Train Eastern Anatolia Trip with Eastern Express & South Express 8 Day Tour
Highlights
- ✓Diyarbakır – Explore the UNESCO-listed city walls, visit the Great Mosque, and experience vibrant Kurdish culture.
- ✓Van – Discover Akdamar Island & Church on Lake Van, visit Van Castle, and enjoy the famous Van Breakfast.
- ✓Kars – Experience the mystical ruins of Ani, explore Kars Castle, and witness the beauty of Çıldır Lake in winter.
- ✓Erzurum – Admire Çifte Minareli Medrese, taste authentic Cağ Kebab, and explore Yakutiye Medrese.
- ✓Ankara – Visit Anıtkabir, the Mausoleum of Atatürk, and explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
- ✓Scenic Train Journeys – Travel on the legendary Eastern Express & South Express, offering breathtaking landscapes and a unique travel experience.
- ✓Cultural & Culinary Delights – Savor traditional Turkish and Kurdish cuisine, including Kars goose, Erzurum Cağ Kebab, and Turkish Delight.
- ✓Comfortable Accommodations – Stay in hand-picked hotels and enjoy a mix of modern and historical settings throughout the journey.
- ✓This Eastern Anatolia rail adventure is the perfect blend of history, nature, and culture, promising an unforgettable train journey through Turkey’s hidden gems!
Overview
Embark on a breathtaking journey through Eastern Anatolia, exploring the rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes of Turkey. This 8-day train adventure takes you from Diyarbakır to Istanbul, passing through Van, Kars, Erzurum, and Ankara via the legendary Eastern Express and South Express trains. Experience the charm of ancient cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and natural wonders while traveling in comfort through scenic rail routes.
From the ancient city walls of Diyarbakır to the medieval ruins of Ani, from the tranquil Lake Van to the snowy landscapes of Çıldır Lake, this journey blends history, culture, and breathtaking nature. Along the way, savor traditional flavors like Van Breakfast, Kars cheese, and Cağ Kebab, making your trip a culinary and cultural delight.
Get ready for an unforgettable rail adventure through the heart of Anatolia!
Route
Itinerary
Arrival in Diyarbakır, a city rich in history and culture.
Visit the Diyarbakır City Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore Hasan Paşa Han, an Ottoman-era caravanserai.
Visit the Great Mosque of Diyarbakır, one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia.
Stroll along Hevsel Gardens, the green oasis along the Tigris River.
Dinner at a traditional Diyarbakır restaurant.
Overnight stay in Diyarbakır.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Visit the Four-Legged Minaret and Meryem Ana Church.
Free time to explore the old bazaars and taste local delicacies.
Board the South Express Train in the evening for an overnight journey to Van.
Early morning arrival in Van.
Breakfast at a local restaurant.
Visit Akdamar Island & Church on Lake Van, known for its stunning Armenian architecture.
Explore Van Castle, offering panoramic views of the lake.
Taste the famous Van Breakfast at a local spot.
Overnight stay in Van.
Morning departure on the Eastern Express Train from Van to Kars.
Enjoy breathtaking landscapes along the journey.
Arrival in Kars in the afternoon.
Visit the Ancient City of Ani, the medieval Armenian capital.
Explore Kars Castle and Fethiye Mosque.
Overnight stay in Kars.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Visit Çıldır Lake, where you can experience horse-drawn sleigh rides in winter.
Enjoy a local Kars cheese tasting and traditional goose meat lunch.
Free time in Kars city center.
Overnight stay in Kars.
Morning departure on the Eastern Express Train to Erzurum.
Arrival in Erzurum and city tour:
- Visit Çifte Minareli Medrese and Yakutiye Medrese.
- Explore Erzurum Castle and Ulu Mosque.
Taste the famous Cağ Kebab, a regional specialty.
Overnight stay in Erzurum.
Board the Eastern Express Train for an unforgettable journey to Ankara.
Enjoy stunning Anatolian landscapes along the way.
Arrival in Ankara in the afternoon.
Visit Anıtkabir, the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
Free evening to explore the city center.
Overnight stay in Ankara.
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Board the high-speed train to Istanbul.
- Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to the airport or city center.
- End of the tour with unforgettable memories.
This itinerary combines breathtaking train journeys with cultural and historical explorations, making it an ideal adventure through Eastern Anatolia! ?✨
What's included
- ✓Accommodation
- ✓Guide
- ✓Meals
- ✓Transport
- ✓Other included
- ✓Hygiene protocol
Not included
- ✕Flights
- ✕Insurance
- ✕Other not included
Need help or have a question about this tour?
If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We're ready to help.
Availability
Now, just deposit 25% of the total
Book the tour by paying only 25% upfront, and settle the remaining amount 30 days before departure.
No scheduled departures for the selected month — try another month or send an enquiry.
Upcoming departures
-
Starts→EndsTotal
Similar Tours & Activities
Hand-picked trips in the same category — more unforgettable ways to explore.
-high.webp)
-high.webp)
-high.webp)