1 Night 2 Day Mount Nemrut Tour from Istanbul by Plane

Discover the 1 Night 2 Day Mount Nemrut Tour from Istanbul by Plane

This tour from Istanbul offers a swift yet comprehensive journey to Mount Nemrut, one of Turkey’s most iconic and mysterious archaeological sites. Priced at $872.67 per person, it covers two days packed with sightseeing, history, and breathtaking vistas, all arranged with seamless logistics by TAS TURKEY TRAVEL.

Starting with air travel from Istanbul, the tour ensures that participants spend more time exploring than worrying about planning. The itinerary includes visits to Karakus Tumulus, Cendere Bridge, and Arsemia Architectural Site, culminating with a sunrise on Mount Nemrut itself. This experience is best suited for those who appreciate guided tours that combine history, stunning scenery, and efficient transportation, though it demands a willingness to wake very early for the sunrise experience.

While the tour offers a full schedule and all necessary logistics, it is helpful to be prepared for early mornings and the physical activity involved in site visits. The inclusion of hotel pickup, flights, and a night’s accommodation makes this an attractive option for travelers short on time but eager to see one of Turkey’s most remarkable landmarks.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package: flight, transportation, hotel, breakfast, and lunch included.
• Two-day tour: ideal for those with limited time but wanting a full experience.
• Early morning start for the sunrise at Mount Nemrut, with the tour beginning in Kahta.
• Visits to key archaeological sites: Karakus Tumulus, Cendere Bridge, Arsemia, and Mount Nemrut itself.
• Guided with expert explanations: guides share details about the history and significance of each stop.
• Group size limited to 15 for a personalized experience.

Departure from Istanbul and Air Travel Logistics

This tour departs early in the morning at 6:30 am, beginning with a pickup from your hotel in Istanbul. After a transfer to Istanbul airport, the flight departs at 9:00 am and arrives in Adyaman at 10:35 am. The convenience of round-trip flights included in the package simplifies travel planning, allowing participants to focus solely on the experience.

Once in Adyaman, the tour seamlessly moves to visiting key sites before reaching Mount Nemrut. The return flight departs Adyaman at 11:00 am on the second day, arriving in Istanbul by 1:30 pm, with a transfer back to your hotel. This efficient schedule maximizes time at the sites while minimizing travel fatigue.

Visits to the Karakus Tumulus and its Historical Significance

The Karakus Tumulus is a highlight for its historical and cultural importance. Built around 3020 BCE by Mithridates II of Commagene, it is dedicated to Queen Isias and princesses Antiochis and Aka I. The name “Karakus” translates to “black bird”, inspired by the eagle-shaped column that crowns the monument.

Surrounded by groups of three Doric columns, the tumulus features reliefs and statues of a bull, lion, and eagle, each about 9 meters high. An inscription indicates the resting place of three women in a royal tomb. The guide provides detailed stories about how this monument connects to the ancient Comma gene Kingdom and its traditions.

The visit lasts about an hour, and admission is included in the tour. It’s an excellent introduction to the region’s ancient burial practices and royal symbolism.

The Cendere Bridge: A Roman Engineering Marvel

The Cendere Bridge is a late Roman construction that spans Cendere Çay (Chabinas Creek). Located 55 km northeast of Adyaman, it was first documented by archaeologists Osman Hamdi Bey and Osgan Efendi in 1883.

This stone bridge is notable for its long lifespan and impressive architecture, featuring multiple arches and sturdy stonework. The guide explains its historical context as part of the Roman Empire’s infrastructure, built to connect regions and facilitate movement. The visit here lasts about two hours, allowing ample time for photographs and learning about ancient engineering.

Admission is included, and the site provides insight into the Roman influence on this part of Turkey, standing as a testament to their architectural skills.

Exploring Arsemia and its Heracles Relief

Arsemia, once the summer residence of the Commagene kings, is approximately sixty kilometers from Adiyaman. It offers visitors a chance to see Greek inscriptions, reliefs, and ruins from around 50 BC.

