Private Lake Van and Akdamar Island Tour

  • 2 days
  • Private tour
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Price on request

Ask for a price on WhatsApp Use the request form

This Van and Akdamar tour runs for two days, with hotel pick-up in Van and one night in a hotel with breakfast. A licensed guide, a minivan with driver, lunch both days and entrance fees are included. Day one covers Van Castle, Edremit Castle and the Lake Van shore. Day two takes a boat to the 10th-century church on Akdamar Island and drives on to Hoşap Castle.

Who this tour suits

This tour suits travelers who want history and lake scenery in one trip, and couples who prefer a quiet pace. Van Castle and Akdamar Island appeal to readers of Urartian and Armenian history, while the lake itself draws people who like wide water views and sunsets. The second day includes a short boat crossing and a drive, so it suits guests who are happy on a small boat and in the car. Most of both days is spent outdoors, so bring layers.

Best season and getting to Van

Late spring is the best time for Akdamar, when the almond trees blossom on the island, and early autumn brings mild evenings along the lake. Summer days are long and bright, while winter is cold and the lake shore is quieter. Van Ferit Melen Airport serves the city, and the tour starts from your hotel. If you arrive a day early, try a Van breakfast, the city's best-known meal. Flights are not included in the price, so book your arrival before you confirm the dates.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Van and Akdamar tour?

The tour lasts two days. Day one covers Van Castle, Edremit Castle and the lake shore, and day two covers Akdamar Island and Hoşap Castle. One night in a hotel with breakfast is included.

How do we reach Akdamar Island?

A boat leaves from the Gevaş pier and takes about 20 minutes to reach Akdamar Island. Ask your guide about the boat fare when you book, because boat tickets are not listed among the included items.

Can we go inside Hoşap Castle?

Interior restoration is still in progress, so the castle is viewed from the roadside. The guide explains the iron gate, the Persian inscription and the basalt lion reliefs from the outside.

Is Edremit Castle worth a stop at sunset?

Yes. Edremit Castle is a landscaped viewing terrace on the southeastern shore of the lake, with wide views across the water. Entry is free, and the guide can keep the stop open for the evening light.

How can I get a price?

The price is on request for your dates and group size. Reach us on WhatsApp +90 544 674 42 28 with your dates and group size, and we will reply with a price.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org, whc.unesco.org

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Tour Highlights

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Included

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Excluded

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Details

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Excelente tour

The whole process was very smooth, the person in charge prepared my tour information and give the price on front Our guide Ms Ferda was extremely nice and knowledgeable, the transportation and driver were amazing, highly recommended it

Alberto G, September 2025, Tripadvisor

Excellent tour with on time bus pick up and drop off

Great tour picked us up on time short transfer to the Launch site, they were ready to go when we climbed in the Basket they Up Up and Away wonderful site looking all around approx 145 Balloons in the air wonderful site the ride lasted about 45 minutes great ex…

Lisdar, September 2025, Tripadvisor

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 15/10 Experience in Cappadocia!We booked a private day tour in Cappadocia through TurboTravel, and it was absolutely incredible from start to finish. Ahmed was amazing to work with—he really listened to everything we wanted to see and do, and put to…

larissafilewood, August 2025, Tripadvisor

Private Lake Van and Akdamar Island Tour.md

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