Van: The City of Never-Ending History

About Van

Are you on the hunt for the bests on your holiday? Why not try Van?

The best kind of cat, check!

The best breakfast, check!

The greatest nature is accompanied by the mysterious Lake Van, check!

It seems like a great bargain to us. Visit the city that hosted many civilizations throughout its history and enjoy a great holiday.

Here are some key aspects of Van:

History: Van has a long and fascinating history dating back thousands of years. It was the center of the ancient kingdom of Urartu and later became part of the Armenian Kingdom of Vaspurakan. The region has seen the influence of various civilizations, including the Persians, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans.

Culture: Van is known for its diverse cultural heritage. The city has been influenced by Armenian, Kurdish, and Turkish cultures, creating a unique blend of traditions, cuisine, music, and arts. The traditional costumes, dances, and festivals of Van reflect this cultural richness.

Van Fortress: The Van Fortress, also known as Van Citadel, is an ancient fortress located on a hill overlooking the city. It dates back to the Urartian period and offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Van. The fortress is an important archaeological site and a popular tourist attraction.

Lake Van: Lake Van is one of the largest lakes in the world and a prominent feature of the region. It is known for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, fishing, swimming, and water sports on the lake.

Akdamar Island: Located in Lake Van, Akdamar Island is home to the famous Akdamar Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Cross. This Armenian Apostolic Church is known for its beautifully carved stone reliefs and is a significant historical and cultural site.

Van Cat: Van is also known for its unique breed of cats, called Van Cats or Turkish Van Cats. These cats are known for their distinct white coat and colored markings on their heads and tails. They are a cherished part of the local culture and are considered a national treasure.

Van Cuisine: The cuisine of Van is renowned for its rich flavors and unique dishes. Traditional Van cuisine includes specialties such as “kavurma” (fried meat), “kurut” (dried yogurt balls), “otlu peynir” (herbed cheese), and “balik ekmek” (fish sandwich).

Mount Ararat: Although located outside the city, Mount Ararat is an iconic landmark visible from Van. This dormant volcano is the highest peak in Turkey and holds great significance in religious and cultural narratives, including being associated with the biblical story of Noah’s Ark.

Visiting Van offers a chance to explore a vibrant city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine.

Top attractions in Van

How to get to Van?

Van can be reached by various means of transportation. Here are some common ways to get to Van:

By Air: Van Ferit Melen Airport (VAN) serves domestic flights from major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. You can book a flight to Van from one of these airports and then take a taxi or public transportation to reach the city center.

By Bus: Van is well-connected to other cities in Turkey by bus. There are regular bus services from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The journey duration may vary depending on the departure location, but it typically takes around 18-24 hours from Istanbul. Bus companies like Metro Turizm, Ulusoy, and Kamil Koc operate routes to Van.

By Train: There is no direct train connection to Van. However, you can take a train to Tatvan, which is a town located on the western shore of Lake Van. From Tatvan, you can continue your journey to Van by bus or ferry.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Van by car. The city is accessible via major highways and roads. The distance from Istanbul to Van is approximately 1,500 kilometers, and the journey takes around 17-18 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.

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What to pack for Van?

Here are some essential items to pack:

Clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season and the weather conditions. In summer, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun. In winter, pack warm layers, including sweaters, jackets, hats, gloves, and thermal clothing, as Van experiences cold temperatures and snowfall.

Comfortable Shoes: Van has various outdoor activities and natural attractions, so it’s essential to pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, depending on your plans. Additionally, pack slippers or sandals for indoor use.

Travel Essentials: Don’t forget to pack your travel documents, including your passport or ID card, tickets, and any necessary visas. Carry a copy of your travel insurance, emergency contact numbers, and important addresses. It’s also advisable to bring a small backpack or daypack for day trips and sightseeing.

Medications and First Aid Kit: If you have any prescribed medications, ensure you have an adequate supply for the duration of your trip. Pack a basic first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications or treatments you may need.

Electronic Devices and Adapters: Don’t forget to pack your mobile phone, charger, camera, and any other electronic devices you may need. It’s also advisable to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure your devices can be charged.

Language Guide or Translation App: If you’re not familiar with the local language, consider packing a language guidebook or downloading a translation app on your smartphone to facilitate communication.

