The Dogu Express train, also known as Turkey's Eastern Express, is highly sought after by travelers who want to explore the country's less touristy regions on an incredible odyssey.

The Orient Express has Turkey as its final destination, being considered one of the most iconic stops on this famous train journey - Photo Reproduction/Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images

Imagine embarking on a journey that crosses stunning landscapes, connecting you to remote places and offering an unforgettable experience. That's the promise of the 30-hour train journey, an epic journey that attracts travelers from all over the world and tickets are sold out within minutes of becoming available. The Dogu Express, also known as the Eastern Express in English, is becoming one of the world's top rail attractions, turning Turkey into a must-see destination.

Originally a commuter train that ran from Ankara to Kars, the Dogu Express has gained popularity in recent years among Turkish influencers due to the country's stunning eastern landscape, which is full of unusual treasures. The train was already very popular among local residents and Turkish travelers, but little known among foreign tourists. To meet growing demand, the suburban service was transformed into a tourist route in 2019.

The Adventure Itinerary

The train travels across the vast expanse of eastern Turkey - Photo Reproduction/Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images

The journey begins in a vibrant metropolis, where passengers board a luxurious train equipped with all modern amenities. The sleeper train, lasting more than 30 hours, departs from the busy capital Ankara, winds through varied scenarios, from towering mountains to serene valleys, past historic cities and picturesque villages, and up to the enchanting snowy city of Kars, covering a distance of 1,310 kilometers (814 miles). The diversity of landscapes provides a panoramic view of the different facets of the region, making every moment on board a new discovery. Along the route, there are stops where tours around the city are offered.

Ankara, although it may seem less glamorous than famous Istanbul, is a worthy destination in its own right as the country's political center. One of the main sites is the Ataturk Mausoleum, where the tomb of the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is located. The complex is divided into four parts, with emphasis on the Peace Park, which has a Turkish flag made of stones surrounded by a flowerbed. Furthermore, the Ceremonial Square leads to the Hall of Honor, where Ataturk's tomb is located. Although Ankara has undergone rapid development since becoming the capital in 1923, you can still find historic charm in its old neighborhoods.

The Train and its Amenities

Booking a sleeping carriage on Doğu is notoriously difficult, demand for tickets far exceeds supply - Photo Reproduction/Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images

The train used for this trip is a true masterpiece of engineering and design. Equipped with comfortable cabins, stylish common areas and panoramic windows, they ensure passengers can relax and enjoy the views in style. The Dogu Express departs in the early evening, and as it moves away from Ankara's art deco-style train station, the view from the window quickly transforms from a sprawling metropolis to stunning landscapes.

The sleeping cabins are equipped with two single bunks that can be converted into seats during the day, a minibar and a sink. Travelers typically decorate their compartments with string lights, scarves, and candles. The onboard service includes gourmet meals, selected drinks and personalized service, all designed to provide a unique and memorable experience.

Experiences Provided

During the 30-hour journey, passengers have the opportunity to participate in various activities on board. Early the next morning, the train arrives in Ilic, a small village whose main attraction is its proximity to Karanlik, also known as Dark Canyon. The Canyon is home to the magnificent Stone Road, which clings to the edge of the canyon when it's not plunging through one of its 38 tunnels or taking scary turns.

At dusk, the train arrives in Erzurum. During the trip, visiting the city is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, due to its rich history, culture and extraordinary cuisine. Erzurum has a variety of local cuisines, the most famous of which is Cag Kebab. The lamb is marinated for approximately 12 hours in onion, salt and pepper, then placed on a skewer and cooked over a wood fire before being wrapped in warm flatbread or eaten straight from the skewer.

After Erzurum, there are only a few hours left for the Dogu Express to reach its final destination, Kars. The city is famous for its stunning winter scenery and its name comes from the Turkish word for snow. Furthermore, it is recognized for its unique architecture, dating from the period when it was part of the Russian Empire. The medieval city of Ani, which was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Armenia, is a notable example. Located a short drive from Kars, tourists have the opportunity to explore majestic ruins dating back to 1,600 years ago. Vast walls and incredibly well-preserved churches, all set in a deep ravine, provide visitors with a true journey through time.

Popularity and Demand

It's no surprise that tickets for this trip sell out in minutes. The combination of Spectacular scenery, extreme comfort and exclusive activities makes this train trip highly desirable. Travelers from all over the world vie for a place on board, whether to celebrate special occasions, have a romantic adventure or simply enjoy a luxurious getaway.

Tickets are notoriously difficult to acquire, with passengers reporting that they often sell out in a matter of minutes. According to tips from influencers who made the trip, the strategy is to access the website at midnight and make the purchase as soon as the website is updated. Turkish travel agencies generally purchase large quantities of tickets for resale on the tours they organize, thus guaranteeing a place on the train for their customers. This is why tickets sell out so quickly, according to local residents. Individual tickets can only be purchased one month in advance, making them a sought-after prize for the lucky few who manage to acquire them.