🏰 Ancient Kingdoms & Majestic Landscapes: Van’s Historical Wonders

Explore the Urartian Legacy, Armenian Heritage & the Beauty of Lake Van
On your first day in Eastern Turkey, embark on an extraordinary journey through history, uncovering:
✅ Van Citadel & Cavustepe – 2,800-year-old Urartian Fortresses.
✅ Hosap Castle – A Persian-Ottoman Stronghold Overlooking the Highlands.
✅ Akdamar Island & The Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross – A breathtaking blend of history and nature.
📌 This package includes return flights from Istanbul, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

✨Arrival & Exploration of Van’s Greatest Landmarks
✈️ Morning: Flight from Istanbul to Van & Van Citadel
🚐 Hotel Pick-up & Airport Transfer
You will be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul and transferred to the airport for your morning flight to Van.
Flight Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
Upon arrival in Van, meet your local expert guide, who will take you on an unforgettable journey through ancient Eastern Anatolia.

🏛 Van Citadel (Van Kalesi) – The Legacy of the Urartians
Begin your exploration with a visit to Van Citadel, a 2,800-year-old fortress built by the Urartu Kingdom.
Perched on a 100-meter-high bluff, this imposing fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Van, Turkey’s largest lake.
Discover the story of the Urartians, an advanced Armenian kingdom that thrived between the 9th and 6th centuries BC.
See the famous cuneiform inscriptions of King Sarduri, a rare glimpse into the Urartian language and script, carved directly into the rock.
📸 Perfect for photography lovers! Capture the contrast between the golden hues of the ancient walls and the deep blue waters of Lake Van.

🏰 Midday: Cavustepe Citadel & Hosap Castle – The Legacy of Empires
🚐 Drive to Çavuştepe – An Urartian Fortress Overlooking the Plains
Visit Çavuştepe, a significant Urartian fortress known for its detailed stone inscriptions and temple ruins.
Meet the caretaker of Çavuştepe, one of the few people in the world who can read and translate the Urartian script!
Walk through the remains of royal temples, ancient irrigation systems, and stone walls, revealing the architectural sophistication of the Urartu civilization.

🏰 Hosap Castle – The Gateway to Persia
Continue to Hoşap Castle, a 17th-century fortress strategically built on a high plateau.
This once-powerful stronghold controlled trade routes between the Ottoman Empire and Persia, collecting taxes from merchants and travelers.
Wander through its fortified walls and watchtowers, taking in the stunning mountain scenery that surrounds it.

📜 Why Visit Hoşap Castle?
✅ A fascinating blend of Persian and Ottoman military architecture.
✅ Intricate stone carvings & well-preserved gatehouses.
✅ Dramatic views of the surrounding highlands, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers and photographers.

🌊 Afternoon: Gevaş & Boat Trip to Akdamar Island
🚐 Drive to Gevas – A Scenic Lakeside Town
Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch by the shores of Lake Van, tasting regional delicacies such as:
✅ Grilled trout from Lake Van (İnci Kefali).
✅ Van-style breakfast specialties, featuring cheese, honey, and local herbs.
✅ Kavut & Murtuğa, traditional Van dishes made with roasted wheat and butter.

🚤 Boat Trip to Akdamar Island – A Hidden Gem in Eastern Turkey
Take a scenic boat ride across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Van to reach Akdamar Island, home to one of the most spectacular historical landmarks in Eastern Anatolia.

⛪ Explore the Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross
Built in the 10th century by King Gagik I, this Armenian church is a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
Marvel at its intricately carved biblical reliefs, depicting famous biblical scenes, including:
✅ David & Goliath.
✅ Jonah & the Whale.
✅ The Virgin Mary & Christ.
Learn about the religious and cultural history of the region, where Armenian, Kurdish, Persian, and Turkish influences blend over centuries.
Enjoy free time to walk around the island, taking in the breathtaking mountain scenery and pristine waters of Lake Van.
📸 A dream location for photography enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

🏨 Evening: Return to Van & Check-in
🚐 Boat Ride Back to Gevas & Transfer to Van
After returning to Gevas, you will be transferred to Van, where you will check into your hotel for an overnight stay.

🌙 Free Time to Explore Van’s Vibrant Culture
Wander through Van’s lively bazaar, where you can:
✅ Find handwoven Kurdish carpets & traditional silver jewelry.
✅ Sample locally produced honey and cheeses.
✅ Experience the hospitality of Van’s tea houses, where locals gather for conversation and traditional cay (tea).

🍽️ Dinner Options in Van
Enjoy a traditional Kurdish or Anatolian dinner, featuring:
✅ Van-style fish (İnci Kefali), prepared with local spices.
✅ Ayran or herbal tea, the perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.

📅 What’s Next? Day 2 – Discover More of Lake Van’s Hidden Treasures!
🔹 Visit Muradiye Waterfalls – A Stunning Natural Escape.
🔹 Explore Ahlat – The Largest Seljuk Cemetery in the World.
🔹 See Nemrut Crater Lake – A Volcanic Wonder in Eastern Turkey.

The End of an Unforgettable Journey
🌅 Morning: Transfer to Van Airport
Enjoy a comfortable hotel transfer to Van Airport for your return flight to Istanbul.
Reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had exploring Lake Van, historic fortresses, Armenian heritage sites, and the breathtaking landscapes of Eastern Turkey.
✈️ Flight Duration: Approximately 2 hours

🏙️ Arrival in Istanbul – End of Tour
Upon arrival in Istanbul, you can either continue your journey or depart for your next destination.
Need help with additional travel plans? We’re happy to assist with:
✅ Extended stays in Istanbul – Tours, accommodations, and activities.
✅ Day trips to Cappadocia, Ephesus, Bursa, or Gallipoli.
✅ Private transfers, guided city tours, and local dining recommendations.

🌟 Thank you for choosing us for your adventure in Turkey! We hope to welcome you again soon. Safe travels!