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    Railtours

    Exploring Turkey by Rail: Best Rail Tours and Travel Tips

    Turkey offers some of the most scenic and historic rail journeys in the world, taking travelers through breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities, and charming villages. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious long-distance ride or a short scenic train trip, Turkey’s rail system provides a unique way to experience the country.

    Best Rail Tours to Experience in Turkey

    1. Eastern Express (Doğu Ekspresi) – Ankara to Kars

    • The most famous train journey in Turkey, offering spectacular winter landscapes.
    • Route: Ankara → Kırıkkale → Kayseri → Sivas → Erzincan → Erzurum → Kars.
    • Best for: Snowy mountain views, photography, and cultural experiences.
    • Tip: Book a sleeping compartment in advance, especially in winter.

    2. Touristic Eastern Express – Ankara to Kars (Luxury Version)

    • A premium version of the Eastern Express, including longer sightseeing stops.
    • Best for: Comfortable travel with guided excursions.
    • Tip: Enjoy stops at İliç, Erzincan, and Erzurum to explore local culture.

    3. Van Lake Express – Ankara to Tatvan (Gateway to Van)

    • A stunning train ride along rivers, mountains, and Lake Van.
    • Route: Ankara → Kayseri → Malatya → Elazığ → Bingöl → Muş → Tatvan.
    • Best for: Scenic nature, local experiences, and Van Lake sunsets.
    • Tip: Combine this trip with a ferry ride to Van Castle and Akdamar Island.

    4. Southern Kurtalan Express – Ankara to Kurtalan

    • A journey into Turkey’s southeast, passing through ancient Mesopotamian lands.
    • Route: Ankara → Kırıkkale → Kayseri → Sivas → Malatya → Diyarbakır → Batman → Kurtalan.
    • Best for: Exploring Southeastern Turkey and its historical sites.
    • Tip: Visit Hasankeyf and Mardin after arriving in Kurtalan.

    5. Lakes Express (Göller Ekspresi) – Isparta to Izmir

    • A hidden gem connecting Turkey’s Lake District with the Aegean coast.
    • Route: Isparta → Burdur → Denizli → Aydın → İzmir.
    • Best for: Nature lovers and those exploring Turkey’s lakes and thermal towns.
    • Tip: Visit Pamukkale (near Denizli) and Salda Lake on the way.

    6. Pamukkale Express – Eskişehir to Denizli

    • A great way to reach the famous white terraces of Pamukkale by train.
    • Route: Eskişehir → Kütahya → Afyonkarahisar → Denizli.
    • Best for: A quick rail escape with historical and natural wonders.
    • Tip: Take a short bus ride from Denizli to Pamukkale and Hierapolis.

    7. Aegean Express (Ege Ekspresi) – İzmir to Eskişehir

    • A scenic way to travel between the Aegean region and Central Anatolia.
    • Route: İzmir → Manisa → Balıkesir → Kütahya → Eskişehir.
    • Best for: Comfortable travel between coastal and inland cities.
    • Tip: Stop at Eskişehir for a Porsuk River gondola ride.

    8. Black Sea Express (Karadeniz Ekspresi) – Ankara to Samsun (Coming Soon)

    • A new train route planned for 2024, connecting the capital to the Black Sea.
    • Route: Ankara → Çankırı → Amasya → Samsun.
    • Best for: Exploring the Black Sea coastline.
    • Tip: Visit Amasya, known for its Ottoman houses and rock tombs.

    Best Travel Tips for Train Tours in Turkey

    1. Booking Your Train Tickets

    • Long-distance trains sell out quickly, especially the Eastern Express and Touristic Eastern Express. Book 1-2 months in advance.
    • Use the official TCDD website (Turkish State Railways) or visit train stations to buy tickets.

    2. Choosing the Right Train Class

    • Pulman (Standard Seats): Best for budget travelers on short journeys.
    • Sleeper Compartments: Ideal for overnight journeys, offering bunk beds.
    • Luxury Sleeper Cabins: Available on Touristic Eastern Express, featuring private toilets and showers.

    3. Packing Essentials for Train Travel

    • Warm clothing (for winter routes like the Eastern Express).
    • Snacks and drinks, as dining options can be limited on some trains.
    • A power bank, as not all trains have charging ports.
    • Camera, especially for scenic routes like Van Lake Express.

    4. Best Time for Rail Travel in Turkey

    • Winter (December – March): Perfect for Eastern Express and Van Lake Express (best for snow landscapes).
    • Spring (April – June) & Autumn (September – November): Great for comfortable travel and sightseeing.
    • Summer (July – August): Best for coastal routes like Lakes Express and Aegean Express.

    5. Exploring Beyond the Train Routes

    • Many rail tours pass through historic cities—plan stopovers in places like:
      • Kars: Explore Ani Ruins and try Kars cheese.
      • Diyarbakır: Visit the ancient city walls and Hevsel Gardens.
      • Izmir: Discover Ephesus and the vibrant Kemeraltı Bazaar.
      • Van: Take a ferry to Akdamar Island for stunning lake views.