- 4.9/5 300 Latest reviews
- Destination: Turkey
- Duration: 9 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: In-Depth
About This Trip
Discover the Eastern Turkey Tour and explore one of Turkey’s most captivating regions. From the medieval ruins of Ani in Kars to the breathtaking Van Lake and the iconic Mount Ararat, this private 9-day journey immerses you in history, culture, and archaeology. Walk through ancient palaces, visit Armenian churches, and marvel at Göbekli Tepe and Karahan Tepe, the world’s oldest temple complexes.
This Eastern Turkey Tour is designed for travelers seeking an in-depth cultural adventure, combining historic sites, stunning landscapes, and authentic local experiences. Trek along pristine lakes, unwind in a traditional hammam, and witness the traditions and hospitality of eastern Anatolia. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations or looking for off-the-beaten-path exploration, this tour brings the rich heritage and hidden wonders of Eastern Turkey to life.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 3
Kars
Ani Ruins, Kars Castle, Cathedral of Kars, Hammam, Bogatepe Cheese Museum, Lake Cildir
4
Dogubeyazit
Mount Ararat, Ishak Pasha Palace, Eski Bayezid Cami, Urartian City
5
Van
Van Castle, Church of the Holy Cross
6 - 7
Sanliurfa
Göbekli Tepe, Karahan Tepe, Sacred Old Town
8 - 9
Istanbul
Leisure Day, Cultural Exploration, Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kars & Bogatepe Cheese Museum
Begin your Eastern Turkey Tour in Kars, the gateway to the remote and culturally rich eastern Anatolia. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and head to the picturesque village of Bogatepe, perched on a high plateau surrounded by rolling steppe landscapes. Visit the Bogatepe Cheese Museum, where local artisans preserve centuries-old methods of cheese-making, many influenced by Caucasian and Russian traditions. Learn about eco-friendly farming practices and enjoy tastings of Kars’ famous aged cheeses. This is the perfect introduction to Eastern Turkey’s authentic culture and culinary heritage.
Highlights : Bogatepe Cheese Museum tour and tasting, Introduction to Kars town and local life, Scenic views of Eastern Anatolia steppe
- Kars
- Day 2: Ani Ruins & Kars City Exploration
Explore the ancient Ani Ruins, a medieval Armenian city on the Silk Road, once rivaling Constantinople in cultural and economic importance. Wander among crumbling churches, palaces, and fortifications, and admire murals and carvings that have survived centuries of conquest. Return to Kars to visit Kars Castle, offering panoramic views over the city and countryside. End the day at the Cathedral of Kars, a striking architectural monument with a unique history, alternating between church and mosque over centuries.
Highlights : Ani Ruins exploration, Kars Castle panoramic views, Cathedral of Kars visit
- B
- Kars
- Day 3: Lake Cildir Trek & Traditional Hammam
Begin your day with a scenic trek along the shores of Lake Cildir, a high-altitude lake near the Georgian border. Depending on the season, witness locals ice-fishing in winter or wildflowers in spring, all framed by dramatic mountains and open skies. After your trek, return to Kars and enjoy a traditional Turkish hammam, where centuries-old rituals and steaming marble baths provide relaxation and cultural immersion. This day blends nature, wellness, and authentic Anatolian life, making it a highlight of your Eastern Turkey Tour.
Highlights : Trek along Lake Cildir, Wildlife and seasonal scenery, Traditional Turkish hammam experience, Eastern Anatolia landscapes
- B
- Kars
- Day 4: Dogubeyazit, Mount Ararat & Ishak Pasha Palace
Depart Kars for Dogubeyazit along the historic Silk Road. Admire Mount Ararat, believed by some to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark. Explore Ishak Pasha Palace, a magnificent Ottoman-era structure blending a fortress, palace, and mosque, featuring intricate courtyards, stained-glass windows, and unique architectural details. Also visit Eski Bayezid Cami and the remains of an Urartian city dating back to 1000 BC. This day combines history, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes, giving a deep insight into Eastern Anatolia’s past.
Highlights : Mount Ararat viewpoints, Ishak Pasha Palace tour, Eski Bayezid Mosque & Urartian City exploration
- B
- Dogubeyazit
- Day 5: Van Castle & Church of the Holy Cross
Drive to Van, the heart of eastern Turkey’s ancient civilizations. Explore Van Castle, built by the Urartians between the 9th and 7th centuries BC, and admire its ancient stone carvings and panoramic views over Lake Van. Take a ferry to Akdamar Island to visit the Church of the Holy Cross, a medieval Armenian masterpiece featuring intricate relief carvings. Learn about the island’s historical and cultural significance before returning to Van city for evening leisure.
Highlights : Van Castle visit, Church of the Holy Cross on Akdamar Island, Lake Van panoramic views
- B
- Van
- Day 6: Drive to Sanliurfa with Stop in Diyarbakir
Depart Van for Sanliurfa, traveling through the vast plains of eastern Anatolia, dotted with Kurdish villages and remnants of ancient caravan routes. Stop in Diyarbakir for a break and a local lunch, admiring the city walls and historic streets. Continue to Sanliurfa, known as the legendary birthplace of Abraham and a cradle of civilization. This day highlights the cultural diversity and historical depth of Eastern Turkey.
Highlights : Scenic drive through Eastern Anatolia, Stop in Diyarbakir with historic city walls, Arrival in Sanliurfa
- B
- Sanliurfa
- Day 7: Göbekli Tepe & Karahan Tepe
Today, explore two of the world’s oldest archaeological sites. Visit Göbekli Tepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where massive T-shaped stone pillars depict animals and symbols from over 11,000 years ago. Continue to Karahan Tepe, a recently excavated Neolithic site revealing subterranean structures and human-like sculptures, offering new insights into early human ritual life. Return to Sanliurfa to explore the sacred old town, including the Pool of Abraham, or relax in a traditional courtyard café.
Highlights : Göbekli Tepe UNESCO site, Karahan Tepe Neolithic site, Sanliurfa sacred old town exploration
- B
- Sanliurfa
- Day 8: Sanliurfa to Istanbul
After breakfast, transfer to Sanliurfa airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisure day to revisit favorite neighborhoods, stroll along the Bosphorus, or savor authentic Turkish cuisine. Reflect on your Eastern Turkey Tour, from ancient ruins and castles to Neolithic temples and sacred sites, bridging the region’s deep history with modern Turkish culture.
Highlights : Flight from Sanliurfa to Istanbul, Leisure exploration of Istanbul neighborhoods, Turkish culinary and cultural experiences
- B
- Istanbul
- Day 9: Departure from Istanbul
Your Eastern Turkey Tour concludes today. A private driver will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Eastern Anatolia’s history, culture, and landscapes.
Highlights : Private transfer to Istanbul airport, Completion of a 9-day Eastern Turkey adventure
- B
Trip Highlights
Istanbul Culinary Adventure
Taste Ottoman delicacies, explore Spice Bazaar, and savor Turkish treats across Istanbul’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Bosphorus Private Cruise
Enjoy a private yacht cruise along Istanbul’s Bosphorus, capturing stunning daytime or sunset views.
Hodjapasha Cultural Shows
Experience Turkish culture through live performances, including Whirling Dervishes and traditional dance.
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