The most notable feature is a relief depicting Heracles (or possibly a Persian deity called Artagnes), shaking hands with King Mithridates of Commagene. This scene illuminates the blend of Greek, Armenian, and Persian influences that characterize the region’s history. The site also contains the greatest Greek inscription in Anatolia.

A visit to Arsemia takes about an hour, and guided explanations bring the historical significance to life. It’s a fascinating stop for those interested in the cultural interactions of the ancient Near East.

The Magnificence of Mount Nemrut’s Summit Statues

The centerpiece of the tour is Mount Nemrut itself, a 2,134-meter-high mountain famous for its massive statues and royal tomb from the 1st century BC. Built by King Antiochus I of Commagene, the site features 89-meter-high statues of himself, lions, eagles, and gods like Heracles, Zeus, and Artemis.

The sunset from Mount Nemrut on the East and West terraces offers some of the most breathtaking views in Turkey. The statues, once seated, now lie toppled but still evoke awe. The tour allows ample time to explore the site, take photographs, and appreciate the scale of this ancient sanctuary.

On the second day, the tour includes a sunrise experience at 4:00 am, providing a spectacular view of the mountain as the sun rises behind the statues. Afterward, there’s time for breakfast and rest before heading back to Adyaman for the flight.

The Early Morning Sunrise Experience at Mount Nemrut

The sunrise at Mount Nemrut is a highlight of this tour, starting very early at 4:00 am. Travelers are picked up from their hotel in Kahta before dawn, then driven to the summit to witness the moment when the sun emerges behind the statues.

This experience offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of connection to the ancient kings who built the site. It also provides excellent photo opportunities with the sunrise illuminating the statues and the surrounding valleys. The early start necessitates waking up at dawn but rewards with one of nature’s most striking displays.

Following the sunrise, the group returns to the hotel for breakfast and rest before departing for the airport. The timing ensures that participants maximize their experience without missing the flight back to Istanbul.

Practical Details: Group Size, Inclusions, and Flexibility

This tour is designed for small groups of up to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience with guide interaction. The package includes all transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, hotel pickup and drop-off, flight tickets, breakfast and lunch, and a night’s accommodation.

Flexibility is limited by the tight schedule and early start times, but the organized nature means that logistical details are handled professionally. The tour also offers group discounts and provides a mobile ticket for convenience.

While the tour is comprehensive, it does not include personal expenses, drinks at lunch, or tips for guides and drivers. Participants should prepare for early mornings and walking on uneven terrain** at the archaeological sites.

Mount Nemrut Tour: Is It Worth It?

This two-day tour from Istanbul offers a convenient and well-structured way to visit Mount Nemrut without the hassle of planning flights and accommodations. The inclusion of guided explanations enhances understanding of the ancient sites, and the early sunrise experience is truly unforgettable.

The combination of history, stunning scenery, and efficient logistics makes this tour particularly suited for travelers with limited time who want a curated experience. The small group setting ensures attention from guides and a relaxed atmosphere.

However, the early mornings and rigid schedule may not suit everyone, especially those seeking a more leisurely pace. The price point reflects convenience and all-inclusive services, making it a valuable choice for those eager to explore Mount Nemrut comprehensively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include flights?
Yes, the package includes round-trip flights between Istanbul and Adyaman.

What is the best time to see Mount Nemrut?
The tour emphasizes the sunrise experience, making early morning visits the highlight, especially for photography and viewing the statues with dawn light.

Are meals included during the trip?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included on both days, with meals served at local restaurants.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour involves walking and exploring archaeological sites, some on uneven terrain, so it may require moderate physical effort.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This 1 Night 2 Day Mount Nemrut Tour from Istanbul by Plane presents an efficient, guided way to experience one of Turkey’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites, combining history, scenic views, and comfort with organized logistics.