Cash and Cards: Ensure you have enough local currency (Turkish Lira) for your immediate needs. ATMs are available in Van, but it’s advisable to have some cash on hand, especially if you plan to visit remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.

Other Essentials: Depending on your preferences and needs, you may also want to pack items such as a reusable water bottle, snacks, insect repellent, a travel umbrella, a power bank for charging devices, and a travel lock for securing your belongings.

Where to stay in Van?

Here are some popular areas to consider when choosing where to stay in Van:

Van City Center: The city center of Van offers a range of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. It provides convenient access to amenities, restaurants, and shops. This area is a good choice for those who want to be in the heart of the city and have easy access to its attractions.

Lake Van: If you prefer a more scenic and tranquil setting, consider staying near Lake Van. There are hotels and resorts located along the lakeshore, offering beautiful views and opportunities for water activities. This area is particularly popular in the summer months.

Edremit: Edremit is a suburb of Van located on the western shores of Lake Van. It offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the city center while still providing easy access to Van’s attractions. There are hotels and resorts in Edremit that cater to different budgets.

Tusba: Tusba is another suburb of Van, located on a hill overlooking the city. It offers panoramic views of Van and the surrounding area. This area is known for its historical sites, including the Van Castle. There are a few boutique hotels and guesthouses in Tusba for those looking for a unique and historic experience.

What type of climate does Van have?

Van has a continental climate with distinct seasons. The summers in Van are hot and dry, with average temperatures reaching around 30°C (86°F) in July and August. Winters, on the other hand, are cold and snowy, with average temperatures dropping below freezing point. The winter months of December, January, and February are the coldest, with temperatures often below -10°C (14°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures.

Van also experiences significant temperature variations between day and night, especially in summer. The region is known for its strong and gusty winds, particularly in the afternoons, which can have a cooling effect during the hot summer months.

It’s worth noting that Van is located at a high altitude, which can contribute to cooler temperatures compared to lower-lying areas. The climate in Van is influenced by its proximity to Lake Van, which can moderate temperatures and affect local weather patterns.

When is the best time to visit Van?

The best time to visit Van is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. During these times, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city and its surroundings. The temperatures are comfortable, with an average range of 15-25°C (59-77°F), allowing you to enjoy the attractions without extreme heat or cold.

Spring in Van brings beautiful blooms and blossoms, particularly around Lake Van and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great time to witness the vibrant colors of nature and enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and boat rides on the lake.

Autumn in Van offers mild temperatures and stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. The landscapes become even more picturesque, creating a scenic backdrop for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. Additionally, autumn is the time when agricultural activities, such as fruit picking and harvesting, take place, providing opportunities to experience the local culture and cuisine.

It’s important to note that Van experiences hot and dry summers and cold winters with heavy snowfall. Summers can be uncomfortably hot, especially in July and August, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and significant snowfall. While some visitors may enjoy winter activities like skiing, the weather conditions can be challenging for general tourism.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the most favorable climate and pleasant conditions to visit Van. However, personal preferences, specific activities, and interests may influence your choice of the best time to visit.

Top activities in Van

The history of Van

Van has a rich and ancient history dating back thousands of years. It was an important city in the region of Anatolia, known as Tushpa, during the time of the Urartians, an ancient civilization that flourished from the 9th to the 6th century BCE. The Urartians built a powerful kingdom centered around the city of Tushpa (present-day Van) and left behind impressive fortresses and other architectural structures.

In the 6th century BCE, Tushpa was conquered by the Achaemenid Empire of Persia. It later fell under the control of the Macedonian Empire, led by Alexander the Great. After Alexander’s death, the region came under the rule of various powers, including the Seleucids, Parthians, and Romans.

In the 4th century CE, Van became an important city in the Kingdom of Armenia. It was a prosperous center of trade and culture, with a notable Christian influence. However, in the 11th century, the city and the surrounding region came under the rule of the Seljuk Turks and later the Ottoman Empire.

During World War I, Van was the site of the Armenian Genocide, in which many Armenians were killed or displaced. The city played a significant role in the resistance against the Ottoman Empire’s policies, with local Armenians and Armenians from surrounding areas defending themselves against attacks.

