Sanliurfa

The city draws pilgrims honouring the Prophet Abraham, travellers fascinated by the ancient ruins of Gobekli Tepe, and food lovers eager to taste one of Turkey’s richest regional cuisines. The sacred sites welcome respectful visitors of all backgrounds; modest dress is appreciated at the pools and mosques.

When to Visit

Spring and autumn are by far the most comfortable seasons, as Sanliurfa summers are famously hot. Evenings around Balikligol are especially pleasant, when the gardens cool and the mosque is softly lit.

Getting There

Sanliurfa has its own airport with flights from Istanbul and Ankara, and is connected by intercity buses to cities across southeastern Turkey. The old city and Balikligol are easily explored on foot, and Gobekli Tepe is a short drive away.