One of the most nostalgic and enjoyable ways to explore Turkey's natural beauties is undoubtedly travelling by train. Especially long-distance express train lines offer a unique alternative for both adventure-seeking travellers and those who prefer comfortable transportation. From the Eastern Express to the Taurus Express, and from the Van Lake Express to the Izmir Blue Train, numerous routes offer travellers an unforgettable experience, accompanied by postcard-perfect views and historical stops. In this article, you will learn about the main train express lines in Turkey and gain access to the most up-to-date and accurate information about their history, routes, ticket prices, travel times, sights along the way, and ideal travel periods for each line. If you are ready to discover Turkey on the rails, this guide is for you!
A Complete Guide to Major Train Express Lines Across Turkey
1. The Eastern Express: A Journey in Time from Ankara to Kars
The Eastern Express, which has become Turkey's most popular train route, has been in service since 1936. Starting from Ankara to Kars, this express line covers a 1,310-kilometre route in approximately 24-26 hours. The train is especially preferred by passengers who want to watch the snow-covered landscapes in winter.
Stopping in Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan and Erzurum along the route, the Eastern Express is not only a means of transportation but also a journey of discovery. Especially stopping for cağ kebab in Erzurum, watching nature at the foot of Munzur Mountains in Erzincan or visiting Ani Ruins in Kars make this experience unique.
Ticket prices vary between 615-720 TL for a Pullman.
Prices are higher for sleeper and couchette cars, but they offer a comfortable experience. The best travel period is between December and March. During this period, the snow-white landscapes seen from the train windows turn into shots that are frequently shared on social media.
2. Göller Express: A Quiet Route from Isparta to Izmir
Göller Ekspresi, named after the lakes in the Western Mediterranean and Aegean Region, is a very quiet train line that stands out with its natural beauties. Starting from Isparta to Burdur, Dinar, Denizli, Aydın and finally Izmir, this line covers a distance of approximately 350 kilometres and the travel time varies between 8 and 9 hours.
The train departs from Isparta in the morning and allows you to witness the nature of the lakes region throughout the day. While leaving Lake Eğirdir in the background, it offers a short break in the silence of Lake Burdur. While passing through Denizli, touristic attractions can be easily reached thanks to its proximity to Pamukkale.
Ticket prices are around 445-520 TL for a Pullman car.
This line promises a pleasant journey, especially in the spring months, with the awakening of nature in April and May.
3. Taurus Express: From Adana to Konya
Launched in 1954, the Taurus Express is one of the most important train lines from southern Turkey to Central Anatolia. Starting from Adana, this route runs from Ceyhan, Pozantı, Ulukışla and Karaman to Konya. Passing through the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, this line takes its name from this magnificent geography.
This 450-kilometre journey takes an average of 9 hours. It is possible to enjoy the scenery while passing through high mountain passes, tunnels and valleys. Throughout the journey, natural wonders such as Gülek Gorge and historical passes offer unforgettable views to the passengers. When Karaman is reached, the influence of Mevlana culture is felt.
Ticket prices are again at affordable levels, around 200 TL for a Pullman car.
Although it is less preferred in summer months due to the heat, spring and fall periods are quite suitable for travel.
4. Lake Van Express: Eastern Anatolia's Hidden Treasure Route
Lake Van Express offers a unique journey for those who want to get to know the nature, culture and history of Eastern Anatolia. Starting from Ankara and passing through cities such as Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Malatya, Elazığ and Malatya, it reaches the Tatvan district of Bitlis. This long but enjoyable route, which takes about 24 hours, has a 1,262-kilometre route.
When you reach the shores of Lake Van, you will encounter a completely different Turkey, both visually and culturally. Taking the ferry from Tatvan to Van is also an important part of this journey. The mesmerising views of Lake Van, Nemrut Crater, Akdamar Island and Van Castle are the main places to visit at the end of the route.
Pulman ticket prices vary between approximately 1275 TL
The train should be preferred, especially in spring and summer, when the weather around Lake Van is favourable and nature is in its full beauty.
5. Pamukkale Express: Rail Transportation to Thermal Paradise
Pamukkale Express takes its name from Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting from Eskişehir, this line passes through Kütahya, Afyonkarahisar and Burdur and ends in Denizli. This route, which takes about 7 hours, covers the thermal and historical regions of both Central Anatolia and the Aegean.
There are many natural and cultural riches on the train route, from the Phrygian Valley to thermal spas. When you reach Denizli, you can visit health tourism centres such as Pamukkale Travertines, Hierapolis Ancient City and Karahayıt. Denizli can also be preferred for textile shopping.
Ticket prices are around 500 TL.
This express is ideal in spring and autumn months due to both favourable weather conditions and less tourist density.
6. Aegean Express: A Rural Escape from Izmir to Balıkesir
The Aegean Express is a short but meaningful train journey that runs between Izmir and Balıkesir and lasts about 3 hours. The train passes through small towns such as Manisa, Soma and Kırkağaç, making it ideal for travellers who want to get to know the Aegean countryside.
Especially the Spil Mountain in Manisa and the farmlands around Soma add an idyllic atmosphere to this route. When you reach Balıkesir, you will take one more step to reach Mount Ida.
Prices are hovering around 520 TL.
It is difficult to travel in summer because the temperature can be high, so spring and fall are more suitable.
7. Izmir Blue Train: Overnight Journey from the Aegean to the Capital
Izmir Blue Train is a long-distance express line running between Izmir (Basmane) and Ankara. The 824-kilometre route passes through important cities such as Manisa, Uşak, Afyonkarahisar, Kütahya and Eskişehir before reaching the capital. The average travel time varies between 13 and 14 hours.
This train is generally preferred by overnight travellers.
Thanks to the couchette and sleeper car options, it is possible to wake up in Ankara in the morning with a comfortable sleep. You can shop for sausage and Turkish delight in Afyonkarahisar and take a short cultural break in Eskişehir. Ticket prices are approximately 765 TL for a pulman and 1250 TL for a couchette and sleeper cars. In winter and spring months, it is quite suitable both in terms of comfort and scenery.
8. 4th of September Blue Train: Journey to the Depths of Anatolia
Named after the 4th of September, the date of the Sivas Congress, this train runs between Ankara and Sivas. This approximately 750-kilometre route passes through Kırıkkale and Kayseri before reaching Sivas. The journey time takes approximately 12 hours.
This express is a good alternative for those who want to reach Sivas in a nostalgic and comfortable way. When you arrive in Sivas, the Atatürk and Congress Museum, the Divriği Great Mosque, and the historical baths are the main places to visit.
Prices are around 350-300 TL. It can be preferred both in summer and winter; especially in winter, a peaceful journey can be made, accompanied by snow-covered Anatolian landscapes.
9. Ankara Express: A Comfortable Alternative from Istanbul to the Capital
Ankara Express is a modern and comfortable overnight train running between Istanbul (Halkali) and Ankara. Re-launched in 2023, the train runs via Çerkezköy, Lüleburgaz, Eskişehir and Polatlı. This line, which takes an average of 8 hours, is a comfortable alternative to bus travel, especially thanks to its sleeper wagons.
Especially preferred for business trips or weekend getaways, this train offers both nostalgia and modernity. Fares vary between 600-705 TL for sleepers. It can be preferred on weekdays as it is quieter.