In the modern era, Van has continued to be an important city in Eastern Turkey. It has experienced growth and development, becoming a center for trade, agriculture, and tourism. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the iconic Van Castle, ancient Armenian churches, and the beautiful Lake Van, which is one of the largest lakes in Turkey.

Overall, the history of Van is intertwined with the rise and fall of various civilizations and empires, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in exploring ancient cultures.

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Famous firsts and greatest of Van

Van, throughout its history, has witnessed significant events and achievements that have contributed to its fame and cultural heritage. Here are some notable firsts and greatest aspects associated with Van:

Urartian Kingdom: Van was the capital of the Urartian Kingdom, an ancient civilization that left behind remarkable architectural structures, such as the Van Fortress and the Van Castle, showcasing advanced engineering and artistic skills.

Armenian Kingdom: Van became an important center during the Kingdom of Armenia, with notable Armenian churches and monasteries, including the Church of Akdamar, renowned for its unique architecture and intricate stone carvings.

Lake Van: The city is located on the eastern shore of Lake Van, one of the largest and deepest lakes in Turkey. Lake Van is famous for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and the historical Van Cats, a unique breed of cats found in the region.

Armenian Genocide Memorial: Van has a significant place in the memory of the Armenian Genocide. The city is associated with the resistance and self-defense efforts of the Armenian population against the Ottoman Empire’s atrocities during World War I.

Mount Ararat: While not located within the city limits, the majestic Mount Ararat is visible from Van and holds immense cultural and religious significance. According to biblical accounts, Mount Ararat is believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark.

Historical Museums: Van is home to several museums that preserve and exhibit artifacts from its rich history, including the Van Museum and the Archaeological Museum, offering insights into the region’s ancient civilizations and cultural heritage.

Van Cat: The Van Cat, also known as the Turkish Van, is a distinct breed of domestic cats originating from the Van region. They are known for their striking white coat and often have different-colored eyes, making them a unique and beloved symbol of the area.

Historical places of Van

Some of the notable historical places in Van include:

Van Fortress: The Van Fortress, also known as Van Citadel or Van Castle, is an ancient fortification located on top of a hill overlooking the city. It dates back to the Urartian period and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Akdamar Island and Church of Akdamar: Located on Akdamar Island in Lake Van, the Church of Akdamar is a medieval Armenian church known for its exquisite stone carvings. It is considered a masterpiece of Armenian architecture.

Hosap Castle: Situated in the nearby town of Hosap, Hosap Castle is a medieval castle that was built in the 17th century. It features impressive architecture and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Van Museum: Van Museum, also known as the Van Archaeological Museum, houses a vast collection of artifacts from the region’s history, including items from the Urartian, Armenian, and Ottoman periods. It provides valuable insights into the area’s cultural heritage.

Cavustepe: Cavustepe is an archaeological site located near Van that was once an Urartian fortress and palace complex. It contains the ruins of several structures, including a royal palace, temples, and defensive walls.

Muradiye Waterfalls: The Muradiye Waterfalls, located near the Muradiye district of Van, is a natural attraction surrounded by lush greenery. They offer a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.

Van Great Mosque: Van Great Mosque, also known as Ulu Cami, is one of the oldest and largest mosques in the city. It was originally built as a church in the 9th century and later converted into a mosque.

Who are the most famous people in the history of Van?

Van, Turkey has a rich history with several notable figures who have made significant contributions. Some of the most famous people in the history of Van include:

Menua: Menua was an important king of the Urartu Kingdom, which had its capital in Van. He ruled during the 8th century BCE and was known for his military campaigns and construction projects, including the expansion of Van Fortress.

Aram Manukian: Aram Manukian was an Armenian revolutionary leader and statesman who played a crucial role in the establishment of the short-lived First Republic of Armenia in 1918. He was born in Van and was a prominent figure in the fight for Armenian independence.

Zabel Yesayan: Zabel Yesayan was an Armenian writer, novelist, and activist who was born in Van. She is known for her literary works that explore themes of identity, gender, and Armenian history. She played an active role in promoting women’s rights and advocating for the rights of the Armenian people.

Abdulkadir Aksu: Abdulkadir Aksu is a Turkish politician who was born in Van. He served as the Minister of Interior in the Turkish government and played a significant role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

Yeghishe Charents: Yeghishe Charents was an Armenian poet and writer who was born in the village of Karsli (now part of Van). He is considered one of the greatest Armenian poets of the 20th century and is known for his works that reflect the struggles and aspirations of the Armenian people.

