Diyarbakır is southeastern Turkey's cultural capital, anchored by some 6 km of UNESCO-listed black basalt city walls—among the longest and best-preserved in the world. Perched above the Tigris River, the ancient walled city (Sur) shelters mosques, Armenian churches, Kurdish cultural centres and bustling bazaars that have thrived here for more than 7,000 years. The city is famous throughout Turkey for its colossal watermelons, its layered Anatolian-Kurdish cuisine and the plaintive vocal tradition of dengbêj storytellers.
Diyarbakır Airport (DIY) is 6 km southwest of the city centre and serves domestic routes with Turkish Airlines (+90 850 333 0849, www.turkishairlines.com) and Pegasus Airlines (+90 888 228 1212, www.flypgs.com). Both airlines operate multiple daily flights to Istanbul (Sabiha Gökçen and Istanbul Airport) and Ankara Esenboğa. Within the city, the DIAYAY municipal bus network (10–15 TRY/ride, ~$0.26–$0.40) covers main corridors, while dolmuş (shared minibuses) fill gaps at 10–20 TRY. Taxis are metered and abundant. Diyarbakır is a major hub in southeastern Turkey, and high-frequency intercity coaches connect it to Mardin, Şanlıurfa, Batman, Adıyaman and further afield.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
The Sur district is flat and compact — walking between sights is the best option.
Avoid driving in the narrow streets of Sur during market hours (09:00–13:00 Mon–Sat).
Intercity coaches from Diyarbakır Otogar on Şanlıurfa Yolu; taxi from city centre to otogar ~80 TRY (~$2.10).
Car rental gives maximum flexibility for day trips; book online at least 3 days ahead.
Airport bus (Havaş) is the cheapest transfer; track schedule at havas.net.