Outside the Mall
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Şanlıurfa City Center

3.9
·5k reviews·, Türkiye

Sanliurfa City Center: Where ancient legends meet vibrant modern life, offering historical wonders, delicious cuisine, and lively shopping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Outside the Mall

Şanlıurfa City Center

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Sanliurfa City Center: Where ancient legends meet vibrant modern life, offering historical wonders, delicious cuisine, and lively shopping.

3.9
(5k reviews)

"A beautiful place where you find fun, entertainment, shopping, and delicious food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The city center is best explored by walking to discover hidden gems.

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera for stunning shots of ancient sites and vibrant street life.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Balikligol (Pool of Abraham)

Balikligol (Pool of Abraham)

Southwest of the city center

A sacred lake steeped in legend, known for its carp and historical significance.

Instagram+5
Kizilkoyun Necropolis

Kizilkoyun Necropolis

Very close to the city center

Ancient rock-carved tombs and striking reliefs offering a glimpse into past rituals.

Instagram+1
Ulucami Mosque Area

Ulucami Mosque Area

City center

Experience history and flavor at Ulucami, where traditional liver dishes are a must-try.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History

Sanliurfa City Center is a treasure trove of ancient history. Plan your visit to include key sites like Balikligol and the Kizilkoyun Necropolis to truly immerse yourself in the region's rich past. Instagram+1

Culinary Delights Await

Beyond shopping, the city center is a hub for authentic Urfa cuisine. Don't miss trying local specialties like ciğer (liver) and baklava. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, illuminated sites
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Şanlıurfa’ya daha önce hiç geldiniz mi.. #keşfetbeniöneçıkar #keşfetteyizzz #tiktokviral #tiktoktürkiye #şanlıurfa Bu güzel çekim için halit kardeşime teşekkür ederim
@gezgin1melik
12.1K likes • 608.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The city center is best explored by walking to discover hidden gems. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera for stunning shots of ancient sites and vibrant street life. Instagram+1

🚋 Tarihin içinden geçen lezzet! Ulucami’nin kalbinde, tarihi tramvay manzarası eşliğinde ciğerin en lezzetlisini sunuyoruz. Bekleriz! 🤍 #UlucamiCiğercisi #Şanlıurfa #TarihleLezzetBuluşması #CiğerinBaşkenti
@ulucamiicigercisi
3.3K likes • 128.1K views
Büyülü bir mekan olduğu doğru imiş🫠🙆🏼‍♀️ . . . . . . . . . . . . #réel #kesfet #fypシ #fy #photography #photooftheday #videos #video #check #fish #balıklıgöl #urfa #gezelimgörelim #gezgin #gezgör #city #şanlıurfa #şanlıurfaprovince #travelphotography #travelblogger #totravel #to
kubraasoymaaz
1.9K likes • 97.5K views

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Don't miss the chance to try authentic Urfa cuisine, especially ciğer. TikTok

🗺️ Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in the unique blend of history and modern life. TikTokInstagram

Right in the center of Şanlıurfa, where past and present intertwine: Kızılkoyun Necropolis 🏛️🪨 
Located very close to the city center, this necropolis was one of the region’s major burial grounds in ancient times.💫 Each rock-carved tomb and striking relief holds clues about the rituals of the past.✨ 
An impressive open-air stop for those who want to experience history. 👀📍      #GoŞanlıurfa #Şanlıu...
gosanliurfa
107 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The city center is best explored by walking to discover hidden gems. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera for stunning shots of ancient sites and vibrant street life. Instagram+1

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Don't miss the chance to try authentic Urfa cuisine, especially ciğer. TikTok

🗺️ Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in the unique blend of history and modern life. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

3.9
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Sanliurfa City Center to be a beautiful place offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, with a family-friendly atmosphere. While it's noted as not being overly large, it caters to various needs, from everyday shopping to enjoying local cuisine and games. The historical and cultural aspects are particularly appreciated.

"Place of business beautiful you find a fun, entertainment, shopping and author of the five-story where restaurants fast food and games for kids and it also shops لتسوق garments in household the food is generally place beautiful but little bit"

Khalil Alrahabi

"Its not too big. It givea away some prize money if you win the lottery. Basically, you can all your needs there."

Osman Ulu

"A good place
You can find what ever you want"

Malık El Dıreı

What People Like

Beautiful place
Family-friendly
Variety of shopping

What People Dislike

Not too big

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting Around Sanliurfa City Center

Sanliurfa City Center is accessible by various means. If arriving by air, the nearest airport is Şanlıurfa GAP Airport (GNY), from where you can take a taxi or shuttle to the city center. Within the city, local buses and taxis are readily available for getting around. Many attractions are also within walking distance of each other. TikTok+1

Yes, the city center is quite walkable, especially around key attractions like Balikligol and the Ulucami area. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the historical streets and sites. InstagramReddit

Local buses and dolmuş (shared taxis) operate within Sanliurfa, connecting different parts of the city center and surrounding areas. Taxis are also a convenient option for quicker travel. TikTok

Sanliurfa City Center is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any travel, it's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and take standard precautions. Reddit

Car rental services are available in Sanliurfa, which can be useful if you plan to explore beyond the city center. However, parking in the historical areas can be challenging. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Balikligol and its surrounding areas are generally free to access. You can wander around the pools and enjoy the atmosphere without an entrance fee. Instagram+5

The Kizilkoyun Necropolis is an open-air site and typically does not have an entrance fee, allowing visitors to explore the ancient tombs freely. Instagram+1

Attractions like Balikligol are usually accessible throughout the day and into the evening. Specific historical sites or museums may have their own operating hours, so it's best to check locally. Instagram

While many sites are self-guided, booking tours in advance can enhance your experience, especially for historical context. Local tour operators or online platforms offer various options. TikTok

