Unique 6-Night, 7-Day Eastern Express Tour Departing from Bursa
Tour Detail
Places to Visit: Diyarbakır – Tatvan – Bitlis – Van – Ağrı – Doğubayazıt – Kars – Sarıkamış – Erzurum
Tour Program
Bursa Kalkışlı Benzersiz Doğu Ekspresi Turu | 6 Gece 7 Gün
DAY 1:
Bursa - Eastern Express Journey – An Unforgettable Start to Diyarbakır by the Güney Kurtalan Express
After meeting our valued guests at the departure point specified in Bursa, we carry out your transfer to Ankara Station.
Upon arrival at Ankara Train Station with you, our unforgettable Eastern journey begins. Boarding the Güney Kurtalan Express, we settle into your pullman, couchette or sleeping car compartments, depending on the travel class you purchased.
This enchanting journey of approximately 23 hours, departing at 11:20, will take you through the heart of Anatolia and bring you to Diyarbakır.
To the rhythm of the rails, you will witness the unique landscapes of Anatolia as we pass through the steppes of Kırıkkale, the mountains of Kayseri, and the history-laden lands of Sivas.
Lunch: Extra (Available at the train restaurant.)
Dinner: Extra (Available at the train restaurant.)
Accommodation: In the pullman, couchette or sleeping car you purchased.
DAY 2:
Diyarbakır – Tatvan Tour | A Day Full of Culture, History and Flavor in the Heart of the East
We greet the day with the peaceful melody of the train and the warm colors of the rising sun. Following an unforgettable journey full of photographic moments accompanied by boundless Anatolian landscapes, we arrive in Diyarbakır.
At the station, we meet our vehicle and professional guide, then head to our restaurant to discover the legendary cuisine of Diyarbakır. After recharging with the city's famous delicacy, Diyarbakır ciğer kebab, we begin our exploration tour in the enchanting atmosphere of this ancient city.
Our first stop is the Great Mosque of Diyarbakır, regarded as the 5th Holy Sanctuary of the Islamic world and a center of worship for thousands of years. Within the same courtyard stand the Mesudiye and Zinciriye Madrasas, which bear the deep marks of history.
In this city that has inspired poets and writers, we take a brief journey into the past by visiting the Ahmet Arif House and the Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı Museum.
We then allow free time at Hasan Paşa Khan and the Goldsmiths' Bazaar. Passing through narrow streets filled with the aroma of grilled liver, we visit the Sülüklü Khan, followed by the Four-Legged Minaret, unlike any other in Anatolia.
One of the most special moments of the day is at the Hevsel Gardens, a symbol of abundance in Mesopotamia, and the Ten-Eyed Bridge, the subject of the legend of Suzan Suzi. Here we photograph the stunning views and enjoy pleasant moments with traditional folk dances.
At the end of the day, we check into our hotel in Tatvan, where we are welcomed with the warm hospitality of the East.
Breakfast: Extra (Those wishing may use the train restaurant.)
Lunch: Extra (Guide's recommendation: The famous Diyarbakır Ciğer Kebab)
Dinner: Set menu at the hotel (Included in the tour.)
Accommodation: 4* Kardelen Hotel or 4* Taşar Royal Hotel
Hotel Arrival Time: Approximately 20:30
Note: Train departure times and possible delays depend on the operational processes of TCDD. Due to delays caused by TCDD, changes deemed necessary by our guide may be made to the tour program.
DAY 3:
Tatvan – Bitlis – Van Tour | A History-Filled Day with Akdamar Island, Van Castle and Van Cats
After breakfast buffet at our hotel, we set off for Ahlat. Ahlat, one of the important centers of Anatolian art, holds great significance for its cultural heritage with the master architects and woodworkers it has raised. The Seljuk Cemetery stands out as the largest Turkish-Islamic cemetery in the world; each tombstone is a monument in its own right in terms of size and style. Adorned with motifs found nowhere else in the world, these stones are unique records of 800 years of Turkish art and cultural history. Ahlat is also an unforgettable stop for history and art lovers with structures such as the Emir Bayındır Mausoleum, the Twin Mausoleums and the Ulu Mausoleum.
