Old Halfeti is a historically rich town in Şanlıurfa Province, southeastern Turkey, famously known as the 'Sunken City' due to its partial submersion after the construction of the Birecik Dam on the Euphrates River. This unique event transformed the landscape, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful scene where ancient structures, most notably a minaret, emerge from the water. It stands as a poignant reminder of human engineering's impact on nature and history, drawing visitors eager to witness this extraordinary sight.
Visitors consistently highlight the boat tours as the absolute highlight of a trip to Old Halfeti. These tours, typically lasting 1-3 hours, offer unparalleled views of the submerged village, the iconic minaret, and the ancient Rumkale (Roman Castle) perched on a hill overlooking the water. Reviewers frequently describe the scenery as 'breathtaking,' 'unbelievable,' and 'serene,' with many noting the opportunity to see the 'black roses' unique to the region. The experience is often enhanced by the calm waters of the Euphrates and the dramatic rock formations. Many recommend taking a private boat for a more personalized experience, allowing stops at the sunken village and caves, though shared tours are also widely available and affordable.
For a fulfilling visit, allocate at least 3 hours, primarily for the boat tour and some time to explore the waterfront. The best time to visit is during cooler months or late in the day during summer to avoid the intense heat, as several visitors mention the area can be very warm. Bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and comfortable shoes. While there are eateries along the river offering local fish (like 'şabut'), some visitors advise caution regarding prices at tourist-oriented restaurants. Bargaining for boat tour prices, especially for private tours, is common practice. Don't miss trying the local mulberry juice, which comes highly recommended by those who have visited.
Old Halfeti is conveniently located about an hour's drive from Gaziantep and roughly 1.5-2 hours from Şanlıurfa. The motorways connecting these cities are generally in excellent condition. For those driving, navigate to 'Halfeti port' to avoid confusion with the new Halfeti town. Parking is available, though it can be busy, especially on weekends and holidays, and some informal parking attendants may charge a small fee. Public transport options are less frequently mentioned in reviews, but some visitors report taking a 'dolmuş' (shared taxi) from Urfa, which can take up to 3 hours. For a more comfortable and direct experience, a rented car or organized tour is often preferred.
A common complaint among visitors is the potential for inflated prices at some restaurants and for souvenirs, particularly the 'black rose' plants which some reviewers suggest might not be authentic. To mitigate this, it's advisable to ask for prices upfront, compare options, and consider bringing your own snacks and drinks. While the area is generally safe, some visitors reported informal parking charges that felt questionable; it's best to park in designated areas if possible. Despite these minor issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that the unique beauty and historical significance of Old Halfeti far outweigh any small inconveniences.