Information on special passes or discounts is not widely advertised, but it's always worth inquiring at local tourist information centers or directly at any ticketed attractions. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Sightseeing

Balikligol offers picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Kizilkoyun Necropolis provides unique angles for historical photography. Drone shots of the city can also be spectacular. TikTokInstagram+1

Photography is generally allowed in most public areas and outdoor historical sites. However, always be respectful of local customs and any specific signage regarding photography inside religious buildings or sensitive areas. Instagram

Key historical sites include Balikligol, the Kizilkoyun Necropolis, and the area around Ulucami. These offer a deep dive into the region's ancient past and religious significance. Instagram+4

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand the rich history and legends associated with places like Balikligol and the Necropolis. TikTokInstagram

Mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while evenings provide a magical ambiance as the sites are illuminated. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You absolutely must try 'ciğer' (grilled liver), a local specialty often found near Ulucami. Also, indulge in the famous Urfa baklava and other regional sweets. TikTok+1

Look for restaurants around the Ulucami area and the streets surrounding Balikligol for authentic Urfa cuisine. Many local eateries offer traditional dishes. TikTok

While meat dishes are prominent, many restaurants offer vegetable-based mezes and other options. It's advisable to ask about vegetarian choices. Reddit

Dining prices can vary, but you can find affordable local eateries offering delicious meals. High-end restaurants will naturally be more expensive. Reddit

Yes, Koçak Baklava is a highly recommended spot for authentic Urfa baklava. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Entertainment

The city center offers a mix of modern shopping malls with chain stores and local markets selling traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. TikTokReddit

Yes, some reviews mention family-friendly places with indoor playgrounds and games, making it suitable for visitors with children. Reddit

Explore local bazaars and shops for unique handicrafts, textiles, and regional products that make great souvenirs. TikTok

While specific mall names aren't highlighted, the general city center area provides ample shopping opportunities, from everyday needs to specialty items. Reddit

Bargaining is often expected in traditional markets and bazaars, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices politely. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sanliurfa City Center offers a blend of historical exploration and family-friendly entertainment. While Balikligol and the Kizilkoyun Necropolis provide educational and awe-inspiring sights, some reviews mention indoor playgrounds and games available in the city's commercial areas, making it a well-rounded destination for families. Reddit Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day and taking breaks at cafes or play areas to keep younger ones engaged. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Sanliurfa City Center rich in history and culture, with plenty to explore independently. The walkable nature of the center and the availability of local eateries make it easy to navigate and enjoy. TikTokInstagram Engaging with locals, even with a language barrier, can be a rewarding part of the experience. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Sanliurfa City Center is a dream destination. The ancient sites like Balikligol and the Kizilkoyun Necropolis offer deep dives into millennia of history, religious significance, and archaeological wonders. Instagram+5 Consider hiring a local guide to fully appreciate the intricate stories and historical context of these remarkable places. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sacred Waters of Balikligol

Balikligol, also known as the Pool of Abraham, is the spiritual heart of Sanliurfa. This ancient lake is central to both Jewish and Islamic legends, believed to be the spot where Prophet Abraham was cast into a fire by King Nimrod, only to be saved by divine intervention which turned the flames into water and the burning coals into fish. Instagram+3 The two main pools, Halil-ür Rahman and Aynzeliha, are teeming with carp, considered sacred and are not to be disturbed. Visitors often spend time reflecting by the water, feeding the fish, and admiring the surrounding historical architecture, including the Rizvaniye Mosque. The atmosphere here is deeply serene and reverent, making it a must-visit for understanding the city's cultural and religious significance. Instagram+1

Experiencing Balikligol



Visiting Balikligol is a sensory experience. The sight of the clear water, the gentle murmur of the crowds, and the calls to prayer create a unique ambiance. Many visitors find it a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for enjoying local tea and snacks while taking in the views. Instagram+1 It's a place where history, faith, and daily life converge beautifully. Instagram

Unearthing the Past at Kizilkoyun Necropolis

Just a stone's throw from the modern city center lies the Kizilkoyun Necropolis, an impressive testament to Sanliurfa's ancient past. This sprawling burial ground features numerous rock-cut tombs and intricate reliefs, offering a fascinating glimpse into the funerary practices and beliefs of civilizations that once thrived here. Instagram+1 The necropolis served as a major burial site in ancient times, and each carved tomb tells a silent story of the people who lived and died centuries ago. Exploring these ancient structures provides a tangible connection to history, making it an essential stop for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts. Instagram

A Journey Through Time



Walking through the Kizilkoyun Necropolis feels like stepping back in time. The scale of the rock-carved tombs and the detail in the surviving reliefs are remarkable. It’s an open-air museum that invites contemplation about the passage of time and the enduring legacy of ancient cultures. Instagram+1 The site is relatively easy to access from the city center, making it a convenient yet profound historical excursion. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain. Instagram

The Culinary Heartbeat: Urfa Cuisine

Sanliurfa is renowned as the capital of 'ciğer' (grilled liver), and the city center is the perfect place to experience this delicacy. Restaurants near Ulucami are particularly famous for serving this dish, often prepared with fresh, local ingredients and a secret blend of spices. TikTok The experience of enjoying a plate of perfectly grilled ciğer, perhaps with some fresh bread and local accompaniments, is a highlight for many visitors. TikTok

Beyond Ciğer



While ciğer is a star, Sanliurfa's culinary scene extends much further. Don't miss out on the region's famous baklava, especially from renowned places like Koçak Baklava. TikTok The city center also offers a variety of other traditional dishes, mezes, and local sweets that showcase the rich gastronomic heritage of southeastern Turkey. Exploring these flavors is an integral part of the Sanliurfa experience. Reddit

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