Things To Do
in Van
Van, Turkey, is a breathtaking city located in the eastern part of the country, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is situated on the shores of Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey, and is surrounded by majestic mountains. The city is famed for its unique architecture, particularly the historic Van Castle and ancient Urartian sites.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy traditional cuisine, and explore the region's natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Van Castle, where you can explore the ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Van.
Head to the Akdamar Island to visit the Akdamar Church, known for its stunning frescoes, followed by a relaxing walk around the island.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Van cuisine, followed by a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore at sunset.
Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Mount Ararat, known for its stunning views and challenging trails.
Visit the Van Ethnography Museum to learn about the region's cultural history and artifacts.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the lake, and experience local music performances or folk dances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $0.50 |
| 🛏️Hotel (mid-range) | $40-80 |
| 🍷Local wine | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and Lake Van.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Delicious and unique local cuisine.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier for non-Turkish speakers.
- Public transportation can be less frequent.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Places to Visit in Van
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient fortress offering stunning views of the city and Lake Van, ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes.
A picturesque island featuring the historic Akdamar Church, perfect for capturing both architecture and natural beauty.
The largest lake in Turkey, with its vibrant blue waters and surrounding mountains, offers countless opportunities for stunning photography.
Food in Van
Van Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A lavish spread featuring local cheeses, olives, honey, and freshly baked bread, meant to be shared with family and friends.
Must-Try!
A traditional lamb dish cooked with spices, often served with rice or bulgur.
A fermented beverage made from turnips, typically enjoyed as a refreshing drink.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and various spices, perfect for sampling local flavors.
Simit is a popular street food, resembling a sesame-covered bagel, often enjoyed with tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to show respect to elders by standing when they enter a room or offering them your seat.
Turkish people are known for their hospitality; if offered tea or coffee, it is polite to accept.
Especially when visiting religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Van
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if the service is satisfactory.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Van, with mild weather and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) can be warm with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), ideal for water sports on Lake Van.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall colors, making it great for photography.
Winter (December to February) can be cold with snowfall, perfect for those who enjoy winter sports, but be prepared for icy roads.
Van at Night
Hiking in Van
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along the shores of Lake Van, offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
A less crowded hiking area known for its stunning landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Van by plane.
Located about 8 km from the city center, it serves domestic flights and some international routes, providing convenient access to Van.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kurdish population is significant in Van, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and traditions.
The majority of the population consists of Turkish citizens, representing various cultural backgrounds and lifestyles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is highly popular in Van, with local teams and matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.
Traditional Turkish wrestling is celebrated in the region, with annual events showcasing skilled competitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Van.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy a variety of dishes, such as vegetable stews and salads, but it’s advisable to inquire about meat-based broths.
Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes and salads are commonly available.