Experience Eastern Anatolia on Rails: Turkey's Eastern Express

Ömer Faruk Kino
Onedio Member
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Travelling on the Eastern Express, reading a captivating novel, accompanied by music, and simply unwinding while making your way to Kars in Turkey's Eastern Anatolian region is a highly popular holiday experience, especially during the winter months. It is more than just a journey; it is an adventure in itself! The demand for tickets often exceeds supply, making it a highly sought-after experience. We invite you to join us as we take you on one of Turkey's most extraordinary rail journeys through the heart of Eastern Anatolia.

A magical route through Eastern Anatolia

The Eastern Express route is as follows: Ankara-Kırıkkale-Kayseri-Sivas-Erzincan-Erzurum-Kars. The Eastern Express covers a total of 1,933 kilometres in a 24-hour journey. As you depart from Ankara, the expansive steppe landscapes will be your first sight of Turkey. As Kayseri and Sivas roads are traversed at night, the journey continues to Erzincan in the morning, passing by streams and mountain slopes, offering passengers stunning views of the winding train route.

The length and duration of the journey are key considerations

It is important to note that the Eastern Express train's speed should not be compared to that of high-speed trains. After all, this is a nostalgic train, and it moves slowly. It offers a leisurely journey, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery. The Eastern Express typically covers distances at an average speed of 80 km/h. The journey between Ankara and Kars takes approximately 24 hours.

Key points of Eastern Anatolia: Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan and Erzurum

The Eastern Express, widely regarded as one of the world's most scenic rail routes, departs from Ankara train station at 17:55 every day. The journey takes approximately 24 hours, passing through Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan, and Erzurum en route to Kars. Passengers will enjoy views of snow-capped landscapes as the train approaches Kars.

Which type of sleeping accommodation would you prefer: a covered bunk, a pullman or a wagon-lit?

If you are new to rail travel or embarking on your first long-distance journey, there is no cause for concern. Depending on your preference for comfort, there are several options available. A sleeper car can add to the experience of travelling through the countryside, especially during the winter, although this is not always available. This sleeper car can accommodate two people on a bed or four people on a bunk bed. Seat wagons are designated as Pullmans. These are configured with two seats next to each other on either side. It is also noteworthy that train seats are often wider and more comfortable than those found on buses

Winter is the best time for travel

Many people believe that Eastern Express is more popular in the winter months, thanks to the opening of the Sarıkamış Ski Resort. Sarıkamış is renowned for its crystal-like snow and is one of only two locations in the world where this is possible. The Eastern Express to Kars and the opportunity to ski in Sarkamış represent an unparalleled winter vacation experience. Winter activities in Kars include the freezing of Lake Çıldır, festivals and the renowned golden carp of Lake Çıldır being hunted.

The Eastern Express departs from Ankara, offering passengers the opportunity to experience the region's stunning natural beauty.

Alternatively, the end of April and the beginning of May are ideal times to go to Kars with the Eastern Express to experience the emergence of a lush nature flowing from beneath the snow. The ancient city of Ani, a treasure trove of history, and the vibrant floral landscapes of Kars, renowned for their diversity, create a memorable experience.

Tickets can be purchased directly through the Turkish State Railways (TCDD) website, though they tend to sell out quickly.

For the regular Eastern Express, tickets become available 30 days before departure, while the Touristic Eastern Express tickets are released 60 days in advance.

Travelers departing from Istanbul should note that a separate ticket is required for the high-speed train from Istanbul's Söğütlüçeşme station to Ankara. High-speed trains depart multiple times daily; for instance, trains leaving at 09:30 or 11:30 arrive in Ankara at 14:15 and 16:01, respectively. This schedule allows ample time to have lunch and gather supplies before boarding the Eastern Express, which departs Ankara at 17:55. 

Tickets can be bought from the official TCDD website.