Van

Van is a city in eastern Turkey, near the Iranian border, known for its rich history, Lake Van, and unique regional culture. It’s one of the oldest cities in the region, with layers of Urartian, Armenian, Kurdish, Ottoman, and Turkish heritage.

What it’s known for:

• Lake Van: The largest lake in Turkey — a massive saltwater body surrounded by mountains. You can swim, take a boat ride, or just enjoy the views from the shoreline.

• Akdamar Island and Church: A small island in Lake Van that holds the 10th-century Church of the Holy Cross, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture with intricate stone carvings. A top highlight.

• Van Castle (Van Kalesi): A massive stone fortress built by the Urartians (8th century BC) with sweeping views of the lake and city. Inscriptions and walls still stand.

• Van Cats: A unique breed of cat with white fur and heterochromatic eyes (often one blue, one amber). The Van Cat is a local icon — there’s even a breeding center you can visit.

• Breakfast Culture: Van is famous across Turkey for its massive, varied breakfasts (called Van kahvaltısı), often served with fresh cheese, honey, olives, flatbread, and regional specialties.

• Hoşap Castle: A dramatic riverside castle near the Iranian border, perched on a rocky outcrop. Worth a visit if you’re exploring the region by car.

The vibe: Rugged, cultural, and off the beaten path. It’s a mix of urban life and remote beauty, with a strong Kurdish influence and a sense of frontier-like openness.

Best time to visit: May–October. Winters are long and snowy; summers are warm but rarely too hot thanks to the lake’s altitude.