Eastern Turkey holidays

Bordered by Iran, Iraq, Armenia and Georgia, this area is off the main tourist track and gives a different perspective on the country. In places the scenery is reminiscent of alpine landscapes, with mountain vistas and forests, while in the city of Kars a Russian influence is visible in the architecture, a remnant of one of the many invasions that have occurred over the centuries. The region also contains Turkey’s largest lake, Lake Van. Set in a serene location surrounded by mountain peaks, the lake’s Akdamer Island features a 10th-century church with biblical carvings on its exterior.

Another highlight of eastern Turkey, with views over neighbouring Armenia, is the ruined medieval city of Ani. At its height it had a population of more than 100,000 people. Situated in the shadow of Mount Ararat, the final resting place of Noah’s Ark, lies the town of Dogubeyazit and Ishak Pasha Palace, an impressive palace that once belonged to an Ottoman governor.

Explore Eastern Turkey

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Places to Visit

Erzurum

Erzurum is the largest province in Eastern Anatolia and is located on a high plateau (1950 m). The province has always been a transportation junction and is now the transfer point for air, rail or bus connections for travelers going to Eastern Turkey. The history of the city extends back to 4000 BC and it has seen many civilizations. Today the modern city, with wide tree lined boulevards and university buildings, is intertwined with the historical district. The Seljuk buildings in the town are remarkable. The Ulu (Grand) Mosque built in 1179 is interesting, with its many columns and seven wide naves. Next door to Ulu Mosque is the Cifte Minareli (Double Minaret) Medrese (theological school), which is the most famous feature of the city. It is a perfect example of Seljuk architecture, the carved portal being particularly fine

Kars

Kars has played an important role in Turkish history and was at the centre of the Turkish-Russian War. The Russian legacy can still be seen in much of the town's architecture. The lower city unfolds at the foot of an impressive Seljuk fortress of the 12th century. Nearby, the Havariler Museum (the 10th century Church of the Apostles) reveals a curious mixture of architectural influences. Bas-reliefs representing the twelve apostles in rather stiff and awkward poses ring the exterior drum of the dome. The Archaeological Museum houses beautiful wood-carvings, an excellent collection of coins found in the surrounding region, and many ethnographic items relating to eastern Turkey. Kars is particularly known for its distinctive kilims and carpets, and it retains a strong heritage of folk dancing. On the mountain pastures, villagers produce excellent Kasar cheese (yellow cheese) and delicious honey