General information about Diyarbakır Airport

Diyarbakır Airport is a combined military air base and public airport serving the city of Diyarbakır in southeastern Türkiye. Opened in the early 1950s, it plays a key role in connecting the region with major Turkish cities via domestic flights and occasional international services.

The airport is served by major Turkish carriers such as Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet and Pegasus Airlines, offering regular flights to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and other important hubs, which makes it easy to plan both business and leisure trips to the region.

Thanks to its convenient location, only around 7 km from the city center, transfer times are quite short. Travelers can choose between municipal buses, shuttle buses, minibuses, taxis and car rental services to reach downtown Diyarbakır and nearby districts.

Terminal facilities and services

The airport has a modern terminal handling domestic and seasonal international flights. Inside the terminal you will find:

• Check-in counters and baggage claim area,
• Security and passport control (for international operations),
• Cafés, snack bars and small restaurants,
• Duty free shops on international flight days,
• ATMs and basic banking services,
• Car rental offices and travel agencies,
• Prayer rooms, baby care rooms and seating areas.

Free or paid Wi-Fi access is usually available in waiting lounges, allowing you to check emails, follow your next connection or stay in touch with friends and family while waiting for your flight.

Parking and drop-off areas

Diyarbakır Airport provides an on-site open-air car park within short walking distance to the terminal. It is suitable for short- and medium-term parking. Drop-off and pick-up lanes in front of the terminal make it easy for relatives and friends to meet arriving passengers.

How to get from Diyarbakır Airport to the city center

Reaching downtown Diyarbakır from the airport is straightforward. The distance of about 7 km can usually be covered in 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Public buses, shuttle services, minibuses, taxis and rental cars are all available for passengers.

1. Municipal buses and airport shuttles

Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality operates airport buses that run between the terminal and the city center in line with flight schedules. The bus stop is located just outside the arrivals hall.

The most well-known route is line Z2, which connects the airport with central areas such as Dağkapı and other main streets. On some occasions, additional lines like Z3 may operate to cover alternative routes. Journey time is usually around 15 minutes.

2. Minibuses and dolmuş

Minibuses (dolmuş) are another common form of public transportation in Diyarbakır. They usually run along main streets and connect the airport area with districts such as Sur, Kayapınar, Bağlar and other neighborhoods.

From the city center you can also use minibuses to reach surrounding towns and districts via the district minibus terminal, making it possible to travel on to places like Bismil, Silvan or Ergani after your flight.

3. Taxi services

A dedicated taxi stand operates 24/7 in front of the terminal. Taxi is the fastest and most comfortable option, especially if you arrive late at night or travel with heavy luggage. The ride to the city center typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Before starting your journey, you can ask the driver for an approximate cost and make sure the taximeter is switched on. For groups of several people, taking a taxi can be quite economical when splitting the fare.

4. Renting a car from Diyarbakır Airport

If you plan to explore Diyarbakır and nearby provinces such as Mardin, Batman or Şanlıurfa at your own pace, car rental is an excellent choice. Roads are generally in good condition and driving offers maximum flexibility for regional trips.

Several international and local car rental companies have desks inside or near the arrivals hall. Booking in advance often provides better rates and guarantees vehicle availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

5. Private transfers and hotel shuttles

Some hotels and travel agencies offer private airport transfers with cars, minibuses or vans. This service can be particularly convenient for business travelers, large families or groups, as prices are usually fixed and include meet-and-greet at the arrivals area.

Car rental at Diyarbakır Airport

Renting a car gives you full freedom to explore the historic city walls of Diyarbakır, the UNESCO-listed Hevsel Gardens, the Tigris River valley and many villages, archaeological sites and natural attractions in the wider region.

Vehicle types and categories

At Diyarbakır Airport you will typically find:

• Economy cars – fuel-efficient and ideal for city driving,
• Compact and mid-size sedans – more comfort and luggage space,
• SUVs and 4x4s – suitable for rural roads and hillier terrain,
• Minivans – for larger families or small groups traveling together.

What to check before you book

• Confirm pick-up and drop-off times according to your flight schedule.
• Review mileage policy (unlimited vs. limited km) and fuel policy.
• Check insurance coverage and excess, including CDW and theft protection.
• Inspect the car upon pick-up and note any scratches or damage on the rental form.

Weather in Diyarbakır and best time to fly

Diyarbakır has a continental climate with very hot, dry summers and cold, rainy winters. Summer temperatures often reach well above 30°C and can climb close to 40°C in July, while winter nights can drop below freezing.

Summer (June – September)

Summers are typically very hot and sunny. Average high temperatures in July are above 38°C, and rainfall is minimal. If you visit during this period, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and always carry water, sunscreen and a hat.

Winter (December – February)

Winters can be cold with increased rainfall and occasional snowfall. Average lows in January can drop below 0°C. If you fly to Diyarbakır in winter, check the weather forecast and allow extra time for your journey in case of delays or slippery roads.

Spring and autumn

Spring and autumn are generally regarded as the most pleasant seasons to visit Diyarbakır. Temperatures are mild, and it is more comfortable to walk along the city walls, explore the old town and enjoy outdoor cafés. Rainfall is more frequent in spring, so bring a light jacket or umbrella.

Travel tips & frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get from Diyarbakır Airport to the city center?

The airport is only about 7 km from the city center, so it usually takes 10–20 minutes by taxi or car, and roughly 15 minutes by municipal bus, depending on traffic.

Is Diyarbakır Airport a good base to explore the region?

Yes. Diyarbakır is an important regional hub. From the city center you can reach neighboring provinces such as Batman, Mardin and Şanlıurfa by intercity buses or minibuses, while rental cars allow flexible itineraries that include historical sites and nature spots throughout southeastern Türkiye.

When should I arrive at the airport before my flight?

For domestic flights, it is advisable to arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. During public holidays or busy summer periods, consider arriving even earlier to allow for queues at check-in and security.

What should I not miss before leaving Diyarbakır?

Before heading back to the airport, try to:

• Walk along parts of the Diyarbakır city walls,
• Enjoy the view over the Hevsel Gardens and Tigris River,
• Taste local specialties such as grilled liver (ciğer), kaburga and içli köfte,
• Visit traditional bazaars and pick up local handicrafts as souvenirs.

With a bit of planning, Diyarbakır Airport (DIY) provides an efficient gateway to one of Türkiye’s most historic and culturally rich cities.