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The 15 best Things to do in Van

  1. Visit Van Castle: Explore the ancient Van Castle, an iconic landmark of the city with stunning views over Lake Van.
  2. Discover the Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross: Visit this medieval Armenian church located on Akdamar Island in Lake Van.
  3. Explore the Van Museum: Learn about the rich history and culture of the region through the artifacts and exhibitions at the Van Museum.
  4. Take a boat tour on Lake Van: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the largest lake in Turkey, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
  5. Visit the Hosap Castle: Explore this well-preserved medieval castle located near the town of Hosap, known for its unique architecture.
  6. Discover the Van Cat House: Visit the Van Cat House, a sanctuary for the famous Van cats known for their unique white fur and different-colored eyes.
  7. Explore the Ancient City of Cavustepe: Discover the remains of the ancient Urartian city of Cavustepe, including the impressive palace and defensive walls.
  8. Take a trip to Akdamar Island: Visit the picturesque Akdamar Island, home to the Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross and enjoy its serene atmosphere.
  9. Hike to Suphan Mountain: Embark on a challenging hike to Mount Suphan, one of the highest peaks in Eastern Anatolia, offering breathtaking views.
  10. Visit the Gevas Fish Farms: Explore the fish farms of Gevas, known for their sustainable aquaculture practices, and enjoy fresh fish dishes.
  11. Taste traditional Van breakfast: Indulge in a traditional Van-style breakfast, featuring local specialties such as Van cheese, honey, and pastries.
  12. Discover the Muradiye Waterfalls: Take a trip to the Muradiye Waterfalls, located near the town of Muradiye, and enjoy the natural beauty of the cascading water.
  13. Explore the Akdamar Peninsula: Wander through the scenic Akdamar Peninsula, known for its natural beauty and historic sites.
  14. Visit the Varagavank Monastery: Explore the Varagavank Monastery, an ancient Armenian monastery located near the town of Gevas.
  15. Enjoy the local cuisine: Sample delicious traditional Van dishes such as “kusleme” (grilled meat), “tandir kebap” (oven-baked meat), and “kurut” (dried yogurt balls).

Top things to do in Van

What are the best places to visit in Van?

Van Castle: Explore the ancient Van Castle, an impressive fortress offering panoramic views of the city and Lake Van.

Akdamar Island: Visit Akdamar Island, home to the beautiful Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross, adorned with intricate stone carvings.

Van Museum: Discover the rich history and archaeological treasures of Van at the Van Museum, which houses artifacts from the Urartian civilization.

Hosap Castle: Explore the well-preserved Hosap Castle, a medieval fortress located on a hilltop with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Muradiye Waterfalls: Take a trip to the picturesque Muradiye Waterfalls, where cascading water flows through a lush green valley.

Cavustepe: Visit the ancient site of Cavustepe, where you can see the remains of an Urartian fortress and palace complex.

Van Cat House: Learn about the unique Van cats and visit the Van Cat House, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving this local breed.

Kervansaray: Explore the Kervansaray, an Ottoman-era caravanserai that once served as a resting place for merchants and travelers.

Van Golu (Lake Van): Enjoy the beauty of Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains.

Van Great Mosque: Visit the Van Great Mosque, an architectural masterpiece blending Seljuk and Ottoman styles.

Varagavank Monastery: Explore the Varagavank Monastery, an ancient Armenian monastery situated on a hilltop overlooking the lake.

Ercis: Take a day trip to Ercis, a nearby town known for its historical sites, including the Ercis Fortress and Ulu Mosque.

Van Cat Statue: Take a photo with the iconic Van Cat Statue, a symbol of the city’s unique breed of cats.

Van Yuzuncu Yil University Botanical Garden: Enjoy a peaceful walk in the botanical garden, featuring a variety of plant species from the region.

Gevas: Explore the town of Gevas, known for its fish farms, where you can enjoy fresh fish dishes and experience local culture.

The best Van tours

Van Lake and Akdamar Island Tour: Explore the stunning Lake Van and visit Akdamar Island, home to the beautiful Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross.

Van Castle and Van Museum Tour: Discover the ancient Van Castle and explore the Van Museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts from the Urartian civilization.

