Türkiye’s famous Touristic Eastern Express announces winter season schedule
The Eastern Express (Dogu Ekspresi) passes through a picturesque snow-covered station on its iconic route, Türkiye, December 19, 2024. (Photo via AA)
The Touristic Eastern Express (Turistik Dogu Ekspresi), one of Türkiye’s most beloved travel experiences, will commence its 2024-2025 winter season on Dec. 23
Abdulkadir Uraloglu, the minister of transport and infrastructure, confirmed the schedule in a recent announcement. The service promises a unique journey across Anatolia’s scenic landscapes.
Train schedule, key stops for Touristic Eastern Express 2024-2025 season
Minister Uraloglu emphasized the train’s increasing popularity since its launch on May 29, 2019. “Since 2019, 71,000 passengers have traveled with our train. In this new season, we aim to serve approximately 10,500 travel enthusiasts,” he said.
The train will operate 60 trips during the 2024-2025 season, with 30 outbound and 30 return journeys.
- It will depart from the historic Ankara Station at 1:45 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
- Key stops include a 150-minute pause in Erzincan and a 240-minute break in Erzurum, giving passengers time to explore these cities
- The return trip from Kars will leave at 9:05 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, with stops in Ilic, Divrigi, and Sivas lasting between 150 and 210 minutes
Tickets for the Touristic Eastern Express start around $143 (₺5,250) per person, with prices varying based on the selected carriage. Tickets can be purchased through TCDD ticket offices, authorized agents, the TCDD mobile app, or the official website.
Experience Anatolia through unforgettable train journey in Türkiye
Minister Uraloglu described the train journey as an exceptional travel experience.
This is an alternative holiday option that showcases Anatolia’s unique landscapes. Passengers can enjoy a cultural journey connecting the past and the present while creating unforgettable memories.
Abdulkadir Uraloglu, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure
The route is ideal for photography enthusiasts, offering stunning views and historic sites to capture.
To accommodate the high demand for the Touristic Eastern Express, the ministry has introduced the Regional Kars-Erzurum Express.
- This service will operate 24 trips between Jan. 18 and Feb. 23, 2025, on Saturdays and Sundays, with a capacity of 291 passengers.
The winter season of the Touristic Eastern Express offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the natural and cultural richness of Anatolia. The addition of the Kars-Erzurum service ensures more people can enjoy this exceptional journey in the months ahead.
