Van, Akhtamar and Urartu Kingdom Tour

Discover the Lake Van District: Nature, History & Culture
🌊 Turkey’s Largest Lake & Its Timeless Treasures
The Lake Van District is a stunning region of natural beauty and deep historical significance, centered around Turkey’s largest lake. This famous sodium lake, located at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking landscapes alongside the fascinating remnants of ancient civilizations.
Explore this remarkable destination with Alaturca, where you will witness the crystal-clear waters of Lake Van, the ancient Urartian Kingdom, and the magnificent Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Akhtamar Island.

Tour Highlights
🏺 Ancient Urartian Kingdom
Step back in time as you explore the archaeological remains of the Urartu Kingdom, a powerful civilization that ruled this region over 2,800 years ago.
Visit Van Castle, an imposing fortress offering panoramic views over Lake Van and insight into the region’s rich history.

⛪ Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross (Akhtamar Island)
Take a scenic boat ride to Akhtamar Island, home to the beautifully preserved Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross.
Marvel at the intricate carvings and biblical reliefs that adorn the 10th-century cathedral, showcasing Armenian craftsmanship and heritage.
Enjoy the serene surroundings of the island, set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the vast lake.

🌊 Lake Van – The Mystical Saltwater Lake
Discover the unique properties of Lake Van, one of the world’s largest soda lakes, known for its alkaline waters and mesmerizing blue hues.
Enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty of the lake, surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Experience the Wonders of Lake Van with Alaturca
From ancient ruins to breathtaking island cathedrals, this tour blends natural beauty and history into an unforgettable journey.
📜 Let us take you on an adventure through Turkey’s most enchanting high-altitude lake region!

Day 1 :

🏯 Lake Van & Akhtamar Island Tour

🌊 Explore Turkey’s Largest Lake & Its Historic Treasures
Join us for a full-day journey through the Lake Van District, home to ancient fortresses, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the most iconic Armenian churches. This tour offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with highlights including Van Castle, Hosap Fortress, and the Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Akhtamar Island.

Tour Itinerary
🕘 Morning Pick-Up from Your Hotel in Van
Your tour begins with a hotel pick-up in Van, setting off for a day of historical exploration and stunning lake views.

🏰 Van Citadel (Van Castle) – The 2,800-Year-Old Fortress
Our first stop is Van Citadel, an ancient Urartian fortress built 2,800 years ago, towering 100 meters above Lake Van.
Enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains from this historic stronghold.

🏺 Cavustepe – The Urartian Citadel
Next, we head to Cavustepe, another ancient Urartian citadel where you can see stone tablets inscribed with the Urartian script.
The caretaker of the site speaks the ancient Urartian language and will provide translations of the inscriptions, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

🏯 Hosap Castle – A Persian Trade Route Fortress
Visit the imposing Hosap Castle, a 17th-century fortress perched dramatically above the landscape.
This Ottoman-era stronghold once controlled and taxed trade routes to Persia, and today it offers stunning views of the valley below.

🍽️ Lunch in Gevas
We’ll stop for a traditional Turkish lunch in the lakeside town of Gevaş, enjoying the serene beauty of the lake’s coastline.

⛪ Boat Ride to Akhtamar Island & The Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross
Take a scenic boat trip across Lake Van to Akhtamar Island, home to the stunning Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross.
Explore the 10th-century cathedral, a masterpiece of Armenian architecture, adorned with intricately carved Biblical reliefs, including David and Goliath, Adam and Eve, and the Virgin Mary.
Soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic and picturesque island, surrounded by the deep blue waters of Lake Van.

🚤 Return to Gevas & Transfer to Van
After visiting Akhtamar Island, we’ll take the boat back to Gevas and return to Van, where your tour concludes.

End of Tour & Further Assistance
🚐 Drop-off at your hotel in Van.
💬 Looking for more adventures in Turkey? We are happy to assist with additional tours and travel arrangements!

Tour Inclusions
✔️ Hotel pick-up & drop-off
✔️ Professional guide service
✔️ All entrance fees
✔️ Boat trip to Akhtamar Island
✔️ Traditional lunch in Gevas
✔️ Round-trip transportation
📜 Discover the wonders of Lake Van & its ancient history on this unforgettable tour!