Epic 840-mile train journey that travels between cities beloved by tourists

An incredible 840-mile train journey travels between beautiful cities beloved by UK tourists. 

Lake Van Express is an overnight train that travels through Turkey twice a week from Ankara to Tatvan.

The journey takes about 26 hours one-way, covering 840 miles and making it a popular choice among rail fans visiting Turkey.

The scenic route traverses eastern Turkey’s beautiful landscapes such as the lakes of Keban Baraji, the banks of the Euphrates River and the vast Lake Van.

Stops along the way offer multiple opportunities to see some of the country’s best bits with the main stops being Ankara, Kayseri, Sivas, Malatya, Elazig and Tatvan.

Kayseri is home to the world-famous Cappadocia, with its “fairy chimneys”, hot air balloon festival and underground cities. 

Sivas was an important trade centre during the Middle Ages for being on routes from Persia, Malatya is known for its apricots and Elazıg is known for its natural beauty and developed city centre.

It comes to a stop in Tatvan, a well-known ski resort that sits on the shores of Lake Van. During the winter, passengers can see snowy mountaintops and foggy landscapes.

Reviewers have said of the route: “The scenery is magnificent, especially during wintertime. People must see the natural beauties along the route.” Another said: “It’s not a trip, it’s a journey.

The train consists of pullman, couchettes, sleeping and dining wagons offering a range of seating, from regular seats to bed cabins. It has seven coaches and can carry up to 300 people. 

Tickets are available online from £10 for two seats, £18 for a couchette for two, £25 for a sleeper for two and £39 for a single sleeper. Rail Turkey warns that it is “one of the most popular trains in Turkey” and urges people to book well in advance to avoid disappointment.