The Cost of Living in Diyarbakir: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are thinking of moving to Diyarbakir, or just curious about the cost of living in this city, this guide will provide you with all the info you need. Diyarbakir, located in southeastern Turkey, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It has a population of around 1.6 million people and is known for its rich history, ancient landmarks, and unique cuisine. In this guide, we will focus on the cost of living in Diyarbakir.

Housing Costs

The cost of housing in Diyarbakir is relatively affordable when compared with other cities in Turkey. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 1,000 Turkish liras (TRY), which is equivalent to around 130 USD. If you prefer more space, you can rent a three-bedroom apartment for around 2,000 TRY (260 USD) per month. If you are planning to purchase a property, the average cost per square meter ranges from 1,500 – 2,500 TRY (195 – 325 USD).

Food Costs

Food in Diyarbakir is quite affordable, especially if you prefer traditional Turkish cuisine. A meal at a local restaurant can cost as low as 20 TRY (2.60 USD), while more upscale establishments may charge around 100 TRY (13 USD) for a meal for two. If you prefer to cook at home, the city has plenty of grocery stores and markets where you can find affordable fresh produce, meat, and dairy products. A weekly grocery shop for two people will cost around 400-500 TRY (52-65 USD).

Transportation Costs

Transportation in Diyarbakir is reasonably priced, and the city has a good public transportation system. A single bus or metro ticket costs around 2-3 TRY (0.25-0.40 USD), and a monthly transportation pass will cost around 120 TRY (16 USD). If you prefer taxis, the starting rate is around 5 TRY (0.65 USD), and the average cost per km is around 3 TRY (0.40 USD).

Utility Costs

The cost of utilities in Diyarbakir is relatively low due to the city’s warm climate. The average monthly cost of electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment is around 350-450 TRY (45-58 USD). Internet services are also affordable, with a monthly plan costing around 60-70 TRY (8-9 USD).

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare in Turkey is famously affordable, and Diyarbakir is no exception. The city has both public and private hospitals, and the cost of treatment is relatively low compared to other countries. A general practitioner consultation will cost around 40-50 TRY (5-6.50 USD), while a specialist consultation will cost around 100-150 TRY (13-19.50 USD).

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of living in Diyarbakir is quite affordable, and the city provides a high quality of life for residents. While the prices listed in this guide are accurate at the time of writing, they are subject to change depending on various economic factors. However, based on the current prices, it is clear that Diyarbakir is an excellent place to live comfortably on a budget.

The Comprehensive Guide to Diyarbakir: Exploring the Cost of Living in the City

Diyarbakir is a beautiful city in southeastern Turkey, well-known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by an ancient, fortress-like wall and is home to a number of must-see monuments, including the Grand Mosque, an iconic symbol of the city. Visitors will also be pleased to explore the winding back streets and alleyways of the city, where you can unleash your inner adventurer and discover some off-the-beaten-path gems.

Local Attractions to Explore

There are many amazing local attractions to make your visit to Diyarbakir worthwhile. Here are a few must-visit spots:

• The Grand Mosque: A magnificent mosque, adorned with intricate patterns and beautiful decorations. The mosque is a perfect example of Islamic architecture.
• Hevsel Gardens: A group of small gardens located on the banks of Tigris River, which runs through the city. The gardens are known for their serene beauty and the tranquility they offer visitors.
• City Walls: The city walls, which encompass the heart of Diyarbakir, are among the largest and most well-preserved walls in the world. Spanning over 5km and featuring more than 80 towers, they provide a picturesque view of the city and should not be missed.
• Ziya Gokalp Museum: A museum dedicated to the renowned Turkish poet, writer and thinker, Ziya Gokalp. The museum exhibits some of his manuscripts, letters, and other original materials.

Cuisine and Dining Spots

Diyarbakir has a rich cuisine that has preserved its Byzantine, Ottoman, and Arab influences. The city’s signature dish is “kibbeh,” which is made of ground meat, bulgur, and spices. Traditional Turkish cuisine is also available, with local ingredients used in delicious dishes like “kebap” and “borek.” You can find the best food in the city’s old town, which is packed with great restaurants, patisseries, and other eateries.

Here are a few dining spots to consider:

• Tamatave Restaurant: A popular dining spot that specializes in local cuisine, especially kibbeh. There are vegetarian dishes available too.
• Dadoş Lokantasi: A restaurant that serves a great variety of dishes, Turkish and local. Popular dishes include “kebap” and “borek.”
• Café Rosso: A cute little café that serves great coffee and other beverages. The outdoor seating area offers an amazing view of the city.

Cultural Experiences to Try

Diyarbakir is a perfect destination for those seeking to experience the unique Turkish culture. Here are some of the cultural experiences that you can try while you are exploring the city:

• Local Markets: One of the best ways to discover local culture is to explore local markets. Diyarbakir’s Sur Market is a perfect example, where you can find handmade crafts, fresh fruits, and vegetables, as well as souvenirs.
• Visiting a Hamam: A hamam is a traditional Turkish bathhouse, which offers a unique and relaxing experience. Many of these hamams date back to Ottoman times, and can be found all around the city.
• Watching Sema Ceremony: There is a weekly Sema Ceremony held by the Mevlevi Order of Dervishes in Diyarbakir. It’s an interesting and spiritual event to watch, and a great way to learn about the local Sufi culture.

The Local History: Discovering Diyarbakir’s Roots

The history of Diyarbakir is rich and complex, which has made the city what it is today. The city was once known as Amidiya, and it was ruled by the Assyrians, then by Persians, Alexander the Great, and then the Seljuk Turks. Later, it served as an important trading center for the Silk Road. Today, the city is home to a beautiful mixture of Eastern cultures and traditions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for those who want to discover Diyarbakir’s lesser-known gems:

• Molla Kasım Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in the city, believed to have been built during the time of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum.
• Hasan Pasha Han: A beautiful caravanserai that is now used as a cultural center and bazaar. It was built during the Ottoman era for merchants traveling the Silk Road.
• Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum House: This museum house is dedicated to the renowned and influential Turkish poet Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı, who was born in Diyarbakir.

Diyarbakir is a city full of history, culture and breathtaking scenery. From the city walls to the local markets, the cuisine to the historical museums, this guide should help you start planning your visit to Diyarbakir.