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The pearl of Eastern Anatolia, Van, is a must-see with its places to visit, rich lands and abundant streams. This ancient region has hosted many valuable civilizations over the centuries. Places to visit in Van are located in many different parts of the city. Therefore, we recommend that you spend a few days exploring Van. Here, let's check out the must-see places in and around Lake Van.

Ayanis Castle

Ayanis Castle, located 35 km away from the northwest of Van, is located in Ayanis Village. Built by the Urartians between 643-645 BC, the castle is located 250 meters above Lake Van. Among the excavations that were carried out in the region, there are storage buildings, living spaces, temples, fortification walls, halls and cubes. The castle is of great importance for understanding the last period of the Urartians. 

Seven Churches

Located in Yukarı Bakraçlı Village, at the foothills of Mount Erek, Seven Churches also known as the Varak Surp Haç Manastırı. These churches consist of five churches in two groups. In addition to the church, there is also a library, bell tower and Jamatun. The oldest of the churches dates back to the 8th century.

Akdamar Island and Church

Akdamar Island, the second largest island in Lake Van, is located in the Gevaş district. You can reach here by ferry from Gürpınar in approximately 30 minutes. There is an entrance fee for the island, which has unmatched scenery and a church. Akdamar Church was built by King Gagik to Architect Manuel. The construction of the church was completed between 915-921. The structure maintains its value as one of the most important works of the Middle Ages. The red andesite stone used in its construction, exterior decorations and reliefs are quite interesting.

Muradiye Waterfall

Muradiye Waterfall, located in the Muradiye district of Van, is 20 meters high. It is known that the name of the waterfall comes from Murat IV. The waterfall is located on the Muradiye Stream, and this stream is the largest stream flowing into Lake Van. The waterfall, which freezes in the winter and dries up in the summer, flows strongly in the spring months. There are also many restaurants with waterfall views in the region.

Fairy Chimneys - Vanadokya

The fairy chimneys of Van are known among the public as ''Vanadokya''. These structures located in Yavuzlar Village of Başkale district were formed by the rocks that had been erupted by the volcanic Yiğit Mountain, eroded by rainwater and wind. There are 17 thousand fairy chimneys, dozens of tunnels and caves here. We are sure that you will experience fairytale moments in Vanadokya, which is among the places you should definitely see when you visit Van.

Lake Erçek

Lake Erçek, located 30 kilometers away right next to Lake Van, has a unique nature. Exactly 450 bird species live here in Lake Erçek. Hundreds of bird species such as summer ducks, plovers, grebes and flamingos breed and stay here. Lake Erçek is one of the important large lakes after Lake Van. This is one of the places that are visited by the bird watchers. You can also find the opportunity to observe many bird species by attending the Flamingo Festival that is held here every year.

House of Van Cats

When we say Van, one of the first things that comes to mind is the Van cat. If you would like to see these beautiful cats, we are highly suggesting you visit the Yüzüncü Yıl Üniversitesi Van Kedisi Araştırma Merkezi! You should certainly see our sweet friends by visiting the House of Van Cats which was established to protect the Van Cats.

If you are also thinking of making a plan to visit this special city, you can stay in the stylish and comfortable rooms of Elite World Van, which promises you a pleasant accommodation experience with the harmony of neoclassical architecture. At Elite World Van, where all details have been considered meticulously to ensure your holiday is enjoyable, you can start your day in comfortable and spacious rooms, pamper your body with the healthy lifestyle practices of Fit Life SPA & Wellness and experience gastronomic wonders in our food and beverage areas. If you would like to make a reservation at Elite World Van, you can contact us through our website.