Hosap Castle and Muradiye Waterfalls Tour: Visit the well-preserved Hosap Castle and enjoy the natural beauty of the Muradiye Waterfalls.

Van Cat House and Van City Tour: Learn about the unique Van Cats and visit the Van Cat House, followed by a guided tour of the city’s main attractions.

Top tours in Van

Places to visit in Van in winter

Van Castle: Explore the historic Van Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Van. Admire the ancient architecture and learn about the castle’s rich history.

Akdamar Island: Take a boat ride to Akdamar Island and visit the Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of the frozen lake.

Gevas Village: Visit Gevas Village, located on the eastern shore of Lake Van. Experience the rural life of the region and enjoy the beautiful winter landscapes.

Hosap Castle: Discover the Hosap Castle, located near the town of Guroymak. Explore the well-preserved fortress and enjoy the snow-covered surroundings.

Van Museum: Step inside the Van Museum and admire its collection of artifacts from the Urartian period. Learn about the ancient civilization that once thrived in the region.

Muradiye Waterfalls: Take a trip to the Muradiye Waterfalls, located in the Muradiye Village. Witness the cascading waterfalls surrounded by snowy landscapes.

Van City Center: Explore the streets of Van City Center and visit local shops and markets. Experience the local culture, taste traditional cuisine, and shop for unique winter souvenirs.

Edremit Ski Center: If you’re into winter sports, head to the Edremit Ski Center and enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the slopes.

Van Cat House: Pay a visit to the Van Cat House, where you can learn about the famous Van cats and their unique characteristics. Enjoy spending time with these friendly and adorable creatures.

Van Golu Sahil Park: Take a walk along Van Golu Sahil Park, located on the shores of Lake Van. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and beautiful winter scenery.

Places to visit in Van in summer

Akdamar Island: Take a boat trip to Akdamar Island and explore the stunning Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross. Enjoy the sunny weather and picturesque views of Lake Van.

Van Castle: Visit the historic Van Castle and take in the panoramic views of the city and lake from its ancient walls. Learn about the castle’s rich history and enjoy the warm summer breeze.

Van Golu Sahil Park: Relax and unwind at Van Golu Sahil Park, located on the shores of Lake Van. Enjoy a picnic, go for a walk, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the beautiful lake views.

Gevas Village: Explore the charming Gevas Village, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Van. Experience the local culture, visit traditional houses, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the countryside.

Muradiye Waterfalls: Take a trip to the Muradiye Waterfalls and witness the cascading waters amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the refreshing atmosphere and take memorable photos.

Van Museum: Discover the artifacts and exhibits at the Van Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region. Learn about the ancient Urartian civilization and other historical periods.

Hosap Castle: Visit the Hosap Castle near Guroymak and admire its impressive architecture. Explore the castle’s rooms, towers, and walls, and enjoy the panoramic views from its elevated location.

Cavustepe: Explore the archaeological site of Cavustepe, which was once the capital of the Urartu Kingdom. Marvel at the ancient ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the region.

Van Cat House: Spend time at the Van Cat House and interact with the famous Van Cats, known for their striking appearance and unique traits. Learn about the breed and enjoy their playful company.

Muradiye Mosque: Visit the Muradiye Mosque, an impressive Ottoman-era mosque with beautiful architectural features. Admire the intricate details and serene atmosphere of this religious site.

Van's nightlife

Van offers a vibrant nightlife with various options for entertainment and socializing. Here are some popular nightlife spots in Van:

Bars and Pubs: Van has several bars and pubs where you can enjoy drinks, music, and a lively atmosphere. Some popular options include Happy Hours Pub, Van Golu Bar, and Cafe Del Mar.

Cafes and Tea Gardens: Van is known for its cozy cafes and tea gardens, where you can relax, socialize, and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee. The Lakeside Cafe and Ada Tea Garden are popular choices.

Nightclubs: If you’re in the mood for dancing and partying, Van has a few nightclubs where you can enjoy live music, DJs, and a vibrant club scene. Club Mavi and Club Desperado are popular options for those looking for a lively night out.

Live Music Venues: Van hosts various live music events and concerts, especially during the summer season. Check out local venues and cultural centers for live performances by Turkish and international artists.