We then proceed to Gevaş. Here we board a private boat and sail to Akdamar Island. On this 45-minute voyage with the magnificent view of Lake Van, we explore the Akdamar Church on the island, experiencing a historical and cultural journey.
After returning by boat, we take a lunch break. Then we visit the Van Urartu Museum and enjoy a panoramic view of the 2,800-year-old historic Van Castle. After exploring the castle, you may visit the nearby Van House Museum to get a closer look at the traditional lifestyle of the region.
Later in the day, we head toward the Van (Tuşpa) region to visit workshops where you can see examples of Urartian silverworking art and do some shopping. Then at the Van Cat House, we have the chance to meet and pet the famous purebred Van Cats.
At the end of the day, we return to our hotel in Van and complete this day rich in history and culture by resting in the unique atmosphere of the East.
Breakfast: Buffet (Included in the tour)
Lunch: Extra (Guide's recommendation: Keledoş or Van kebabs)
Dinner: Set menu at the hotel (Included in the tour)
Accommodation: 4* Royal Milano Hotel or 4* Mir Emir Hotel
Hotel Arrival Time: 20:00
Note: Outside the winter season, if weather and road conditions permit, the Mount Nemrut Crater Lake Tour will be conducted for guests who wish to join. (The Mount Nemrut road is generally closed between November 1 and April 1.)
If weather and road conditions are suitable, as part of the Mount Nemrut Crater Lake Tour, we board our minibuses from Tatvan and head toward the Mount Nemrut Crater Lake, one of the largest crater lakes in Turkey. Along the way, if the weather is favorable, we have the opportunity to see Mount Süphan, one of the region's important natural beauties.
When we reach the summit of Mount Nemrut, we are greeted on one side by the boundless view of Lake Van and on the other by the breathtaking sight of the Mount Nemrut Crater Lake.
Inside the crater, we explore the Great Crater Lake, the Small Lake, the Warm Lake, volcanic rock formations and lava remains, witnessing at close range the unique natural beauty of the region.
Important Note: The Mount Nemrut Crater Lake Tour will be conducted depending on the suitability of weather, road and existing conditions in the region. In the event the tour cannot take place due to adverse weather or road conditions, our agency cannot be held responsible.
DAY 4
Van – Ağrı Doğubayazıt – Iğdır – Kars | History, Nature and Unique Landscapes
After breakfast buffet at our hotel, we set off toward the Muradiye Waterfall. Here, with a photo stop, we capture the enchanting beauty of nature.
We then cross the Tendürek Mountains and observe the largest volcanic formations of the region. Traveling among hardened lava and volcanic terrain, you will feel as if you are on top of the world.
After crossing the Tendürek Mountains, we reach Doğubayazıt. Here we visit the İshak Pasha Palace, completed in 99 years and one of the most striking architectural works of Eastern Anatolia. Then we have time for shopping and free time at the Smugglers' Bazaar.
After shopping and a meal break, we continue toward Iğdır. Along the way, we make a photo stop at the point where you can see Mount Ararat, the highest mountain in Turkey, from its most beautiful angle.
In Iğdır, as a historical stop, we visit the Monument and Museum of the Turkish Martyrs Massacred by Armenians. Then we proceed to Tuzluca to explore the Salt Cave and continue toward Kars.
Upon arriving in Kars, we settle into our hotel and then, with guests who wish to join, attend the famous Caucasian entertainment night, completing the day with unforgettable memories.
Breakfast: Buffet (Included in the tour)
Lunch: Extra (Guide's recommendation: Abdigor Köfte)
Dinner: Extra (Guide's recommendation: Piti Hangel)
Accommodation: 4* The Kars Park Hotel or 4* Büyük Kale Hotel
Hotel Arrival Time: 18:30
DAY 5:
Kars Tour | Ani Ruins, Çıldır Lake and a Visit to the Historic City of Kars
After breakfast buffet at our hotel, we set off toward the Ani Ruins, known as the "City of 1001 Churches", which served as the capital of the Armenian Kingdom and was the entry point of the historic Silk Road into Anatolia. As the walking tour of approximately 1–2 hours takes place in wide, open areas, we recommend being prepared for the cold weather.
