Immerse yourself in an exciting winter journey through snowy Anatolia aboard the Tourist Eastern Express.
With the growing global interest in train travel, the Tourist Eastern Express in Turkey stands out as one of the most notable examples of this trend. The overnight route connecting Ankara and Kars offers passengers picturesque views of the snowy plains and mountainous landscapes of Anatolia. This train, which combines nostalgia with natural beauty and principles of sustainable tourism, has gained international recognition as one of the most impressive railway journeys.
Turkey: A Popular Railway Destination
The sounds of wheels, cozy compartments, and magical stops make the Eastern Express not just a trip, but a true fairy tale through Anatolia. The train runs between Ankara and Kars, offering unique views on each route, but the journey from the capital to Kars is the most popular.
The Tourist Eastern Express departs three times a week from both cities, and tickets can be purchased online. This route has become the most in-demand in the country, so it is recommended to reserve seats in advance. The journey lasts about 24 hours and includes comfortable compartments with beds, as well as scheduled stops for excursions. Many passengers decorate their compartments with garlands, creating a cozy atmosphere. There is also the option to bring food, as the compartments are equipped with refrigerators and sinks, or to dine in the restaurant car before a comfortable night on the road.
The train departing from Ankara passes through cities such as Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan, and Erzurum, completing its journey in Kars. Scheduled stops are made in Erzincan and Erzurum, and on the return trip in İliç, Divriği, and Sivas, allowing passengers to explore natural and historical attractions, including UNESCO-listed sites.
Kars: A Winter Fairy Tale
The train journey starting in Ankara concludes in Kars—a city with a rich history, winter landscapes, and unique cuisine. One of the oldest settlements in Anatolia, Kars boasts accessible historical heritage—from unique architectural sites in the city center to centuries-old monuments in its surroundings. Nearby lies Ani—a UNESCO World Heritage site, once known as the "city of 1001 churches," with its churches, baths, one of the earliest mosques, and imposing fortress walls reflecting the layered heritage of Christian and Muslim cultures.
The natural beauty of Kars leaves unforgettable impressions. In Sarıkamış, guests can enjoy skiing on fresh snow and sledding with magnificent views. Lake Çıldır, located on the border of Kars and Ardahan, is also a must-visit natural wonder, especially in winter when its surface is covered with ice. While walking on the frozen lake, one can see fishermen breaking the ice and catching carp—this contrasting landscape has become one of the most recognizable winter images of the region.
One of the most memorable moments in Kars is the evening dinners with a cultural program. Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of the city, enjoying aşık aytışması (traditional poetic duels), Caucasian folk dances, and a special menu featuring dishes made from goose, Kars cheese, rakı, and wines from Eastern Anatolia. Kars is known for its gastronomy, including cheeses, Gruyère, honey, goose meat, and manti. It is also worth visiting the Cheese Museum in the village of Boğatepe, where one can learn about the history of cheese-making and taste a variety of local cheeses.