Cultural Events: Keep an eye out for cultural events, festivals, and performances happening in Van. These events often include traditional music and dance performances, theater shows, and art exhibitions.

Nighttime Sightseeing: Van’s landmarks and historical sites can be particularly enchanting to explore at night. Visit Van Castle or take a walk along the shores of Lake Van to enjoy the illuminated views.

What are the traditional foods of Van?

Van is known for its unique and flavorful traditional cuisine, which combines influences from Turkish, Kurdish, and Armenian culinary traditions. Here are some popular traditional dishes from Van:

Van Breakfast: Van is famous for its rich and diverse breakfast spread. It typically includes items like kaymak (clotted cream), honey, olives, cheese varieties such as Van otlu peyniri (herb cheese) and Van kasar peyniri (aged cheese), simit (sesame-coated bread rings), and various types of bread.

Corek: Corek is a traditional pastry made with flaky dough and a sweet filling, usually consisting of walnuts, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s often enjoyed with a cup of tea.

Ayran Asi: Ayran Asi is a traditional soup made with yogurt, rice, and herbs such as mint and parsley. It’s a refreshing and nutritious dish, especially during the hot summer months.

Otlu Peynir: Otlu Peynir is a special type of cheese made in Van. It is flavored with various local herbs and has a distinct taste and aroma. It’s often served as part of a breakfast spread or used in various dishes.

Murtuga: Murtuga is a popular savory dish made with a mixture of eggs, flour, herbs, and spices. It’s cooked in a pan until it forms a thick, pancake-like texture. Murtuga is often enjoyed with garlic yogurt or as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Kuymak: Kuymak is a traditional cheese dish made with melted cheese, cornmeal, and butter. It has a creamy and rich texture and is often served as a side dish or a main course with bread.

Van Kebabi: Van Kebabi is a local variation of kebab, typically made with lamb or beef cooked on a skewer and served with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce.

Surk: Surk is a fermented dairy product similar to yogurt but with a thicker consistency and tangier taste. It’s often used as an ingredient in various dishes or enjoyed on its own.

The best restaurants in Van

Here are some highly recommended restaurants in Van:

Van Kahvalti Evi: Known for its authentic Van breakfast, this restaurant offers a wide range of local breakfast dishes and traditional Van cheeses.

Asur Restoran: Located near Lake Van, Asur Restoran offers a pleasant dining experience with a variety of dishes from Turkish and Kurdish cuisine.

Oz Urfa Kebap Salonu: This restaurant specializes in kebabs and grilled meats, serving flavorful dishes in a casual setting.

Akdamar Restaurant: Situated near Akdamar Island, this restaurant offers beautiful views of Lake Van and serves a variety of local and international dishes.

Kale Restaurant: Located in the Van Castle area, this restaurant offers a mix of Turkish and Kurdish cuisine with a cozy atmosphere.

Murat Restaurant: Known for its delicious seafood dishes, Murat Restaurant is a popular choice for seafood lovers in Van.

Halil Ibrahim Sofrasi: This restaurant is famous for its traditional Turkish dishes, including a wide selection of kebabs and mezes.

Sutcuoglu Restaurant: Specializing in dairy-based dishes, Sutcuoglu offers a variety of cheese-based dishes, desserts, and traditional Turkish cuisine.

Yuzde Yuz Pide: If you’re craving pide (Turkish-style pizza), Yuzde Yuz Pide is a popular spot known for its tasty and freshly baked pide varieties.

Hanedan Restaurant: Located in the city center, Hanedan offers a wide range of Turkish dishes, including grilled meats, kebabs, and mezes.

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What are the most popular gifts in Van?

One of the most popular gifts in Van is Van Cat figurines or souvenirs. Van cats, also known as Turkish Van cats, are a unique breed known for their distinct white coat and colored markings on their heads and tails. They are native to the Van region and are considered a symbol of the city. Many shops in Van sell Van Cat figurines, keychains, stuffed animals, and other cat-themed items that make for popular souvenirs and gifts. These items are often adorned with the characteristic markings of the Van Cats and are cherished by cat lovers and visitors alike. Other popular gifts from Van include traditional handicrafts such as kilims (woven rugs), silver jewelry, and local food products like Van cheese and honey.

Urartu

If you think that you would be still as stylish as present day on pre-historic period, your ancestors are probably from the Urartu region.

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