Many of us love traveling on the Wanderlog team, so naturally we’re always on the hunt to find the most popular spots anytime we travel somewhere new. With favorites like Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, Urfa City AVM, and Ulu Cami and more, get ready to experience the best places in Sanliurfa.
Why trust us
We scoured through the internet and read through 6 reputable sites and blogs like Lonely Planet and Ways of the World. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you’re getting the best of the best. Just look for the “mentioned by” tags on each place like these:
The Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum in Sanliurfa is a fascinating museum that houses the impressive Haleplibahçe mosaics, which were discovered in 2006 as part of a Roman villa complex. This well-preserved domed structure offers protection for the mosaics and provides visitors with an interesting experience. The entry fee for the museum is 25 TL, with an additional charge of 25 TL for an audio guide if needed.
Urfa City AVM is a convenient and diverse retail complex that features various levels of shops and dining options, along with exciting entertainment facilities like a bowling alley. This well-designed establishment provides an enjoyable experience for the whole family, offering an indoor play area that is ideal for kids. With its five-story structure, Urfa City AVM boasts numerous fast food restaurants, as well as clothing and household stores.
The Ulu Camii mosque, dating back to the 12th century, stands on the grounds where the Church of St. Stephen once stood in the 6th century. It is believed that a synagogue existed beneath it as well. The unique octagonal minaret on the western side of the building is thought to have been retained from its previous use as a church. Inside, there are prayer rooms arranged in a cross vault layout, with a simple dome above the prayer niche.
Harran Otel is a traditional lodging facility with amenities like a dining establishment, wellness center including a hammam, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. It is situated in the ancient city of Harran, which attracts tourists as it was once the prosperous capital of the Islamic Empire during its peak between 700-900 AD. The hotel lacks an elevator connecting the underground parking to the lobby, making luggage transportation challenging.
The Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, situated within the Archeopark complex along with the Edessa Mosaic Museum, is a modern domed structure that showcases regional prehistoric finds. It houses sculptures and art from Gobekli Tepe, as well as exhibits spanning Paleolithic times. The museum boasts detailed mosaics displaying Amazon warrior queens and the life of Achilles discovered during construction of a planned theme park in 2006.
The Mutfak Muzesi in Urfa offers a glimpse into the daily lives of families in the region during the later Ottoman Empire and early Turkish Republic. This free museum showcases reconstructions of home life, providing insights into traditional cuisine and food culture. Although not a top attraction, it is a well-organized exhibition that allows visitors to learn about Sanliurfa’s family dynamics. The curators are friendly and while the text is in Turkish, one can gather information from context.
If you find yourself with some free time, consider paying a visit to Fırfırlı Mosque. This religious establishment boasts truly awe-inspiring architectural design that is sure to captivate your senses. Recently refurbished, the mosque effortlessly combines traditional charm with a fresh and modern touch. Its stunning beauty can be likened to that of a church in its previous form.
ELÇİ KONAĞI BUTİK OTEL is a charming hotel housed in an elegant, historic building. The rooms are cozy and offer a rooftop terrace for guests to enjoy. The owner, Mustafa, provides attentive and helpful service, assisting with travel plans and offering guided tours. The location of the hotel is ideal, situated in the heart of Sanliurfa within walking distance of popular attractions such as Balikligol, the citadel, and city museums.
I stayed at the Palmyra Boutique Hotel for a few nights in September. The location is ideal, particularly if you have a car as parking is available. It’s only a short 5-minute walk to the city center. The hotel itself has a charming and distinctive atmosphere with traditional rooms. The owner and staff are incredibly welcoming, friendly, and hospitable individuals. I felt extremely welcomed during my stay. The breakfast offered a wide variety of freshly made dishes that were simply outstanding.
Gazel Butik Hotel is an informal lodging option that offers vintage-style accommodations. It boasts a rooftop terrace and a charming courtyard. Located close to Balikgol, this elegant establishment provides a nostalgic experience without straining your wallet. The city and the hotel are best described as lovely, friendly, and beautiful. Guests have had amazing experiences here, with wonderful nights spent in clean rooms attended by the most kind-hearted staff in Turkey.
I spent four years at Göbeklitepe Anadolu Lisesi, being one of its early graduates. The school boasts a spacious garden and an impressive building. The teachers are highly competent. While my first year was marred by unpleasant teaching experiences, there has been a significant improvement since then. Overall, my time at the school was filled with both joyful and challenging moments. In the past, minor conflicts were common, but in the last two years, I haven’t witnessed any fights.
