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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Van sharing quite a few of those!
Van, the jewel of the Pacific Northwest, offers a treasure trove of activities to explore, each one like a shiny gem waiting to be discovered.
From towering mountains to pristine beaches, from trendy breweries to world-class museums, Van offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Van:
1. Akdamar Island
Akdamar Island is a small island located in Lake Van, eastern Turkey. The island is famous for the stunning Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross, which dates back to the 10th century.
What to see or do: The Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross is the main attraction on the island. The cathedral is known for its beautifully carved stone reliefs and its location which offers magnificent views of the lake.
Visitors can explore the interior of the church, which features impressive frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
Don’t miss: Beside exploring the cathedral, don’t miss the opportunity to take a walk around the island and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
The island is also home to a small museum exhibiting artifacts found on the island.
Insider travel tips: It’s important to keep in mind that the island is only accessible by boat, and the service can be irregular and weather-dependent.
Therefore, it’s recommended to check the boat schedule in advance.
Also, consider visiting the cathedral during the late afternoon hours, to enjoy the sunset over the lake and avoid the crowds.
2. Van Castle
Van Castle, also known as Van Fortress or Van Citadel, is a historic fortress located in Van, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and buildings that date back to the Urartian period from the 9th to 6th centuries BCE.
Highlights include the ancient archaeological ruins, the castle’s stunning architecture, and the breathtaking views of Lake Van from atop the fortress.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive ancient cistern located near the entrance, the intricate carvings on the walls of the towers, and the chance to walk the same path through the castle that warriors and kings once did.
Insider travel tips: – It is best to visit the fortress early in the day to avoid crowds and the hottest temperatures.
3. Hoşap Castle
Hoşap Castle is a historic fortress located in the Hoşap district of Van Province, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s intricately carved stonework, winding staircases, and underground tunnel system. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Van.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take in the impressive architectural features of the castle, including its massive walls and towers. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby village of Hoşap and the traditional bazaar.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the midday sun can make the climb to the top of the castle challenging.
Additionally, be prepared for steep staircases and narrow pathways within the castle.
4. Van Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is a world-famous art museum dedicated to the life and works of the legendary Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire an extensive collection of Van Gogh’s paintings, as well as the works of other artists who inspired him or were inspired by him.
Highlights include “The Potato Eaters,” “Sunflowers,” and “Starry Night.
Don’t miss: In addition to the permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase Van Gogh’s art in context with other artists and movements.
The museum also features an impressive library and archives that are open to researchers.
Insider travel tips: – It’s worth booking tickets in advance to avoid long lines, especially during the peak tourist season.
5. Çavuştepe Castle
Çavuştepe Castle is an ancient citadel located in Van, Turkey, and one of the most important fortresses in Eastern Anatolia.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle, which include the remains of the massive fortification walls, the main gate, and the palace.
The artifacts found at the site, such as pottery, jewelry, and weapons, are on display at the nearby Van Museum.
Don’t miss: The intricate carvings and inscriptions found on the walls of the castle’s palace, which depict mythological and historical images, are a must-see.
Insider travel tips: To get the best view of the surrounding countryside and Lake Van, climb to the top of the castle’s hill. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as the climb can be steep and rocky.
Additionally, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day.
6. Muradiye Waterfall
Muradiye Waterfall is a natural wonder located in the eastern Turkish province of Van, near the town of Muradiye.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the waterfall, which cascades down a rocky canyon into a serene pool. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a dip in the refreshing pool beneath the waterfall, or to explore the surrounding area on foot.
Insider travel tips:
7. Van Gölü
Van Gölü, also known as Lake Van, is the largest lake in Turkey and one of the largest in the world.
What to see or do: Take a boat tour to the Akdamar Island and visit the Akdamar Church, the symbol of Van.
Don’t miss: The chance to try the traditional breakfast of Van, which includes local specialties such as kaymak (clotted cream), honey, olives, and cheese.
Insider travel tips: – Visit Van in the summer months (June-August) to enjoy the warm weather and the lake’s refreshing waters.
8. Kaya Çelebi Mosque
A historic mosque located in the city of Van, Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the unique architecture, including the colorful tiles and calligraphy adorning the interior and exterior of the mosque. Sit and reflect in the peaceful courtyard.
Don’t miss: The incredible panoramic views of Van from the mosque’s hilltop location.
