9.02.2024
6 Dakika
Situated on the shores of Lake Van, world's largest salt and soda lake, and Türkiye's largest lake, Van is a city worth discovering. We have compiled for you 10 activities that you should definitely enjoy in this city, which offers many experiences in addition to its historical locations and natural beauties.
A vast lake, akin to a small sea... The lake, unsurprisingly referred to as the Van Sea by locals, boasts natural beauties that captivate its spectators. You can relish the cool waters in the bays of the lake, where lush green meets the deep blue. Additionally, you can explore lake’s islands hosts historically significant ruins, particularly Akdamar Island, home to the Akdamar Monument Museum. You can also engage in water sports such as sailing and diving for a more adventurous experience.
The castle perches on a cliff overlooking Tuspa, the capital of the Urartian civilization on the shores of Lake Van. Based on the canals discovered during the excavations in the region, it is understood that the castle was built by the Urartian King Saduri in the 9th century BC, making it one of the oldest surviving structures in Anatolia. In addition to enjoying the breathtaking view at Van Castle, you can also explore a castle bastion, an open-air temple and rock tombs dating back to the Urartians, and the Suleyman Han Mosque from the 16th century.
A sumptuous meal brimming with all-natural products and tea brewed in a traditional samovar... Van's famous breakfast will provide you with the energy needed for your journey, with the unforgettable taste of natural products. You can also try local delicacies such as herbed cheese, murtuğa, kavut, and gencirun during Van breakfast, a culinary experience sure to leave a lasting impression.
Muradiye Waterfall, located on the Bend-i Mahi Stream, cascades from a height of 18 meters, is an ideal setting to connect with nature. You can enjoy a picnic surrounded by the impressive views around Muradiye Waterfall, also suitable for camping, or embark on a unique nature walk, including a suspension bridge across the waterfall.
If you think fairy chimneys in Türkiye are only found in Cappadocia, you are mistaken. Located in the Başkale district of Van and dubbed "Vanadokya" by locals in homage to Cappadocia, the region boasts numerous fairy chimneys, extensive rock corridors, and many caves. The fairy chimneys of "Vanadokya" offer views as magnificent as their famous counterparts.
Nestled at the foot of Mount Artos in Gevaş district, home of long and snowy winters, the Abalı Ski Resort aims to become a world-class winter sports facility. With a panaromic view of Lake Van visible from the ski slopes, this center is a preferred destination for winter sports enthusiasts seeking both snowy landscapes and the city’s historical and cultural values.
Müküs Stream, situated within of Van’s Bahçesaray district, invites adventurous visitors to experience a rafting course with moderately challenging waves. The clear waters of the stream offer opportunities for both rafting and fishing. The lush vegetation along the banks of Müküs Stream, where you can spend relaxing hours in nature, also provides ideal spots for camping.
Van boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years, and the Van Museum, showcasing artifacts from excavations in the region, is an essential stop during your visit. The museum carefully preserves numerous historical objects, ranging from tools and ceramics dating back to 3000 BC to remnants of the painful experiences witnessed in the last century, with a special focus on Urartian artifacts.
Built by the Urartians and utilized by various civilizations throughout the ages due to its strategic location, Hoşap Castle stands on a steep hill near the Hoşap Water of the same name. Serving different rulers, including the Persians, Macedonian Empire, Seleucid Dynasty, and Roman and Byzantine Empires, the castle took its final form with renovations in 1643 during the Ottoman reign. A well-preserved symbolic structure, Hoşap Castle offers visitors a captivating journey through time.
Commissioned by the Urartian King Sarduri II in the mid-8th century BC, Çavuştepe Castle rises on two hills at the western end of Mount Bol, dominating its surroundings. Enclosed by robust walls and moats carved into the rock, the castle houses the remnants of two temples dedicated to the Urartian gods Haldi and Irmusini. Additionally, it features “Uçkale”, a rectangular structure not found in any other Urartian castle, crafted with elaborate workmanship. Çavuştepe Castle, showcasing the ruins of a necropolis and a palace with diverse areas of use, is among the most significant sites preserving the artifacts of Urartian history.
We’ve shared some of the activities you can experience in Van, one of Türkiye's cities worth exploring. Of course, Van’s offerings extend beyond these. If you are seeking a captivating story in Van, you may find the tale of how Akdamar, the most famous island in Lake Van, got its name intriguing. Read the touching story of the island, home to the Akdamar Church, now open to visitors as the Akdamar Monument Museum, in our blog post titled "The Touching Call that Gave Akdamar its Name: 'Ah Tamara!’”.
