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How to Get to Diyarbakir

How to Get to Diyarbakir

Diyarbakir Province Turkey Travel Guide

Diyarbakır by Air

Airport & Flights

Diyarbakır Airport (DIY) serves the city. It is approximately 6 kilometers (4 miles) south of the central area. Major Turkish carriers operate flights, including Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet, Pegasus Airlines, and SunExpress.

Air Travel Essentials

  • Direct Routes: Most flights to Diyarbakır are domestic, connecting to Istanbul and Ankara.
  • Seasonal Fares: Prices remain stable, with slight increases during peak holidays.
  • Facilities At the airport: Basic facilities include cafes, limited duty-free, car rental, and ATMs.

Transfer Options from Airport

Several convenient options are available for transferring from Diyarbakır Airport to the central area or your accommodation.

Getting to the City

  • Havaş Airport Shuttles: Regular services to city center points like Dağkapı and Galeria.
  • Public Buses: Budget-friendly option between the airport and various parts of Diyarbakır.
  • Taxis: Readily available 24/7. Confirm approximate fare before starting.

Havaş Shuttles

Trustworthy and cost-effective transfer to city center points.

Public Buses

Most budget-friendly option for airport-to-city travel.

Taxis

Non-stop and convenient transfer, available 24/7.

Global Connections & Transfer Tips

International Connections

  • Diyarbakır Airport does not typically offer direct international flights.
  • International travelers connect through Istanbul or Ankara.
  • Plan layover times for passport control and customs.
  • Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Transfer Advice

  • Confirm approximate taxi fare before starting journey.
  • Check Havaş schedule upon arrival.
  • Public buses are cheap-friendly but might involve multiple stops.
  • Car rental desks are at the airport for those self-driving.

Airport Services

Car Rental

Global and domestic car rental companies have desks at the airport.

ATMs

ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.

Cafes & Shops

A few cafes and limited duty-free shopping options.

Exploring by Land: Buses, Cars, and Trains

Long-Distance Buses

Long-distance buses are the most common and efficient way to travel. Diyarbakır Otogarı (Bus Terminal) is a major hub.

Bus Services

  • Major Companies: Metro Turizm, Kamil Koç, Öz Diyarbakır, Star Diyarbakır.
  • Extensive Network: Connects to all major Turkish cities.
  • Comfort: Modern buses offer Wi-Fi, entertainment, refreshments.

Self-Driving

Minimum age usually 21-25.

Driving Guide

  • International Driving Permit recommended if national license not Latin alphabet.
  • Road Conditions: Major highways are generally in good condition.
  • City Driving: In Diyarbakır city, traffic can be challenging.

Road Conditions & Train Travel

Major highways are well-maintained. Rural roads might be less developed. Local driving can be assertive.

Travel Notes

  • Train Service: Diyarbakır Garı (Train Station) offers limited regional service to Adana.
  • Winter Safety: Road safety during winter can be affected by snow and ice.
  • Navigation: Use GPS or reliable mapping apps (Google Maps, Yandex Maps).

Booking & Border Info

Book bus tickets in advance for popular routes. Diyarbakır is not near any international crossing borders by land.

Reminders

  • Booking: Purchase tickets at terminal, company websites, or online agencies.
  • Border Crossings: All international land entries into Turkey occur at designated border gates.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right-hand side; seatbelts are mandatory.

Border & Safety Information

  • Diyarbakır is not near international border crossings for tourists.
  • All foreign land entries happen at designated border gates.
  • Defensive driving is a good approach for local traffic.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits are enforced and vary overland type.
  • Booking bus tickets in advance is recommended.

Water Journeys: Not Applicable

No Water Access

Diyarbakır is an inland city in Southeastern Anatolia, far from any sea. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not applicable for tourism.

Sea/River Travel

  • No ferry services or cruise ports.
  • River transportation is not developed for tourism.
  • No immigration procedures at seaports.

Land Transport Priority

Travelers rely on domestic flights or extensive bus systems to reach Diyarbakır. These are the main transportation modes.

Preferred Methods

  • Air travel through Istanbul or Ankara.
  • Long-distance bus connections across Turkey.
  • Self-driving via well-maintained highways.

No Boat Taxis

Diyarbakır does not feature boat taxis or other water transport modes for tourists.

No Funiculars

Cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport cannot be found in Diyarbakır.

Accessibility

Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited due to historical sites.

Departure from Diyarbakır

Airport Departure

No particular exit fees or taxes are levied on departing travelers from Turkey by air. Your flight ticket includes all charges.

Timing & Facilities

  • Arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before domestic flight departure.
  • Diyarbakır The airport has rudimentary waiting spots, cafes, and very little shops.
  • Ample time for check-in, baggage drop-off, and security screening.

Bus Terminal Departure

For long-distance bus travel from Diyarbakır Otogarı, arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure.

Terminal Amenities

  • Locate your bus and load luggage.
  • The bus terminal provides waiting areas, restaurants, cafes, and small shops.
  • Reconfirm your bus schedule the day before departure.

Final Checks

Last-Minute Check

Always reconfirm your flight or bus schedule the day before departure.

Traffic Awareness

Traffic in Diyarbakır can be unpredictable; allow extra time to reach the airport or terminal.

Final Document Review

Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible for departure.

Travel Smart

Reconfirm your flight or bus schedule 24 hours before departure. Traffic in Diyarbakır can be unpredictable, so allow extra travel time to the airport or bus terminal.