Tahmis Kahvesi is an iconic breakfast spot in Gaziantep, offering amazing local delicacies. Try the local breakfast platter which includes olives, cheese, tomatoes, eggs, and homemade jams along with Turkish tea or coffee. They also offer a variety of traditional pastries and bread.
Gaziantep is famous for its copper kitchenware, and the best place to get them is at Bakircilar Carsisi. Visit the shops that offer handcrafted copper pots, pans, and trays, adorned with intricate designs. You can also find other souvenirs like Turkish coffee sets, tea glasses, and table runners here.
Antep Castle, also known as Gaziantep Fortress, is a great place to explore Gaziantep's history and heritage. The castle dates back to the Roman era and offers an impressive view of the city. Don't miss the War Museum inside the castle, which exhibits the city's struggle for independence.
Imam Cagdas is a traditional restaurant that serves the best local dishes in Gaziantep. Try the iconic kebab varieties like Beyran, Ali Nazik, and Kebab ayran. Don't forget to order the famous local sweets like baklava and katmer, which are crafted with pistachio and cream.
Finish your meal with a sweet treat at Baklavacilar Carsisi, home of Gaziantep's famous baklava. You can find many shops selling a variety of baklava and other Turkish sweets. Try the Pistachio Baklava, which is the most popular variant here.
Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum holds the world's second-largest mosaic collection from the Roman period. The museum houses more than 1700 square meters of mosaics with five major themes, including Oceanus and Tethys's marriage and hunting scenes. The museum also features a beautiful garden and a charming sculpture collection.
If you love coffee, head back to Tahmis Kahvesi for a traditional Turkish coffee. The coffee is prepared by roasting and grounding beans to make a special blend that is boiled in a cezve. Served unfiltered, it is accompanied by a glass of water and a Turkish delight.
If you wish to try something different, head to Elmaci Pazarı, which is a farmers market that offers a variety of authentic local foods. You can find fresh figs, olives, cheese, nuts, and many other things. Try freshly baked simit, a sesame-covered pretzel, paired with Turkish tea or freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.
If you have more time, don't miss out on visiting the Gaziantep Zoo or the Gaziantep Bazaar for traditional souvenirs. On the other hand, if you have less time, you can skip the Elmaci Pazarı breakfast and visit Tahmis Kahvesi for an early lunch. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes as most of the city's attractions are close to each other and best explored on foot.