Things To Do
in Van
Van is a city located in eastern Turkey near the Lake Van. It is known for its historical sites, such as the Van Fortress and the Van Museum. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from various civilizations throughout history.
Van is also famous for its delicious local cuisine, including traditional Kurdish dishes.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the stunning Van Fortress for breathtaking views over the city and Lake Van. Explore the ancient walls and learn about the history of the region.
Head to Akdamar Island and visit the picturesque Akdamar Church, renowned for its beautiful stone carvings. Enjoy a peaceful lunch with a view of the lake.
Stroll along the lakeside promenade as the sun sets, taking in the vibrant colors reflected on the water. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Van cuisine.
Begin with a hike in the stunning mountains surrounding Van, taking in the fresh air and scenic views. Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch amidst nature, followed by a visit to the Van Aquapark for some fun water activities. Cool off in the pools or simply relax by the water.
Return to the city for a leisurely dinner at a lakeside café. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying the tranquility of Lake Van at dusk.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including ancient ruins and traditional architecture.
- Stunning natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes by Lake Van and surrounding mountains.
- Delicious local cuisine with unique flavors, such as Van breakfast and diverse dairy products.
- Warm hospitality from the local population, often welcoming visitors with open arms.
- Opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and exploring historical sites.
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options, making travel around the area challenging.
- Potential language barrier, as English may not be widely spoken in some areas.
- Economic challenges that can affect services and amenities available to tourists.
- Weather can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters, which may not be suitable for all visitors.
- Security concerns in certain regions may lead to travel advisories for tourists.
Best Activities in Van
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Zilan Valley and enjoy hiking among stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
Experience the thrill of paragliding over the picturesque landscapes of Özalp with breathtaking views.
Enjoy a thrilling rafting adventure on the Murat River, surrounded by scenic views and adrenaline-pumping rapids.
Tours
Uncover the best of Van with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Van
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the city and Lake Van
Known for its stunning medieval Armenian Cathedral and scenic views of Lake Van
Provides a spectacular viewpoint of the surrounding area and Lake Van
Food in Van
Van Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Van Kavurma is a traditional dish made with lamb or beef that is slow-cooked and then pan-fried with garlic and local herbs. It is typically served with flatbread and fresh vegetables. Must-try at Zeytin Dali Döner & Kebap.
Must-Try!
Kuymak is a creamy and cheesy cornmeal dish, often flavored with local herbs. It's a popular comfort food in Van and is best enjoyed at Yüzüncü Yıl University Student Cafeteria.
Otlu Peynir is a type of herb-infused cheese that is unique to the region. It's commonly served as a part of a traditional Turkish breakfast and pairs perfectly with freshly baked bread. Try it at Van Karsıkıyı Restaurant & Cafe.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Van Market is a bustling hub of local culinary delights, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and artisanal goods. Don't miss the opportunity to sample popular street foods like gözleme, a savory Turkish flatbread, and ayran, a refreshing yogurt-based drink.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Van, it is important to show respect to elders by using proper titles and gestures, such as addressing them with 'Abla' for older women and 'Abi' for older men.
Hospitality is highly valued in Van, and it is customary to offer guests food and drinks as a sign of welcome and respect.
When visiting religious or traditional sites in Van, it is respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and removing shoes when entering mosques or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Van
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Van, Turkey, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is customary in these establishments.
In Van, Turkey, cash is the preferred method of payment in many places, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller transactions and in more rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Van is in spring when the weather is mild, flowers are in bloom, and the surrounding landscapes are lush and green. This is also the time to witness the stunning cherry blossoms in Van.
During summer, Van experiences hot and dry weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the scenic Lake Van. However, it can get crowded with tourists during this time.
Autumn brings pleasant weather, cooler temperatures, and golden-hued landscapes as the leaves change colors. This is a great time for sightseeing and enjoying the beauty of Van's surroundings.
Winter in Van is cold and snowy, offering opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in nearby mountains. The city also celebrates the annual Van Kebap Festival in February.
Van at Night
Hiking in Van
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Turkey, famous for its stunning views and challenging trails. It is a popular spot for experienced hikers and offers breathtaking landscapes.
Various hiking trails around Lake Van that offer serene views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, suitable for hikes of all difficulty levels.
A beautiful island on Lake Van, known for its historical churches and scenic views. Hiking around the island provides a unique blend of history and nature.
A stunning natural site where visitors can hike along the trails leading to the waterfall, enjoying the sound of rushing water and lush greenery.
Hiking trails that take you through historical sites around Gevaş, including ancient ruins and scenic landscapes overlooking Lake Van.
Aiports
How to reach Van by plane.
The main airport serving Van, Turkey.
An international airport situated in Erzurum, approximately 210 km northeast of Van.
Located in Malatya, around 250 km to the west of Van.
An international airport located in Diyarbakır, approximately 300 km southwest of Van.
An international airport located in Izmir, about 750 km west of Van.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Van, primarily residing in rural areas with a strong cultural heritage.
The second major ethnic group, found mostly in urban areas, with significant historical and cultural ties to the region.
A smaller community within the region, with cultural influences from neighboring regions.
Includes various smaller ethnicities and communities, such as the Assyrians, Armenians, and Circassians.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Van, with local teams engaging in regional leagues and attracting passionate fan support.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Van, with various local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.
Traditional wrestling is a significant part of Van's culture, with local tournaments being held frequently.
Volleyball is played widely in schools and universities, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Athletic events, especially track and field, are promoted in schools and community events, encouraging participation from the youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Van.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Van's cuisine prominently features meat and dairy, many restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like mercimek köftesi (red lentil patties) and taze fasulye (green beans in olive oil). Vegan-friendly cafés include Ekinok Vegan and Vegansife Cafe & Bistro.
For those with gluten restrictions, traditional dishes like kuru fasulye (white bean stew) and fresh seafood options provide excellent choices. When dining out, communicate your dietary needs to the staff, as they are often accommodating and can suggest suitable dishes.