Top things to do in Mardin
Mardin’s old town clings to the hillside along one long main street, with stepped lanes leading to monuments and viewpoints.
- Old town and bazaar — Wander the stepped alleys and markets lined with stone mansions, coppersmiths and spice shops.
- Zinciriye Madrasa — A 14th-century Artuqid madrasa with domes, courtyards and sweeping views over the plain.
- Kasımiye Madrasa — An elegant medieval madrasa with a peaceful courtyard and pool below the old town.
- Deyrulzafaran Monastery — A historic Syriac Orthodox monastery a short drive from the city, still an active place of worship.
- Mardin Museum — Archaeological collections housed in a fine former patriarchate building.
- Midyat — A nearby town famous for its stone architecture and silver filigree work, close to the Mor Gabriel Monastery.
- Dara ancient city — Remains of a Roman-Byzantine frontier city with rock-cut tombs and cisterns.
Best time to visit Mardin
Mardin has hot, dry summers and mild, fairly wet winters. Spring (March to May) brings green plains and comfortable temperatures, while autumn (September to November) is warm, settled and ideal for exploring on foot.
July and August are very hot, especially on the plain, though evenings on the hillside terraces can be pleasant. Winter is quieter and occasionally sees snow, giving the stone town a different, peaceful character.
Getting from the airport
Mardin Airport lies on the plain south of the city, roughly 20 km from the old town, with a drive of around half an hour. Most international travellers connect through Istanbul or Ankara.
Airport shuttle buses usually run in connection with flights, and taxis are available outside the terminal. Car hire is a good option for day trips to Midyat, Dara and the monasteries.
Where to stay
Most visitors choose between the historic old town and the modern lower city.
- Old town — Boutique hotels in restored stone mansions with terraces over the plain, ideal for atmosphere.
- New Mardin (Yenişehir) — Modern hotels with parking, convenient for drivers and business travellers.
- Midyat — Historic guesthouses for travellers exploring the Tur Abdin region and its monasteries.
Travel tips
- Money: Cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; carry lira for the bazaar and small shops.
- Getting around: The old town is steep and best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes with good grip.
- Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and monasteries, and follow any photography restrictions.
- Safety: Mardin province borders Syria; check your government’s latest travel advice before travelling.
- Language: English is limited outside hotels; a translation app helps in markets.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Mardin?
Mardin Airport (MQM), on the plain south of the city.
How do I get from the airport to the city centre?
Shuttle buses usually meet flights, and taxis are available; the drive takes around half an hour.
What currency is used in Mardin?
The Turkish lira (TRY).
Do I need a visa to visit Türkiye?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.
When is the best time to visit Mardin?
March to May and September to November, when temperatures suit walking.
Why is Mardin so culturally diverse?
For centuries it has been home to Muslim and Christian communities, including Arabs, Kurds, Turks and Syriac Christians, reflected in its mosques and churches.
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