Eastern Express , Doğu Ekspresi in Turkish, is a spectacular journey between Ankara and Kars through the rocky wilds of Anatolia. This fascinating train ride is a local phenomenon between Turkish bloggers and vloggers , with only a few tourists or none. It is a great way to discover the unknown sights of Turkey that you would otherwise missed. The train sets off from Ankara the capital city of Turkey. Ankara itself is not as known as Istanbul, but it is still rich in history and culture. It hosts the Mausoleum of Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, and many other notable museums, mosques and castle. After a 24 hours of train ride through Erzurum and Erzincan, you will arrive Kars where you can stay a few nights to discover Russian and Turkish architecture and visit Ani Ruins near Armenian border.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Day 1 – Ankara Train Station
Following our meeting at Ankara Train Station, we will settle in our carriage. Departure at 18:00. Overnight at Eastern Express
Day 2 – Eastern Express
During the day, you can spend some time in the dining car, drink coffee and salep and see the Anatolia plateau slowly go by through the large window. After our arrival to Kars around 18:30, transfer to the hotel. Overnight Kars
Day 3 – Kars City Tour (Breakfast )
After brakfast we will set off for a full day tour of Kars City. You will visit Fethiye Mosque ( Alexander Nevsky Church), Opera House, Old Governor’s Mansion, Kars Citadel and Church of Apostles. Overnight Kars
Day 4 – Ani Ruins, The Great Cathedral and Cildir Lake (Breakfast)
After breakfast we will visit the Ani Ruins which is a medieval city combines residential, religious and military structures, characteristic of a medieval urbanism built up over the centuries by Christian and then Muslim dynasties. After visiting the Great Cathedral and we will visit the Cildir Lake where you will have chance to have sleigh ride.Overnight Kars
Day 5 – Kars (Breakfast)
After our breakfast departure transfer to airport for your departure flight to Istanbul
Eastern Express Train is quite popular during winters, an early booking can be more beneficial for this tour. And also you can combine with tour with Ankara City, Istanbul City or a Ski Center.
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