Embark on a unique adventure with the Mesopotamian Express! This extraordinary train journey spans the breathtaking landscapes of Anatolia, from desert vistas to snow-capped peaks. Over the course of 24 hours and 1,051 kilometres, the train takes you on a captivating journey from Ankara to Diyarbakır, with memorable stops in Kayseri, Sivas, Malatya, Elazığ, and Bingöl.
The route includes three-hour breaks in Kayseri and Malatya and a four-hour stop in Elazığ, giving guests time to rest and explore the cities’ unique architecture and delightful local tastes.
The weekly train has a total capacity of 180 passengers, nine sleeping cars, and one dining wagon offering Anatolian cuisine. The two-person cabins include a refrigerator, lighting and heating, a lavatory, and a storage cabinet. Two-person sleeping arrangements cost TL 9,000 (approximately £222.76) for the outbound journey and TL 8,000 (approximately £198.01) for the return journey. Tickets can be booked via the Turkish State Railways app.
Anatolian city stops
Step into history in Kayseri, the historic capital of Cappadocia. Nestled in the shadow of Mount Erciyes, this city has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous civilisations since the time of the Hittites. From its medieval castle and fortifications to its Seljuk landmarks like the Döner Kümbet and the Grand Mosque, Kayseri is a treasure trove of history. And don’t forget to indulge in the city’s famous street foods, like the mouthwatering ‘mantı’ – a minced meat dumpling topped with garlic yoghurt.
Malatya
Malatya has always been at the crossroads of trade and cultural exchange between Mesopotamia and Anatolia. Arslantepe Mound is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. During the break, passengers can see the historical buildings of the city, such as the Old Malatya Ulu Mosque, as well as the city walls can buy handmade copper items at the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar and taste local apricots at the Şire Market.
Elazığ
Elazığ has been a centre of faith, culture, and health for centuries because of its location on the trade routes. The castles, bazaars, mosques, and baths adorn this ancient city like silent witnesses of glorious times. The city’s must-see attractions include Harput Castle, the Church of the Virgin Mary, one of Anatolia’s oldest sites of worship, and the historical Harput Grand Mosque.
Diyarbakır
Mesopotamia Express’ final destination, Diyarbakır, is the heart of Mesopotamian culture. Diyarbakır has seen the formation and development of 33 civilisations. This has resulted in its endless diversity, from architecture to cuisine, from traditional arts to original city life. After having breakfast at the historic Hasan Pasha Inn in the city, visitors can visit the Diyarbakır Walls and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape Area, which is on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Other city attractions are the Grand Mosque, Prophet Süleyman Mosque, İçkale Archaeology Museum, Zerzevan Castle, and Mithras Temple. The Eğil district stands out with its castle, inns, churches, and mosques, and the On Gözlü Bridge (Dicle Bridge) and Malabadi Bridge. Visitors should also sample the city’s stuffed ribs and burma kadayıf dessert.