Insider travel tips: Visit during sunset for the best view of the city. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
9. Adır Island
Adır Island is a quaint and beautiful island located in the eastern part of Turkey in Lake Van.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy wandering the streets of the island and marvel at the island’s historic houses and streets.
One of the most iconic landmarks of Adır Island is the Adır Church, a beautiful ancient church that dates back to the 9th century.
Another popular spot is the historic Adır Castle, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the island.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the chance to taste the delicious organic produce that the island is famous for, such as apricots, plums, and honey.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to take a boat tour around the island, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the island from the waters of Lake Van.
It is also recommended to visit Adır Island in the summertime when the weather is pleasant and the island is at its most vibrant.
10. Van Fortress
A centuries-old fortress located in the city of Van, Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the ancient walls and towers of the fortress, which offer stunning views of Lake Van and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The impressive Gate of Tushpa, which was constructed during the Urartian period and still stands today as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient architects.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the fortress is quite expansive and requires a fair amount of walking. Additionally, be mindful of the weather, as the summers in Van can be quite hot and dry.
Consider visiting during the cooler months of the year for a more pleasant experience.
11. Selçuk Cemetery
Selçuk Cemetery, also known as Selçuklu Mezarlığı, is an ancient cemetery located in the city of Van, Turkey.
What to see or do: As you stroll through the cemetery, you’ll see tombstones and mausoleums dating back to the Seljuk dynasty that ruled the region in the 11th and 12th centuries.
The intricate decorations and carvings on the tombstones are impressive and offer a glimpse into the artistic and cultural heritage of the area.
Don’t miss: One of the unique sights in Selçuk Cemetery is the “Elephant Tombstone,” so called because it has a carving of an elephant on it.
Make sure to keep an eye out for it as you explore the cemetery.
Insider travel tips: If you want to learn more about the history and architecture of Selçuk Cemetery, consider hiring a local guide. They can provide valuable insights and information that you might miss otherwise.
Additionally, be mindful of the delicate nature of the tombstones and mausoleums and avoid touching or climbing on them.
12. Van Yüzüncü Yıl University
Van Yüzüncü Yıl University is a public research university located in Van, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the university’s modern campus, which includes several faculties, institutes, and research centers.
The university is particularly known for its faculty of veterinary medicine, which is one of the top veterinary schools in Turkey.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the Van Cat Research and Application Center, which studies the unique Van Cat breed that is indigenous to the region.
Visitors can observe the cats, learn about their history and genetics, and even adopt one if they wish.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about the university’s research initiatives, consider scheduling a meeting or campus tour with faculty members or researchers in your area of interest.
Additionally, the university hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions, which provide a great opportunity to experience local Turkish traditions and arts.
13. Van State Theater
The Van State Theater is an iconic performing arts venue located in New York City.
What to see or do: The theater hosts a range of performances including plays, musicals, concerts, and comedy shows. It also hosts special events and screenings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a live performance in this historic theater. The stunning architecture and beautiful interior make for an unforgettable experience.
Insider travel tips: – Take the time to explore the area surrounding the theater. There are plenty of great restaurants, bars, and shops in the area.
14. Erçek Lake
Erçek Lake is a large saline lake located in eastern Turkey, near the city of Van.
What to see or do: Visitors can take in the stunning scenery by walking along the lake shore or hiking in the nearby hills. The lake is also popular for fishing, and there are several picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
Don’t miss: Sunset over the lake is a must-see experience. The colors of the sky reflecting on the water create a truly breathtaking view.
Insider travel tips: Bring lots of water and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense, especially in the summer months.
Visitors should also be aware that the lake can be quite shallow in places, so it may not be suitable for swimming.
15. Özkanlar Dam
Özkanlar Dam is a hydroelectric dam located on the Murat River in the eastern province of Van, Turkey.
What to see or do: Özkanlar Dam is a scenic destination that attracts visitors who enjoy nature and the tranquil atmosphere.
Many visitors come to the dam to have a picnic with their families, fish in the river, or simply take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat tour on the dam’s reservoir, where you can see different species of fish and birds.
The dam is also famous for its beautiful waterfall called “Kariyer Şelalesi,” which is located about 10 km away.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to bring food and drinks with you since there aren’t any restaurants or cafes nearby. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around the area.
If you’re traveling by car, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the landscape.