The tour begins with the city walls and entry through the Lion Gate. In order, we visit the Church of St. Prkich, the Small Bath, the Great Cathedral (Fethiye Mosque), the Silk Road Bridge, the Abu'l Menuchehr Mosque, the Church of the Maiden Girls, the Monastery of the Nuns, the Inner Citadel, the Poladoğlu Church, the Bostanlar Creek Caves, the Seljuk Palace, the Seljuk Caravanserai, the Great Bath, the Temple of Ateşgede and the Georgian Church, completing our Ani Ruins tour.
We then continue to the Çıldır Lake, famous for its horse-drawn sleighs that operate when the lake freezes in winter. Here we have free time to photograph the lake's unique scenery and enjoy the region's winter activities.
After lunch, the Kars city tour begins. Accompanied by our guide, we see historic and Baltic-style architectural works including the Kars Castle, Fethiye Mosque (Alexander Nevsky Cathedral), Evliya Mosque, Kümbet Mosque (Church of the 12 Apostles), Yusuf Pasha Mosque, Stone Bridge, Namık Kemal House (House of Lovers), Gazi Ahmet Muhtar Pasha Mansion, Treasury Office, Governor's Mansion, Former Police Headquarters, Boutique Hotel (Kars Hotel), Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Physician's House (Cheltikov Hotel), Former Anatolian High School and the Tuncer Gülensoy House.
At the end of the tour, we make a shopping stop for Kars's famous kashar cheese and local delicacies. Then we return to our hotel to complete the day and rest in the enchanting atmosphere of the East.
Breakfast: Buffet (Included in the tour)
Lunch: Extra (Guide's recommendation: Kaz Menu)
Dinner: Hotel buffet menu (Included in the tour)
Accommodation: 4* The Kars Park Hotel or 4* Büyük Kale Hotel
Hotel Arrival Time: 18:30
DAY 6:
Kars – Sarıkamış – Erzurum | History, Nature and the Palandöken Adventure
After breakfast buffet at our hotel, we set off toward the Bloody Redoubt (Caucasus Front Military History) Museum, our last stop in Kars. This historic museum is known as the "Bloody Redoubt" after the Russians killed 600 soldiers in the redoubt in a single night in 1828.
We then reach the Sarıkamış Allahuekber Mountains Martyrs' Monument, where more than 90,000 losses were suffered, including 60,000 martyrs and 20,000 missing, and we respectfully commemorate our martyrs.
Our tour continues with a panoramic view of the Katerina Pavilion in the center of Sarıkamış, a structure built in harmony with nature and known for its unique architecture. We then head toward Erzurum. Along the way, we see the Kargapazarı Mountains, the point where the Aras River converges, the Çobandede Bridge built in the 13th century, and the Pasinler Castle, the easternmost Byzantine fortress, in panoramic view.
Upon arriving in Erzurum, for our lunch break we taste the famous cağ kebab. Then we begin exploring the city's historic and cultural fabric:
- Erzurum Grand Mosque
- Three Tombs (Üç Kümbetler)
- Twin-Minaret Madrasa
- Erzurum Houses Museum
- Erzurum Castle and Caferiye Mosque
- Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Yakutiye Madrasa
- Atatürk House (Accommodation site during the Erzurum Congress)
- Rüstem Pasha Bedesten (Taşhan)
- Erzurum Congress Building
Following the tour, we go to the Palandöken Ski Center, one of Turkey's leading winter tourism destinations. Guests who wish may ride the cable car to the summit and photograph all of Erzurum spread beneath them, while others may relax with tea, coffee or salep.
After the Palandöken tour, we see you off at Erzurum Airport.
While waiting for your return flight and browsing the photos accumulated in your gallery, you will notice how the traces of this special tour have turned into smiles on your face...
Breakfast: Buffet (Included in the tour)
Lunch: Extra (Guide's recommendation: Cağ Kebab)
Accommodation: No accommodation tonight.
Dinner: Free in Erzurum or on the plane (Not included in the tour)
Important Notes:
The Palandöken Ski Center visit will be conducted between December 1 – March 25 in order to best experience the region's natural beauty and winter activities during the winter season.
