Türkiye’s cultural rail route Touristic Diyarbakir Express completes scenic round-trip

The Touristic Diyarbakir Express has successfully completed its first round trip of the 2025 season, offering travelers a unique cultural journey from Ankara to Diyarbakir and back.

The train, which departed from Ankara Gar on Friday, April 11, made several memorable stops along the way, providing passengers with an immersive experience of Türkiye’s heartland.

A sheep flock is seen from the windows of "Touristic Diyarbakir Express" — A cattle herd is seen from the windows of “Touristic Diyarbakir Express”, as it returns from its first journey of the season from Diyarbakir to Ankara Station in Diyarbakir, Türkiye, April 13, 2025. (AA Photo)

A sweet welcome in Malatya

The train’s first major stop was in Malatya, where travelers were welcomed with a taste of the region’s signature dried apricots.

During the three-hour break, passengers explored the city center, joined in traditional halay dances, and enjoyed live performances by local musicians.

Passengers visit historical and touristic places of the city after leaving “Touristic Diyarbakir Express”, as it stops in Elazig while returning from its first journey of the season from Diyarbakir to Ankara Station in Türkiye, April 13, 2025. (AA Photo)

Discovering Diyarbakir’s rich heritage

Arriving in Diyarbakir on Saturday, passengers spent the day visiting the city’s historical and cultural landmarks.

The journey offered a rare opportunity to explore the iconic Diyarbakir City Walls, the Grand Mosque, and other architectural treasures. Travelers spent one night in the city before beginning their return trip.

A railway officer is seen from the windows of "Touristic Diyarbakir Express" — A railway officer is seen from the windows of “Touristic Diyarbakir Express”, as it returns from its first journey of the season from Diyarbakir to Ankara Station in Elazig, Türkiye, April 13, 2025. (AA Photo)

Touristic Diyarbakir Express’ cultural stop in Elazig’s Harput district

On the return leg, the train paused at Yolcati Village Station in Elazig, where passengers were greeted with flowers and hospitality. They were then taken by minibus to the historic Harput neighborhood.

Over a four-hour visit, travelers explored Harput’s ancient sites and learned about its layered history.

Passengers celebrate the birthday of a baby at "Touristic Diyarbakir Express", — Passengers celebrate the birthday of a baby at “Touristic Diyarbakir Express”, as it returns from its first journey of the season from Diyarbakir to Ankara Station in Elazig, Türkiye, April 13, 2025. (AA Photo)

Scenic rail journey across Anatolia

The Touristic Diyarbakir Express, which carried 130 passengers on its first trip, offers more than just a train ride.

The journey allows travelers to witness the stunning natural landscapes of central, eastern, and southeastern Anatolia, while gaining insight into local culture through city stopovers and curated experiences.