Visit VAN CITY: Places To See and Things To Do

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Nestled between the sapphire-blue waters of Lake Van and the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains, Van is a destination of rugged beauty, ancient history, and deep cultural layers. Located near the Iranian border in Eastern Anatolia, Van has been a crossroads of civilizations for thousands of years, once serving as the capital of the Urartian Kingdom.

From mysterious castles and Armenian monasteries to wild landscapes and warm hospitality, Van offers a travel experience both remote and unforgettable—perfect for adventurous travelers or those looking to dive deeper into Turkey’s eastern narrative.

Top Places to Visit in Van

Van Castle (Van Kalesi): Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city and lake, this Urartian fortress dates back to the 9th century BCE. Climb to the top at sunset for panoramic views of the lake, the old city ruins below, and the distant mountains. Don’t miss the cuneiform inscriptions etched into the stone by King Sarduri.

Akdamar Island & Church of the Holy Cross: A short boat ride from Gevaş takes you to the island of Akdamar, home to one of the most beautiful Armenian churches in the world. Built in the 10th century, the Church of the Holy Cross features intricate stone reliefs depicting biblical scenes and legends—set against a stunning natural backdrop.

Lake Van (Van Gölü): The largest lake in Turkey, this saline soda lake is a destination in itself. Visitors can enjoy the calm, crystal-clear waters, picnic on its shores, or take scenic boat rides. In summer, it’s a cool escape with views that rival alpine lakes.

Hosap Castle (Hoşap Kalesi): Located southeast of Van, this striking medieval castle once guarded a key trade route to Persia. Built by a Kurdish emir in the 17th century, its towers and gateways rise impressively above the surrounding plains.

Van Museum: Recently reopened, the museum houses excellent artifacts from the Urartian, Armenian, and Ottoman eras, including jewelry, ceramics, and stone inscriptions. It’s an essential stop for understanding the region’s deep historical significance.

Top Things to Do in Van

Eat a Traditional Van Breakfast (Van Kahvaltısı): Van is famous throughout Turkey for its breakfast spreads. Try herbed cheese (otlu peynir), local honey and clotted cream, eggs with kavurma (meat), and endless tea. Head to the Kahvaltıcılar Sokağı (Breakfast Street) in the city center.

See the Legendary Van Cat (Van Kedisi): Known for their mismatched eyes (one blue, one amber) and love of swimming, these pure white cats are native to the region. Visit the Van Cat Research Center near the university to see and learn about this unique breed.

Wander the Old Bazaar: Shop for local crafts, silver jewelry, Kurdish textiles, and dried fruits in Van’s atmospheric market streets. The city’s blend of Kurdish, Armenian, and Turkish cultures is reflected in its artisanship.

Visit Çavuştepe: Another impressive Urartian site located outside the city, featuring ancient temple ruins, water systems, and fortifications, offering another deep dive into pre-Classical Anatolia.