The Palandöken Ski Center visit may, on rare occasions, be removed from the program or shortened due to flight times, road and weather conditions. Especially in adverse weather conditions such as heavy snowfall, blizzards, icing, and conditions that may affect transport safety, the safety of our guests is given priority.
DAY 7:
Return to Bursa | Looking Forward to Meeting Again at Another Event
Following the landing of our plane at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, we depart from the airport in accordance with our return flight time. After the journey with HAVAİST, we arrive in Bursa and complete our tour.
We have now come to the end of this beautiful journey, from the unique geography of the East to its historic cities, from unforgettable landscapes to one-of-a-kind experiences.
Thank you for choosing us and accompanying us on this unique exploration.
See you on new routes, in new stories and in your next TATİLCİNİZ TURİZM discovery! ✈️
Departure Points
- BURSA
What's Included
- 4 Nights 5 Days Hotel Accommodation
- Transportation in the Region by Luxury Bus
- 4 Breakfasts at the Hotels
- 3 Dinners at the Hotels
- Travel Insurance Package
- Parking Fees
- All Excursions
- Refreshments on the Bus
- Holiway Travel Guiding Services
- Professional Regional Guides
- Bursa to Ankara Transfer (Bus or Transfer)
- Return Flight Ticket
- Airport to Bursa Transfer (Bus or Transfer)
- Outbound Train Ticket
Not Included
- Day 2 Breakfast
- Lunches
- Day 4 Dinner
- Museum and Archaeological Site Entrance Fees
- Personal Expenses
- Akdamar Island Boat Tour
- Caucasian Entertainment
- Food and Beverages Throughout the Journey
General Information
OUR TOUR DEPARTURES ARE ON THE DATES SPECIFIED.
During the tour, seat number promises and guarantees absolutely cannot be given. Please do not insist.
Our vehicles depart from the designated departure points for each tour at the specified times; please be ready at the departure point at least 5 minutes before the departure time. Our vehicles depart on time. Guests who arrive late and cannot join the tour cannot make any claim for rights. Before the tour start date, the contact number of the tour staff member will be sent to the phone number you provided during reservation as a text message. Please make sure the contact number you provided is correct. Otherwise, responsibility lies with you.
In cases where one or both parents of children under 18 years of age, who are not considered of legal age, do not join the tour, the consent documents required for participation must be carried by the persons during the journey.
The guide has the right to make changes to timing and program flow when deemed necessary due to weather conditions and unfavorable road conditions, provided the entire program is carried out. Hotels stated in the program may be changed provided they are equal in standard and location.
Our tour is a package consisting of guiding, transportation, accommodation and sightseeing tours and cannot be considered separately. Unused transportation, accommodation, sightseeing and similar rights are not refunded.
Tatilciniz Turizm is not responsible for tours that cannot be conducted before or during the tour due to adverse weather.
If sufficient participation cannot be achieved, the tour may be postponed to a different date or cancelled. In such a case, we are obligated to inform our guests personally 1 (one) day in advance. The minimum number of participants is 25 people.
Tatilciniz Turizm is absolutely not responsible for places listed in our tour program that cannot be visited due to force majeure (weather, roads, crowding at visiting sites, etc.) or because guests do not follow the timings given by our guide.
Tour return times may vary depending on traffic density; no exact or definite return time is given.
For overnight tours, child discounts may be applied when accompanied by two adults.
Foreign guests who are not Turkish citizens do not pay any additional fee for this tour. Museum cards are not issued since the museum card application is specific to Turkish citizens. The most recently published circular supersedes the previous circular.
Extra sales prices for tours may vary depending on the exchange rate and date.
OUR VEHICLES:
The vehicles we use may vary depending on the number of people and road conditions.
Up to 16 people; Volkswagen Crafter & Mercedes Sprinter
Up to 27 people; Otokar Sultan Maxi & Isuzu Novo Lux
Up to 35 people; Otokar Sultan Mega
Up to 46 people; Mercedes Travego - Tourismo & Man Fortuna & Neoplan Tourliner / Cityliner
By making a reservation, you give CONSENT to our right to use videos and photos taken during the tour and inside the vehicle
on our social media accounts.