Lake Van, Akdamar Island & History Tour
A cultural route from Tuşpa, the Urartian capital, to Akdamar Island in Lake Van, bringing together the region's history and nature in one day.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This tour visits Van Castle, a witness to Urartian civilisation; the 10th-century Akdamar Church, famous for its stone reliefs; and the protected Van cats. Travel is by a luxury VIP vehicle reserved for your group, with a driver experienced on local roads.
Daily Itinerary
Hotel Pickup & Historic Van Castle (Tuşpa)
Pickup from hotels in central Van or Edremit. Rock inscriptions of Urartian King Sarduri I, royal tomb chambers and panoramic city views from Van Castle.
Van Cat House & Niello Silver Workshop
Visit to the Van Cat Research Centre at Yüzüncü Yıl University. An introduction to Van's traditional niello silverwork and filigree craftsmanship.
Gevaş Pier, Akdamar Island & Historic Church
A roughly 20-minute boat crossing from Gevaş Pier across Lake Van to the island. View the Church of the Holy Cross's exterior stone reliefs and enjoy free time for photos.
Edremit Lakeside Road & Hotel Drop-off
A lakeside drive with sunset views and a safe transfer to your hotel or the airport.
Included Services
- Luxury VIP vehicle reserved for your group
- Professional driver with local experience
- Vehicle fuel, road and parking costs
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Kingvan operations support
Not Included
- Akdamar Island boat fare
- Museum and archaeological site admission
- Lunch and personal expenses
- Optional professional guiding fee
Request Information & a Quote for This Tour
Let us arrange a private vehicle and day plan for your group.