Map of Van, Turkey

🏞️ What to do in Van

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Van with a range of activities that cater to every budget.

• Best Budget Activity in Van:

  Van Castle: Explore the ancient ruins of Van Castle for panoramic views of the city and Lake Van.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Van:

  Akdamar Island: Visit Akdamar Island to see the iconic Armenian Cathedral and enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Lake Van.

• Best Luxury Activity in Van:

  Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience Van from a different perspective with a mesmerizing hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscapes.

🍽️ Where to eat in Van

In Van, immerse yourself in a culinary journey filled with rich flavors and must-try dishes such as Van Kavurma, Ayran, and Menemen.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Van:

  Köfteci Hacı Mehmet•$$:

  Authentic Turkish köfte dishes

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Van:

  İskele Restaurant•$$$:

  Fresh seafood delicacies

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Van:

  Masal Restaurant•$$$$:

  Fine dining with a fusion of Turkish and international flavors

• Best Budget Bar in Van:

  Rota Pub•$:

  Local Van wine and mezes

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Van:

  Şehir Meyhane•$$:

  Signature cocktails and meyhane mezes

• Best Luxury Bar in Van:

  Van Gölü Lounge•$$$:

  Premium spirits and stunning views of Lake Van

🏰 What to see in Van

Discover the enchanting historical landmarks and natural wonders that make Van a must-visit destination for travelers seeking cultural richness and scenic beauty.

• Van Castle

  Explore the ancient Van Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city, offering stunning views of Lake Van and the surrounding landscapes.

• Akdamar Island

  Visit Akdamar Island to marvel at the exquisite Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross, adorned with intricate stone carvings and set against the backdrop of Lake Van.

• Van Museum

  Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of Van at the Van Museum, housing a remarkable collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the region's past.

• Gevas Lake

  Relax by the serene Gevas Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and offering opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Van.

• Hosap Castle

  Explore the majestic Hosap Castle, a stunning medieval fortress located on a hill overlooking the picturesque landscape, providing a glimpse into Van's architectural heritage and history.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Van

Discover the diverse shopping scene of Van, offering unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional delights that showcase the local culture and craftsmanship.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Van:

  Van Grand Bazaar: Browse through the bustling Van Grand Bazaar to find affordable local products such as spices, textiles, and handmade goods.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Van:

  Zeytun Market: Explore Zeytun Market for a wide selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and regional delicacies, perfect for experiencing the flavors of Van.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Van:

  Van Tarihi Carsi (Historical Market): Indulge in a luxurious shopping experience at Van's Historical Market, known for its upscale boutiques, designer stores, and fine craftsmanship.

🚌 Getting Around Van 🚇

• Public Transport

  In Van, the primary mode of public transportation is the bus system. ESHOT operates the bus network in the city, with frequent and reliable services connecting different neighborhoods. The price of a single bus ticket is approximately 4 TL, with discounted rates available for students and seniors. Buses typically operate from early morning until late at night, with schedules varying depending on the route.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main bus terminal in Van is the Van Otogar, which serves as a central hub for long-distance buses connecting Van to other cities in Turkey. Additionally, Van Ferit Melen Airport is the closest airport to the city, located approximately 7 km away. There are also plans for the development of a railway network in Van, which will enhance connectivity in the future.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Some popular car rental providers in Van include Avis, Budget, and Europcar. Prices for car rentals start at around 150 TL per day, with options ranging from economy to luxury vehicles. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: For those looking to explore Van on two wheels, bike rental services are available at various locations in the city. Prices for bicycle rentals start at approximately 20 TL per day, with options for hourly rentals also available.