Sanliurfa Turkey Travel Guide
January averages 4-6°C (39-43°F). April brings pleasant conditions, with temperatures between 15-20°C (59-68°F). July is very hot, often reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F) and sometimes above 40°C (104°F). October offers mild weather, typically 19-24°C (66-75°F). Most rain occurs from November to March, while summers are almost completely dry. Humidity stays low in summer but rises in winter.
Summer travel calls for light clothing. Winter cold necessitates thermal layers. Spring and autumn are perfect for exploring historical sites and the city.
Visiting Göbeklitepe during these comfortable months is recommended. Cultural events, like a Sıra Gecesi, occur year-round, more pleasantly accessed during the shoulder seasons.
Most nationalities require a visa for Turkey. The e-Visa is a convenient choice for many countries, including the USA, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada. Apply on the web through the official website. Your passport validity must extend at least 6 months beyond your stay. A few countries need 150 days of validity from your admission date. Certain nationalities must get a sticker visa from a Turkish Embassy or Consulate before travel. Visa-on-arrival is rare.
Carry your original passport, a printout of your e-Visa, or your passport with a sticker visa. Immigration officials may ask for proof of an onward or return ticket. Showing proof of enough money for your your visit is also a possibility. E-Fees for a visa vary by nationality; US citizens, for instance, pay around $50. Upon arrival, present your passport and visa at the port of entry for stamping.
Minimum 6 months after your stay (150 days from entry for some).
Print digital or confirm physical visa in passport.
Proof of departure from Turkey may be requested.
Evidence of financial capacity for your trip may be asked.
Apply for e-Visa via IVisa or VisaHQ, or Turkish government site.
Standard tourism activities in Sanliurfa, including visits to major archaeological sites like Göbeklitepe, do not require special permits.
Turkey generally imposes no specific health-related entry conditions for most nationalities. Travelers from Yellow Fever endemic countries must show a Yellow Fever certificate.
Confirm your visa kind and requirements well in advance of travel. Online e-Visa application is usually straightforward for eligible nationalities.
A passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended departure date is typically a standard global travel requirement.
Always check official Turkish government websites or your country's foreign affairs department for the most current entry requirements.
Travel expenses vary with your chosen style. The Turkish Lira (TL / TRY) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available across Sanliurfa. Currency exchange offices, Döviz bürosu, are in city centers. Most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops accept major credit and debit cards. Carry some cash for smaller purchases, street food, plus local bazaars.
Accommodation prices range from 200-500 TRY for a budget lodging or guesthouse per night. Mid-range hotels cost 700-1500 TRY per night. Boutique or high-premium hotels may start from 1500-3000+ TRY per night.
Street food/snack: 50-150 TRY. Local restaurant: 150-350 TRY. Mid-range restaurant: 350-700 TRY.
Local bus: 10-20 TRY (Kentkart). Short taxi: 100-200 TRY. Havaş shuttle: 70-100 TRY. Airport taxi: 350-500 TRY. Intercity bus: 200-400 TRY.
Şanlıurfa Museum Complex: 150-200 TRY. Göbeklitepe: 200-250 TRY. Check current prices, as they change.
Tipping is not mandatory but is welcomed for good service. For restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5-10%. Round up taxi fares to the nearest convenient amount. For hotel staff like porters or housekeeping, a small gratuity of 20-50 TRY is appropriate. A good tour guide might receive 50-100 TRY per person for a day tour.
Your well-being and security are important during your Sanliurfa travels. Review these guidelines for a secure and good for you trip.
No vaccinations are mandatory for entry to Turkey for most Western travelers. Routine vaccinations (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, Flu) are recommended. Consult a doctor for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid, especially for longer stays or rural travel. Rabies vaccination is for those working with animals.
Tap water is usually okay for cleaning teeth. Bottled water is suggested for drinking. Eat freshly cooked food and observe street vendors' hygiene.
Sanliurfa has open to all and exclusive hospitals. Private hospitals offer higher care standards. Pharmacies (Eczane) are widely available for minor ailments.
Heatstroke and dehydration are risks during summer. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (11:00-16:00).
Retain this emergency contact information handy:
