Driving Through Eastern Anatolia: Routes, Accommodation, and What You Need to Know

Covering one-fifth of Turkey's total land area, Eastern Anatolia is the country's least densely populated region. This means one thing: centuries-old fortress walls, ice-capped volcanic peaks, and canyons carved by the Euphrates are most often yours alone to enjoy. However, exploring this geography properly involves many points where public transport simply isn't enough; distances between cities are long, and intra-regional connections are limited. A road trip through Eastern Anatolia is therefore not only a practical preference, but the only way to discover the region at the right pace.

Why Travel by Car?

In Eastern Anatolia, the gap between two important stops can be 150 kilometers of dirt road, or an ancient city 20 kilometers inland from the entrance of a small town. Setting out at four in the morning to reach Mount Nemrut at sunrise, easing your pace on the stone roads of Kemaliye, or lingering as long as you wish in front of İshak Paşa Palace — these are all moments that can be planned with a car, but are most often missed when relying on public transport. By picking up a rental car from one of the region's airports (Erzurum, Kars, Van, Malatya, Elazığ), you can reduce flight costs and effortlessly cover kilometers of empty highway.

Recommended Main Route: 10 Stops from West to East

The most efficient approach to exploring Eastern Anatolia by car is to build a circular route: starting in Malatya and ending in Van, or the other way around. This route requires a minimum of 7 days, and 10–12 days to travel comfortably.

1. Malatya — Arslantepe and the Land of Apricots

As the western gateway to Eastern Anatolia, Malatya is the natural starting point of the route both logistically and culturally. Arslantepe Mound, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains one of the oldest known palace structures in the world. The city itself, with its apricot orchards, bazaar, and accommodation options, makes a good resting point before the next long day.

2. Mount Nemrut — Throne of the Gods

Reached from the Kahta district of Adıyaman, Mount Nemrut is one of Turkey's most distinctive open-air monuments, with its colossal statue heads and tumulus dating back to the Commagene Kingdom. Sunrise or sunset hours are recommended for the climb to the summit; dressing in layers against the morning cold is essential. Along the way, Cendere Bridge and Karakuş Tumulus add an even deeper layer to the region's history.

3. Diyarbakır — A Day Inside the Walls

With its UNESCO-listed basalt walls and Hevsel Gardens, Diyarbakır is the most intensive urban stop on the route. The Grand Mosque, the Four-Legged Minaret, and the historic inns can be toured in half a day; however, slowing your pace through the city's narrow streets is necessary to truly grasp the spirit of the region.

4. Elazığ / Harput — Layers of History

Just above Elazığ, Harput carries one of Anatolia's most multi-layered historical fabrics. Harput Castle, the Grand Mosque, and the surrounding historic houses can occupy hours of exploration. The lake formed by Keban Dam, together with the area around Çırçır Waterfall, adds a separate natural dimension to the region.

5. Kemaliye / Karanlık Canyon — The Route Carved by the Euphrates

Kemaliye, part of Erzincan, is a rock-built town along the Euphrates River. The Taş Yol (Stone Road), passing through narrow and towering canyons, is one of the region's most unique routes, with sections passable by car and hiking trails throughout. A note on vehicles: the canyon entrance is narrow and winding; an SUV with high ground clearance is strongly recommended.

6. Erzincan and Munzur Valley

Located in Tunceli Province, Munzur Valley National Park is one of Eastern Anatolia's lesser-known natural treasures. The crystal-clear Munzur Stream, villages surrounded by mountains, and rafting courses make this route special for adventure enthusiasts. The city center of Tunceli is well-suited both for accommodation and for discovering local cuisine.

7. Erzurum — The Seljuks' Eastern Fortress

As Eastern Anatolia's largest city, Erzurum is the strongest representative of Seljuk architecture in the region, with the Twin Minaret Madrasa, the Yakutiye Madrasa, and the Three Tombs. In winter, the Palandöken Ski Resort adds an extra draw to the city; in other seasons, Tortum Waterfall and the Narman Fairy Chimneys make their way onto day-trip itineraries.

8. Kars and the Ruins of Ani

Kars is a destination in its own right, with its stone architecture from the Russian era and its renowned cheese. The main highlight, however, lies 45 kilometers east of the city: the Ruins of Ani. In this ancient city, once the capital of the medieval Armenian Kingdom, churches, mosques, and palace remains stand side by side in the same area. This UNESCO-listed site can be explored in profound silence, especially in the early morning hours.

9. Doğubayazıt and İshak Paşa Palace

Built at an altitude of 2,000 meters at the foot of Mount Ararat, İshak Paşa Palace is one of the most striking palatial structures of the Ottoman period. The chance to photograph the silhouette of Mount Ararat in front of the palace and the old fortress behind it offers one of this route's most powerful frames. Due to the proximity to the Iranian border, a passport should be kept on hand.

10. Van — Lake, Castle, and Breakfast Culture

The final stop on the route, Van, is home to Turkey's largest lake. Van Castle, Akdamar Church (reached by boat), and Hoşap Castle complete the layers of history. Van breakfast is reason enough for a stop in itself: a morning spread of herbed cheese, honey, clotted cream, and dozens of varieties offers one of the region's most powerful gastronomic experiences.

Accommodation: What to Expect

In larger cities (Erzurum, Kars, Van, Diyarbakır, Malatya), hotel options are plentiful; booking in advance is recommended. For smaller stops such as Kemaliye, Harput, and the area around Nemrut, accommodation options are limited and fill up quickly. Just before the summer season begins (April–May) or as it draws to a close (September–October), boutique and nature-based stays in the region can be found at significantly better rates.

What You Should Know Before Hitting the Road

Best time to travel: June through September is the most accessible period for the region. Mount Nemrut and the high plateaus can remain snow-covered until mid-May. Winter visits to Erzurum and Kars are possible, but harsh weather conditions should be anticipated for other parts of the route.

Vehicle segment: An SUV with high ground clearance is a must for the village roads around Kemaliye, the Nemrut area, and the shores of Lake Van. A mid-class vehicle is sufficient for intercity routes; however, the availability of winter tires should be confirmed for mountain passes during snowy periods.

Fuel: Regularly check your fuel level along stretches where stations are far apart; the Kemaliye–Tunceli route and the Doğubayazıt–Kars line require particular attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum number of days needed for a road trip through Eastern Anatolia? The main Malatya–Van route can be completed in a tight 7 days; however, planning for 10–12 days to spend at least half a day at each stop is more realistic. Sites such as Nemrut and Ani each require a full day on their own.

Can Eastern Anatolia be toured by car in winter? Erzurum and Kars are accessible for winter tours; however, Mount Nemrut, Kemaliye, and the high plateaus can be difficult or impossible to reach by car between November and April. Those planning winter travel are advised to check mountain pass conditions in advance through the General Directorate of Highways.

Should I rent a car in the region or use my own? Long-distance travel using your own vehicle can be tiring and costly. Flying into the region and renting a car at Erzurum, Kars, Van, or Malatya airports to complete the route is advantageous in terms of both cost and comfort. An unlimited mileage package is essentially a requirement in this region.

Is a special permit required to enter Doğubayazıt and the border areas? No special permit is required to visit Doğubayazıt and İshak Paşa Palace; however, identification and a passport should be kept on hand at points close to the border. For the current situation, we recommend confirming official information for the relevant area before traveling.

Your Route Is Ready — Time to Choose Your Vehicle

Eastern Anatolia's canyons, ancient cities, and high plateaus turn into an entirely different experience with the right vehicle. For flexible drop-off options at regional airports, a wide SUV fleet, and unlimited mileage packages, visit Europcar Turkey. Map out your route and reserve your vehicle now. 👉 Europcar Turkey